Patch Candidate Profile: Donna Laich For Branford Board of Education

BRANFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:
Donna Laich

What office are you seeking?
BOE

What town do you live in?
Branford

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
Retired School Psychologist

Family:
My husband Bryan and I have lived in Branford for 25 years. I have two grown children (Bryan is their stepdad). Our daughter Melanie, lives in Arizona. My son Bryan lives in New Haven and is the head tennis coach at Quinnipiac University.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I represented District 7 on the Branford RTM for 6 years.

Why are you seeking this office?
I spent my career serving children as an employee in Connecticut Public schools. I served in a variety of roles, broadening my exposure and understanding of public education systems (teacher, parent, head coach, school psychologist, and "manager of our high school's student assistance team".

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Managing bullying in schools is a complex challenge for students, parents, teachers, and administrators alike. My training and experience as a school psychologist equip me to contribute meaningfully to conversations and to help identify effective solutions to reduce bullying incidents.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I have extensive experience in public education in addition to my skills as a psychologist.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I am committed to working collaboratively with parents, students, teachers, and administrators—listening to all perspectives carefully before making decisions.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
“Having worked across multiple roles in public education, I have a comprehensive understanding of its many facets.”

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Listen and Learn

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I served as head coach of the girls’ volleyball team—leading them to a state title—and also coached the boys’ tennis team. These coaching roles enriched my experience in public education.