As the Nov. 4 election is rapidly approaching and only two weeks away, Peabody voters will soon have the chance to have their voices heard through their votes.
Early voting for the municipal election is available next week at City Hall, 24 Lowell St., on the following days and times:
- Monday, Oct. 27 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 28 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 30 from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
For anyone who wants to apply to be a mail-in voter, those applications are due Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. Call the City Clerk’s Office at (978) 538-5756 for more information. Absentee ballots are also available to voters at the City Clerk’s Office for in-person voting. The deadline to vote by absentee ballot is Monday, Nov. 3 at 12 p.m.
Polls will be open on election day from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. The following are each ward’s polling locations:
- Ward 1: Brown School, 150 Lynn St.
- Ward 2: Welch School, 50 Swampscott Ave.
- Ward 3: Torigian Senior Center, 70 Central St.
- Ward 4, Precincts 1-3: Higgins Middle School, 85 Perkins St.
- Ward 4, Precinct 3A: Village MacIntosh Building, 300 Brooksby Village Dr.
- Ward 5: Peabody High School, 485 Lowell St.
- Ward 6: Burke School, 127 Birch St.
In this upcoming election, there are six contested races: Mayor, Councilor-at-Large, Ward 2 Councilor, Ward 3 Councilor, Ward 6 Councilor, and School Committee.
Whether they were unopposed or underdogs, all candidates were asked to tell Peabody community members why they are running for their desired position and why they should get your vote on Nov. 4. Their responses are below. Candidate responses are listed in the order they will be seen on the ballot.
Mayor
There are two candidates for mayor: incumbent Edward A. Bettencourt, Jr., who has been mayor for 13 years, and challenger Rochelle A. Agneta, who has been a business owner for 30 years. This position has a two-year term.
Edward A. Bettencourt, Jr.
“I’m running for another term as mayor to keep Peabody moving forward.
With the transformative projects we’ve started — like our new public safety headquarters, Central Street improvement, and a new Peabody High School — we’re laying the groundwork for an even stronger community.
I want to ensure that these projects reach the finish line and that we continue investing in our schools, infrastructure, and quality of life.
I believe that we’ve built a track record of real results, from reducing flooding to enhancing public safety and maintaining sound municipal finance. We’ve created a momentum of growth and community spirit, and I’m committed to ensuring Peabody’s future remains vibrant and a place everyone feels at home. Together, we can keep making Peabody a great place to live and work.”
Rochelle A. Agneta
“I am running for Mayor because I care deeply about Peabody, the people, the neighborhoods, the businesses, and the future. This is my home. I have seen the pride, the hard work, and the heart that makes Peabody such a special place — and I believe we can build on that to make our city even stronger together.
We will strengthen our schools by making sure every child has the resources and opportunities to thrive. We will revitalize our downtown to be alive with activity, our industrial areas full of good jobs, our local businesses to have real opportunities to grow, and our neighborhoods safe and welcoming for everyone.
We will create smart ways to grow our revenue streams and diversify our tax base to build a self-sustaining city that does not overburden taxpayers. We will invest in our community, maintain what we have, and make sure residents know how their tax dollars are spent and why. I will make sure City Hall is welcoming, accessible, and working for everyone.
I’m not running for politics as usual; I’m running to move Peabody forward with honesty, accountability, and heart. On Election Day, I ask for your vote so we can build a stronger, more connected Peabody, one that works for everyone.”
Councilor-at-Large
This year, there are nine candidates each vying for one of your five votes to be a two-year term as Councilor-at-Large.
There are three incumbents: Anne M. Manning-Martin, Thomas Rossignoll, and Jon Turco.
Manning-Martin has been a Councilor-at-Large since 2008, and she is currently the deputy superintendent at the Department of Correction. Rossignoll has been a Councilor-at-Large for eight years and is a physical therapist with Mass General Brigham Home Care, where he assists seniors across Peabody. Turco was previously the Ward 1 Councilor from 2016-2020 and has been a Councilor-at-Large since 2020; he is a senior foreman of airfield maintenance at Logan Airport.
