For the children, for the future.

Wallingford Schools need professionals with the practical skills to oversee the revitalization of our facilities and programs that will catapult our schools onto the top of the Best Schools in Connecticut list.
When my family moved here, it was because Wallingford had some of the best schools in the state. That reputation drew families to the area and brought vitality to the local economy. Now, with decades of a Republican administration, we have seen little to no investment in our schools and they have suffered for the neglect. The Board of Education has done it's best with what has been doled out from the Mayor, but wise investment is needed if we want to make Wallingford the place that so many of us remember.
Bryan Rivard and I will bring the hands-on technical knowledge that is currently missing from the Board of Ed.
Bryan is an Engineer who understands what the students of today must have - the mechanical and mathematical knowledge to fill the advanced manufacturing jobs of the present and future.
I bring the management tools and knowledge of school construction that will be needed to make sure that we get the most out of every dollar spent on school upgrades.
We’ve all read that there is a lack of skilled tradespeople and craftspeople in the pipeline of workers. We both understand the need to bring together education, industry, and labor unions to ensure our children and grandchildren will find ample opportunity for well-paying and rewarding careers.
I feel that we need a firearms safety program in our school systems that will educate children about what to do around firearms. There is already a curriculum developed around “Don’t touch, Leave the area, Tell an adult.” It’s that simple. What is also needed is Mental Health First Aid training for every school employee and members of the community who work with the public. This program aims to help identify people near crisis and intervene before a person causes harm to themselves or others.
With possibility of massive school construction, we will need people that understand the technical aspect of construction and the ins and outs of the whole process.
In my career I have mentored many apprentices. I have been responsible for multi-million dollar construction projects from concrete foundation to finish trim, including a local supermarket expansion that was completed on time and under budget. I’m looking forward to analyzing renovation plans for our schools.
I believe that I will be a much-needed blue collar addition to the Board of Education, one that comes with practical skills and training. My career is to make my employers’ projects a success and now I want to use those skills to serve my town’s families, to make sure all our kids have every possible opportunity as they enter adulthood.
On November 5th, I urge you all to vote for a bright future for Wallingford schools, one that will enrich our youth and truly make Wallingford shine. Vote Row A: Pursell, Votto, Rivard, Reynolds, Castelli, and Conroy!