To the editor:
I am writing to encourage you to join me in voting for the re-election of Kristen Elworthy and Jenny Sheehan to the School Committee on April 8th. Elworthy and Sheehan were elected to the committee last April and, in a short time, their leadership has made a remarkable impact on our school district.
Under Elworthy’s leadership as chair and Sheehan’s role as vice chair, the district has made significant strides. One of their first actions was a restructuring at the top, including the hiring of a new superintendent. With his guidance, several key positions were filled, including assistant superintendent, director of technology, and director of student services. This leadership shift has brought about a positive change in school culture, staff morale, and retention.
Elworthy and Sheehan have also driven important changes in policy and curriculum. Elworthy led the effort to bring department heads in for presentations, ensuring transparency and a focus on academic excellence. Sheehan, as part of the policy subcommittee, spearheaded important updates to our school’s policies, including changes to cell phone usage, dress codes, and class sizes. Their work has created a more student-centered approach, focused on achievement and well-being.
Both Elworthy and Sheehan serve on the budget subcommittee, where they have been actively involved in discussions with town leadership, the finance committee, and the administrative leadership teams at each of the schools. They have collaborated closely with the new director of technology, conducting school walkthroughs that allowed her to showcase the need for technological advancements, ultimately securing crucial support from town officials for this initiative.
Elworthy and Sheehan’s ability to listen to staff, collaborate with town boards, and stay focused on the needs of our students is unparalleled. It is for these reasons that I will be casting TWO votes for School Committee to re-elect Kristen Elworthy and Jenny Sheehan on April 8.
Kate Mackor
