Barrett Running For Open School Committee Seat

Earlier this year, Christopher Barrett announced that he is running for one of the two open Lynnfield School Committee seats. Barrett is no stranger to Lynnfield schools, having gotten his start at the Bethlehem School as a youngster before moving on to Summer Street Elementary, the Middle School, and Lynnfield High School, where he graduated in 1995.

Barrett spent the early years of his career as an independent insurance agent before moving on to the political world. He spent much of the past decade working in then-Governor Mitt Romney's administration, serving in roles that included director of municipal affairs and chief of staff to former Lieutenant Governor Kerry Murphy Healey. He has taught in Everett for about five years now. "I offer a wide spectrum of experience," said Barrett.

In Lynnfield, Barrett has served on the personnel board for 10 years and he is currently a member of the Recreation Committee. In that capacity, he hopes to work with other town officials and residents to help bring a recreation center (one that includes an academic element, such as tutoring) and an athletic fields complex to town.

He is also a member of the pastoral council at St. Maria Goretti Parish. He lives in Lynnfield with his wife, Beth,  and two young children. Beth is also an LHS grad, from the class of 1996.

"I always had a love for government and public service growing up," said Barrett, who cites former President Ronald Reagan as one of his role models for public service. He also cites his two children, ages 2 and 3, as additional motivations to run for Lynnfield School Committee."The future of America is in the classroom," said Barrett.

In Lynnfield, Barrett said that he sees no glaring problems currently confronting the district, although he indicated that he would like to take a closer look at MCAS scores. "We've got to shoot to be the best," he said. "Lynnfield has the opportunity to do that."

Barrett also points out that he would bring broad experience to the school committee job from the perspective of an educator, legislative aide, parent and local resident. He also worked closely with school districts and local and state officials as a point person for Romney on local aid.

"I think we have to be on guard for the taxpayers," said Barrett, noting that his mother is also still a Lynnfield resident. "I will be the best friend of the taxpayer, but I also want to make sure our schools remain Lynnfield's pride."