October 20, 2003

 

Mark R. Wright

By JILL ANDERSON


Mark R. Wright

It was Mark Wright's education that brought him from his native South Africa to the United States for college. Wright received a soccer scholarship from a Florida university. He credits his experience in two different countries as part of the reason he's running for office now.

"In general, having grown up in South Africa and now living in a democratic society shows me to be responsible for the community," Wright said. "I think I can make a difference. If I see areas that can be improved, being a critic on the outside doesn't accomplish anything."

During last year's budget process, Wright said his interest in running for School Committee was sparked.

"The budget process created the initial stimulus for me because the initial outlook was gloomy," Wright said. "I always wanted to get involved in the community and the School Committee seemed like a good place to start. As a parent and taxpayer, the largest portion of taxes go to cover the school."

Wright has lived in Newburyport since 1998. All of his children attend Newburyport Public Schools.

While Wright doesn't have any specific criticisms of the current School Committee, he said since three incumbents are choosing not to run that it's time for a change.

"New people and fresh ideas can make a difference," Wright said.

Wright said his financial background and organizational skills will aid in the changes necessary in the school system.

Wright said the overcrowding issue in city elementary schools needs to be addressed.

"The longer we wait the more expensive it will become," he said. However, Wright said he wouldn't support funding a new school within the next two years because of city finances.

"We can't afford it ... if we're talking a Proposition 2 1/2 override, it would be tough on taxpayers," Wright said, noting it also wouldn't be fiscally responsible. Wright said in the meantime, the city should be planning steps so that when money becomes available "we have our ducks lined up."

Among some of the other key issues Wright plans to focus on includes keeping technology in schools updated, and maintaining school buildings/facilities.

Wright said he'll approach a position on the committee with diplomacy.

"We can all work to negotiate common ground," Wright said. "So, even if we all don't agree, as long as you respect others' opinions, you should be able to work on a compromise."


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(This article replicated online with permission of the Newburyport Daily News, an Eagle Tribune Newspaper.)
 
 
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