LETTER: Special ed advocate Custer deserves County Board seat

To Ozaukee Press:

I am writing to express my strong support for Melissa Custer for Ozaukee County supervisor in District 12 in the Village of Grafton.

Melissa is a devoted mother to two wonderful boys with disabilities, and her lived experience has shaped her into a determined and compassionate advocate. She understands the challenges families face when navigating special education services, and she has worked tirelessly to make those systems better for all children.

Melissa helped spearhead the grassroots organization Learn In My Shoes, which is how I first came to know her. As a parent of a child who uses special education services, I have seen firsthand the impact of this work.

Families across our community collected shoes and heartfelt letters from parents and children who rely on special education. Melissa and her cofounder personally delivered those shoes and letters to every legislator at the Wisconsin State Capitol, creating meaningful opportunities for lawmakers to better understand the real needs of our children and schools.

Her advocacy helped drive the increase in special education funding during this most recent budget cycle. That progress came from persistence, collaboration and Melissa’s ability to work constructively with state legislators to achieve results for families.

Melissa leads with empathy and inclusion. She believes every voice in District 12 deserves to be heard, and she approaches issues with a genuine desire to strengthen the entire community. She listens. She brings people together. She works toward solutions that serve everyone.

I can think of no one better to represent Ozaukee County as supervisor for District 12. If you live in District 12, I encourage you to vote for Melissa Custer on April 7. Our community will be stronger with her leadership.

Amanda Sherman

Mequon