Little Compton Election Profile: Hannah Ayotte

LITTLE COMPTON, RI — Hannah Ayotte is running for the Little Compton School Committee. The 22-year-old Democrat is a newcomer to elected office.

Ayotte and her family have lived in Little Compton for the past 14 years. Her father is a Navy veteran who works for Verizon Communications, while her mother works for the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. Ayotte and her younger siblings both attended school in town.

"My brother, Michael, graduated from Portsmouth High School in June of 2020 and my sister, Ava, will begin her sophomore year there this Fall," she said. "I am also very excited for my young cousins to begin their educational careers in town this year."

Ayotte graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth in May with a degree in political science and a minor in communications. She currently works at the Little Compton Community Center, where she has worked with the After School Club program and helped facilitate community events for the past three years.

Campaign website

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am running for School Committee because I care about the students and families of Little Compton. I believe that the unique learning environment created at Wilbur and McMahon fostered the skills I needed to be a successful student and well-rounded individual. I’m running for School Committee to ensure the all students in Little Compton are afforded the same excellent education that I received. I will be an advocate for students and families, and an ally for teachers.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

I believe that in order to contain the coronavirus pandemic, everyone must do their part in following science-based guidelines from our state and local governments. This includes mask wearing and social distancing.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

Yes, I believe that systemic racism is a problem throughout America and Rhode Island. One of the first steps that all of us as community members must take is to educate ourselves and our students on the racist systems that are in place locally and nationally. It is no longer enough to simply acknowledge that there are racial inequities in the United States, we must address the racism within our institutions and work to truly live up to the ideals of our founding documents. Another important action that we all can take is to vote for candidates committed to addressing systemic racism this election day, November 3rd!

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

Yes

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The critical difference between myself and other candidates seeking this post is that I am a recent graduate of both Wilbur McMahon and Portsmouth High School. This combined with my first-hand experience as a student during the COVID-19 pandemic allows me a unique perspective on the issues the School Committee will face this upcoming school year.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

1. Strengthen community through diversity and inclusivity
2. Maintain small class sizes and individualized learning
3. Promote anti-bullying policies and practices in our school

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Massachusetts, and achieved membership to Pi Sigma Alpha (the National Political Science Honor Society) while working multiple part-time jobs. While studying, I was a Political Science Teaching Assistant and a Peer Advisor at my University’s International Programs Office. In these positions I worked one-on-one with students, promoted study abroad opportunities, and hosted tutoring sessions. I was fortunate to complete my Portsmouth High School senior project at Wilbur McMahon under the mentorship of School Psychologist Raymond Marcotte. My project culminated in an in-depth, anti-bullying discussion with the Wilbur McMahon 7th and 8th grade students. I will bring this same passion and commitment to education in my role as school committee member.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

My grandparents have always told me the key to success is a well-rounded education. They instilled in me a sense of how important education is and have always supported my academic and extracurricular endeavors.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am passionate and hard-working. I am continuously educating myself about the issues we face as a community and always seek to understand different points of view. I am running for School Committee to ensure that Wilbur and McMahon strongly promotes a positive learning environment for all students.