The six challengers are: Joseph Amico, Tristan R. Brown, Jaclyn Corriveau, George T. Goulos, Jarrod M. Hochman, and Justin M. Titus.
Amico has been a teacher since 2001 and is a small business owner; he owns Amico Property Services. Brown is a public interest attorney. Corriveau is a manager at ADP. Hochman is an attorney. Titus is a farm worker. Additionally, Amico and Hochman are currently on the Peabody School Committee.
Goulos was unable to be reached prior to The Weekly’s press time. His name will fall between Brown and Titus on the ballot.
Joseph Amico
“Dear friends, neighbors, and supporters,
With just about (two weeks) left until Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 4, I am asking for your continued support as I run for one of the five City Councilor-at-Large positions.
My priorities are clear. As a member of the Peabody School Committee for the past 10 years, I’ve always believed that a strong community starts with strong schools and public safety. From there, we must support our senior citizens and small businesses, who are truly the heart of Peabody. I will advocate for programs and housing options that allow our seniors to remain active and vital in our community while also helping our small businesses grow and thrive.
I love this city, and I want to ensure Peabody remains a place where people of all ages can live, work, and raise their families. With your support, I will bring fresh energy, practical solutions, and a strong voice to the City Council.
Our city has always been a place where families, seniors, and businesses can succeed, and I am committed to working hard to keep Peabody moving forward. I am proud to be the first name on the ballot for City Councilor-at-Large, and I would be honored to earn your vote. Please also help spread the word about me, my team, and our campaign.
Thank you for your friendship, encouragement, and belief in Peabody. Together, we can build a better future for our city.”
Jarrod M. Hochman
“I want to improve the quality of life for as many Peabody residents as possible. I believe that a significant portion of public service encompasses constituent relations, making sure that everyone feels engaged and heard by their elected officials.
During my campaign, I talked to thousands of Peabody residents. I hear and share your concerns about traffic, road conditions, real estate tax escalations, sidewalks, and other matters. These concerns deserve attention and warrant remedies. I intend on working with appropriate stakeholders to work toward solutions and ensure that we make every effort to obtain necessary funding to realize the solutions to our concerns. Simply stated, this position is about the people and making their lives better whenever possible.
My track record shows experience and commitment to all Peabody residents.
I am co-founder and COO of No Child Goes Hungry in Peabody, a 501(c) charity that provides approximately 400 Peabody students with food and other assistance each week.
I am completing my fourth term on the Peabody School Committee, during which time we have: negotiated collective bargaining agreements, balanced budgets, built the new Higgins Middle School, built a turf football field at PVMHS, renovated the Welch Elementary School, and several other successes.
I am currently vice president of Temple Tiferet Shalom, a member of the Board of Directors for the Rotary Club, the Peabody Education Foundation, and president of Peabody Babe Ruth Baseball.
I list my activities to emphasize that I am actively committed to helping people, not just promising it. I have the experience and leadership that would make me a City Councilor that is worthy of your vote, and I respectfully ask that you consider me with one of the five votes for the position of City Councilor-at-Large; I am number two on the ballot.”
Tristan R. Brown
“In 2025, Peabody is under a threat unlike any it has ever faced. A hostile and violent political movement is cutting benefits for Peabody seniors, knocking books out of the hands of Peabody students, and threatening members of our community., We need city leaders who are ready to honestly confront these threats and have the experience needed to effectively operate the leavers of government.
I believe that my experience and temperament uniquely qualify me for this moment. I have extensive experience working in state and local government. I was even a policy intern for former Boston City Councilor Tito Jackson during my last year of law school. I have an in-depth understanding of the power of local government and how to achieve immediate benefits for our community.
