What’s happening in our schools is a disgrace. In 2011, our reading scores peaked and in 2013, our math scores peaked. Half of our 3rd graders cannot read proficiently. Maura Healey is managing our decline, not leading us forward.
I began my public service as Special Advisor for the turnaround of the failed Lawrence Public Schools. Our team cut bureaucracy by nearly 40% and redirected funding directly into classrooms; we introduced innovative new programs and partnered with community organizations to support students and families. Thousands of kids have better futures because we increased high school graduation rates from 52% to 72% in just two years. I’ll bring that same approach statewide: eliminate waste and redirect money to the classroom where it belongs, and bring people together to develop great strategies to help our kids succeed.
I also served as Senior Advisor and Chief Strategy Officer at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, building better pathways for youth in Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, South Boston, and Chelsea. I know and care deeply about these communities—and it breaks my heart to see the massive life expectancy gap between them and our wealthiest zip codes. Democrats have failed these neighborhoods again and again. As Governor, I will work side-by-side with community leaders to close those gaps and help families build generational success.
