CT Patch Candidate Profile: Mary Claire Edmonds For Milford Board Of Education

MILFORD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Mary Claire Edmonds, a Democrat, is a Milford resident running for Board of Education.

Occupation:

I am a Senior Manager of Program Innovation at Playworks, a national nonprofit that leverages play as a powerful tool to engage students in learning, physical activity, and skill-building.

Family:
I grew up in Milford, raised by two former teachers who instilled in me a lifelong love of learning. I am proud to be raising my own family here today. My husband Clint and I have an 18-month-old daughter and an 18-month-old niece (just 2 days apart!) who fill our days with joy and curiosity. As a mom and aunt, I am personally invested in the success of our schools.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

This is my first time running for office.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking to join the Board of Education because I hope to bring energy, experience, and a commitment to student growth and well-being, so our community can continue to be proud of the education we provide.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue is preparing our students to enter a rapidly changing workforce. We have two key responsibilities: first, to provide learning opportunities that build essential life skills such as adaptability, creativity, communication, and critical thinking; and second, to expose students to a wide variety of career pathways so they can begin to chart a path that fits their strengths and passions.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
What sets me apart is the innovative perspective I bring from my professional work. I design, pilot, and scale play-based education programs in school districts and community organizations across the country, which has given me experience managing projects and contracts within complex systems. This work has honed my ability to think creatively, test ideas, and turn them into practical, data-driven solutions that result in positive outcomes for students. I would bring that same fresh energy and problem-solving mindset to the Board of Education, offering a perspective that drives thoughtful change and ensures that our schools are responsive to the needs of every student.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Supporting our students goes beyond the classroom and doesn’t stop when the bell rings. I see opportunities to strengthen partnerships with community organizations that provide enrichment before, during, and after school, expanding program offerings in areas such as the arts, sports, and STEM. By prioritizing these collaborations, we can support working families and give parents confidence that their children are engaged in safe, productive activities. Additionally, we can explore opportunities for innovative revenue generation through collaborative grant funding.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
In my former position as Director of Program Operations at Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster, I provided organizational leadership across five facilities, serving more than 3,000 youth annually. I managed hiring and professional development, implemented policies and accountability systems, and supervised program delivery to ensure both quality and compliance. I helped secure competitive state and foundation grants, while elevating our work nationally, winning Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Merit Award for Program Excellence in Education in 2020 and earning a nomination for Northeast Professional of the Year in 2021.

A key part of my current work at Playworks is our TagTeam service, an elementary school recess program that has demonstrated measurable impact across the country, from Massachusetts to Alaska. Over 94% of educators at participating schools agree that TagTeam increases physical activity and reduces disciplinary incidents and bullying. Leading this work gives me direct insight into the challenges and innovative solutions shaping school districts nationwide.

My professional background has given me a deep understanding of K-12 student needs, strong operational and leadership expertise, and the proven ability to leverage resources that directly support students, educators, and families. I graduated magna cum laude from Franklin & Marshall College, where I developed a strong foundation in analytical and strategic thinking. I bring a track record of thorough preparation, clear communication, and accountability. I approach my work with integrity and purpose, driven by a genuine passion for kids.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
“Be the change you want to see.” Real impact comes from rolling up your sleeves and stepping into the challenge.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
If you care about the success of Milford schools, we already have something in common. I welcome anyone, no matter your party affiliation, to join me in showing up for our students by contributing ideas, supporting initiatives, and participating in the decisions that shape their education. At the end of the day, we are all one Milford, and I am committed to bringing people together to ensure that every kid has the opportunities and support they need to thrive.

My inbox is open: mc.edmonds.milford@gmail.com.