As the end of the Belmont teacher contract draws nearer, the events in Newton this winter have focused my attention on the upcoming race for the School Committee. One candidate stands out above the others, and that is Meg Moriarty.
One of Meg’s most important qualifications is that she has led the Belmont School
Committee through one of the most tumultuous times in recent memory. Meg worked
constructively with the teacher’s union to find a safe and effective way to get students back in the classroom after COVID. Meg represented the district and the town in the most recent contract negotiations, leading to an agreement that was fair to school staff and protected the town’s interests. Meg has led a successful national search for a new superintendent at a time when interest in school leadership positions has declined dramatically.
Yes, Meg is a parent of students in the Belmont schools. Yes, Meg is a career educator and educational consultant, experienced in working with schools and school districts to improve performance. Yes, Meg has included student and parent voices in School Committee business in ways that are unique and groundbreaking. There are lots of good reasons why Meg is right for the role.
But to me, what’s most important is that Meg has demonstrated the leadership necessary to accomplish the difficult things that School Committees have to do. And with the challenges we have ahead, Belmont deserves her kind of experienced leadership.
I urge you to join me in re-electing Meg Moriarty to the School Committee.
Ed Barker, Garfield Road