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Saugus USD elects Matt Watson as board president in 4–1 vote after heated public comments
Summary
Trustees voted 4–1 on Dec. 16 to elect Matt Watson board president. The meeting featured extensive public debate over whether Anna Griese should take the role, with supporters and opponents making contrasting claims about her leadership and affiliations.
The Saugus Union School District governing board elected Trustee Matt Watson as board president at its Dec. 16 meeting after a motion, a second and a roll call vote that the chair announced as passing 4–1.
The nomination process began with a motion to nominate Watson; Trustee Anna Griese nominated herself. After discussion and a roll call, the chair declared, “Matt is our new president.” The board recorded the motion passing 4–1.
Public comment in the meeting’s earlier segments had been sharply divided over the presidency. Multiple parents, teachers and union representatives urged the trustees to install Anna Griese, citing classroom engagement, responsiveness and strong relationships with teachers. A union representative said Griese “is bold, transparent, action oriented, and extremely accessible.” Supporters called for succession by turn and urged the board to prioritize a president who can help rebuild trust.
Other speakers opposed Griese’s nomination. One parent testified that Griese’s positions “reflect alignment with advocacy efforts that are hostile to LGBTQ students and families,” and urged trustees to elect a president who would center dignity and collaboration across the district.
After electing Watson, the board also moved to appoint Miss Cooper as clerk; that motion passed by voice vote.
Board members framed the result as part of routine governance: motions, seconds and votes were recorded at the dais. Several trustees thanked outgoing officers for their service and emphasized they would continue work on district priorities, including the imminent superintendent search and student safety follow‑ups.
What happens next: Watson will serve as board president for the coming cycle; trustees said they will proceed with scheduled agenda items and the superintendent search process under the board’s new leadership.
