Rockport committee recommends resident Tom Flarey for Essex Tech seat

The Rockport School Committee voted unanimously to recommend Tom Flarey as the town’s member on the Essex Technical School regional committee. Flarey introduced himself to the committee, described a 40-year legal career that has included representing schools and said he is “interested primarily for those reasons” in serving, citing his daughter’s attendance at Rockport High School.

Committee members asked Flarey about the role and expectations; members noted the Personnel Committee typically handles staffing-related policies at the regional level and told Flarey he would likely serve on that committee if appointed. After discussion, a member moved to recommend Flarey; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The committee chair said the recommendation will be forwarded to the Rockport Town Moderator, who makes the formal appointment under Essex Tech’s bylaws.

The committee did not take a separate formal recorded roll-call on the recommendation; the committee signaled unanimous assent during the meeting. Flarey said he looks forward to meeting district leaders and to supporting stronger communication between Essex Tech and Rockport schools.

Next step: the Town Moderator will receive the committee’s recommendation and will confirm the official appointment according to the district’s bylaws.