My family is voting YES on Question 10 and it’s because of this special community…
About six weeks ago a leader in our town called me and asked if I would serve on the “Vote YES for Reading” Override committee. I said “yes” knowing I didn’t have free time as it is, but I knew this was important. I also didn’t know what I was doing or who was on this committee - so it was a leap of faith (or, well, hope) that I could actually help.
What I’ve experienced over the past six weeks has been incredible. I was welcomed into a dedicated network of neighbors working tirelessly behind the scenes - from yard sign logistics and volunteer wrangling to social media campaigns and leadership. All politics are local, and it is a gift to see such incredible passion in action.
I’ve also gained a deep appreciation for our new town leaders. Superintendent Dr. Turner and Town Manager Jayne Wellman have stepped up with remarkable expertise, transparency, and care for our district and town. Seeing their dedication firsthand has made it clear: there are no quick or simple fixes, but our leaders are giving everything to guide Reading thoughtfully. They’ve been extraordinarily transparent, gracious, and thorough in answering every detail. We are so lucky to have such dedicated leadership in our town.
A couple of weeks ago, I dislocated my knee. Within minutes, our first responders were at my home. The police officer managed traffic outside while the paramedics wrapped me in a warm blanket, constantly checking on my pain. It was the small things - like rolling up a towel under my knee for comfort - that showed how deeply they care. One paramedic even realized our kids go to the same elementary school and asked if we’d be at Trunk or Treat. I hope I see him there so I can thank him again. What a gift to live in a community where neighbors take care of neighbors.
Recovering from my knee injury meant I couldn't fulfill my commitment to the "Vote YES for Reading" team. When I reached out to ask for help, multiple people stepped in within hours. The first person to drop off flowers and a card at my home was our committee chair - someone I’d only just met a couple of weeks ago. What a gift to be part of a community where total strangers instantly step up as caring friends.
My family is voting YES for the Reading Override for the paraprofessionals and teachers who helped us navigate huge milestones, for the assistant principals and principals, and for the inclusion specialists working tirelessly to make our schools inclusive and supported. Our schools need more, not less, to help grow this special community.
My family is voting YES for the Reading Override for the paramedics who kept up with my anxious chatter as we rode to the hospital. I hope they know our community is grateful for them as they put their lives on the line to help keep this special community safe.
My family is voting YES for the Reading Override for the police officers who are in our community so frequently that my son knows the comfort dogs by name.
And lastly, my family is voting YES for the Reading Override for all the people working behind the scenes who are awake at night worrying about how we can support this town to make it better. Thank you to all of those people I may not ever get a chance to meet. You are truly what makes Reading such a special community.
Your neighbor,
Kit Leonard
Haverhill Street