By Chris Kopacko, Contributing Writer
Westborough – The Board of Selectmen held a joint session with School Committee members on Sept. 10 to interview one of the two candidates seeking to succeed former committee member Bruce Tretter, who stepped down from his twelve-year service in June.
Karen Henderson informed selectmen and committee members she wishes to rejoin the School Committee, having previously served for two terms from 2006 until 2012. She has lived in Westborough for 18 years and has three children currently enrolled in the Westborough school system.
Henderson began by saying the schools in Westborough have been a “tremendous” source of pride for the town.
“It would be an honor for me to serve again on the School Committee, and help uphold that tradition of excellence,” she said.
Henderson mentioned how education has always been a passion of hers, as she was certified to teach grades 7-12 before working at a human resources benefits consulting firm.
“I's interested in this role because I care deeply about Westborough and about the importance of having a good school system,” she said.
Henderson said she believes the budget and collective bargaining negotiations to be the two biggest issues for the School Committee moving forward. She said that during her time on the committee she helped lead two successful rounds of negotiations, and is ready to step back into action.
“I think we need someone who can step into this interim position and be ready to go day one, and I's confident that I can do that,” she said.
Henderson is also a committed town volunteer, currently serving on the Charter Cable Contract? Advisory Committee, as the co-president of the Mill Pond Parent Group, and a member of the Armstrong elementary school and Gibbons middle school parent groups.
Selectmen and School Committee members will interview the second candidate, Charles Gammal, on Oct. 1, at which time they will vote for one of the candidates to fill the open seat until the 2014 Annual Town Election.
