Patch Candidate Profile: Emily Johnson 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:
Emily Johnson

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Branford

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Project Coordinator, Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry

Family:
Yes, Donte Branch, 29 years old, Spouse
Maeve Branch, 2.5 years old, Daughter
My family is the most important thing to me. The support of my husband, and my toddler daughter, is unparalleled. They are the reason I strive for greatness in everything I do.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
I’m running for Board of Education because I care deeply about Branford’s schools and want to be part of the work that helps our students thrive. With my background in English and Strategic Communications, I understand the importance of listening, building trust, and keeping families informed and involved. I believe I can make a real difference by helping strengthen communication and collaboration between the Board, our educators, and the community.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is maintaining open, honest communication between the district and the community. I intend to strengthen transparency by encouraging regular updates, accessible information, and opportunities for families and educators to have their voices heard in decision-making.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
What sets me apart from other candidates is my fresh perspective and strong background in communication and collaboration. With degrees in English and Strategic Communications, I bring a unique skill set centered on listening, transparency, and building trust. I’m not running with an agenda — I’m running to strengthen the connection between families, educators, and the Board so we can work together on what matters most: supporting Branford’s students and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
In addition to improving communication and transparency, I want to focus on student well-being, making sure every child feels supported and safe at school. I also want to ensure our teachers and staff have the resources and support they need to do their best work. Finally, I hope to create more opportunities for families and the community to be involved in decisions that affect our schools, so everyone feels heard and part of the process.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I’ve led projects that required clear communication, collaboration, and engagement with diverse groups — skills directly relevant to connecting families, educators, and the Board. My background in English and Strategic Communications has trained me to analyze information carefully, advocate thoughtfully, and build consensus, ensuring decisions are both transparent and student-focused.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
"Don't blink"-- the time we have with our children is so precious. I often think of this two word phrase in regard to my daughter. She is constantly changing, learning, and surprising me everyday. I wish I could freeze time, and hold on to the little things longer. My daughter is one of the main reasons I decided to run for Board of Education. Every decision made by the Board of Education affects the quality of our children's learning, their safety, and their opportunities to thrive. I want to serve on the Board to ensure that every choice we make honors that time, supports our students’ growth, and strengthens the schools and community they rely on.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I’m a Branford resident, wife, and mom to a wonderful daughter, and I know firsthand how important strong schools and family support are. With a background in English and Strategic Communications, I’m passionate about clear communication, collaboration, and student-centered decision-making. I’m running for the Board of Education to help ensure our schools are transparent, inclusive, and focused on giving every child the opportunity to thrive.