Anna Nolin, Newton's Superintendent-- Fixes Post- (illegal) Teachers' Strike

In my recent conversation with Dr. Anna Nolin, Newton’s Superintendent of Schools, it was clear that she is thorough, thoughtful, and genuinely invested in the success of the district. She stepped into a challenging role, taking over at a time when public confidence in our schools had been shaken by the pandemic and enrollment had dropped by 14%. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Nolin has remained committed to improving Newton's schools, even as she navigates a complex landscape shaped by union contracts, financial inertia, and community expectations.

Dr. Nolin’s leadership is a refreshing contrast to the typical bureaucratic responses we often see in public institutions. She’s forthright in addressing the realities of the district’s situation and doesn’t shy away from tough questions. The pandemic left Newton’s schools closed near-endlessly, and many families moved their children to other schools—especially local Catholic ones, which stayed open without significant health consequences. This exodus hasn’t led to a reduction in the school budget, though. It remains stubbornly untouched, even as fewer students are enrolled, a point of contention for many who believe that resources are being mismanaged.

Dr. Nolin faces additional challenges in reforming a system that doesn’t easily bend. The powerful teachers' union holds a strong grip on the district, making it difficult to introduce sweeping changes. Charter schools, which could offer a competitive and innovative alternative, aren’t within her jurisdiction—they are handled at the state level, leaving her with limited options. However, she is clearly working hard within the confines of what is possible. She’s been actively restructuring leadership teams, fostering better community engagement, and addressing issues like mental health support and curriculum improvements.

The recent teacher strike, which was illegal, has only compounded the district’s challenges. Despite this, Dr. Nolin has stayed focused on finding solutions, even if the broader system resists change. The school committee, our only direct democratic influence over the schools, moves slowly and is hamstrung by contracts that lock much of the budget into place.

For all of this, I remain optimistic about Dr. Nolin’s leadership. She is the right person to be leading Newton’s schools at this time. Her honesty and transparency are exactly what the district needs, and while she can’t change everything on her own, she is making progress where she can. The road ahead is long, and it will take community involvement and support to drive the deeper changes needed. Dr. Nolin can’t do it all by herself, but with the right backing, she has the potential to guide our schools toward a better future.

(Perhaps on our next discussion, we will address: Programs aimed at advanced students have slowly eroded, while the district continues to pour resources into inclusivity and special education without balancing the needs of its highest achievers. )