Dedicated. Caring. Involved. These three words best describe Ryan Harnden, of Belfast, who is running for re-election to the RSU 71 School Board. We are fortunate to have a local candidate with Ryan’s dedication to quality education for our kids. Ryan is a past chair of the RSU#3 school board for Mt. View where, over a decade ago while living in Waldo, Ryan became one of the youngest school board chairs in Maine. Now, married and living in Belfast for more than 10 years, Ryan is the RSU#71 Board’s Finance Chair and serves on the K-8 Curriculum Committee.

Ryan offers more than just past school board experience. He and his wife, Mallory, have two young children attending the Captain Albert Stevens School. As a father, he cares about all of our kids and knows first-hand the educational needs for our children.

Ryan is the Director of Purchasing at Mathews Brothers in Belfast – handling complex issues on a daily basis while helping his coworkers make the finest windows around. Through his work, Ryan recognizes and values the importance of K-12 education.

In our community, Ryan is involved. He is a special guy who gives back and helps others. He’s a past president of the Belfast Lions Club and recently became a director for the Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce Board.

Ryan is an excellent choice for our kids and our schools. Please join me in re-electing Ryan Harnden to the RSU 71 school board on November 5.

Jayne Crosby Giles lives in Belfast