


What Does an Excellent Education Look Like?
Excellent Education = Academic Excellence + Life Skills + Well-being.
Because education should prepare every student—not just for tests, but for life.
If our school system is a ferry, then students are the passengers, educators are the navigators guiding the way, and staff are the crew keeping the ferry running smoothly. Caregivers and community members are the supportive shore crew who help prepare and welcome passengers before and after the journey. The School Committee serves as the lighthouse and compass—helping set the direction, ensuring the journey stays aligned with shared values, and keeping the entire system accountable to its mission: getting every student safely, joyfully, and successfully to their destination.
But here’s what’s essential: a system built on equity—one that recognizes and addresses the diverse needs of every learner—is not optional. It’s the only way to ensure the ferry reaches its destination: academic excellence, well-being, and lifelong success for all students.
If even one passenger is neglected, it affects the entire journey. It’s like discovering a leak in a far corner of the ferry and assuming it won’t impact those sitting in safer spots. Eventually, the whole ferry is at risk. That’s why we must work together, with shared responsibility and deep care, to support every student, every step of the way.
About Jia-Jing Lee
Medical Scientist. Educator. Advocate. Mother.
I’m Jia-Jing Lee (JJ Lee)—born in Malaysia, a proud Cambridge resident since 2009, and a medical scientist by training. I’m also a dedicated mother, educator, and longtime community volunteer.
Q&A: Why I'm Running & What I Stand For
As someone who has experienced education from multiple perspectives—learner, educator, parent, administrator, and advocate—I believe every voice matters. I’ve seen where the system struggles and where it shines. I want to bring practical solutions, a fresh global perspective, and a deep sense of service to help all students succeed. Given the urgency of the challenges we face, our children can’t wait for perfect conditions—they need committed leadership now.
I hold a Ph.D. in Medicine Science from the Karolinska Institute and completed postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School. I’ve lived and studied across four continents, gaining insight into what helps schools thrive. For seven years, I’ve homeschooled my children, led nonprofits, and organized free educational programs. As a parent who has navigated the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process within CPS, I understand firsthand both the importance of individualized support and the areas where our current system can—and must—be improved. This diverse background helps me connect with and serve all stakeholders in our school community.
Every student deserves a supportive, inclusive, and academically strong learning environment—where life skills are nurtured, and learning is filled with joy. I bring a well-rounded perspective to education and believe deeply that every role—students, families, educators, school and district staff, the school committee, and community members—is equally important. This spirit of shared commitment isn’t just a belief; it’s a culture I’ve practiced for years through nonprofit and community work.
I see schools as one big family where every role matters. I often use the metaphor of our education system as a ferry—with every stakeholder playing a vital role in safely and joyfully bringing our students to their destination: academic success, well-being, and future readiness. If any role is missing, the mission is at risk.
My global background and nonprofit leadership equip me to ask the right questions, identify root issues, and build partnerships that lead to real change.
Equity, excellence, transparency, kindness, compassion, and wisdom. Every decision I make will be guided by what’s best for students and their families—while also supporting educators and ensuring the system is practical and sustainable.
My Priorities
Creating an education system that truly serves every child requires a focused and interconnected approach. That’s why I center my work on three core priorities:
Together, these priorities form the foundation for a school system where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Get Involved
- Attend a Meet & Greet
- Volunteer or Host a House Conversation
- Join the Campaign Team — If you’re a parent who’s ever felt unseen… an educator who’s ever felt unheard… or a student who’s ever felt left behind—this campaign is for you.
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- Hosting a Campaign Sign