Furthermore, while I will always have an open mind when considering new positions and the humility to adopt new points of view, I will always be honest about where I stand on an issue and why I stand there. Too often, politicians are afraid of honestly sharing their positions if they feel it might cost them some support. They believe the important thing is to get the votes so they can take office and thus conceal their political beliefs. I don’t work that way.
We — the people running for office — owe it to the public to speak with clarity with regards to our positions so as to provide people with an opportunity to make an informed vote.
Go to planforpeabody.com to learn more.”
Justin M. Titus
“The question of why I decided to run is a question worth talking about, as I am an 18 year old who just recently graduated from Peabody High School and have my whole life ahead of me.
Well, for short, this will be my life. I want to wake up every morning knowing that what I will do will make people’s lives easier and better. I don’t “think”; I know, and what I know is that right now we have old generation people running this local government.
I can change that and bring new ideas to the table. Having someone with a new perspective than the rest of the Councilors will bring a new change, and a new generation, to the forefront. I am also not a “yes man.” I do what needs to be done, and I will not follow just because the rest are doing so. I will do what’s right, and what Peabody citizens actually want — not a contorted, marxist dystopia that the world is heading toward.
Not only do I believe that voters should vote for me, I believe, or rather know, that they will have to, as it’s my generation that’s bringing change and will change this world for the better, or we will stay in the days where we lag behind because of a belief structure that is rooted in the archaic minds of the ones in charge.
I have real ideas that will bring our city to rival the greats. You can check out my website for more: electjustintitus.my.canva.site/justin-m-titus/.”
Jaclyn Corriveau
“I am running because we need City Councilors who are committed to being transparent, responsive, and fiscally responsible. We need to pump the breaks on frivolous spending, and I’m committed to speaking up and preventing waste.
How hard a candidate works on the campaign trail is indicative of how hard they will work once elected — no one has outworked me — I have hit close to 4,000 doors and engaged with hundreds and hundreds of residents.
There is no other way to know what the residents needs are other than speaking to them directly. I’ve done that and will be equipped with those conversations and that knowledge when I’m serving.”
Jon Turco
“I am running for reelection to the Peabody City Council so that I can continue to serve residents and help guide this city for the next two years. I ran for office in 2015 with the sole purpose of being a connection for our residents to city government. I committed myself to be responsive and visible. I have held that basic premise as the most important thing I can do as a City Councilor.
There are many exciting things on the horizon, including a new Public Safety Headquarters and a new Peabody High School. While I supported both those efforts, I am aware that funding them in the least detrimental way to our taxpayers will require creativity through zone changes and responsible redevelopment of our downtown and the Centennial Office Park.
I’ve spent 10 years being an advocate for the people who live here, and I feel I’ve proven that I have the best interest of our residents at heart. With the loss of two very experienced Councilors this year, it will be even more important for the senior members of the City Council to take the lead.”
Anne M. Manning-Martin
“I am running for reelection because the people of Peabody are facing pressing fiscal challenges, and they deserve a leader with the institutional knowledge to avoid the costly mistakes of the past and the dedication to protect and improve the lives of many — not just the few.
The people of Peabody deserve good government based on public trust. It must be earned every day through honesty, transparency, and putting the public’s interest first. I’m running for reelection to make sure Peabody has leadership it can believe in and trust to safeguard taxpayer dollars and their quality of life.
I’ve been honored to serve the City of Peabody for many years and hope that my commitment and dedication has served residents well as I ask for their vote to continue to serve in their best interest.”
Thomas Rossignoll
“My name is Thomas Rossignoll. I am 55 years old and seeking reelection as Councilor-at-Large in the great city of Peabody.
I’ve proudly served as a Councilor-at-Large for the past eight years and previously served eight years on the School Committee. I also work as a physical therapist with Mass General Brigham Home Care, assisting seniors across our city.
Peabody has always been my home. I’m a fourth-generation resident, and my daughters, Amanda and Kristina, were raised here. Amanda teaches kindergarten at South School, and Kristina is pursuing her doctorate in Physical Therapy.
