Matthew Kraft, an Associate Professor of Education and Economics, was recently elected to the School Committee for Belmont Public Schools in Belmont, Massachusetts. Kraft will serve in this volunteer, non-partisan position for three years. He was motivated to run for an open seat on the School Committee to help strengthen public education and give back to the schools his children attend.

“I'm honored to have the opportunity to serve my community and support public education as a member of the Belmont School Committee," Professor Kraft shared. "I know this experience will provide invaluable insights about the opportunities and challenges for translating education research into practice.”

In his campaign materials, Kraft emphasized his experience as a parent, volunteer soccer coach, economist of education, and former public school teacher. He hopes to contribute to efforts to adopt high-quality curricular materials; develop in-school tutoring and mentoring programs; recruit excellent and diverse educators; improve communication with families; strengthen teacher working conditions by analyzing annual survey data; expand climate science education; and invest in green infrastructure and transportation initiatives.