Wallingford Election 2025: Jen Passaretti Running For Board Of Education

WALLINGFORD, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in Wallingford 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 and Board of Education.

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

Jen Passaretti is running for re-election to the Wallingford Board of Education as a Republican.

Campaign Website
https://www.jenpassaretti4boe....

Occupation:

University Grants and Contracts Accountant (4 years)

Family:
I have been married for 13 years to my husband, Joe. We have a blended family of 3 children: Wesley, Allison, and Aaron - all "grown and flown".

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Yes, I am currently in my second term of the Wallingford Board of Education, serving as the Executive Secretary. Previously, I held an appointed Commissioner position on the Wallingford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission.

Why are you seeking this office?
As the daughter of a third-grade teacher, education has always meant a lot to me. I believe the strength of a community is reflected in its schools — and here in Wallingford, we have so much to be proud of. Our public education system is a big part of why families choose to build their lives here, just like I did.

As a Board of Education member, I make decisions on policy and curriculum based on what’s best for our students and families — not politics.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
An issue that I believe is affecting our district, but doesn't get enough attention, is chronic absenteeism. To effectively address chronic absenteeism, we first need to understand why students are missing school. Early intervention is key, and just as important is making school a place where students feel safe and supported.

As a Board member, I’m not in the classroom every day — but I recognize that our educators and school administrators are our greatest asset in tackling this issue. That’s why my role is to ensure we’re hiring administrators who prioritize student engagement and attendance, and that we’re supporting them with policies and budgets that give them the tools to succeed.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I’ve spent the last 22 years working in higher education, which gives me a unique perspective on what true student success looks like beyond high school. Understanding what students need to succeed after graduation has shaped the way I make decisions for our district.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Like most districts, our population of special education students keeps increasing every year. Meeting the needs of our special education students is not optional — it’s both a legal requirement and a moral obligation. As the number of students with IEPs and 504 plans increases, we need to ensure that their services are protected, even in tight budget years.

That starts with smart budgeting. We need to prioritize staffing — like special education teachers and paraprofessionals — and make sure they have the training and support to implement individualized learning plans effectively.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Serving on the Board of Education isn’t easy — it requires long hours, personal sacrifice, and the ability to make tough decisions. I have a proven track record of stepping up to do the hard work, even when the hours are late and the energy is low.

I’ve consistently volunteered for events, committees, and boards — often when no one else was willing to raise their hand. I bring the resolve and commitment to make decisions that serve the best interests of our town’s families, even when it requires personal sacrifice. Because for me, this work is about service — not convenience.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My father was a CEO, and he always taught me that in any organization, no one is more important than anyone else. Everyone brings value — the only difference is our job descriptions. That perspective has stayed with me and shaped how I lead and collaborate with others.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
When I moved to Wallingford in 2001 as a single mom, I was looking for a fresh start. Wallingford gave me that second chance — a place with opportunity, support, and community. Over the past 24 years, this town has truly become my home, and I’ve been proud to give back in every way I can.