I’ve remained active in civic life — coaching youth sports, serving as president of Peabody Main Streets, and chairing the City Council’s Legal Affairs Committee. I also served as Council President in 2020.
I’m running for reelection because I believe in Peabody’s future. We’re at a pivotal point with opportunities for thoughtful, responsible growth. I’ve worked with the Mayor and Council on key initiatives, including:
- Water infrastructure upgrades
- Central Street revitalization
- A new public safety building
- Plans for a downtown riverwalk
- Laying the groundwork for a new high school
My work with seniors gives me firsthand insight into the impact of rising costs and the importance of balancing growth with affordability.
Having grown up here, I understand how past decisions shape our present — and how today’s choices will define our future. That’s why I support strategic investments and careful planning for the next generation.
I respectfully ask for your vote on Nov. 4.”
Ward 1 Councilor
Incumbent Craig Steven Welton is running unopposed to continue being Ward 1’s Councilor for another two years. He has been in the role since 2020 and served as Council President in 2023. He is also the chief development officer at Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester.
Craig Steven Welton
“I’ve been fortunate to serve as the Ward 1 Councilor in the City of Peabody since 2020. I have spent my career working in the nonprofit sector, and what I like most about what I do for work is the opportunity to help people. That is essentially what drew me toward running for City Council in the first place. I really enjoy being able to help my neighbors, and to work on their behalf to help the City of Peabody reach its fullest potential.
My wife Emily and I moved to Peabody 15 years ago and have since grown our family to include five children ranging in age from 4-15 years old. We have loved being Peabody residents, and we truly appreciate all the wonderful amenities within our city while also enjoying a high quality of life and the relative affordability of our city. As a City Councilor, I strive to continue to deliver the highest possible quality of life for our residents while keeping our taxes as low as possible.
It is a very exciting time for Peabody — and also a time in which we need to be mindful that we not only continue to enhance our City’s facilities, infrastructure, and amenities but draw in new revenue and keep the cost of living in Peabody affordable for our residents. Ward 1 plays a pivotal role in these efforts, due to a larger commercial tax base presence, and I’ve been fortunate to be a part of Councils that have helped to work toward the appropriate balance of business development alongside our neighborhoods. This can often be a delicate balance, but one that I’m excited to be able to continue to work toward in my next term.
While I am running unopposed in this election, I’m enormously grateful for the confidence my friends, neighbors, and residents throughout one have placed in me. I vow to continue to work hard on your behalf to make our community, Ward 1, and all of Peabody as successful as we can be throughout the next two years and beyond!
Ward 2 Councilor
Current Ward 2 Councilor Peter M. McGinn will not be running for reelection, so Ward 2 voters will be deciding between two fresh faces: Wendy Ann Lattof and Michael Constantino Troisi.
Lattof has a 30-year background in business planning and analysis for major Boston Forbes 500 companies; she is also the founder and owner of Create & Escape DIY Workshops on Main Street. Troisi is a program manager at UMass Medical School.
This position has a two-year term.
Wendy Ann Lattof
“I’m running for Ward 2 City Council because Peabody deserves a responsive, forward-thinking leader who listens, acts, and delivers for our community. I’m bringing fresh ideas, new energy, and open communication to help our neighborhoods grow stronger together.
As a longtime resident, small-business owner on Main Street, and lifelong volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand both the challenges and opportunities facing our city — from South Peabody to our downtown.
For eight years, I’ve owned and operated Create & Escape DIY Workshops, bringing people together through creativity and collaboration. My 20+ years of experience in business planning and grant writing have taught me how to build partnerships, collaborate, secure funding, and turn innovative ideas into real results.
I also led the Thomas Carroll School Playground Project — the first public school in Peabody to secure Community Preservation Act funds — opening the door for future projects and earning national recognition for community leadership.
