Woburn Candidate Profile: Ellen Crowley For School Committee

WOBURN, MA — Woburn will have several contested races in November's election, including a seven-way race for five school committee seats. Woburn Patch asked candidates in the contested races to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Ellen Crowley, 42, is running for re-election to the school committee. There are six other candidates: Luke Anderson, Patricia E. Chisholm, Colleen Cormier, Andrew Lipsett, Charles Viola and John Wells. Wells is a lawyer who works in child advocacy. She and her husband Joe Koltun have two children.

Are you running for office in Woburn? Contact Chris Huffaker at chris.huffaker@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Woburn Patch.

Previously on Patch: School Committee Candidate Forum: Contenders Tout Resumes

Woburn Preliminary Election: Galvin, Pedrini Advance

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

Lack of resources: I intend to promote the best management of our current resources, and advocate for more funding for the school system on multiple levels. I want to expand the district's learning specialists in areas of technology and literacy, including adding more classroom assistance directly to teachers. I intend to create a culture in Woburn that places education at the top of all priorities.

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

I am experienced child advocate, foster parent and parent to two children in the school system.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

We are in the midst of a transformation in the school district and Woburn needs someone with experience and a progressive mindset to keep the district moving forward.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have dedicated my entire career and life to helping children.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Luke 6:35. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great.

Previous candidate profiles: Woburn Candidate Profile: Charles Viola For School Committee

Woburn Candidate Profile: Andrew Lipsett For School Committee

Woburn Candidate Profile: John Wells For School Committee

Woburn Candidate Profile: Colleen Cormier For School Committee

Christopher Huffaker: 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.