I’m writing you today as a parent and school board member who has been fighting for excellent schools since 1998 when I first got involved with the Citywide Parent Council—five years before I ran for school committee. Now up for re-election to the board, I am asking your support to continue to do this important work. As a college teacher for 12 years and a volunteer in Lowell classrooms, I understand and value the work being done every day to educate children from all walks of life, and I know my efforts are making a difference.
I care passionately about improving our schools, and I recognize the role good schools play in safe streets, property values, and tomorrow’s productive citizens. I continue to be an outspoken advocate for our children and have worked closely with city leaders to further our common goals. As chair of the urban division of the Massachusetts Association for School Committees, I also work at the state level to improve laws and mandates that have significantly impact our public schools. In Lowell, where 80 percent of our funding and 100 percent of our mandates are from the state and federal government, solutions to the challenges we face will not be found entirely within city limits. My advocacy at all levels of government, with the media, and within our community is important.
In the end, we are all accountable for the quality of education we provide our children. As a school committee member, I hold myself accountable for doing what’s best for our students and speaking out for their interests even when it is unpopular or upsetting to some people. Thank you for your interest and for giving me the opportunity to contribute to our community. Other than raising my own children, this is the most meaningful work I have ever done. For more information on how to get involved in my campaign, check How to Help page. Thank you for your support. It means a lot to me as well as to the education of our children. Also, feel free to explore and comment on this blog. Jackie