If elected, I’ll bring forward-thinking, creative solutions to City Hall. I’ll advocate for a resident-led Transportation & Safe Streets Commission, champion balanced housing policies that keep Peabody affordable, and ensure transparent, community-driven decision-making where every resident has a voice and a seat at the table.
Above all, I will be responsive and available to constituents — listening, collaborating, and acting on the issues that matter most. Peabody’s greatest strength has always been its people — and I’m ready to work every day for all of Ward 2. I’m number one on the ballot, and I would be grateful for your vote for Ward 2 Councilor on Nov. 4.”
Michael Constantino Troisi
“The number one question I’m asked when I knock on doors and talk to people is: ‘Why are you running?” The answer is simple: I want to help people. I think we live in an amazing community, and I want to help keep the city a great place to live and work.
Keeping the city affordable and still making sure we keep the great services and community events we currently have is a top priority. I’m not here to promise that I can solve everything. I’m here to listen and try my best to represent my neighborhood and the city. Listen to issues, listen to problems, and listen to potential solutions.
I’m running to show my kids that you can go out there and try something new and uncertain and be better off just for having attempted it.
I believe that I have the education, the skills, and the experience to represent Ward 2 well. I studied economics and accounting at UMass Amherst and earned a master’s in public administration at Clark University. I learned even more through working nonprofits from everything custodian to auditor. I’ve worked in the Peabody school system as a math teacher. I’ve been volunteering hundreds of hours a year for community organizations and charities.
My favorite experience, which I’ve learned from the most, is being a husband to my wife (Melissa Makela Troisi) and a father to my children (Abby and Max). I’m invested in this community, and I’d be honored to represent the people here.”
Ward 3 Councilor
Ward 3 voters will be choosing between incumbent Stephanie R. Peach and challenger Neil Arthur Papamechail.
Peach is wrapping up her fourth year on Council and is also an accounts receivable specialist. Papamechail is an aspiring community activist currently in the formative stages of creating a nonprofit with a focus on creating a world of neurodivergent equity.
This position has a two-year term.
Stephanie R. Peach
“I am running for reelection as the Ward 3 Councilor to continue the work we’ve started these last few years.
For the last four years, I have brought more attention and focus to Ward 3. We are currently conducting a study related to revitalizing the Walnut Street area. This came from conversations with residents and business owners.
Each neighborhood in Ward 3 is different, but all are commonly proud of their space. Providing a voice to the residents of Ward 3, no matter what the issue, has been a privilege.
If reelected, I will continue to advocate for this ward and the betterment of the entire City of Peabody.”
Neil Arthur Papamechail
“A true functioning society works only if there is genuine representation at the table from all voices in the chorus.
Tengo electores que hablan español. Έχω ψηφοφόρους που μιλούν ελληνικά. Unë kam zgjedhës që flasin shqip. They all deserve to be heard.
It is time to stop the derisiveness. It is time to start listening. It is time to start thinking. It is time to start acting thoughtfully and kindly.
It is time to realize, at the end of the day, that there is no “them,” and that the only word that matters in front of the word “rights” is “human.”
To fix our streets. To better our schools. To find creative and alternative funding sources so we have the means to do the things we wish to do. To build a longer table with more chairs so we all feel seen and heard and valued. To be proactive and be kind and caring before the tragedy so the tragedy doesn’t occur.
And why should voters vote for me?
Because I am accessible. Because I listen. Because I respond. Because I do things — even if I am not in the limelight or getting compensated. Because I can connect the people that have things with the people that need things.
To make lives better. To solve problems. To get things done.”
Ward 4 Councilor
Incumbent Julie Kathryn Daigle is running unopposed to continue being Ward 4’s Councilor. She has completed two, two-year terms as Ward 4 Councilor and will enter her third term after this election. She is also the executive manager for State Auditor Diana DiZoglio.
Julie Kathryn Daigle
“I am running for reelection because I believe in public service. If I won the lottery, this would be a full-time job.
