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Tag: Teachers

  • 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!

  • Rocky Hill Deserves Better: Fully Funding Our Schools Is an Investment in Our Future

    Rocky Hill Deserves Better: Fully Funding Our Schools Is an Investment in Our Future

    Last month, Rocky Hill’s Town Council approved a school budget $650,000 below what the Board of Education requested. That cut has already led to the quiet erosion of programs and support services that matter to students, families, and the wider community.

    As a candidate for Mayor this November, I believe Rocky Hill needs leadership that sees education not as a cost to contain, but as the foundation of long-term growth and stability.

    For the last few years, I have heard our elected leaders take pride in saying that we spend less per student than most of the other towns in our DRG (District Reference Group). But is that something we should really be proud of?

    What Was Cut and Why It Matters

    To close next year’s funding gap, the district has announced difficult changes:

    • Summer enrichment programs have been cancelled, eliminating essential math and reading support for Pre-K through Grade 5 students. This hits working families and struggling learners the hardest.
    • A high school credit recovery specialist position was eliminated. Already-overloaded teachers must now fill that gap, increasing the risk that vulnerable students fall behind.
    • Introductory French and Spanish classes at Moser School were suspended, despite research showing early language education boosts cognitive skills and prepares students for future success. Our neighbors in Glastonbury, Avon, Farmington and other schools in Fairfield county offer world languages starting in the 4th grade; these are widely regarded as some of the best school systems in the state. Do we want to be “second tier”?
    • A retiring elementary teacher will not be replaced. This reduces staffing flexibility and increases the likelihood of overcrowded classrooms during critical early years. Some elementary grades are already operating over the recommended capacity.

    Learn more about the impact these cuts have on our schools. These are not harmless efficiency measures. They are short-term cuts with long-term costs.

    The Economic Case for Full Funding

    Even if you don’t have children in our schools, the strength of the district affects everyone.

    1. Strong schools protect property values.
     Quality schools attract families and raise home values. They also bring in higher-end businesses, helping to keep residential taxes lower.

    2. Education drives economic growth.
     Our students are the future workforce. Cutting support today weakens our local economy tomorrow. Rocky Hill can be a town that cultivates high-achieving graduates—or one that falls behind.

    3. Delaying maintenance increases costs.
    We have already made the case that postponing repairs doesn’t save money. It invites bigger problems. We’ve already seen this with the roof at West Hill Elementary.

    A Smarter Path Forward

    Rocky Hill needs leadership with a long-term view—one that invests in our students, supports our educators, and addresses infrastructure before it fails.

    If elected, I will:

    • Advocate for school budgets that reflect our values by increasing transparency between parents, the Board of Education, and the Town Council.
    • Prioritize timely investment in school facilities
    • Treat public education as the essential investment it is

    We can do better for our students, our families, and our future. It starts with electing a Mayor, Town Council, and Board of Education that are ready to lead with vision and responsibility.

    Let’s stop shortchanging the next generation. Let’s invest wisely—and move Rocky Hill forward.

    Allan Smith

    2025 Democratic Candidate for Mayor, Rocky Hill

    Opinion piece: This article reflects the position of the author and not necessarily that of the Democratic Town Committee.