The Eagle-Independent has contacted the five candidates vying for two open school committee seats in the May 3 municipal election in Westford. The candidates are Marisol Garcia, Derek Lo, Meghan O’Connell, Betsy Kwon and Sean Kelly. Here, Garcia shares answers to Eagle-Independent’s candidate profile.
NAME: Marisol Garcia
OCCUPATION: Lawyer
POSITION SEARCHED IN ELECTION: school committee
EDUCATION: Providence College, Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude; Northeastern University School of Law, Juris Doctor
OTHER COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTEER PARTICIPATIONS: Eastern Massachusetts Girl Scouts; YMCAs; St. Jude Children’s Hospital Hero Ambassador
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE? During difficult times, children need champions.
My 25 years of legal advocacy for children with special needs, my passion for issues surrounding diversity and equity, my commitment to improved collaboration and communication, and my efforts to improve the well-being of children during the pandemic, inspired me to run .
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE THE CITY FACES RIGHT NOW? Declining student enrollment, an increase in mandatory education spending, the unexpected social, emotional, and academic costs of COVID-19, and global inflation are causing serious financial challenges for our schools.
[The candidate cites information from the state, and data from the school district.]
School committee, board of health and competitions highlight Westford election
We must find innovative ways to support students and teachers and maintain academic standards, without placing an intolerable burden on taxpayers.
WHAT WOULD YOU LOVE MOST FOR VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I believe in open communication and will always listen to community concerns.
I will amplify the voices of all students. I rely on evidence and data to inform my decisions. I am committed to increasing the offer of mental health services in schools.
I want educators to have the support they need, so that Westford attracts and retains the highest quality educators. I aim to preserve high academic standards and pursue a fiscally responsible budget.
I have a personal commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. I have the expertise and experience to improve outcomes for children, educators and taxpayers.
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