by Jen Oemig

CHELMSFORD – Following Town Elections, it is customary for the Chelmsford School Committee to reorganize, selecting a chair, vice-chair and secretary.

That process took place at the April 9 School Committee meeting.

This year saw the departure of Donna Newcomb, who did not seek re-election, and the addition of Diana Lebeaux, who won the election for Ms. Newcomb’s open seat.

Dennis King was the sole nominee for chair, for which he was unanimously elected.

Maria Santos was the only nominee for vice chair and was unanimously elected to the role.

And Ms. Lebeaux was nominated and unanimously elected secretary.

A fresh face

Ms. Lebeaux and her husband, Ben Lebeaux, have lived in Chelmsford for nearly a decade and have two children enrolled in the district.

Possessing a master’s degree in educational leadership, Ms. Lebeaux said running for Chelmsford School Committee was something she has been thinking about doing for quite a while now.

“I work in education. It’s my career,” she said. “I felt like it was a way for me to give back to the community.”

After learning she had won the election on April 2, Ms. Lebeaux said she felt a sense of relief.

“My children had been so invested,” she said. “So it felt really good. … I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”

Ms. Lebeaux said being a member of the School Committee is a little surreal.

“I’ve watched the meetings for so long,” she said. “And now I get to sit at the table and vote.”

As for being nominated for secretary, Ms. Lebeaux, she said it was something she was anticipating.

“I was told usually the new person is asked to be the secretary,” she said.

One of the things Ms. Lebeaux said she’s most excited about is being a liaison to South Row Elementary, Parker Middle and McCarthy Middle schools.

“I’m really eager to connect with the teachers, to learn what they’re thinking and get their perspectives, as well as make sure their voices are heard and elevated,” she said.

Looking ahead, Ms. Lebeaux said she’s committed to being an advocate for everyone in Chelmsford while serving on the School Committee.

“I hope to see a more open dialogue between the various stakeholders in the community and the School Committee,” she said.