Katie Cloutier—candidate for School Committee 

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Katie Cloutier

Please list any experience on other boards, committees or organizations.    

  • Co-Chair – Chronic Conditions and Caregivers Employee Resource Group
  • Former Community School PTO member

What skills do you have that would be of benefit to the school district?

I am dependable, practical, and strategic with a strong work ethic and integrity, choosing to do what is right, not what is easy. I am efficient, organized and highly skilled at prioritizing tasks. I bring curiosity and strong research abilities, using investigation and sound judgement to produce thoughtful, detail-oriented results and actionable recommendations. I communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, and am a team player who builds strong, collaborative relationships.  

What goals would you like to see the committee focus on over the next three years?

Support the whole student—Strengthen academic achievement by addressing learning gaps and ensuring all students meet benchmarks, while expanding social-emotional resources, counseling and communication with families.

Ensure budget health and strong staffing—Maintain fiscal responsibility by aligning spending with student needs, while recruiting and retaining high-quality educators through competitive compensation, professional development and a positive work environment.

Improve facilities and safety—Successfully manage the new high school project while maintaining aging buildings. Plan for long-term infrastructure while continuing to enhance school safety.

Your opinion on the new high school and the override? 

I personally support the new high school because our current building no longer meets the needs of today’s students. Education has evolved significantly and we have outgrown our current facility, which cannot fully support modern learning, including updated classroom design, technology, and accessibility.  

The new school is an important investment in our students, educators and community and will provide a safe, functional, future-ready environment. The override was a significant decision, and I believe it reflects the town’s commitment to prioritizing education – ensuring our schools meet current and future demands while strengthening the town’s long-term growth and success.

Your opinion on the lottery system that vocational schools will use? Is there an alternative that you think would work better? 

I am torn about the state’s decision regarding a vocational school lottery system.  I understand the goal of creating a more equitable admissions process and reducing bias, which is important. At the same time, I empathize with students who have worked hard to demonstrate their passion, effort, and readiness for vocational programs and want to be recognized accordingly. I believe the state should continue to refine the system with the goal of finding a solution that better balances equity with merit, ensuring all students have access and meaningful opportunities to pursue their chosen paths.

How do you see education changing and how can the North Attleborough Public School district best position itself to adapt? 

Education is becoming more personalized, technology-driven, and focused on the whole-child, not just academics. There is increased emphasis on real-world skills, career pathways, and social-emotional support to prepare students for our fast-changing world. 

NAPS should continue to invest in retaining and attracting the best faculty, providing professional development, and updating classrooms to support modern learning.  Technology should be integrated thoughtfully, while we continue to expand mental health supports and build strong partnerships with families. Flexibility, innovation, and clear communication are and will continue to be essential to meet diverse student needs, ensuring all students are best prepared for future success.