OPINION| Brian Thomas: Porter Provides An Insiders View

With long-time educator Dr. Lawrence Finnerty stepping down from the New Bedford School Committee, there's a void on the committee from one educator's point of view. As a current vice principal in the Dartmouth school system, Rick Porter's candidacy provides that educational spark. If elected on November 7th, Porter will return a teacher's perspective to the committee similar to Finnerty's.

If a first time conversation counts for anything, Porter shoots holes in the unchallenged theory that standardized test scores are worth the endless stream of teachers and administrators leaving NBPS. Porter's hometown interest, educational background and energy more than makes up for his lack of political savvy.

Editor’s Note:   Brian Thomas is the host of Brian’s Beat on 1420 WBSM New Bedford.  He can be heard weekdays from 10am-Noon and Saturdays from 6am-9am.  The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.