To the editor:
We are writing to support Melissa Clucas for the School Committee. She brings a much-needed fiscal expertise, a willingness to work with her colleagues in a collaborative nature and excellent communication skills among many other positive qualities.
We met Melissa and her family in 2021 at a birthday party for a mutual friend. Since then, we have come to know Melissa as our own family friend. We have had the privilege of witnessing her parent her three daughters with her husband, Nick — arguably her most important role. Melissa is inherently kind and patient; these qualities carry over positively to her role on the Marblehead School Committee.
Professionally, Melissa is a chief financial officer for a multi-million dollar company. In this capacity she is responsible for a corporate budget, has been integral in contract negotiations and works regularly with legal counsel. Over the past six months, Melissa has demonstrated exactly how much Marblehead benefits from this level of expertise. She has worked tirelessly with the School Committee, Finance Committee, Select Board and community members to develop a balanced budget, create solutions for future financial needs and ensure that all stakeholders understand the process and the choices involved. Melissa has the financial background to further guide our community during these challenging economic times.
Equally as important as her financial background, Melissa has brought a collaborative nature to the current School Committee. She has been a driving force in helping the committee move forward constructively, always focusing on practical problem-solving. She asks informed, incisive questions but always does so with respect for her colleagues and a genuine appreciation for differing opinions. She will work to ensure appropriate policies are in place and building needs are met.
Melissa has the experience, integrity and ability to communicate required to represent all of Marblehead effectively on day one. Please join us in voting for Melissa Clucas for School Committee on June 9.
Mary and Bill LeBlanc
Peach Highlands
