Dear Editor:

Wiscasset residents, families and neighbors: as a female in the professional workforce and Superintendent of Schools, I am the primary leader of learning for the Wiscasset School Department. I must say, on behalf of girls, young ladies and women, that I am gravely offended by Mr. Gordon’s comment when he noted in reference to the School Resource Officer position and principals that, “Back in the day, when there were men principals, we didn’t need this position.”

To presume that gender has any influence on the effectiveness of leadership and the safety provided in our schools is short-sighted and unacceptable. Such a statement is grossly offensive to all females. I must say that I am proudly surrounded by a team of female administrators who are intelligent, well-educated, compassionate; and, genuinely care about the students and community they serve. To make such a sexist statement in his role as a public official is unacceptable. Gender should not be a part of such discussions. I believe in strong leadership that does right by kids and does right by the community. I stand behind the work that our leadership team does. I am a proud female leader that serves the community of Wiscasset in the best way that I know how.

Heather Wilmot, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools