To the editor:
We are writing to express our strong support for Kristen Elworthy’s re-election to the Lynnfield School Committee. In less than a year, our district has made significant progress, and Kristen has played an integral role in the leadership that has driven Lynnfield Public Schools forward.
As many readers may recall, Kristen is serving her first term, having been elected in April 2024 for a one-year term (she was previously on the finance committee). This marks her first budget season, as a member of the School Committee, she has yet to cast a vote on a budget proposal. She is working hard to rectify the shortcomings of the last administration and school committee.
Kristen, in a brief period, assumed the position of committee chair and has presided with grace. She has been instrumental in ensuring that the School Committee remains professional, respects district leadership, and stays focused on its core responsibilities: setting policy, starting the budget (process early), evaluating the superintendent, and advancing academic achievement.
In Kristen’s short time on the committee, she has demonstrated that strong, consistent leadership is essential to fostering a positive culture for educators and rebuilding trust within our schools. Thanks to the work of the leadership team and School Committee, LPS is in a better position today than it was at the end of 2023 when our former superintendent and multiple committee members departed the district.
As a teacher and former Town Moderator, we especially appreciate Kristen’s support for district leadership and her consistent messaging in support of educators. Kristen’s commitment to maintaining open lines of communication, respecting educators, and creating a positive work environment has made a meaningful difference in our schools.
Beyond her role in governance in meetings, Kristen has delivered real results. She has increased transparency through public midyear progress reports, expanded communication by organizing school and community coffees, and strengthened partnerships across town government to advocate for our schools. She also helped implement updated cell phone and dress code policies — changes that have had a direct, positive impact on teaching and learning. What sets Kristen apart is her ability to balance independence with collaboration. She listens, engages with all stakeholders, and makes thoughtful decisions that put students and schools first.
Lynnfield needs experienced and competent, steady leadership to maintain this momentum. We respect that Kristen and the committee are advocating for meaningful and essential funding for our children through the budget process and being transparent regarding our school needs. We strongly believe that Kristen’s leadership and dedication to our schools make her the right choice to continue serving on the School Committee. We encourage voters to support Kristen Elworthy for re-election.
Jillian and Joe Markey
