Phyllis Hagen

WESTFIELD — Westfield resident Phyllis Hagen is announcing her bid for re-election to the Westfield Academy and Central School Board of Education. “I have had the privilege of working for you and our children as a Board member for 21 years. I currently serve as the Board’s Vice President.”

While serving on the board on different committees, including the Negotiations and Personnel committees, Mrs. Hagen has seen the numerous success stories and achievements attained by our students. “In all aspects of our school from general education, vocational education, as well as special education, our children are succeeding at great levels.” While on the Board, Mrs. Hagen has always tried to listen to the concerns of the Westfield community.

As a Board Member a goal of Hagen’s is to continue to provide opportunities needed for each child to succeed. “Our school has had a long-standing tradition in providing unique opportunities for our children ranging from STEM, practical arts, and Advanced Placement courses just to name a few.” Hagen believes that all grade levels should be afforded opportunities that will challenge and enrich our children. “It is my goal to review current options and to assist in implementing new options for our children. “

As a mother of five and a grandmother of nine, Mrs. Hagen has had the pleasure of seeing firsthand the workings of the Westfield Academy and Central School. “While attending WACS, our children were nurtured, encouraged, and guided by an incredible group of professionals. I am proud to say that Westfield Academy and Central School is a place where children can learn and be loved.” Hagen adds that the success of WACS is a result of a group effort. “Our staff, from the support personnel, food preparation, transportation, and teachers, all work in unison to provide an environment that is both nurturing and educational. I have always taken the position that we must provide the best possible education for our children. Without a doubt our children are in great hands.”

Mrs. Hagen spends a portion of her time volunteering in Westfield. “I am a volunteer at our community soup kitchen as well at the Lighthouse Christian Fellowship where I am involved in a variety of activities that benefit both children and adults.” Mrs. Hagen has volunteered a countless number of hours at the school. “Just recently, I was a part of the “Read Across America Day.” I had the opportunity to read ‘Yertle the Turtle’ by Dr. Seuss to all four of the kindergarten classes. It brings me great joy to share with our young children my love for reading. It is my hope that they too will love to read just for the sake of reading.”

Hagen has been married to Dr. Mark Hagen for over 44 years and has five adult children and nine grandchildren. Four of her grandchildren attend WACS.

“I am proud to have served on the Board of Education and with your help, will continue to do so. While it is important to provide a well-rounded education for our children, I will continue to help develop and create a school budget with the taxpayer’s needs in mind. Family Budgets are tight, and I am keenly sensitive to this,” said Hagen.