community service

Southborough, Shrewsbury municipal candidates make case to voters

REGION - Area towns are gearing up for 2021 municipal elections. As voters get set to head to the polls, the Community Advocate has zeroed in on contested races for prominent bodies like Board of Selectmen and School Committee.

This week previews focus on contested races in Southborough and Shrewsbury.

Candidates all filed paperwork to appear on their community’s ballot. The Community Advocate then asked them answer questions and to provide brief biographies of themselves.

See biographies here and read extended question and answers online…

Southborough

Scan QR code to read expanded candidate bios for each town.

BOARD OF SELECTMAN 1 SEAT AVAILABLE

Andrew Dennington

“I have the right type of experience to hit the ground running. I served on our Zoning Board of Appeals for five years, with two years as Chair. I currently serve on our Advisory Committee (our finance committee). In total, I have seven years of relevant experience. But I still bring the fresh perspective of a relative newcomer, having moved to Southborough with my wife eight years ago.”

“I also understand the challenges faced by young families. We have two children, ages 5 and 3. Our daughter is a kindergartener at the Finn School.”

Michael Weishan

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I attended Harvard on full scholarship. I am a 30-year resident of Southborough.

I own a landscape architecture firm in Southborough and have had a substantial career in the national press, NPR and PBS as host and commentator.

I am currently the chair of the Southborough Historical Commission. During this time, I authored the Demolition Delay & Adaptive Reuse Bylaws; and saved the restored barn now going up at Chestnut Hill Farm. Additionally, I led the rescue of the Southborough Historical Society after a flood, restoring both building and finances, and currently serve as SHS president. NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH REGIONAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE (NORTHBOROUGH CANDIDATE) - 2 SEATS AVAILABLE

Kathleen Howland

“At the women’s march 4 years ago, I heard the call to be engaged. As a college professor, school committee was an easy choice. I run again to have a voice in the quality of the educational experience, especially beyond grades. How are we preparing the next generation to be logical thinkers, to be people who can solve complex problems, to be people who have developed high levels of empathy to contribute to society and to be good to themselves. I am a wife, mother of a present junior and Education Director for the Soular Jazz Festival with my husband.”

Karen Ares

“ M y name i Karen Ares, candidate for Regional School Committee. I have been serving on this committee since June 2020, and have a wealth of knowledge in public education, having been a high school teacher for 7 years and a district administrator in a regional school district for 5 years. As a district administrator, I regularly attended School Committee meetings and presented curriculum and budget updates. I am the parent of two Algonquin students, and familiar with issues that teachers face in the classroom today. I am passionate about creating learning opportunities that are equitable for all children.”

Mariam Ibrahimi

“I grew up in Northborough and graduated ARHS in 2019. Currently the Vice Chair of the Northborough Diversity and Inclusion Committee, I collaborate on solutions to foster a more welcoming community.”

“With 1⁄4 of ARHS students identifying as people of color, the Regional School Committee does not adequately represent the experiences of diverse students. I’m running because we must do better by our community. I’ve crafted my priorities with input from parents, teachers, local elected officials, community members, and most importantly, students. It’s time for a young, diverse voice on the School Committee and I hope to earn your support.”

Shrewsbury

Scan QR code to read expanded candidate bios for each town.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE - 1 SEAT AVAILABLE

Johnathan Wensky

“I’m a lifelong resident of Shrewsbury and h a v e served as an elected member of the School Committee for the last 6 years. I’m a graduate of the University of Hartford with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. For the last 18 years, I have been employed with Staples, Inc. in Framingham holding various leadership positions in Sales Operations and eCommerce. Preparing for a post-pandemic return to school comes with many challenges and unknowns. I believe Shrewsbury needs tested, experienced leadership in this position. Our work during this difficult time is just beginning and that’s why I am running for reelection.”

Andrei Kapoustine

“An drei Kapoustine has been living in Shrews bury for 10 years with his wife Mila and two twin sons. Bachelor’s Degree Holder in International Finance and Master’s degree holder from the French Insurance and Actuarial School Andrei has 20 years of experience in various finance roles with increasing responsibilities in the UK, Eastern Europe and US. Currently Andrei is working as a supplier relationship manager with Takeda Pharmaceutical in Lexington (MA). Andrei remains connected to the Shrewsbury Public Schools System through his sons who started their education in the old Beal school and currently attending fourth grade classes in Floral School.”

Sanam Zaer

“I live here in Shrews bury with my husband and three children. I am running for School Committee because I have always been passionate about education. I have a Master’s degree in education, classroom experience, and have been very active in our schools as a PTO member, School Council representative, and as a parent representative on multiple committees. As an educator, a local advocate, and as the parent of children with varying needs, I offer the School Committee a unique perspective and a direct connection to diverse communities across Shrewsbury.”