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Tag: Board of Education

  • Democrats Sweep Rocky Hill Election

    Democrats Sweep Rocky Hill Election

    On November 4, Rocky Hill voters chose Democrats for the office of Mayor and the majority position on Town Council, Board of Education, Board of Assessment Appeals, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates.

    Statement from Mayor-elect Allan Smith:

    Last night, Rocky Hill voted for a new direction. I am honored to share that I have been elected to serve as our next Mayor, and that our dynamic Democratic team will hold new majorities on both the Town Council and the Board of Education.

    This result did not happen by accident. We knocked on doors in every neighborhood in town, often two and three times. We spent months talking with people in driveways, on front porches, and along the sidewalks. Our volunteers made thousands of phone calls and personally reached out to friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. Because of this work, voter turnout increased by approximately ten percent compared to previous municipal elections. That is something the whole community can be proud of. Civic engagement is vitally important to the strength of a community, and it came from every corner of town.

    In the coming weeks, I will be meeting with community members, town staff, and local organizations as part of a transition process. Our goal is to begin the first 100 days with a clear plan and to act on the priorities we discussed throughout the campaign.

    Our focus moving forward:

    • Strengthening our commercial tax base to reduce the burden on homeowners
    • Supporting our schools and the educators who serve our children
    • Improving communication and transparency in town government
    • Using available grants and securing additional outside funding

    I am ready to get to work. I will continue meeting with residents and local stakeholders throughout the year so your voices continue to shape the decisions we make.

    Thank you to everyone who voted, volunteered, and supported us.

    I would be remiss if I didn’t also thank the outgoing elected representatives. Mayor Marotta has been the face of Rocky Hill for six years, with her volunteer activities extending for years before that as well. Other outgoing elected officials have also spent countless hours volunteering their time toward the stewardship of Rocky Hill. I look forward to working productively with the remaining Republican members of the Town Council, as I believe we all want what is best for the people of Rocky Hill.

    Rocky Hill has a bright future, and I am grateful for the opportunity to help lead the way as your Mayor.

    Let’s get to work.

    Allan Smith and Kerry Wood
    Mayor-elect Allan Smith and State Representative Kerry Wood

    The incumbent and incoming Democratic Town Councilors are John Emmanuel, Mukesh Desai, Melissa Kaplan, Miriam Theroux, and Zach van Luling.

    The incoming Board of Education members, Jennifer Baron-Morfea, Jessica Loffredo, Maria Mennella, Tom Cosker and  Kristen Dudanowicz issued the following statement:

    “Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote in the election yesterday. We are truly honored by your trust and support in electing us to the Board of Education in Rocky Hill. Your engagement shows a shared commitment to our schools and community. As we begin this important work, we pledge to lead with transparency, integrity, and collaboration. We will always put students, families, and staff at the heart of every decision. Together, we will continue building a strong, supportive, and thriving educational environment for all in Rocky Hill.”


    Elected candidates will take office Monday, November 10, at 8pm at Town Hall.

    Poll Results

    Source: CT Mirror

  • Why Experience in Public Education Matters on the Board of Education

    Why Experience in Public Education Matters on the Board of Education

    Opinion Piece: this post reflects the opinion of the author

    When voters head to the polls to elect members of their local Board of Education, they’re choosing the people who will shape the future of their schools — from curriculum decisions and budget priorities to teacher support and student success. That’s why electing someone with over 26 years of experience in public education isn’t just a good idea — it’s vital!

    Understanding What Really Happens in Schools

    There’s a difference between reading about what schools need and truly understanding it. With more than two decades in the classroom, I bring real-world insight into what works—and what needs improvement. My firsthand experience positions me to make informed, impactful decisions on curriculum, resources, and school climate. Being an educator, who has been elected to serve on the Board of Education, becomes an asset to the community. I understand both the professional needs of our teachers and the legislative challenges facing our schools. My daily classroom experience allows me to bring a dual perspective to every board discussion and help to advocate for our students and staff.

    A Voice for  Students, Teachers and Families

    A veteran educator brings a grounded, compassionate perspective to the Board of Education. I understand that every decision from class sizes, initiatives, and funding, impact students and staff. I have worked with families, collaborated with administrators, and supported students from all backgrounds in Rocky Hill. My goal is to provide leadership that prioritizes the needs and growth of our students and staff. But, I also believe in being a  voice for families, because my experience helps ensure that every policy decision centers on what truly benefits students and the educators who serve them. I make it a priority to ask the right questions, anticipate unintended consequences, and advocate for strategies that actually improve teaching and learning.

    As a lifelong educator, I know firsthand the dedication and professionalism our teachers in Rocky Hill bring to the classroom every day. As a Board of Education member, I pledge to lead with respect and collaboration. I will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize teacher voice and decision-making, ensure professional development opportunities, and provide the resources necessary for both students and staff to thrive. My hope, is that we can create an atmosphere on the Board of Education that elevates educators and helps to create a culture where their expertise is valued, their contributions are celebrated, and their working conditions allow them to focus on what they do best- teaching our students!