by Michelle Johnson
3/29/2014

Joan (Shaughnessy) Sousa will be on the ballot as a candidate for School Committee in the upcoming election, slated for May 20, 2014. Sousa joins three other potential candidates vying for two open positions. With a background in project management and bringing consensus among parties with conflicting interests, Sousa promises to bring her skills and talents to the position.

Currently the President of Holliston Elementary Parent Teacher Student Association and a substitute teacher in the district, she has gained a unique understanding of daily operations and how decisions are made. Over the years, many observations and conversations with residents have led her to conclude that more communication and collaboration is needed between town departments. As a member of the School Committee, Sousa will strive to achieve this balance, focusing on a central theme of “Schools and Town Collaborate”. 

Sousa expresses her enthusiasm for running for School committee: “Holliston has all the ingredients to be a town where all citizens are proud to call home. My past experiences managing projects by clearly defining deliverables, ensuring work is done right, on time and on budget are exactly what is needed to operative effectively as a School Committee member within a town competing for precious resources. I believe we can strike a balance between meeting the needs of the town while protecting Holliston’s crown jewel: the schools. I promise to do my utmost for Holliston”. 

Joan Sousa has been living in Holliston since 2009 with her husband, Lou, and two elementary-aged children, Jack and Sally. She has served in various roles within HEPTSA and Holliston Newcomers Club, is a past coach for Holliston Youth Soccer and Holliston Pop Warner, former catechist and current parishioner at St. Mary’s Church. She is thrilled to announce her candidacy and welcomes questions, concerns and ideas from fellow Hollistonians.