To the Editor:

With two weeks until election day, I find myself reflecting more on my reasons for running for our Board of Education. To most, it’s not hard to imagine why people run for elected office. Some will do so because we have career aspirations in politics, or because we are disappointed with a decision that’s been made, and want change. Some of us will do so because we want to have a positive impact in our community and have spent years doing just that and see local government as the next logical step. But whatever those motivations are, you can be sure that we all want to see Newtown thrive.

My simple motivation is knowing the depths of the impact and importance of a quality education from a variety of perspectives can have on a child. Growing up in Bridgeport, with a complicated upbringing, I saw school as my safe space. It was a place of learning, support, and yes, even love. When I needed to escape situations outside of my control as a child, I found solace in the books in the library and encouragement in the staff that was always on hand to share a kind word or slip me an extra meal. Getting a good education was a critical factor in my ability to thrive and my goal is to provide that same opportunity for all children in Newtown.

Newtown is different in some ways than the community I grew up in, but there are children in need in every community. There are marginalized groups requiring support, and assistance all schools need, regardless of location. I’ve made it my mission to find these groups and to support them. When our elementary library lacked Spanish-language books, I went to our PTA and asked to use credit we earned at our book fairs to supplement the library. When kids headed back to school last year in the midst of the pandemic, our PTA worked with administration and counselors to provide mindfulness kits for all students in our school, even those at home, to help ease their anxiety and be more productive in their learning environment.

I believe, like Mister Rogers, that being a helper is the most noble of roles. I have always found fulfillment in helping the children and staff in our schools. I’d like the opportunity to continue my work by joining our BOE. I have spent seven years working to earn my nomination, because I believe that people looking to serve on our BOE should spend considerable time understanding how our schools run and the needs of our educators, before they take on this role. This work is important, complex, and requires a special kind of person. I believe I still have a lot to learn, but I am ready. Ready to learn, to listen to every resident, work for every student, and support every staff member.

Thanks for your support and I hope to see you all at the polls on November 2.

Jennifer Padilla

Sandy Hook