Page 10 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, JAnuARy 6, 2023 ELECTED | FROM PAGE 1 a first-class public education,” Cristiano said. “He has proven to be fiercely independent.” Mangan and his wife, Lori, share three children, all of whom graduated from Everett High School. “We’re lucky to have him,” Cristiano said. “I think he’s going to be a great leader for us.” Ward 2 School Committee member Jason Marcus said Mangan was there every time McLaughlin was at Spaulding Rehabilitation. “What else can you say about his compassion and caring about people?” Marcus asked. “He’s made a lot of friends.” In his first speech as Chair, Mangan said he is humbled at the unanimous vote. “We all do what’s in the best interest of the children,” Mangan said. “I’ve had a long-term relationship with most of you.” Mangan said he’s glad to call this diverse city home, adding that it’s been a tough year. He forewarned that he’s adherent to rules if he has to cut people off so that discussions don’t get out of hand. School Committee member At-Large Cynthia Sarnie nominated McLaughlin for Vice Chair, which passed with a 7-2 vote. Cristiano seconded that nomination, calling McLaughlin a “fierce and loyal friend.” “Last year when I was the Vice Chair, we often differed in our opinions,” Cristiano said. “However, you’ve shown that you care about the kids, wanting the very best for them.” Sarnie said they ran for Ward 6 together, adding that they respected each other and shook hands. “He loves this city,” Sarnie said. “You call upon him, and he’d be there in a second, along with Mangan.” Ward 1 School Committee member Millie Cardillo, who served in that seat in the ’90s, said they haven’t always agreed, but they were able to work it out. “I’m proud that Shown from left to right: Vice Chair Michael McLaughlin, Superintendent of Schools/committee secretary Priya Tahiliani and outgoing Chair Jeanne Cristiano during Tuesday’s School Committee meeting at Everett High School. you want to stay on for a second term,” Cardillo said. “We have agreed to disagree.” In his reelection speech as Vice Chair, McLaughlin said he’s truly honored to continue in this role. Last January, he shifted his focus from serving on the City Council when his eyes were opened to the needs of students. “As Vice Chair, I promise to continue to ask questions and continue to make Everett’s children the number one prioriPictured from left to right: Seated: incoming Vice Chair reelect Michael McLaughlin (representing Ward 6), incoming Chair Michael Mangan (representing Ward 4) and Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani; standing: Ward 5 School Committee member Marcony Almeida-Barros, Ward 2 School Committee member Jason Marcus, Ward 1 School Committee member Millie Cardello, School Committee member At-Large Joseph LaMonica, School Committee member At-Large Cynthia Sarnie, School Committee member At-Large Samantha Lambert and outgoing Chair Jeanne Cristiano (representing Ward 3). ty,” McLaughlin said. “The role is larger than each of us.” He encouraged his fellow members to put their personal feelings aside to improve their collaboration. Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani said Cristiano was an intelligent, honest and refreshing advocate for the committee. “I’m grateful for her leadership,” Tahiliani said. “She always displayed common sense and a great sense of humor.” Cristiano joked that she likes Marcus’s new hairdo. During public comment, David Fortin said he wishes the best for both of the leaders. “I’ve known both of you a long time,” Fortin said. “I’m pleased that you’re in a new position.” Also, during public comment, Paula Sterite said the leaders have big shoes to fill. “I thank Cristiano for allowing residents and taxpayers to speak, for the most part,” Sterite said. Incoming Chair Michael Mangan swore in committee secretary/Supt. of Schools Priya Tahiliani. Incoming School Committee Chair Michael Mangan said he is humbled at the unanimous vote.
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