Elizabeth Nees: Candidate for School Committee

I am writing to introduce myself as a candidate for the School Committee this May. Like many of you, my family chose Harvard six years ago for its unique small-town character and educational excellence. As a parent of two children in our schools and a PTO and HES School Council volunteer, I am honored to put myself forward.

We are entering a pivotal chapter for the Harvard Public Schools. With a new superintendent and assistant superintendent at the helm next year, my primary focus will be ensuring a successful leadership transition. Professionally, I coach nonprofits and community organizations through change and transition. I look forward to bringing this experience to our district by staying rooted in its mission while building a sustainable path forward.

I also understand the weight of the fiscal responsibilities ahead. Having been closely engaged with the recent efforts to secure necessary school funding, I have gained a front-row seat to the challenges of our town’s financial landscape and, more importantly, how those fiscal choices shape the future for all of us. I view our current challenges not just as hurdles, but as opportunities to be clear about our priorities. I am committed to protecting our core programs and classroom resources while remaining a responsible steward of our taxpayers’ investment.

My goals are focused on:

• Supporting mission-driven leadership: Ensuring our vision statement is a lived reality for every student.
• Organizational health: Ensuring our policies and structures are modern, resilient, and supportive of a healthy, inclusive culture for our staff and students.
• Deepening community connections: Strengthening the vital partnership between our schools and the wider Harvard and Devens community.

 While our town is defined by many things—our history, our open spaces, and our neighbors—I believe our schools are a vital pulse that helps keep Harvard’s heart beating strong. I am eager to bring my professional expertise in organizational transition and my background in local advocacy to the table to ensure our district thrives as part of a healthy, connected town. I look forward to hearing your perspectives and humbly ask for your vote on May 5.

Elizabeth Nees
Bolton Road