Patch Candidate Profile: Jennifer Baldwin For Guilford Board Of Education

GUILFORD, 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:
Jennifer Baldwin

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Guilford

Campaign Website
https://IndependentGuilford.co...

Party Affiliation:
Independent

Occupation:
Attorney

Family:
2 children, 19 year old daughter and 15 year old son

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I was elected to the Board of Education 4 years ago

Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking re-election to the BOE because I really love the work I do. I believe I bring an alternative view to the Board instead of always going with the majority. I feel like I speak up for teachers and marginalized students and would like to continue this work.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Keeping the budget fiscally responsible and ensuring expenditures align with the budget

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I bring a different perspective as I am a parent of children with special needs. I try to focus on the marginalized students in the schools and be a voice for them, their parents and their teachers.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I want my constituents know that I am here to listen and speak up as necessary. I also want to inform my constituents about what I can and cannot do. Many people have a misperception of this role and are disappointed when their desires cannot be implemented because I am just 1 of 9 people making decisions.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I would cite nearly every meeting where I am willing to speak up in public about my opinions or concerns on an issue we are voting on. I am always willing to speak up.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Listen and pause. Do not be afraid to tell someone you will get back to them later on an issue. Do not give an answer immediately just because the person desires an immediate answer.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I try to speak up for the minority opinion on an issue. But I will not do this just to be obstructionist. I will speak up when I believe a differing opinion is not being heard and is necessary to make an informed decision.