2025 Patch Candidate Profiles: Steven Viens, Ellington Board of Education

ELLINGTON, CT — Steven Viens is running for a Board of Education seat in Ellington.

Candidate's Name:
Steven L Viens

What office are you seeking?
Board Of Education

What town do you live in?
Ellington

Campaign Website
http://www.ellington-ertc.org/

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Retired

Family:
Dorothy Viens, wife for 45 years. Anna, 43. Rebekah, married to Kavon Gager, three children, two of whom are students at Windermere elementary. Another expected in November.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Current member of Ellington Board of Education

Why are you seeking this office?
Enjoy serving and as a retiree, I have a desire to give back to the community. Having two grandchildren in the school district increases my interest.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
the need for high quality education in a cost efficient manner. My goal is to maintain fiscal strength while continuing to press for high standards in education.

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

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Improvements in quality of school lunch program. Focusing on education, not social justice issues.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
My four year track record speaks for itself. Ellington students returned to school full time before many of the surrounding districts following the pandemic. As a Board, we have submitted fiscally sound, accurate budgets with high praise from the auditors. We introduced new English and Science programs for elementary students. The district adopted the Ellington Unplugged program, along with the Seeds of Civility initiative. With 60% of our students active in sports, we have hired an Athletic Director for the district for the first time, also responsible for our Wellness program.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Think different. -Steve Jobs

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