As we approach Election Day, I’ve been reflecting on what this campaign has meant to me, and what I hope it has represented to the Newport community.
Election seasons can bring out both the best and worst in people. There have been disagreements, accusations and plenty of political noise throughout this race. But from the beginning, I made a commitment to myself that I would run a campaign grounded in integrity, respect and ideas, rather than personal attacks or political games.
I have built my professional career on ethics, accountability and public service. One lesson that has stayed with me is that effective leadership requires the ability to listen, especially to those with whom we disagree. I have always believed in finding the middle ground — not because I lack convictions or am unwilling to make difficult decisions, but because the moment we become so entrenched in one position that we stop considering another, we lose perspective. And when we lose perspective, we risk losing sight of the very people we are supposed to serve.
Public service should never be about choosing sides. It should be about doing what is right, asking thoughtful questions, making informed decisions, and recognizing that no single person or group has a monopoly on good ideas.
If elected to the Newport School Committee, I will represent every student, every teacher and every family in our community, regardless of whether they supported my candidacy. Our schools do not belong to any political faction, social circle or special interest. They belong to the people of Newport, and every voice deserves to be heard.
The challenges facing our schools are too important to be overshadowed by personalities and politics. Improving academic achievement, supporting our educators, ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and creating opportunities for every child require collaboration, independent thinking and a willingness to work together.
Regardless of the outcome on Election Day, I sincerely wish my fellow candidates well. Running for public office requires courage and a willingness to put yourself before the community for consideration. That deserves respect, even when our perspectives differ.
When this election is over, we will still be neighbors. Our children will still attend the same schools. And the work of making Newport a stronger community will continue. My hope is that, whatever the results, people will remember that I chose to run a clean campaign, focused on the issues, treated others with respect, and remained true to the principles that have guided my career and my life.
Winning an election should never matter more than maintaining your integrity. And serving your community should never depend on whether someone voted for you.
Elections come and go. Character, integrity and community endure.
Nicole Shevory
Newport. Shevory is a candidate for Newport School Committee. Her campaign website is nicolefornewport.com.
What’sUpNewp welcomes letters to the editor and op-eds from Newport County residents. Election-related submissions must be received by Friday, Oct. 30. Send yours to ryan@whatsupnewp.com. Submissions may be edited for length, clarity and style, and do not reflect the views of What’sUpNewp.
