Patch Candidate Profile: Jill Madeo For Easton Board Of Education

EASTON, 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:
Jill Madeo

What office are you seeking?
Easton Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Easton

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
Senior Business Development and Marketing Manager

Family:
I am a single parent and live with my six year old son here in Easton.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
As my son has just begun his education in the public schools, I’m personally invested in supporting all the children in our schools, as well as the teachers and administration. I truly believe it takes a village to raise a child so I’d like to be of service to this fantastic community.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Continuing to ensure that every child is able to access the best education our community can provide, in an environment that is safe and inclusive, and that our teachers are provided with the proper resources to do so.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
In this moment in our country of increasing political divisiveness, rather than focus on candidate differences, I think the great thing about running for the Board of Education is that all the candidates want to do the best we can for the children in our community. While there may be different ways of achieving that goal, I feel that collaboration and listening to all voices will be the best way to support and enhance our schools.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I am deeply committed to our students receiving special education services and ensuring that they are able to access their education in the least restrictive environment possible and fulfilling their needs under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Last year with several other parents I founded Easton’s Special Education Parent Teacher Association to support our students with special education needs. Through this organization I’ve had the opportunity to learn about ways to help improve our schools to support this community, and have had the privilege of partnering with our principals, Mrs. Fox Santora and Dr. Clapp, as well as the PTO, to help support our families and bring education and awareness of these issues into our schools.

In addition to the SEPTA, my previous training as an attorney I believe could be an asset to the BOE in evaluating various contracts as well as helping to identify potential risks or liabilities preemptively for the BOE.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Children will listen. The best thing I can do to show my child how important community is, is through the example of community service and engagement.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I’d prefer to hear from the voters — please let me know what’s on your mind!