It can be frustrating at times but rewarding in others which makes it all worth it. I love meeting new residents and helping when I can.
My goal is to find solutions, be transparent and approachable.
I want to leave the ward in a better situation than I started with. We’ve seen a lot of progress with traffic, safety, and infrastructure, but I’m not done yet.
I respectfully ask for votes from Ward 4 residents because I know Peabody. I love Peabody. I grew up here and spent the majority of my life in Ward 4.
I’m extremely proud and passionate about our neighborhoods. I’m involved with the Center School and recent renovations, new Public Safety Building, and proposed new high school — all in Ward 4.
I have the knowledge and skills to protect the neighborhood and budget to create final projects that we can afford, live with, and be proud of.
My experience of 20 years with the City, including as a business liaison and city treasurer, coupled with time as executive director of the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce, managing Mills58, and now working at the State House has given me an extremely strong skill set to represent our residents.
I started volunteering for the City when I was 8 years old. I’d like to see my son, who is 8, do the same.”
Ward 5 Councilor
Incumbent David R. Gamache is running unopposed to continue being Ward 5’s Councilor for another two-year term.
David R. Gamache
“I am retired, have a bachelor’s degree from Salem State University, and I am married with three children. I am a lifelong resident of Peabody and graduate of Peabody Veterans Memorial High School.
I believe that it’s important to give back to our great city. As we move forward with the uncertainty of federal and state funding, it is imperative that we manage resources prudently. The cuts and funding will cause us to also cut where we spend our taxpayer money. These decisions will not be taken lightly, and I will commit all my endeavors to manage the upcoming budget as fiscally as possible.
Why should people vote for me?
I have been in office for 28 years. I was elected in 1990 and served for 24 years until 2013. I decided to run again in 2021 and was reelected.
Since day one, my goal has been to be honest and available to constituent needs. I pride myself on always replying to calls and being honest with them. I believe that these attributes have allowed me to serve for so long.
I look forward to continuing as a strong representative for Ward 5!”
Ward 6 Councilor
Ward 6 voters will be deciding between incumbent Michael T. Higgins and challenger Ryan Cox for the position of Ward 6 Councilor. This position has a two-year term.
Cox is a Union 537 pipefitter. He has worked in construction for more than 20 years and has been part of the union for 13 years; he also owns and operates a small business in Peabody: North Shore Reclaimed Furniture. Higgins, who has been a City Councilor for two years, is a senior staff engineer for Sensitech Inc., a carrier company located in Beverly.
Ryan Cox
“I first decided to run for Ward 6 Councilor two years ago after getting involved in a specific development that will have a major impact on my neighborhood. What sparked my involvement — and ultimately my decision to run — was realizing that no one in the community had any idea what was happening with that parcel of land.
After narrowly losing that election, I’ve stayed engaged, continued listening to residents, and heard valuable feedback about how I can better serve our community. I was born and raised in Peabody, more specifically in Ward 6, and now I am raising my two daughters here.
I’m running because I believe our government should work with our residents, not around them or behind closed doors. I want to strengthen communication between City Hall and the people of Ward 6 by keeping residents informed, advocating for their concerns, and ensuring decisions are made with transparency and respect.
I will not only focus on the everyday issues that matter most — safe streets, walkable sidewalks, responsible development, strong schools, and keeping Peabody an affordable and welcoming place to live — but also plan for Peabody’s future by bringing creative, impactful, and collaborative ideas to the table that will help drive businesses and revenue, which will help keep our taxes low.
I am running to give back to the community that’s given me so much throughout my life and to make sure Ward 6 remains a safe, connected, and family-centered neighborhood for years to come.”
Michael T. Higgins
“My wife Sheila and I have proudly called Peabody home for the past 31 years. Throughout the years, we’ve built lasting friendships and actively contributed to our community — coaching youth soccer, serving on the Peabody West Little League board, supporting Ward 6 celebrations, and joining spring cleanup efforts.
