jackiedoherty.org

I admit, yesterday’s Column struck me—kind of like getting punched in the gut—as the bullies sank to a new level of gleeful meanness. From the moment I stepped into the political arena, I promised myself that fear would not stop me from doing what’s best for Lowell kids. Throughout my two terms on the committee, I have stayed true to that promise although it has gotten me several media beatings, and I knew it might cost votes someday—maybe even an election. My own children knew it too. From the beginning, it was important to me that they understand the positions I take are based on what I think is right and not what others want. If it costs me an election, that’s okay: I would be home more nights with them, comforted by the knowledge I did my best. Being a good school committee woman, like being a good parent, is not a popularity contest; often, both jobs require taking a stand that makes some folks unhappy. During this campaign, I chose to support the superintendent during her highly politicized attempt to move the high school forward—again, because of our progress under her leadership, her right to pick her team, and because it was the best thing for Lowell kids. Column writers attempt to frame me as a loser for this, and perhaps to them, I am (“…finishing fourth this year after topping the ticket in 2005. Oh my!”). For me, standing by my convictions to improve our schools is never a loss. As we go forward, I will continue to speak and vote my convictions as a member of the Lowell School Committee. And no matter what they write about me, that is a definite win.