Why Marlborough's Katherine Hennessy Is Back In 2023 For Fifth Schools Term

MARLBOROUGH, MA — Marlborough's 2023 election features a number of competitive city council races — and the race for the mayor's seat — but things are a little quieter on the schools side.

The three Marlborough School Committee members up for reelection this year are not facing any challengers. The same goes for the single seat up for election on the Assabet Valley Regional School Committee.

Still, Marlborough Patch asked each incumbent to respond to a candidate questionnaire, if at least so voters can get reacquainted with them. Here's how Katherine Hennessy, who's returning for a fifth Marlborough School Committee term in 2023, answered.

Name: Katherine Hennessy

How old will you be as of Election Day? 55

Education: Masters in Sports Management, Athletic Administration Certificate - both through SNHU, BS in Advertising Design & Photography - dual degree from Syracuse University

What is your occupation? Photography Production/Representation & Photographer, as well as an umpire for field hockey and softball

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them: Husband, Michael, married for 30 years. Three children: Colin, graduated from Penn State with a dual degree in Poly Sci and Philosophy. Emma, currently attending UMASS-Lowell majoring in Mechanical Engineering and playing soccer & my youngest, Abby, currently attending Wagner College majoring in Health Sciences and playing field hockey. All three attended and graduated from the Marlborough Public School District.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? Currently, my son, Colin, is working for our State Senator, Jamie Eldridge as an Interim Legislative Director.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective? I have been on the School Committee for 4 terms (16 years).

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I would like to continue working on behalf of all of the students, staff and community of Marlborough - to help us encourage growth and provide opportunities for educating every single student to be the best they can be. Additionally, I would like to be an advocate for the students and families that need a voice and representation relative to equitable services and support during their academic journey, here in Marlborough.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ... and this is what I intend to do about it.

Raising student achievement and I intend to work closely with the administration and staff to review and analyze the data, and to provide any support through budgeting, targeted curriculum & intervention to aid our staff in meeting and improving the academic rigor for all of our students across the District.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

All three of us are incumbents, working together collaboratively for our children of Marlborough.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

The last 16 years, I have provided a voice and support through multiple Superintendents & Administration, working tirelessly on reasonable budgets that specifically target the needs of our community. Additionally, we have worked with our staff, committee and parents to create and revise policies to better support our District, as we grow each year. Our collaborative and proactive approach as a committee has benefitted the District and I intend to focus all efforts on continuing and improving these efforts to the benefit of the students of Marlborough.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Always try your best, and never give up!

Marlborough voters will head to the polls on Nov. 7 to elect city councilors, school committee members and a new mayor. Register to vote here.