To the editor:
As a Marblehead resident and a parent deeply invested in the future of our town, I am proud to support Alison Taylor and Emily DeJoy for positions on the School Committee.
Both Alison and Emily are lifelong members of this community who care deeply for Marblehead and its children. Alison has been proactive, thoughtful, and dedicated in her service — willing to tackle difficult issues, even when facing challenges left behind by previous leadership. Her commitment has never wavered, and her voice has consistently pushed for progress, accountability, and transparency.
Emily brings a fresh perspective — young, innovative, and unafraid to think outside the box. She represents a new generation of leadership, and her willingness to challenge the status quo is exactly what this district needs as we look ahead.
It’s time to stop the “us vs. them” mentality that has poisoned our local discourse. As adults, and as role models for our children, we must do better. We must remember that we all want the same thing — a thriving, inclusive, respectful community and school system where every child feels safe and seen.
As a bi-racial woman raising two boys in Marblehead, I’ve learned that true inclusion isn’t shown by a flag or a logo—it’s shown in action, in conversation, in how we treat one another. The division that’s been fueled — ironically, by a group that claims to stand for unity — has only made it harder to move forward together.
We need to stop pointing fingers from behind screens and start working side-by-side. That’s the only way real change happens. Alison and Emily are ready to do that work. I hope you’ll join me in supporting them.
Let’s move forward, together.
Sharman Pollender
Reed Street
