THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEmbEr 3, 2023 Page 3 ~ The Advocate Asks ~ The Saugus School Committee Candidates share their views on important issues facing the town education system Editor’s Note: For this week’s column, we asked each of the seven candidates for the Saugus School Committee the same five questions. We listed their responses in the order in which they will appear on the Nov. 7 election ballot. Current School Committee Chair Vincent A. Serino, who drew the first name on the ballot, seeks reelection to his second consecutive term. Former School Committee Chair Thomas Whittredge, who resigned from the committee early in his second term last year to spend more time with his children after his wife had died, drew the last of seven positions on the election ballot for the five School Committee seats. Whittredge has been the top vote-getter among School Committee candidates in the last two town elections. School Committee Member Leigh M. Gerow (second on the ballot) is completing Whittredge’s unexpired term. School Committee members John S. Hatch (third on the ballot), Joseph “Dennis” Gould (fourth on the ballot) and Ryan P. Fisher (sixth on the ballot) are all seeking their third consecutive two-year term. Challenger Stephanie Lauren Mastrocola (fifth on the ballot) is a first-time candidate. The candidates’ comments follow. Question One: What is the single most important reason you are running for the School Committee and what makes you best qualified to serve on the committee? Vincent A. Serino: We have made progress across the board on student achievement; however, we still have work in front of us. I believe what makes me qualified to serve again is I have been successful throughout my life. I have raised four outstanding kids who are all successful. I ran a successful business. The most important part of this is I care about this town and the students, teachers, parents, and support staff. I am truthful and will always fight for what’s best for our district and the people who depend on it. I hope you will consider me for reelection on November 7th. Leigh M. Gerow: As a Mom with a 4th grader at the Belmonte STEAM Academy, I am personally invested in the future of our schools. I want to ensure a safe place where our Saugus children can thrive. Ensuring a safe place where our students can learn alongside a rich curriculum is paramount. To achieve that goal, we need to ensure we have a strong partnership with our Educators, making Saugus a place where they feel supported and valued. John S. Hatch: The single most important reason why I am running for School Committee is to continue the advancement we started 4 years ago, and to help give every student in particular my daughter, the experiences, and benefits I gained from the district. Most importantly a safe learning environment, with a feeling of belonging and pride. Joseph D. Gould: My main reason for running and serving on the School Committee is my granddaughter Samantha. I have been bringing Samantha to school and picking her up since Pre K, now in 8th grade. My involvement startASKS | SEE PAGE 9 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE 12-7 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday $9.00 Price includes Roller Skates Rollerblades/inline skates $3.00 additional cost Private Parties 7:30-11 p.m. $10.00 Price includes Roller Skates Adult Night 18+ Only Private Parties Private Parties 4-7 p.m. $9.00 12-9 p.m. 7:30-11 p.m. $10. 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM $9.00 Everyone must pay admission after 6 p.m. Sorry No Checks - ATM on site Roller skate rentals included in all prices Inline Skate Rentals $3.00 additional BIRTHDAY & PRIVATE PARTIES AVAILABLE www.roller-world.com
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