Patch Candidate Profile: Patricia Tia DePalma, East Haven Board of Ed

EAST HAVEN, CT —The 2023 municipal election is heating up in East Haven and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

East Haven Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Patricia (Tia) DePalma, 65, is running for reelection to the East Haven Board of Education.

Education.

BS and MS in Education from Southern Connecticut State University.

What is your occupation?

I am a newly retired teacher. I started my career in East Haven as a part-time special education teacher. I retired from North Branford Schools in 2023 with over 38 years in the district. I taught special education and general education at North Branford Intermediate School. I now work (part-time) supporting students as a reading interventionist.

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I have been married to my husband Richard DePalma for 37 years. We raised three daughters who went through East Haven Public Schools (Brittany, Alex, and Taylor). I love to spend time with my family, including my two-year-old grandson, Cody.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

My husband, Rich, served over 22 years on the Board of Finance in East Haven. He is the current Registrar of Voters (Democrat).

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I have served on the East Haven Board of Education since 2009.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I am quite passionate about education and want to do what I can to make sure that the children of East Haven are given the best opportunities for learning. I believe "it takes a village" to not only raise but educate a child. As a BOE member, I will continue to work with all stakeholders (students, teachers, parents/guardians and other board members in a bipartisan manner to ensure the success of East Haven Public Schools.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it.

At this time, the most pressing issue in the national teacher shortage. This crisis has effected East Haven as well. I intend to make East Haven a destination district by working to make our wages competitive while keeping fiscal responsibility in mind. This is truly a work in progress. Teachers in East Haven and nationwide are feeling a lack of support while greater demands are being placed on them. I would like to ensure that the educators of East Haven are supported as they instruct our young people in order to provide them the opportunities for the highest outcomes and brightest futures.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I do not consider myself a "politician." I am an experienced educator and a mother above all else. It is my sense of duty as an educator and parent to provide insight and understanding when negotiating contracts, setting policy and collaborating with all members of the board when making decisions that are in the best interests of East Haven Public Schools.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

n/a

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Our budget comprises federal, state and town funding. The board's goal is to promote a clear explanation of this process and ensure the best use of these funds. I intend to be transparent with taxpayers in order to ensure that they understand what their tax dollars are funding and how they are being used.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

During my multiple terms on the East Haven Board of Education, I concurrently taught various grade levels in North Branford. This dual role not only improved my teaching skills, but also increased my involvement with the board. I have established relationships with many stakeholders and as both a teacher and board member, I confidently participated in negotiation teams and interview committees. I also take part in professional development as a teacher and a board member.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

I subscribe to the wise words of Maya Angelou when she said, "I've learned that people will forget what you say, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." I call upon these words often when making decisions for East Haven Public Schools, and they are my driving force as I strive to do the right thing.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am a dedicated and passionate lifelong learner. I will stand up for what is right in order to yield the best outcomes for the children and families of East Haven.