My resignation from School Committee

[Deepika Sawhney]

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

On March 2nd 2025 I would have completed my seventh year as a Lexington School Committee member. At that time, I will resign. Usually ‘once more unto the breach, dear friends’ is what I do. But both my children have graduated and so a very critical feedback loop about how LPS is doing has ended. 

In its absence, and with the controls on interactions and information flow, I have relied even more on quantitative data and where possible qualitative information. What is presented to us at School Committee meetings as the norm, was never sufficient for me. 

However, I have found reasoning from a data standpoint, though logically sound is often ‘rhetorically unsuccessful’ in the School Committee. I believe that new fresh perspectives are needed to move Lexington Public Schools towards better outcomes. 

In the weeks between now and February 2025, inspired by the Select Board’s practice of holding office hours, I too will hold virtual office hours every working Monday morning between 10 am - 11am. I am also available via email at dsaw...@lexingtonma.org. I hope parents and community members will talk to me and share their concerns. What is within my purview I will solve, what is beyond, I will write up and forward to the Chair and Superintendent. The Zoom link for my office hours is available here (https://www.sawhneyforlexington.com/news-views). I will also continue to write and share perspectives on Lexington Public Schools.

For those who contemplate running for School Committee, reach out to me. The most important eligibility criteria is to care for our children. Our town only functions because of the service (seva) of its residents. I will be most happy to share institutional knowledge for our students' benefit. 

To the people of Lexington, my sincere apologies for not completing my third term. 

To the children of Lexington Public Schools, you are adored. 

With gratitude, 

Deepika Sawhney

November 26th 2024

(Town Meeting Member Precinct 6,

Vice Chair of Lexington Public School Committee)