Sarah Martorano

I am excited to see Sam Hammar running for Melrose Mayor! As an engaged parent of elementary students, I am very tuned into our schools and the challenges we face in Melrose. I am an active advocate and volunteer, and this past year found myself working to support our educators as they negotiated for a new contract. This was a challenging time for everyone, information was hard to find, messages from our school and city leaders were confusing, and we were on the verge of a teacher strike. 

I found an informed, strategic, and intentional partner in Sam Hammar. While we were both serving with different Melrose PTO’s, Sam recognized the importance of bringing the parent and caregiver community together to collectively support our teachers and advocate for our students. She gathered and shared information in clear ways. She explained the negotiation process and ways community members could make their voices heard. And she rolled up her sleeves and got to work, all while sharing a clear picture of the complexities of the situation. We worked together and planned a way forward. And I believe the voice of this community played a pivotal role in bringing this negotiation to a close and ultimately avoiding a teacher strike.

This is just one example of Sam’s ability to engage the community to make things happen. She has done this in different ways as a strong advocate and active community member for years. While there is still so much work to be done, in our schools and across our city, I am 100% sure Sam Hammar is the person to lead it. 

Melrose is ready for Sam Hammar’s leadership in City Hall. Join me in voting for her on September 19th. 

-Sarah Martorano