Steve Siegel for School Committee (2011)
Editorial Posted Nov 2, 2011 @ 12:00 AM
We endorsed Steve Siegel over Susan Rosenbaum two years ago and we are doing so again.
Rosenbaum, a biochemist, is obviously a smart woman. It’s difficult, though, to know what her contributions to the School Committee have been, given that she seldom speaks in committee meetings. Make no mistake, we appreciate politicians who don’t talk to hear themselves talk, but, she’s facing a challenger who would be much more likely to further the discussion.
A structural engineer, Siegel likes to tout his profession as a major selling point, especially at a time when the mayor is about to unveil a long-term plan to repair or replace many of the city’s dilapidated schools. We agree that it would be valuable to have someone on the School Committee with his expertise, but we don’t think it’s what matters most.
Rather, it’s Siegel’s analytical skills he brings to his job that we admire most.
A smart man, Siegel doesn’t rush to judgment. He likes data. He asks good questions. He listens. And he provides thoughtful and honest answers. He is an independent thinker who has spent the time since his loss to Rosenbaum two years ago talking to the players and trying to understand what works and what doesn’t work on the School Committee.
We believe Steve Siegel’s analytical thinking, listening skills and dedication would contribute greatly to the School Committee and we urge Newton residents to cast their ballots for him.
Copyright 2011 Newton TAB. Some rights reserved.
Steve Siegel for School Committee (2009)
Editorial Posted Oct 21, 2009 @ 12:00 AM
Since emerging onto the scene in the past two years, Steve Siegel has impressed us with his willingness to dig deeply and thoroughly into an issue. By the same token, he’s exhibited remarkable flexibility and stellar listening skills — traits too often missing these days in Newton’s political dialog.
A structural engineer by trade, Siegel’s skills in that area will no doubt be useful as our city struggles with critical decisions about rebuilding or replacing our crumbling infrastructure. But Siegel is hardly a one-issue candidate. He’s passionate about improving the way we teach math, while calling for new models for teacher compensation that would allow us to continue to attract top talent as an alternative to layoffs and crowded classes.
In contrast, his opponent Sue Rosenbaum is running on a platform that Newton’s schools are pretty darn good right now. Yes, we have much to be proud of. But we prefer Siegel’s more analytical and realistic assessment of the challenges ahead.
Siegel is worthy of your vote on Nov. 3.