Focused on “Every Child. Every Chance.” and Developing Student Leaders
Reading, MA — Lori Hayes (Gisetto) has officially announced her candidacy for the Reading School Committee, with a campaign centered on expanding student opportunity, developing student leaders at all levels, and ensuring responsible governance in support of every child in the district.
A Reading resident since 2011 and parent of two children currently attending Reading Public Schools, Hayes has demonstrated a long-standing, hands-on commitment to supporting children both inside and outside of school. Now retired, after 34 years in the medical/pharmaceutical industry, she is able to dedicate the time, focus, and energy necessary to fully engage in the complex work of the School Committee — from in-depth policy review to community outreach and collaboration.
For more than 15 years, Hayes has supported children through consistent school volunteering, donating hundreds of thoughtfully curated books to classrooms and libraries to expand access to diverse and engaging reading materials, advocating for and supporting the implementation of a new reading curriculum within Reading Public Schools, advancing access to life-changing therapies for pediatric patients through her work at Pfizer, and helping children in need find balance and confidence through equine therapy programs at Ironstone Farm. Her professional experience as a research scientist and later as a project manager directly contributed to bringing innovative treatments to children and adults with rare and complex diseases, reflecting her deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people and their families both locally and beyond.
Hayes believes that supporting children means more than policy discussions — it means consistent presence, advocacy, and action. Her work has focused not only on academic success, but also on fostering resilience, confidence, and character development.
“Showing up for kids has always been my priority,” Hayes said. “Whether it’s volunteering in our schools, advocating for a strong, evidence-based reading curriculum, donating resources that spark a love of reading, or contributing to medical advancements that improve children’s lives, I believe every child deserves every chance to thrive.” In addition to her school-based, professional and volunteer work, Hayes has served for four years as a Town Meeting Member in Precinct 8 in the Town of Reading, where she has supported student-centered decision-making and responsible fiscal planning.
Her campaign priorities include:
- Supporting a smooth transition to new district leadership to ensure continued progress.
- Protecting and strengthening the strong relationships that define Reading Public Schools.
- Maintaining fiscal responsibility while protecting educational quality.
- Cultivating leadership skills and confidence in students at every grade level.
Hayes emphasizes that when students are encouraged to develop leadership skills early, it benefits not only their schools but their long-term self-esteem, sense of purpose, and contribution to the broader community.
The election will be held on April 7, 2026.
Learn more about Lori Hayes and her campaign by visiting: https://www.hayesforsc.com
To keep up with the latest information and events for Lori’s campaign, “Like” and “Follow” her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HayesForSC/
