Patch Candidate Profile: Kadiatu M. Lublin For Darien Board Of Education

DARIEN, 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 the town.

Candidate's Name:
Kadiatu M. Lublin (Kadi)

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Darien, CT

Campaign Website
https://www.lublinforboe.com

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
MPA Student @ NYU Wagner School of Public Service, expected graduation date: May 2026

Family:
My husband, Derek, and I have been married for 20 years. We have three kids: Ethan, a senior at DHS; Avery, a sophomore at DHS; and Liam, a sixth grader at The Southport School. We also have two yellow labs, Sam & Sloane, and are expecting a golden retriever puppy in early December!

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I was elected to the BOE in 2022 and am seeking a second term. I was also appointed as a member of the Ox Ridge Building Committee in 2019.

Why are you seeking this office?
To continue the work begun in my first term, specifically by focusing on key priorities like hiring a permanent superintendent, implementing the new K-3 literacy program, fostering innovation, and improving communication and culture.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The BOE budget. We have great schools in Darien, backed by dedicated staff and an engaged community, however, we cannot let our reputation allow us to become complacent. We must continually look to improve and doing so requires resources responsibly deployed for effectiveness and impact, year after year. My position on the budget involves a commitment to invest strategically in education and evaluate existing practices to deliver a robust academic and extra-curricular experience for every student. I will continue to advocate for student programming and staffing that meets the needs of all learners, with a long term lens for the town of Darien.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
As an incumbent, I am already deeply engaged in the current issues facing the district and have developed strong working relationships across the Board and with DPS administration. A life-long learner and dedicated to continuous improvement, my graduate studies in public service ensure my contributions to the board are consistently informed by the most current best practices in public service and nonprofit governance.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I am focused on several key priorities for the district. These include hiring a permanent superintendent and ensuring a successful implementation of the new K-3 early literacy program, HMH Into Reading, while also evaluating literacy curriculum in grades 4-12. Furthermore, I intend to focus on improving communication and culture by building trust, completing the Board of Ed Member Handbook, and reviewing our professional development practices to better support the recruitment and retention of teachers. Finally, I will work to foster innovation, such as expanding the sustainable kitchen initiative and developing new student-centered programs, including the exploration of a dyslexia program for Darien and reviewing school start times.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
As my previously mentioned experience demonstrates, I have a proven record of dedication to Darien. I have successfully served a full term on the board and saw the Ox Ridge Building Committee through from concept to completion over five years. I am prepared to continue applying that same focus, rigor, and commitment to a second term.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Stand up for what you believe and be true to yourself.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
My service on the Board is guided by a steadfast commitment to operating with the highest level of integrity. I believe that accountability is paramount, and I take responsibility for the votes I cast and the collective decisions we, as a Board, make. A crucial part of this is ensuring I am accessible and responsive to the community. I make it a priority to listen to and meet with constituents to understand their perspectives and concerns. Most importantly, I am dedicated to including student voices in our conversations, as their experience is at the heart of everything the Board does. Building trust is essential for a healthy district, and I am committed to doing that work every day. Please reach out to me at lublinforboe@gmail.com!