LYNN — The Lynn Teachers Union (LTU) has endorsed state Sen. Thomas M. McGee’s bid for mayor.
“We are proud to support a candidate who shares the union’s unwavering belief that every child in Lynn has the right to a great public education,” said Sheila O’Neil, union president, in a statement.
O’Neil said the decision to support the Lynn Democrat stemmed from a discussion between McGee and LTU’s five-member Committee for Political Action.
She said the committee did not interview Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy.
Like the LTU, McGee supports the Improve Public Education Bill which calls for fully funding schools, less high stakes testing, and English Language Learners instruction. In addition, McGee is on the same page as the 1,600-member union with his opposition to charter schools, collaborating with residents, the School Department, and LTU to solve the need for new and renovated schools.
“As students, parents, educators, citizens, and voters from hard-working families, we know the future of our community depends on fulfilling the promise of a great education for every child,” said O’Neil.
LTU also endorsed incumbent School Committee members Donna Coppola, John Ford, Lorraine Gately, Jared Nicholson and newcomers Brian Castellanos and Elizabeth Gervacio.
LTU and its endorsed School Committee candidates support a cap on charter schools, adequate funding for pre-K through 12 public education, less testing and more learning in the classroom, and the construction or repair of school buildings.
The election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 7.
