As a Saugus Union School District educator since 1995, it was only in the past five years that I began closely attending our school board meetings. What I discovered is that the people we elect to these positions carry an immense, non-partisan responsibility to steward. Our district is growing more diverse every year. We cannot afford a board used as a political stepping stone, nor can we rely on well-meaning candidates who view it simply as community service. We need strong, capable leaders of high character who are deeply invested in our schools and community.
A functional school board requires collective power — no single person can save the day. The board’s job is to set the vision, handle public funds responsibly, and support and evaluate our promising new superintendent, while the staff executes daily operations. We need a “dream team” that balances taxpayer advocacy with the real, practical needs of our school staff.
That is why I am writing to show my support and encourage our community to learn more about Cindy Hallman (Area 5), Anna Griese (Area 2), and Kevin Kim (Area 4/At-Large) as we quickly approach the Nov. 3 midterm elections. Together, they perfectly fill the description of what our school board needs:
Cindy Hallman brings extensive knowledge about schools and teachers. Her passion for education that develops thinking and reasoning in students and belief that every child is a learner.
Anna Griese possesses a sharp business mind and a passionate drive to voice her constituents’ needs. She listens and is willing to bring up concerns when it appears proper questions for accountability and transparency are not being considered in key decisions.
Kevin Kim provides critical legal and financial insights through his experience as an attorney. His volunteer experience serving at his daughter’s school site council and later as a member of the SUSD Asset Management Committee have provided him with key insights to make him a valuable board member.
All three are independent-minded leaders with zero political aspirations. They are unafraid to ask tough questions, yet they are deeply committed to supporting our teachers, staff and students with a balanced perspective. Please take the time to get to know these candidates — they are exactly the leadership SUSD needs and deserves.
Gretchen Pressman
Saugus
