Vote for Barbara Ryan for Holliston School Committee. Community, Commitment, Common Sense

THANK YOU for Your Vote on May 20th

About Barbara Ryan

Barbara Ryan for Holliston School Committee

Lt. Colonel (Ret.)
Proud Holliston Parent & Volunteer Leader

Hello! My name is Barbara Ryan, and I’m running for Holliston School Committee because I care deeply about our community, the education of our children, and the well-being of our teachers and staff. My goal is to create more cohesion among the groups and individuals that make our schools run—and support the teachers and staff who work so hard every day and whom we share the responsibility of educating and shaping the future with: our children.

Since moving to Holliston in 2019, my family and I have experienced firsthand the strength and generosity of Holliston. We were drawn by the reputation of the schools and the welcoming atmosphere. This is where we’ve put down roots, where we’re raising our boys, and where we’ve committed to giving back. Through PTO leadership and volunteer work, I’ve built meaningful relationships and friendships across town and gained a deeper understanding of what our schools need to thrive.

My career as a leader has spanned 30 years in public and private sectors including 20 years in the Army. I have served in a variety of roles and settings, mainly in healthcare, including CEO, COO, and Chief of Staff. As an active parent and advocate for good, I bring experience, discipline, and heart to everything I do. If elected, I will show up, I will listen, and I will follow through. I am not here to create change for the sake of change and there are no hidden agendas – I am here to support the great work already happening in our schools—and to help guide thoughtful improvements where needed with commitment, common sense, and heart. My deep sense of duty is propelling me to run; I want our schools to continue to provide every learner the opportunity to succeed, and to reflect the excellence our teachers, staff, and schools deliver every day. I am honored to earn your vote—and serve the town I am proud to call home.

School & Community Contributions

  • Town of Holliston Humanitarian Award, 2023
  • PTO Executive Board President, SYs: 23-24, 24-25
  • Holliston Wellness Council, SYs: 22–23, 24–25
  • PTO Parent/Caregiver Education Chair, 2019–present
  • Holliston Drug & Alcohol Coalition, 2021–present
  • PTO Outdoor Learning Alliance, 2021–present
  • PTO Ski & Snowboard Club Chair, 2024
  • Holliston Public Schools Strategic Plan Committee, 2021–2022

Barbara Ryan's Priorities

COMMUNITY

Build Cohesion
Listening, talking to people, and building bridges are strengths that I will use to work within SC among the Administration, HFT, and the broader community to ensure all voices are heard in support of the best education for all children.

COMMITMENT

Academic Excellence
Every student deserves to be successful, supported, and provided the tools to succeed. I will advocate for policies that ensure equitable access, challenge, and allow for growth. I am also committed to the well-being of our teachers and all staff.

COMMON SENSE

Experienced Leadership with Heart
My 30+ years of professional experience have taught me to show up, to listen, and to follow-through while being thoughtful and decisive. Finding common ground is key to solving the simplest and most complex challenges.

Our Challenges

Budget

Having participated in budget development and execution, I am aware the school budget is the largest line item in our Town. Our budget priorities need to tie into the district’s strategic plan and take into account recommendations for our Superintendent and Assistant Superintendents. We also need to be very aware of potential vulnerabilities as we all navigate the unknowns of potential federal or state budget impacts.

I plant to work with the Town Manager, Town Finance Committee, School Administration, and other SC
members to create a budget that supports our schools in the most fiscally responsible manner while providing the
best possible education for all learners.

Mental Health & well-being of our students, teachers & Staff

Mental health matters — for our students, our teachers, and every member of our school community. When we support well-being, we create stronger classrooms, deeper learning, and a more connected community. I believe it’s our responsibility to make sure no one feels overlooked or overwhelmed. Because when we take care of our people, we strengthen our schools.

Technology & AI

Striking a balance between policies and curriculum that educate the whole student – what is the right blend of technology and hands-on learning? What is the influence of AI and how do we navigate that as a district? How do we teach and incorporate ethical AI? With all technology – it can bring great advances however also pose significant challenges.

Safe & Supportive schools

I believe everyone deserves to be safe, supported and seen. Our schools should be places where all individuals are treated with dignity and compassion. Think of the opposite of DEI – is this really who we are or want to be? The fabric of our country is steeped with diversity. We have a responsibility to create supportive and safe school classrooms and environments where all students, teachers, and staff can thrive. Creating barriers and inequities will take us backwards.

I want to work to ensure our schools and policies are places where all individuals are treated with
dignity, respect, and compassion. Our schools should be a beacon of learning where all students can thrive.

Constant Communication

I believe in respecting all voices and staying engaged through open, ongoing dialogue—especially with School Administrators, the HFT, families, and students. I’m committed to making information timely, accessible, and easy to understand for everyone. I’ll also work to encourage and support more residents to regularly attending School Committee meetings.

Hear from Barbara Ryan

Hosted by Mary Greendale, this interview offers a thoughtful look into Barbara Ryan’s experience, values, and vision for the Holliston School Committee.

Voting Information

Date of Election: May 20, 2025

Election Day Location: High School

Election Day Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM

For more information on voting visit the Town of Holliston Official Election’s Information Page

Get Involved

Volunteer

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Connect

Have a question or want to connect? Reach out to Barbara Ryan directly – I’d love to hear from you!