RAMON DIAZ JR.
Name: Ramon Diaz Jr
Address : 242 West Road
Occupation : Systems Architect
What experience and qualifications do you have that would be an asset to city schools?
I have a background in technology, finance and leadership based on my experiences in the military and civilian careers. I have handled large budgets and learned to lead teams to resolutions within given monetary constraints.
What are your main concerns for the schools and how do you hope to address them?
Ensuring ALL of our children are successful, from the children with special needs to those that are gifted. I want to make sure they are challenged and succeed. I agree with the superintendent who says if we are doing what is right for the students no one can argue, I would also add what is right by the city’s finances as well. I intend to continue to support the district with a responsible budget and policies that put programs in place to make our students are successful.
What do you consider the most successful recent project/program in the school system?
We have been working on infrastructure to support one to one devices at our schools for several years. We now have the infrastructure and curriculum in place and are piloting this program at the middle school. We have a program in place where we will learn what works and doesn’t for Westfield and move this program to the rest of the district.
What project/program needs to be a priority in Westfield’s schools?
Elementary school project needs to be a priority. We have 2 schools that are in the best condition they can be but were built so long ago that they cannot accommodate learning in the future.
Why should residents vote for you?
I have two children in the district and I pay taxes in Westfield, so I understand the balance between what we need for our students and how to manage it in a fiscally responsible manner. I would ask residents to review meeting each month when we review the budget and they will see how I pay attention to their tax dollars and how they are spent.
What would you consider your achievements as a member of School Committee?
I led the committee to select our current superintendent and I believe he is doing a great job. Additionally, I led the move to Russell which provided an excellent environment for our students learning while saving the district hundreds of thousands of dollars.
