SOUTHBOROUGH – Southborough is gearing up for its 2021 municipal elections on May 11. As voters get set to head to the polls, the Community Advocate has zeroed in on contested races for prominent bodies like Board of Selectmen and School Committee.
The Community Advocate reached out to candidates who filed paperwork to appear on their town’s ballot and asked them to submit a personal statement as well as answers to three specific questions.
See those biographies and read extended questions and answers from Northborough/Southborough Regional School Committee Candidate Kathleen Howland here…
And see profiles of other candidates…
PERSONAL BIO
At the women’s march 4 years ago, I heard the call to be engaged. As a college professor, school committee was an easy choice. I run again to have a voice in the quality of the educational experience, especially beyond grades. How are we preparing the next generation to be logical thinkers, to be people who can solve complex problems, to be people who have developed high levels of empathy to contribute to society and to be good to themselves. I am a wife, mother of a present junior and Education Director for the Soular Jazz Festival with my husband.
QUESTIONS
What do you see as the most important issue(s) facing the Northborough/Southborough Public Schools today?
I think the most important problems facing the school system are achieving a balance of high academic standards with well-being, preparing and honoring all paths beyond graduation (gap years, the trades, community colleges) and a community ethos that affords all stakeholders a sense of security, equity and inclusion.
COVID-19 has uniquely impacted school systems and members of the school community. How would you approach the ongoing questions and decisions any school committee member will have to make as the vaccine rollout and school reopening process continues?
Regarding the pandemic and vaccination process, I would vote according to my understanding of the risks and benefits. I am a researcher by nature and in my occupation. I will explore the issues and learn from the experts.
I value you my community and the opportunity to serve it. The call at the Woman’s march is one that I am glad I heeded. I would like to work toward a more equitable and kind community, no matter where I serve.
