When you think about what Cambridge needs for its next superintendent of schools, what words come to mind? Leader? Role model? Visionary?

It’s time to invest in our education, human services and transportation systems to ensure our state can compete effectively in the global economy, and Gov. Deval Patrick plans to ask those who have the most to make the biggest contribution.

The selection of Cambridge’s city manager is one of the most important functions of the City Council. The nine members of the current council failed in this duty.

There are better ways to elect a leader for School Committee than the current method: electing a city councillor, who votes on a mayor who becomes a committee member.