Stratford Election 2025: Edward ‘Ed’ Kingston Running For Board Of Education

STRATFORD, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in Stratford with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will cast their ballots in the Nov. 4 election for the position of mayor, along with seats on the Town Council, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning and more.

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

Edward "Ed" Kingston is running for election to the Stratford Board of Education as a Republican.

Campaign Website
https://stratfordgop.com/

Occupation:

Chief Technology Officer, Town of Stratford

Family:
My wife and love of my life is Margaret Kingston (Devlin). We have been married for 42 years and we have two children Edward and Caitlin. We have been blessed with five beautiful grandchildren Fiona, Parker, Emma, Ella and Lilly. We are fortunate to have all of our grandchildren within 20 miles of our house. Meg and I live in Lordship and share our beach house with our Great Dane Jack.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I have served as an alternate on the Planning Commission since November 2023. During this time, I have attended every Planning Commission meeting and was seated as a voting commissioner for most of them.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running for the Board of Education because I believe in giving back to my community. I also want to continue the good work of our current Superintendent. She has the energy, vision, and commitment to ensure that Stratford’s schools continue moving forward.

I believe the Board of Education needs to focus on four top priorities:

Ensuring Stratford gets its fair share of funding from Hartford.

Developing a long-term strategic plan for school buildings and infrastructure.

Expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities to give students multiple pathways to success.

Integrating modern technology, especially AI, into our classrooms to enhance learning and better prepare students for success.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
One of the biggest challenges we face in the Board of Education is funding. We need to make sure that our community receives its fair share of funding from Hartford. We also need to find efficiencies that save money and allow us to reinvest those savings back into our school system. Pursuing grants from state and federal agencies is another way we can increase funds for our schools.
Improving student test scores and academic performance is always going to be a challenge. We need to ensure that we keep our curriculum current and aligned with the skills students need to succeed in today’s world. We also need to embrace technology to support our teachers. The integration of AI can help teachers personalize learning and reduce the burden of administrative tasks.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I will always vote based on what I believe is in the best interest of the residents of the Town of Stratford. I will work with anyone who shares that same commitment. I will come to every meeting well prepared, ready to ask thoughtful questions, and focused on finding creative solutions to the challenges we face. Unfortunately, this simple and straightforward approach to holding an elected position sets me apart from some of the other candidates.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
In addition to the objectives that I have already outlined, I will work to ensure that our teachers have the tools, resources, and support they need to help every student. The integration of modern technology, especially artificial intelligence, in our classrooms should be a key priority. Stratford is fortunate to be ahead of the curve on this priority, having already adopted an AI policy and begun deploying tools that assist teachers in personalizing learning for their students. I will also work to keep our curriculum current so that it helps our students achieve state standards and gain the skills they need to be successful.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have over 30 years of experience leading technology teams in large private companies, small businesses, and government. I know how technology, planning, and strong leadership can make a real difference in a business, for a town, and in a classroom. I currently lead the IT Department for the Town of Stratford and have a solid understanding of the town’s business processes. I have the background, experience, and energy to make a difference on the Stratford Board of Education.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The day my father convinced me that I should at least give college a try. He was right of course and I am sure it changed the trajectory of my life.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
Stratford is an incredible town. I chose to make Stratford my home. We have outstanding teachers, students, and families. With the right leadership, we can make our town and our schools stronger than they have ever been. I would be honored to earn your vote for the Stratford Board of Education.