The Marblehead School Committee has a new member. In a joint vote Wednesday night, the Select Board and School Committee appointed Melissa Clucas to fill the vacant seat on the School Committee through June.
Clucas, a chief financial officer and mother of three, received six of the eight votes. Former teacher Mark Schwartz and former School Committee member Sarah Fox each received one vote. Candidate Yael Magen received no votes.
Clucas’ experience in business and budgeting appeared to give her the edge, as the district faces a challenging budget season that may lead to educator layoffs or a tax override request.
“I’m hoping to have a positive impact on the budget cycle, bringing a lot of transparency to the process,” Clucas told the Current right after her appointment.
Clucas also focused on “building bridges” with the community and educators, after a bitter strike last year.
Asked by Select Board Chair Dan Fox what she would most look forward to serving on the School Committee, Clucas answered, “Unpacking change and building those bridges in the community.”
Clucas said she would rely on facts and data, rather than emotions, to make hard decisions.
“I’m a very level headed person,” she said. “I’m not someone who jumps to conclusions. I’m a really good balance because I don’t have a big personality. I’m not looking for the spotlight, I’m just looking to do the best thing in the most efficient way possible.”
Litigation against district
The School Committee is scheduled to meet in executive (private) session Friday, Sept. 12, to discuss a “threatened litigation” by former employee Lauren Skelton-Leard, according to the agenda. An email to Skelton-Leard was returned with this message: “I am writing to inform you that Lauren Skelton is no longer employed with the Marblehead Public Schools, effective, August 22, 2025.” Skelton-Leard was based at the Glover School. Superintendent John Robidoux did not respond to questions about Skelton-Leard’s departure.
The district is facing several lawsuits, including one filed recently by fired HR director Kelley Ferretti.
