Patch Candidate Profile: Julie Toal For New Canaan Board Of Education

NEW CANAAN, 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 their towns.

Candidate's Name:

Julie Toal

What office are you seeking?

Board of Education

What town do you live in?

New Canaan

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Republican

Occupation:

I’m a stay-at-home mom and proud member of the New Canaan Board of Education, where I’ve served for the past four years. During that time, I’ve worked to strengthen school security, implement a phone free Saxe, and advocate for holistic ways to improve the mental health of our students. I also coach youth softball — an experience that constantly reinforces how important teamwork, confidence, and sportsmanship are, both on the field and in our schools.

Family:

My husband and I moved to New Canaan in 2016, drawn by the schools and the community. We have two children, ages 8 and 10, who remind us daily why this work matters.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Yes, I was elected to the Board of Education in 2021 for a 4 year seat.

Why are you seeking this office?

I’m running for re-election because there’s still important work to be done. Over the past four years on the Board, I’ve been a strong advocate for reducing screen time in schools. We’ve taken meaningful steps — including making Saxe phone-free — but there’s more we can do.

Another priority for me is increasing recess across all grade levels. It helps kids manage stress, build resilience, and return to class happier, calmer, and ready to learn. Child psychologists consistently link daily outdoor play to better mental health, lower anxiety, and even stronger academic performance. It’s a simple, no-cost way to support healthier, more balanced students.

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

Student wellness. I believe one of the most important parts of education is helping kids grow into confident, independent, and resilient people. I pitched bringing the Let Grow program to New Canaan two years ago— an initiative that promotes independence and resilience through free play and real-world responsibility. It’s a simple idea with a big impact, helping kids gain confidence and families reconnect. I’m thrilled that this year the program is being implemented in 2nd grade classrooms across the district, and I intend to see it through and expand it district-wide over the next four years.

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

While some candidates are still learning how the Board operates, I bring four years of hands-on experience and a proven record of getting things done. I’ve served on key committees — Facilities, Governance, and Communications — and helped move real initiatives from concept to classroom. I know how to navigate the process, build consensus, and follow through. Experience matters when you’re responsible for our schools, our teachers, and our students’ futures.

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

New Canaan’s schools are consistently ranked among the very best in Connecticut and across the country, and that’s something I’m proud to protect. My focus will be on keeping our standards high while making sure our students are healthy, confident, and ready to succeed — both in and beyond the classroom.

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

I’m not a career politician — I’m a parent who shows up, listens, and gets things done. Over the past four years, I’ve proved to help move important initiatives from ideas to reality. Our schools are stronger today because we’ve focused on both academic excellence and student well-being.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be grateful. Don’t take anything in life for granted.

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

Outside of Board meetings, you’ll usually find me on a softball field, at a hockey rink, or walking our new puppy through Waveny. My favorite thing to do on weekends? Family game night — Monopoly, Pictionary, Backgammon — nothing beats the laughter and friendly competition. I’m a mom who believes in showing up, pitching in, and making things better — whether it’s helping a player learn to tag up on a fly ball or helping a policy cross the finish line.