06/15/2026
Be an informed voter! Know where the candidates stand on public education in New Hampshire. It may surprise, or disturb, you, what the Free State Republicans want.
With communities likely to vote on school tax caps this November, schools face an immediate communication challenge.
Most residents can tell you that property taxes are high, school budgets have risen, and enrollment is declining. Those concerns are real and deserve serious discussion.
But far fewer people could explain how schools support workforce development, contribute to economic competitiveness, or help prepare the next generation of workers, taxpayers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. As a result, many conversations about education begin and end with cost.
I believe we need a broader discussion.
Not one that ignores concerns about affordability.
Not one that simply defends the status quo.
And not one that assumes schools are failing.
New Hampshire remains one of the highest-performing states in the nation, even as academic performance has declined across the country. At the same time, research consistently shows that educational outcomes are influenced by factors both inside and outside the classroom. Improving outcomes requires strong schools, strong families, and strong communities working together.
The challenge before us is not simply funding.
It is trust.
In Part II of my “From Defense to Strategy” series, I explore how schools, communities, businesses, and policymakers can work together to rebuild that trust and create a shared public narrative before November.
Because excellent schools and affordable communities are not competing goals.
New Hampshire needs both.
🔗 https://open.substack.com/pub/nhinsights/p/from-defense-to-strategy-part-ii?
As always, I welcome thoughtful discussion and differing perspectives.