After earning my BS in electrical and computer engineering from Northeastern University, I continued my education with an MBA from Boston University. I have since enjoyed a 37-year career in the electronics industry, where I have held roles ranging from senior engineer to executive manager.
With our three children now graduated from college, I have the time, energy, and unwavering commitment to serve as a passionate advocate for Ward 6. I’m ready to continue working tirelessly to ensure our voices are heard and our concerns addressed.
During my first term, I focused on strengthening our infrastructure — repairing public buildings, resurfacing roads and sidewalks, and improving our schools. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together: a new public safety building, a new high school in the design phase, greenway expansion, preservation of 160 acres of open space, and vital road and sidewalk repair improvements.
This experience has taught me a great deal and helped build meaningful momentum. Serving the residents of Ward 6 has been an honor and a privilege. But there’s still more to do, and I’m eager to keep pushing forward. I respectfully ask for your support so we can continue building a stronger, more vibrant Peabody — together.”
School Committee
There are five candidates each hoping for one of your three votes to be a School Committee member. This position has a four-year term.
There are two incumbents: Beverley Ann Griffin Dunne and Jon P. Swanson.
Griffin Dunne is in her 20th year on the School Committee and was recently nominated as president-elect of the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, as she has already served as MASC’s secretary-treasurer and vice president.
Swanson is running for his second, four-year term; he is a senior manager in network provisioning at Crown Castle.
The three challengers are: Suzanne Mary Cox, Paolo Giuseppe Lambresa, and Pamela Susan Milman.
Cox is a school-based occupational therapist and the director of the occupational therapy department at The Children’s Center of Communication, Beverly School for the Deaf. Additionally, Cox is an assistive technology professional and works with community members with varying abilities to access their homes, interests, and environments.
Lambresa is an attorney and school administrator. He is currently a school principal in the Everett Public School system and a coach on his children’s sports teams in Peabody.
Milman is an attorney and the founder of Education Consulting, Advocacy & Legal Services, LLC. She also has a background as a teacher, school administrator, education specialist at the Department of Elementary and Secondary.
Paolo Giuseppe Lambresa
“As an educator and a proud father of three children, two of which are old enough to attend the Peabody School System, I’m running for School Committee to ensure that every child in our community receives the high-quality education they deserve.
I bring both a personal perspective of a parent and a professional insight of an educator, someone who knows firsthand the challenges and opportunities within our school system.
I believe that my experience as an attorney, school administrator, a coach, and a father gives me the perspective and insight on what we need to push forward as a successful school district, one that will be successful for years to come.
As an attorney, I’ve learned to advocate, to listen, and to fight for what’s right. As a school administrator, I’ve seen the incredible dedication of our educators and the complex work it takes to run a school. There’s no better way to learn about teamwork, patience, or how to put a smile on a child’s face than being a coach.
As a father, I get a front-row seat to childhood — messy, brilliant, emotional, hilarious childhood. It reminds you exactly why the decisions we make about our schools matter so much.
Our kids only get one childhood, and I want to make sure our schools make it count. Our schools should be places where every child feels seen, supported, and challenged. Where teachers are respected and empowered. Where parents feel like true partners. Where decisions are made not with politics in mind — but with kids in mind.”
Pamela Susan Milman
“Education is my passion — on every level and in every way. I have been involved in education matters in a variety of ways over 30 years and have a depth of knowledge to bring to the School Committee.
I see education from each of the perspectives from the roles I have had: a parent, special education teacher, regular education teacher, school administrator, education specialist at Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and now as an attorney representing families and children in special education, discipline, and access-to-education cases.
I understand our schools from every angle. I’ve seen firsthand what works in schools and what must change.
We need to take off the rose-colored glasses and address our school climate and culture honestly. Too many educators and families feel unheard or even fearful of speaking up. Transparency and open communication are essential if we are to rebuild trust and move forward together.
Educators need our support, and we need their expertise. They should not be afraid to speak up on behalf of the students in front of them. They should be asked their opinion of our curriculum and the delivery.
