In 2012, I started my studies at Fort Lewis College and met Matt while working during the elections that year. As a campaign manager, Matt was passionate about his candidate and issues and obviously cared for the community. Most of what I learned about La Plata County, I learned from Matt.

During my time in Durango, I rarely met anyone as committed as Matt to making La Plata County an even greater place to live. He works for causes important to the community, especially education. It was because of the support and inspiration of Matt that I had to opportunity to campaign for an education ballot initiative. He has inspired me to pursue a career in public service.

District 9-R schools would benefit from seeing Matt on the school board. I have no doubt he will work with parents, teachers and students to create policies that benefit 9-R youths and strengthen its school system.

I hope the people of District 9-R cast their ballots for Matthew Sheldon for the school board.

Conor R. Laing

Austin, Texas