Woburn Incumbent Jessie Wetzel Seeks Re-Election to School Committee

Name

Jessie J. Wetzel

Office sought

Woburn School Committee (at large)

Incumbency / background

Wetzel currently serves on the School Committee and is seeking another term.

Education & career

• M.Ed. in Teaching Students with Visual Impairments — UMass Boston

• B.A. in Hospitality Business — Michigan State University

• Professionally, she has worked as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired (on leave) and held roles in finance and hospitality operations

Family & district ties

She and her husband, John, live in Woburn, where their three children attend Woburn Public Schools.

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Why are you running for re-election?

I believe Woburn’s schools work best when the community feels invited into the process. During my term I’ve prioritized open communication, responsive office hours, and bridging gaps between parents, teachers, and the Committee. I plan to keep strengthening that collaborative culture while focusing on outcomes, cost efficiency, and clarity in decision making.

What is the most pressing issue, and how will you address it?

The biggest challenge now is aligning school infrastructure and resources with evolving enrollment, program needs, and equity goals. My priorities include:

• Developing a clear capital plan that addresses middle school needs, elementary capacity, and the future of integrated preschool/ECP space

• Ensuring school budgets are transparent and accountable, with clear links between dollars spent and student impact

• Pursuing all state/federal funding opportunities to lessen the burden on local taxpayers

What distinguishes your candidacy?

I bring a unique combination: the viewpoint of an educator, a parent, and an experienced incumbent. I’m committed to data-driven decisions, accessible communication, and inclusive governance—not rhetoric.

Other priorities

• Strengthening early learning, inclusion, and special education programs

• Supporting social-emotional learning, student wellness, and mental health services

• Increasing family engagement through clear, timely updates and community forums

Notable accomplishments

• Institutionalizing stronger communication norms and public reporting

• Applying professional experience in equity and accessibility (e.g. from her work with visually impaired students) into district policy

• Serving on the Massachusetts Braille Literacy Advisory Council, informing her advocacy for inclusive education

Advice that guides you

“There’s rarely a perfect time—there’s only your commitment to the work.” This reminds me to act now, even when decisions are difficult.

Final message to voters

I’m running to keep building a school district that is transparent, inclusive, high-performing, and accountable—one that all Woburn families can trust and take pride in.

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How to Vote

• Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025 — 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Absentee / vote by mail: Contact the Woburn City Clerk’s office for details and deadlines