Since as long as I can remember my mission in life has been to give back for all the times in my life others have given to me.  On June 14, I am running for Wiscasset school committee to continue to fulfill that promise I made to myself as a young 9-year-old child in foster care to keep moving forward and help raise others up.

I would not be where I am today without the support of community parents, teachers and school staff who supported me during my childhood. From my time as a primary school student, staff made sure I had proper nutrition which I did not have access to at home. Other community members and school staff saw me far beyond what I could see of myself as they took me to college visits and assisted with college applications and fees. Without public school and community, I would not be here today.

I’ve lived in Wiscasset with my family since 2007 and my child attends Wiscasset public schools. I have been an avid supporter of the local parent/teachers association Partners in Education since 2017; most recently serving on the executive committee. I have supported meaningful projects in our community such as Feed Our Scholars Set 4 Success program. I have volunteered in both the Wiscasset Elementary and Middle High School as well as assisted children who require extra support with literacy skills.  I am also an active member of the local community organization, the Wiscasset Female Charitable Society.

Over the span of my 17-year career as a social worker, I have worked with veterans all over the state of Maine and worked in local school systems as a school-based social worker in grades K through 12. I have a bachelor of arts and master’s degree in social work. I believe that this professional experience will lend support to the school committee as I am skilled in leading respectful, difficult conversations to work towards solution-focused outcomes.

My goal as a school committee member will be to work with the current governing board to identify factors in the school district that may hinder students’ academic, social, and emotional success. I will advocate for teachers and staff so that they have the resources they need to effectively educate and support students. 

If elected, I am committed to approach the school committee work in a prepared and respectful manner. I will continue to build relationships with Wiscasset school district educators and parents by being a visible presence at school and community activities.

It would be my greatest honor to serve this community I call home. With your vote on June 14 you will allow me to bring my passion, skills, and experience to our school committee. Thank you for your support, I am ready to serve. To communicate with me, feel free to find me on Facebook @Hardwick4Wiscasset or email at jodishardwick@gmail.com