Mali Brodt

Questions and Answers

Question 1: What prompted you to run for School Committee? Was your motivation to run for office prompted by an issue that has personal resonance for you or your neighborhood?

I’m running for Newton School Committee because I care deeply about our students, schools, and community. For nearly 20 years—as a teacher and now a school adjustment counselor—I’ve helped students overcome barriers like anxiety, neurodivergence, and disconnection. As a parent of three in Newton Public Schools, I know our potential—but we face broken trust, strained relationships, and chronic underfunding. We need to rebuild together. I’ll listen, lead with empathy, and bring people back to the table. With the right leadership, Newton can be a model district again. I’m ready to serve—with heart, experience, and urgency.

Question 2: What is your understanding of the role of the School Committee in the operations of Newton Public Schools?

The School Committee plays a vital, state-mandated role in Newton Public Schools. Its core duties include approving the budget, setting policy, and hiring and evaluating the superintendent. Just as important is how this work is done—through respectful communication, transparency, and strong relationships with families, educators, and the community. The Committee shapes school culture and equity by how it allocates resources and sets priorities. While it doesn’t manage daily operations, its decisions directly impact educational outcomes. I believe in a collaborative, student-centered, and equity-driven approach to fulfilling this role.

Question 3: How do you define educational excellence in the Newton Public Schools?

Educational excellence in Newton Public Schools means creating a system where every student thrives. We cannot be excellent unless we are excellent for all—across race, ability, identity, and background. Excellence goes beyond test scores; it includes student engagement, belonging, and access to rich, relevant learning. Equity must be embedded in every policy and practice, with programming that reflects our students’ diverse needs and aspirations. True excellence also requires strong community engagement—listening to students, families, and educators to ensure our schools reflect shared values and real-world challenges.

Question 4: In tight budget years, how would you prioritize funding allocations with respect to class sizes; funding of music, arts and languages; breadth of programming at the high schools; student’s mental health; and competitive salaries for teachers and staff? What other budget priorities do you think are important?

In tight budget years, we must prioritize funding that supports student engagement, well-being, and learning. I would protect investments in MTSS and social-emotional programs, essential for academic and mental health support. Smaller class sizes help educators meet diverse needs. Programs like music, arts, sports, and STEM are not extras—they foster engagement and belonging. A broad range of high school courses and competitive staff salaries ensure students are prepared for their futures and help retain excellent educators. These priorities are interconnected; with limited resources, we must take a values-driven, student-centered approach.