Issues

Like many of you, my husband, Paul, and I moved to Newton to raise our family. We chose Newton because of its walkable neighborhood schools, historic village centers and abundant green open space. Our three children are all graduates of the Newton Public Schools (Angier/Brown/Newton South High School). We are so proud and fortunate they have all chosen to return to the Boston area to live and to pursue their professional careers after earning graduate degrees.

Today Newton Public Schools (NPS) are facing budgetary challenges and I am saddened by the staffing cuts throughout the NPS system; the elimination of “Advanced Options” in middle schools; and in course offerings for students at the high school level. We are on the verge of a staffing crisis. And all of this is occurring at a time when there is excess free cash in the city coffers.

I support a Fair Contract for the teachers, but understand that negotiations are never easy and it’s only through compromise, that resolutions are reached.

It is critical that we prioritize and support our schools, our teachers and our NPS families, especially those still impacted by the pandemic and years of interrupted learning. Even today, there still is a need among our students. I will advocate for regaining our stature of academic and sports excellence throughout the Newton Public Schools.

Alison Lobron, Parent/Educator Collaborative

"I’ve found Rena Getz to be both supportive of the Newton Public Schools and interested in promoting a more collaborative approach." - Alison Lobron, Parent/Educator Collaborative

Sumukh Tendulkar, Newton Public Schools parent

"As a parent of children in the Newton Public Schools, we feel many of our local elected officials simply ignore our concerns. Concerns around learning, deteriorating parks and playing fields, and traffic. I know Rena and she will listen to us. She has a track record of championing residents’ issues and will represent our priorities." - Sumukh Tendulkar, Newton Public Schools parent