PARIS — Walter L. Perry, who has been active in Oxford county public service and education for two decades, will be on the ballot June 8 for town selectman.

As a science teacher and coach at OHCHS, Perry has dedicated his life to the service of the people of Oxford Hills. “I love the challenge of helping our kids get the best out of themselves and providing opportunities for their futures. I have worked with an entire generation of kids and everyday, I get up and do it again. To teach you have to be dedicated to helping others.”

“I want to continue to work for the public good in Paris in a greater capacity. We have so much potential, but need leadership in the right direction. My ability to listen to all stakeholders and come up with unique ideas will be my greatest asset. I do my homework to make informed decisions right the first time rather than jump to the quick fix. I seek to spend tax dollars wisely, and keep the community informed of the choices the board makes.”

“To move forward together in this community there must be a commitment to honesty, civility, and integrity. I am not perfect, but when I am wrong, I admit it, and I set high standards for integrity in my own life, there will be no need to change that in office.”

Perry graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a Geology degree. “I studied groundwater and sediments, so understanding the drainage issues and road repairs are right in my wheelhouse. I used to work as a geologist for oil companies in Texas on huge construction projects, so I think those skills will be helpful in decision making.”

Working in education has helped Perry to know many individuals and organizations in our community. He has worked closely with Athletic Boosters, the Social-Emotional Learning committee, and is department head of science at Oxford Hills. He received his Masters degree in Educational Leadership in 2014.

Perry supports community building efforts through parks and recreation Programs. He received the Parks and Recreation Program of the Year award in 2018 for his tennis programing in Portland. He now serves as the New England chairperson for this program in over 30 municipalities.

“I look forward to the opportunity to serve as your selectman and work toward solutions that make the town a place we can be proud of and to leave it better off for the next generation.”

His campaign page can be found at facebook.com/perryforparis