With my combined experience in education, law, and advocacy, I will bring both knowledge and courage to make thoughtful, necessary change for Peabody Public Schools — rooted in information sharing, transparency, collaboration, and respect for every voice in our community. My commitment goes beyond credentials — it’s about courage, integrity, and asking the hard questions to ensure Peabody’s schools truly serve every child, every family, and every educator.”
Beverley Ann Griffin Dunne
“I first ran for election to the Peabody School Committee after many years of volunteer involvement and service to the Peabody schools.
I have always believed that strong public schools are one of the most important foundations of our society. I have always had a deep commitment to making sure that every student in Peabody has the best possible education, with access to the best resources, facilities, and educators that we can provide so we can prepare our children for their future.
Throughout these years, my knowledge and experience have allowed me to work for the necessary changes and improvements needed to make our program excellent. I am truly proud to serve now as Chairperson of the PVMHS School Building Committee to build a new high school for Peabody, following my work as the Chair of the Higgins and the Welch School Building Committees and my advocacy for the Center School project.
I have continually advocated for the programs needed to ensure that all students are able to find the route to success that they want, need, and deserve in our public schools. I am proud to have continually served as a voice for our students, staff, and the citizens and taxpayers of Peabody.
I am running for reelection because I believe my experience and knowledge will be needed now more than ever before we enter a serious time of uncertainty regarding public education. I take this responsibility very seriously and will continue to work tirelessly for Peabody.”
Jon P. Swanson
“I am running for reelection to the Peabody School Committee because I care about our students, our educators, and the future of our schools. I will continue to work to strengthen core instruction, address equity gaps, and prioritize student safety and well-being.
Peabody’s schools are made up of talented students and dedicated staff; they need the support to grow and thrive. That means expanding academic and mental health resources, improving anti-bullying efforts, and making sure every staff member and student feels safe, valued, and heard. As a member of the Mayor’s Task Force, I have been focused on clearer policies, stronger communication, and accessible services for families.
My budget choices will continue with what is best for students and staff. I remain committed to promoting collaboration and making data-driven decisions balanced by information provided by the schools, to ensure that funding is allocated to support the needs of the classrooms.
I am working with union leadership and will be holding regular office hours with educators and staff. The conversations will allow me to listen to their ideas, where they would like to see support or improvements, and to celebrate their and their students’ accomplishments. This feedback will help guide my decisions.
If reelected, I will raise expectations, safeguard and expand support, and ensure every staff member and student in every school has the chance to succeed. I will continue to celebrate their successes, while driving improvements. Our student’s safety, academic growth, and well-being are priorities.”
Suzanne Mary Cox
“As someone who is passionate about education and committed to the success and well-being of our students, I believe now, more than ever, is an appropriate time for a change and a fresh perspective to help tackle the concerns our community has related to our schools.
I bring a unique perspective. As a seasoned, school-based occupational therapist, a mother of two daughters, who will soon enter the Peabody Public School system, and a compassionate leader who values teamwork and collaboration, I understand the importance of a team working together to achieve shared goals. And that team doesn’t only include our student-facing staff, administrators, and service providers — it also includes our families, and most importantly, our students.
When all voices are heard and respected, our schools become stronger and more responsive to the needs of our community. I believe that public education should be the gold standard and that Peabody Public Schools can, and should, be a school system that is desired to attend.
I want to ensure that our students have safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environments and opportunities that match the unique learning needs of each individual student.
My goal is to strengthen communication, transparency, and trust between the district and the families we serve. Families deserve to know how and why decisions are made, and they should feel confident that their concerns are being listened to.
I will work to ensure that our educators have the tools and support they need while keeping students’ well-being at the center of every decision.”
There are also uncontested races for Municipal Light Commission, Trustee of the Peabody Institute Library six-year term, and Trustee of the Peabody Institute Library two-year term.
