Loffredo well-suited for schools chief

As the founder and long ago president of the Middletown Federation of Teachers, I recommend Vincent Loffredo, present chairperson of the Middletown Board of Education, for serious consideration for the position of superintendent of Middletown schools.

Middletown has long followed a policy of promoting from within and Mr. Loffredo meets and exceeds all the qualifications and criteria for this position as established by citywide workshops, focus groups and the present Board of Education. Here are a few, abstracted from the city’s research:

• Has served in a leadership position in the Middletown school system

• Has the ability to foster trust within the community

• Understands issues faced by teachers and principals

• Is approachable, hard-working, ethical, culturally competent and able to work with the city’s diverse population.

Let me be clear: I haven’t talked with anyone about my personal recommendation. Mr. Loffredo has been a casual friend for many years, and I have no idea if he is even remotely interested in becoming the next superintendent of Middletown schools.

If he is, our city would be well-served now and in the future by stopping the present expensive recruitment process and appointing him. — Clayton F. Hewitt, Middletown