“I would describe Worcester Public Schools (WPS) as a robust urban school system. Like many urban districts, it has faced funding challenges, leading to staff and resource shortages. However, the Student Opportunity Act, which I served a leadership role in, has provided funding to address these issues. WPS is known for innovative programs, including dual language, arts integration, preschool initiatives, and STEM education.”
WORCESTER – As the Worcester municipal election day looms, the Worcester Guardian reached out to candidates in contested races. Asking each a set of questions, the Guardian publishes these responses as voting day (Nov. 7) draws near.
Maureen Binienda is running for Worcester School Committee member at-large.
With a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education, and a master’s degrees from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education, Binienda has dedicated 47 years to public service in education. Currently, she serves as the interim superintendent of the Easthampton School District, holding the same position previously at Quaboag Regional School District. She was superintendent of Worcester Public Schools from 2016 to 2022.
The following are Binienda’s responses to the Guardian’s questionnaire:
What inspired you to run and what makes you the right person for the job?
My comprehensive background, from the ground up as a teacher, principal and superintendent, along with my unwavering commitment to students, educators, families, and the community, makes me the ideal candidate for Worcester’s school committee.
My inspiration stems from a lifelong dedication to public service, particularly in educating our students. I care deeply about our community and what better way to ensure that our students receive the very best in education, resources and support than to bring my decades of hands on, on the job experiences and perspective to the school committee? I have a proven track record of successful cooperation and innovative program development with city agencies and organizations, and extensive knowledge of community resources. I intend to bring that knowledge base and valuable experiences amassed during my 47 years in education to the school committee.
What are, or should be, the top priorities at this time for the school committee?
- Providing a safe school environment for ALL students by reviewing current discipline policies and practices, with input from principals, staff members, PTOs, and school council members as well as the students themselves. We all have a vested interest in the safety and security of every single person whether student or staff.
- Identify and work collaboratively with all stakeholders from the student body to experts to develop policy to further develop academic access and equity of all our students.
- Monitor the fiscal budget ensuring that funding is used in a strategic and cost effective way to address the needs of the district.
- Connect schools with the community to provide additional academic, cultural, and civic opportunities for students to learn and thrive. We need to inspire our students to see themselves reflected in all the different spaces and careers in our community and the best way to do that is to ensure they have ample opportunities to access these spaces.
Where do you think the school committee has been failing, or coming up short?
I believe that having an experienced public educator on the board is essential. District oversight boards benefit from individuals who deeply understand the inner workings of education, and have experienced the changes in our educational system. With 18 years as a teacher, 22 years as an administrator, and six years as the WPS superintendent, I offer 47 years of the “ground floor” experience needed to make informed decisions to the Worcester School Committee.
How would you describe the Worcester Public Schools to an out-of-towner?
I would describe Worcester Public Schools (WPS) as a robust urban school system. Like many urban districts, it has faced funding challenges, leading to staff and resource shortages. However, the Student Opportunity Act, which I served a leadership role in, has provided funding to address these issues. WPS is known for innovative programs, including dual language, arts integration, preschool initiatives, and STEM education. The staff is well-trained and maintains positive relationships with students and families. Graduates have access to numerous educational and vocational opportunities. The district continually strives to improve and enhance educational effectiveness for all students. However, the persistent achievement gaps still need to be addressed.
I will work with the school committee to fund initiatives and professional development that builds subject matter expertise and evidence based practices, develops culturally responsive curriculum, expands multi-tiered system of supports, and provides supports and curriculum for special education and English language learners.
Who was your favorite teacher, and what made this person so inspiring to you?
I’ve had many favorite teachers at all stages of my life. Teachers include my parents, grandparents, aunt, Girl’s Club staff, Girls Scout leaders, parents of my friends, coaches, community mentors and partners, religious leaders, job bosses, school teachers, staff and administrators. What made them inspiring was their ability to establish positive relationships and challenge me to push my limits, with their constant support and continued guidance. They taught me the importance of working collaboratively to achieve common goals, and appreciate the accomplishments and contributions of others.
What’s the best piece of advice a relative (mom, dad, grandparent, etc.) ever gave you?
The best piece of advice was modeled everyday. I come from a family of Worcester Public School teachers. My grandfather was a teacher and principal, and my aunt a teacher for 35 years. From my preschool to college days, I visited their classrooms, offices, attended school events, conducted college classroom observations and interned in the Worcester Public Schools.
My parents and grandparents told me to work hard, earn good grades, become involved in school activities, and volunteer in my community. It was expected that I attend college as “it was the only way to improve opportunities for success.” My grandparents and parents modeled daily the importance of being authentic and treating others with respect and kindness. The importance of integrity, honesty, compassion and empathy was a common conversation. They would often tell me “to believe in myself and the goodness of others.”
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading “In Support of Students” by Katie Novak and Kristan Rodriguez in a group book study with school and district leaders. It is a leader’s guide to equitable Multiple Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Our conversations will align and define our vision as we work together to implement MTSS. The book focuses on how effective interventions and effective implementation results in improved student outcomes. Through this book, I will expand my current knowledge on meeting the needs of all students by learning how schools can “optimize data-driven decision-making, progress monitoring, evidence-based supports and strategies with increasing intensity to sustain student growth academically, behaviorally, socially and emotionally.”
What would you tell the 15-year-old you?
I would say: “You are brilliant and competent and hardworking; don’t be afraid to explore your path. Keep reaching for your goals, get involved, ignore any incessant noise and focus on your inner voice. Identify where you can make a difference: a lifetime of dedicated service that will fulfill, inspire and challenge you for the rest of your life!”
Contact Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
