To the editor:
I am writing to share my appreciation for the leadership and dedication Kristen Grieco Elworthy has demonstrated as a member of our school committee. One of the first challenges Kristen encountered after her election last year was addressing the district’s low morale among teachers and staff. The mid-year departure of several teachers raised concerns among parents. Kristen joined a committee that took a strategic approach to rebuilding trust in district leadership and ensuring teachers felt supported. Stepping into the chair role in September, Kristen was able to restore order and stability to the committee, providing steady leadership that kept us focused and moving forward.
One of Kristen’s key strengths is her ability to build strong, effective working relationships. She has collaborated closely with our superintendent to ensure the committee can properly evaluate and manage his performance, always prioritizing the district’s best interests. She has worked diligently to build collaborative relationships with town officials, and other boards, which has been essential, particularly when it comes to addressing the ongoing challenges surrounding the budget.
Kristen’s leadership has also focused on removing barriers to teaching and learning. She has been vocal in supporting policies that have had a tangible, positive impact on both the educational environment and the well-being of students, and teachers. The committee has passed policies removing cell phones from classrooms, updated dress codes, and developed clearer expectations for families and students through new handbooks this school year.
One of Kristen’s most notable strengths is her skill in running meetings with both efficiency and professionalism. She ensures that agendas are not only productive but feature presentations and discussions that actively advance the district’s goals, keeping the committee engaged with curriculum, administrators, and staff.
Thanks to Kristen’s leadership, Lynnfield Public Schools is on an upward trajectory and there is a renewed sense of optimism within our district. We are fortunate to have such a strong, capable leader guiding our School Committee. As we face the difficult decisions ahead for Lynnfield, it’s important to consider the qualities we want in the person shaping those choices. I want someone who is willing to research, to listen, to speak confidently, and definitively, but to also understand that her role is to represent the voices of all the stakeholders in the district, not just her own. Having known Kristen for as many years as I have, I can say with certainty that her integrity is unmatched. That is the best reason to support her and I hope you’ll join me in voting for Kristen on April 8.
Jess Logrippo
Lynnfield
