Marlborough Schools Committee Profile: Katherine Hennessy

MARLBOROUGH, MA — There's a five-way race for the Marlborough Schools Committee in 2019, including two newcomers. As part of a series, we sent questionnaires to each candidate ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

In Marlborough, Darren McLaughlin, Heidi Matthews, and Katherine Hennessy are running to keep their seats. Mark Dexter and Daniel Caruso are both running to get on the committee.

Hennessy, 51, has served on the Marlborough School Committee since 2008. She works in advertising, and owns her own photography business. Her three children are either attending or have graduated from Marlborough High School.

Marlborough Patch asked candidates in the contested races to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near. Here's how Hennessy responded to our questions:

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

A large focus that will be on the plate for the School Committee and the whole community over this next year will be the plans for redistricting in preparation for the opening of the new elementary school. This will be a large undertaking and will need a lot of patience as we all must work together with appropriate data to make tough decisions that will best serve our students, staff, parents and the community for the future.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I seek to work very collaboratively with all; aiming to always have our students in mind with each decision that needs to be made. I have cultivated strong relationships throughout the District as not only a School Committee member, but as well, an active and involved parent. I support the public school system and support us doing all we can to provide an education for the "whole child" through many facets; whether it be through academics, athletics, music, drama or the multitude of opportunities available. I believe that my head and heart are in the right place to make critical decisions to best serve our students in the present, but as well, for the future. I bring a broad scope background, having moved to Marlborough in 1996, originally from PA, having lived in NY and NJ too. I have traveled extensively, mostly for business, and have strived to experience as much as life will provide to give me a solid tool box when needing to work on issues effecting our schools. The wealth of practical experience, mixed with formal education and volunteer opportunities allow me to connect with a vast group of people on many levels. I work on behalf of the public and am very proud of all that we have been able to achieve together.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

When making tough decisions, always think of the child in the center of the room; you are representing that person and they need your voice and perspective - think of them as your own.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am only as good as the information provided to me, so I always ask questions, look for in depth information and contemplate the ramifications of my decisions, before I act. I urge all of you to voice your opinion, to reach out to all elected officials and to get involved. We have a great school system here in Marlborough and we continue each day to try and look for improvements to educate ALL children in an equitable way.