By Jennifer Roney

With significant challenges facing Lexington’s schools, the composition of the School Committee will impact our children’s educational experience for many years to come. Eileen Jay stands out among the School Committee candidates for her background in education and her extensive experience advocating for Lexington’s children. She would be a thoughtful, collaborative, and effective steward of our schools. I enthusiastically support Eileen’s candidacy, and urge the community to join me in voting for her on March 1.

A parent of two recent graduates who attended elementary, middle, and high school here, Eileen understands the full arc of Lexington education. She is also an expert in learning, with a doctorate in education from Harvard and professional experience investigating how children learn and how to nurture creative and critical thinking.

For years, Eileen has worked tirelessly for children while forging constructive and collaborative relationships with parents, administrators, School Committee members, and the Lexington community. She has advised principals on school improvement plans; served on the committee that selected Dr. Czajkowski; is a CAAL steering committee member and co-chairs its education subcommittee; serves on Town Meeting; and more. Eileen also supports desperately-needed capacity increases in our schools.

Eileen brings special passion and leadership to reducing stress and creating healthy balance in children’s lives. A principal author of the Ad Hoc Committee for Youth at Risk’s Report on Student Stress, she also serves on the School Health Advisory Council and the steering committee of the Lexington Community Coalition, which is addressing student stress, mental health, and substance abuse.

This election season is an opportunity to ensure that decision-makers share our priorities and will lead our schools wisely in this challenging time. Eileen’s background, experience, passion, and commitment make her an ideal advocate for Lexington’s children. Please join me in electing her on March 1.

Jennifer Roney
Lillian Road