Northborough – Two candidates will be on the ballot to represent Northborough on the Northborough Southborough Regional School Committee in the annual Town Election May 14. The Community Advocate has invited the candidates, Christopher Covino and Sean O’Shea, to share a bit about their backgrounds and why they are running for this position. Here, in their own words, are their answers.
Christopher Covino – I have resided in Northborough for 18 years with my wife. We have one child in the public schools who will be attending Algonquin as a freshman next year. As a high school science teacher in a neighboring community, I have practical experience utilizing my undergraduate science background and my graduate training in math and science education to provide meaningful science experiences for students in that district.
I wish to be elected to serve the residents of the Northborough and Southborough communities by bringing my experiences as a taxpayer, educator, and parent to the committee. The reputation of Algonquin is impeccable and this is due, in part, to the current committee. As a taxpayer in a time of shrinking state and federal revenues, it is essential that we get – and in turn provide – the best value for our tax dollars. As an educator, I understand the realities that the policies of the school committee have on the day-to-day experiences of administrators, educators, staff, and students in schools. As a parent, I wish to see all of our children receive the best appropriate education possible so that they will be competitive in their chosen post-graduation path.
Given that this position is to fill the remaining final year of a three-year term due to a resignation, this position will provide a great opportunity to get a feel for the operations of the school district and allow me to develop a deeper understanding of the issues facing our school district. My interest is primarily that we assure that educators have the ability and resources necessary to do their jobs – and do them well – to make sure that all students have the best experience possible while at Algonquin. It is my belief that this goal can be achieved in a manner that balances the needs of the greater community.
Sean O’Shea – When moving to Northborough 20 years ago, I could only hope to live in a town with such excellent schools. With one son who has graduated from high school and college and another currently at Algonquin, our family has greatly benefited from the terrific schools and their staff. I have over 27 years’ experience in public education. I have been a classroom teacher, special education Team Chair and Principal. As a parent, I have coached soccer, baseball, and basketball. As a School Committee Representative, I am hoping to give back to the community that has served my children well.
It is my wish to serve on the School Committee to assist in preserving the high school’s excellence while being responsible to all of the Northborough residents. My professional and personal experiences give me a unique opportunity to deliberate on the decisions made by the School Committee. I understand the school budget process, human resources, creation of district policies and the School Committee’s role in the educational process. I am cognizant of how a regional district functions differently from a town in terms of budgeting and policies. Serving all the residents and students is my goal in running for office.
As a School Committee member, I wish to support the high school in making thoughtful decisions about the many topics and issues that come before the board. Topics of interest for many members of the community are the school calendar and start times, partnering with entities to enhance the sports and extra-curricular facilities, as well as maintaining the strong academic programming the school is known for. Lastly, the School Committee is responsible for fiscally sound budgeting. I will work to develop a budget that adequately meets the needs of students while providing a reasonable impact on the town’s budget.
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