Candidate Profile: Juanita Bush Harris, Danbury Board Of Education

DANBURY, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Danbury and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Danbury Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Retired Danbury Public Schools teacher and counselor Juanita Bush Harris, 68, is running for election to the Danbury Board of Education as a Democrat. She is a Danbury High School graduate, and holds a Bachelors of Science degree in special education from the University of Hartford, a master's degree in special education from Southern Connecticut State University, and a master's 6th year degree in school counseling from Western Connecticut State University. Her mother Annette Bush, 98, is founding pastor of Trinity Christian Tabernacle, along with her husband Rev. Ruben L. Bush, Sr. She has six sisters, three brothers, a son, and a granddaughter.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

No

Why are you seeking this office?

I was born and raised in Danbury, educated in Danbury public Schools and returned after college, to work in its school system. The unique perspective that I can bring to the Board of Education is one that has experienced collaborations with students, parents, professional educators, administrators and community agencies. All with the aim of supporting student and school community growth.

Please complete this statement: 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 the Danbury Public Schools is the lack of funding, and I intend to support advocacy at the local, state and federal levels until Danbury has what is needed to financially sustain the needs of our students.

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

I have experienced first-hand and at the various levels within the Danbury Public Schools, the diverse needs of students, parents and staff. Over the years, I have walked the halls, taught the classes, met the parents, supported the staff and collaborated with community supports.

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

Professional Educator shortages, insufficient mental health support, school building issues that hinder the learning environment

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

Educational Presenter (CT School Counseling Assoc. / Say Yes Program @ Jericho Partnership); CT Governor Appointee to Commission on Common Core Standards

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

"Learn to Adapt, not Avoid"

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

I want what most students, parents and our Danbury School Community wants. Strong Danbury Public Schools with opportunities for growth, with necessary resources and valued staff members.