School Committee Chairman Will Not Seek Re-election in November

After 16 years on the Watertown School Committee, John Portz announced he will not be running for another term.

The current School Committee chair announced his decision at Monday’s School Committee meeting.

“As my term ends this year I will not be running for a new term,” Portz said. “It has been a privilege to serve on the committee, and to support our efforts, and build and maintain the best possible school system.”

Portz will serve the remainder of his term, which ends on Dec. 31, 2021, and said he looks forward to working in a more normal, post-pandemic educational environment during the remainder of his time on the School Committee.

The time is right for a transition, Portz said, and he added that he plans to reflect more at the end of his term.

“I will say more in December, but it has been a pleasure to serve all these years,” Portz said. “I will miss it, but transitions happen.” 

Superintendent Dede Galdston said she too will reserve most of her comments for December, but said, “For my first four years as superintendent, I can’t imagine a better Chair to work with.”

With Portz stepping down, at least one new face will be on the School Committee next year. Three seats up for election for four-year terms during the Nov. 2, 2021 Town Election.

“As I announce my decision now, I encourage others to consider running in this election cycle,” Portz said. “Nomination papers are available in Town Hall. Serving on the Committee is a great way to serve the Watertown Schools and this community, in general.”

Nomination papers and signatures must be submitted to the Town Clerk’s office by 5 p.m. on July 27, 2021, according to the 2021 Watertown Election calendar. More information can be found on the Watertown Town Clerk’s webpage.