
KRISTIAN MERENDA
As a parent of two Canton Public Schools (CPS) students, I
understand the hopes we all share for our children's
education and collective future. My dedication to our schools
comes from watching my own children, as well as their
classmates and all of the families across Canton I've come to
know grow through our school system. Their experiences—
both the triumphs and challenges—drive my commitment
to ensuring that every child in this town receives an excellent
education.
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I believe education isn't just about driving test scores; it's about creating environments where our kids feel safe, challenged, and inspired to be their best.
During my two terms on the School Committee, I've taken the time to listen, learn, and roll up my sleeves to help transform great ideas into results. I always aim to work together to achieve the greatest good for our students and continuous improvements in our schools that benefit every community member. By collaborating respectfully with colleagues, school leaders, and community members, I've been honored to be part of creating meaningful improvements for Canton students, families, and educators in ways that are both visible and behind-the-scenes, including:
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Better community participation: Introduced hybrid School Committee meetings, improved communication and public comment sign-up options, allowing community members to engage regardless of childcare constraints or other commitments.
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Easier access to information: Modernized the CPS School Committee website, Student Information System (PowerSchool), and soon-to-be-released new District Policy Manual to improve transparency for parents.
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Smarter use of resources: Established CPS’s first strategic plan with SMART goals and supported bringing on our district director of technology, who helps measure and share key learnings with our school leaders and educators to put resources where needed to improve student outcomes.
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Stronger leadership practices: Implemented comprehensive governance improvements, including expanded School Committee state association participation, digital information management, and structured planning/evaluation cycles that enable more informed, effective decision-making.
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Higher academic performance: Consistently advocated for smart district decisions like Advanced Math/Algebra at the Middle School, academic pathways giving all students access to Advanced Placement and Project Lead the Way courses, tiered learning supports, Summer Scholars, expanded language options, evidence-based reading investments, and enhanced educator professional development—all helping Canton academically outperform national and state averages.
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State-of-the-art learning spaces: Helped secure approval for the new Galvin Middle School, an incredible resource that will benefit students, educators, and our entire community for generations to come.
When I'm not at School Committee meetings or cheering on our Canton kids at sports, arts, and cultural activities, I work as a Partner at CCOP, a management and communications consultancy focused on improving business performance while driving social impact. One accomplishment I'm particularly proud of from my almost three-decade-long career was co-creating the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement, which just celebrated its 21st anniversary. Through the collaborative efforts of patients, doctors, families, and advocates worldwide, this initiative has dramatically improved the understanding of women's heart health and saved millions of lives.
I've also taught for a decade as an adjunct in the graduate schools at Boston University and Harvard and published works that explore how organizations can create positive, lasting change—experiences that have proven valuable in helping navigate the complex challenges facing our school system. Before joining the School Committee, I was already deeply involved in our community, volunteering with the Luce School Council, CAPT, Cole Harrington Parent Council, teaching CCD, and volunteering for various youth sports programs. I have loved stepping up to lend a hand and working with so many genuine and amazing people who are all contributing to making Canton the incredible place to live and work that it is.
My promise to you is that, in my next three years of service, I will:
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Maintain open communication: Remain accessible to our Canton community
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Center student needs: Prioritize decisions that put students first
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Deliver excellence: Work always towards making a world-class education right here in Canton possible
Although I'm running uncontested, I humbly ask for your vote on Tuesday, April 8. Please reach out to me anytime. Your voice and partnership make all the difference in helping our schools and town be the best they can be!
