Mark Mathias, at almost 16 years the longest serving member of the Westport Board of Education and its chair for a year, said today that he will not seek reelection in November to another four-year term.
Mark Mathias: longest serving board member. Contributed photo
He announced his intent in a statement almost four weeks after the nominating committee for the Democratic Town Committee endorsed two others for seats on the seven-member board, which has a Democratic majority. (See WestportNow June 20, 2019)
“I have recently heard from many people encouraging me to run for a fifth term,” said Mathias, 61. “Their positive comments regarding my contributions to the Board of Education are deeply appreciated.”
He referenced the turmoil that the board faced over the past year, including the sudden departure of the superintendent of schools, the resignation of the high school principal, and efforts to deal with the sudden closure of Coleytown Middle School because of air quality and mold issues.
“The board has just completed what has been the most challenging and contentious year of my tenure,” Mathis said.
“I am pleased with the board’s trajectory as we enter this academic year. The appropriation to remediate Coleytown Middle School has been secured, an excellent interim superintendent is in place, a solid central office staff runs our system well, a strong board and a very engaged community provide excellent public guidance.
“All of these speak well for the future of Westport’s educational system.”
He said he made his decision to retire “given the direction of the board and my confidence that the board and town will continue to deliver the high quality education that is the hallmark of Westport.”
And he thanked all those who helped him with “their insights and intelligence over the past 16 years,” especially his wife and children “who haven’t seen me on most Monday evenings for the past 16 years and who have supported my service on the board.”
