Candidate profile: Deby Brackett

0
89
Debra Brackett
Debra Brackett

Deby Brackett

Democrat

Board of Education candidate

Watch Deby’s campaign video

Why are you running for this position?

I’m concerned about the education of our students and want to be sure Naugatuck is making the most of the resources it has.  While education is a critical component of any town’s budget, I can appreciate the challenges faced by the board in the current economy.   Because of my experiences as a parent as well as an educator, I believe I would bring an open and well-rounded perspective to the board.  While consistently attending Board of Education and PSA meetings over the past several years, I have come to realize I have a lot to contribute to this process and hope to get this opportunity to volunteer my time.”

Have you held public office in the past? If so, what positions and when?

“I have not yet held a public office.”

What experience makes you qualified for this position?

“I have lived in Naugatuck for most of my life, attended school here and have two children in Naugatuck schools.  I have been active as a parent volunteer with the PSAs at Prospect Street, Hop Brook Elementary and Hillside Intermediate Schools for the past five years and have spearheaded enhanced communication with families at Hop Brook over the past year.  Because of this, I understand the needs of Naugatuck families.  I maintained a teaching certificate In Biology/Chemistry for 10 years, and I hold a Masters Degree in Public Health with a Health Education Concentration.  These credentials make me familiar with the challenges faced by educators and administrators.  I have worked as an epidemiologist for the Connecticut Department of Public Health on children’s health initiatives, writing federal and state grants.  I expect increased grant funding will be an area the new BOE addresses over the next few years and this experience will prove useful. I have consistently attended BOE meetings for the past two years. I have become familiar with Board protocols, challenges, and achievements. As a board member, I’m willing to speak openly on behalf of our children as well as our administrators.”

If elected, what are your priorities and goals?

One of my immediate goals as a BOE member would be to help adopt a budget that wisely uses Naugatuck’s resources to improve the education of Naugatuck’s children.  Part of that goal, would be to work on increasing income from federal and state grants to better meet state mandates imposed on our district.  Many of our buildings are in need of updates and repairs.  I am prepared to support safe, welcoming schools that use technology to lower costs and broaden learning opportunities.  Most significantly, I intend to increase transparency and communication among the BOE, administrators, teachers, students and families.”