Patch Candidate Profile: Thomas DeMatteo, Board of Education

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.

Republican Thomas DeMatteo, 58, of East Haven is running for a seat on the Board of Education.

Education.

Graduated Eli Whitney Vocatioal High School, Completed 4 year Ct State Certification for Tool and Die Maker, Go Skills Management Training, Train the Trainer Management Coarse, Management Sexual Harassment Coarse, UR Cobot Programing Coarse

What is your occupation?

35+ Years Tool and Die Maker/Lead Machine Builder

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

Married 35 years to Virginia (Bourgeois) DeMatteo
Three Daughters
Lauren
Kristen
Marissa
Two Son in Laws
Brandon Piche
Dylan Otto
Two Grandsons
Nolan
Cooper

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

No

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?

To be a voice and advocate for the children of East Haven and improve the overall education of our school system

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

The state of our current educational system is well below the State of Ct average. I intend to make sure the teachers have the resources and support they need to improve the overall quality of our educational system

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

I believe I am in it 100% for the children. And have no political or self gain motives, It is time to get some fresh ideas and take politics out of Education

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

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

I think accountability is a huge issue on all levels Students through Administration

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

I have been President and Executive Board member of the Foxon Recreation League for 28 years. Also a coach and child advocate for those same 28 years

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Pick yourself self up, Brush yourself off and get back in the game. Never Quit

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

If elected I will give it my all and do my best to give our children the best education possible