In Mattapoisett, Two Open School Committee Seats and No Candidates

By Meg McIntyre
State House News Service

When Mattapoisett residents head to the polls in less than a month, their ballots will list two open spots on the School Committee and no candidates to fill them. Neither of the incumbents who would be up for reelection this year pulled or returned papers declaring their candidacy, according to the town clerk’s office. Two other potential candidates took out papers in March but did not file them before the town deadline.

“This past September, my husband and I welcomed our second child into our family and I am ready to open the seat for someone who has more time to devote to the position,” incumbent Karin Barrows said in a statement to Sippican Week. “I am so thankful for the time I spent on the board and grateful to the people of Mattapoisett who entrusted me to make critical decisions about their children’s education during such a tumultuous time.” The other incumbent, Shannon Finning-Kwoka, did not return requests for comment from Sippican Week, the paper reported.

The board comprises five members, with one serving as a delegate for the Old Rochester Regional School Committee that governs schools serving Mattapoisett, Rochester and Marion. Candidates could still be elected to the two empty seats via write-in campaigns. Mattapoisett’s election is scheduled for May 17.