Wallingford Election 2025: Marla Roscoe 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.

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

Occupation:
Business owner, physical therapist, professor

Family:
Husband- David, two sons Finley (age 9) and Dexter (age 7)

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I have served on the Board of Education for the past two terms and currently serve as the chairperson.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running for re-election to the Board of Education because I believe in the transformative power of education and in the importance of educating the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally. Our students deserve every opportunity to develop into confident, capable individuals who are ready to thrive in the real world.

As a parent and community member, I care deeply about our children and the teachers who dedicate themselves every day to their success. I have seen the heart and commitment within our schools, but I’ve also recognized areas that need greater attention. When something can be improved, I believe in stepping forward, using my voice, and working collaboratively to create meaningful progress.

I am also committed to ensuring that progress is balanced with responsibility. Fiscal responsibility is essential to building sustainable success—making sure every decision supports both our students’ growth and our community’s long-term well-being.

My goal is to advocate for our students, support our educators, and make thoughtful, transparent decisions that strengthen Wallingford’s schools today and for generations to come. Together, we can continue building a strong foundation that prepares every child to succeed—not just in the classroom, but in life.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue facing our community is the aging condition of many of our school buildings.

Many of our schools need significant structural attention, from outdated systems to classrooms and accessibility improvements. Addressing this requires careful planning, collaboration, and long-term commitment from all town governing bodies.

I believe in creating a proactive facilities plan that allows for phased renovations—starting with high schools, then middle schools, and finally elementary schools—while ensuring work is fiscally responsible. We can leverage state and federal grants, energy efficiency incentives, and public-private partnerships to reduce the burden on taxpayers.

Investing in our school facilities is about more than structures—it ensures safety, accessibility, and improved learning environments that inspire student success. Modern, well-maintained schools allow teachers to teach effectively and with greater ease, students to focus, and our community to demonstrate that we value education.

Through thoughtful planning, collaboration, and transparency, we can make steady progress, keeping Wallingford’s schools safe, vibrant, and ready for the future

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
What makes me different from the other candidates is that I am currently the only serving board member with children in our school district.

This gives me a firsthand, intimate understanding of how our schools operate every day. I am directly involved in the flow of communication between teachers, administrators, and parents, and I witness firsthand how curriculum and programs impact students’ learning and development. It allows me to interact and collaborate with teachers in meaningful ways, seeing both their dedication and the challenges they face.

This perspective is invaluable—it informs every decision I make on the board and allows me to balance policy with practical understanding. It also fuels my passion and commitment to ensuring that our schools are safe, supportive, and effective learning environments for all students.

Being a parent in the district motivates me to advocate for progress with urgency and care. I understand what works, where improvements are needed, and how to implement changes in a way that truly benefits students, teachers, and families alike. My experience gives me both insight and empathy, and it drives my dedication to making thoughtful, practical, and meaningful improvements in our schools.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Another issue I am deeply passionate about and will continue to address is student and teacher wellness.

Teacher burnout is real. Our educators juggle numerous responsibilities, and the growing expectation to educate the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—adds significant pressures. Supporting teachers is essential, not only for their well-being but also to ensure students receive the best possible education.

At the same time, our students’ mental health and social-emotional needs are increasing. Academic pressures, social challenges, and personal stressors require thoughtful attention. Prioritizing wellness ensures that students can focus, engage, and thrive in school.

One way to expand these supports is by optimizing grant funding and leveraging our existing resources, allowing us to provide additional programs, counseling, and interventions without overburdening our budget. By investing in wellness for both students and teachers, we create a stronger, healthier, and more successful school community.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
As the owner of a small business wellness center, I manage budgets daily, work collaboratively with employees and customers, and oversee marketing and operations. This experience has taught me how to balance resources, make thoughtful decisions, and engage with a community—all skills that translate directly to serving on the Board of Education.

In addition, as a college professor, I have a clear perspective on what students need to succeed academically and how to prepare them for life after high school. I understand how curriculum and instruction impact readiness for college, careers, and beyond.

Finally, having served two terms on the Board, including as Board Chair, I have proven my ability and commitment to this volunteer role. I am willing to dedicate the time, effort, and resources needed to advocate for students, support teachers, and help our schools thrive.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The best advice I ever received is: "if you want to see change, you have to be willing to work to be part of the solution." It reminds me that progress doesn’t happen by waiting—it happens when you step up, take action, and commit to making a difference.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I would be deeply honored to continue serving on the Board of Education. Over the past two terms, I’ve gained invaluable insight and perspective, and I know there is still meaningful work ahead. I am committed to serving with compassion, perseverance, and an open ear—listening carefully to colleagues, parents, and the community, and working collaboratively every step of the way. In every decision I make, I ask myself one simple question: “Is this what is best for our children?” My dedication is to ensure our schools are places where students can thrive, teachers feel supported, and our community continues to grow stronger together.