Patch Candidate Profile: Meghan Testa​, 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.

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

Meghan Testa, 38, is running for election to the Danbury Board of Education as a Republican.

Education.

Danbury High School Graduate 2003 and Western Connecticut State University graduated 2007 BBA Business Management

What is your occupation?

9.5 years in healthcare which include 3.5 years as a financial analyst and 6 years in IT systems, training, and project management. Currently I've been an IT Project Manager contractor at the City of Danbury for the past 4.5 years

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Mother: Lorri Lawlor, Father: Michael Testa Sr. (deceased), Brother: Michael Testa Jr., Nephews: Mikey age 3, Mason age 2

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?

My motivation for seeking office stems for my love of Danbury. Having personally benefited from the excellent education provided by the Danbury School System, I am committed to ensuring that every student in our community has access to a high-quality education. I firmly believe that education forms the bedrock of Danbury's future success, as it nurtures the potential of the next generation—our future teachers, doctors, and lawyers etc. With a lifelong connection to Danbury and a strong IT and financial background, I am confident that I can bring a fresh perspective and a unique skill set to contribute to the betterment of our city's education system.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

School attendance/student engagement

A collaborated comprehensive plan and fresh approach that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term solutions while working with administration, teachers, parents, and students that includes:
• Implement early intervention programs to identify and support students at risk of absenteeism or disengagement.
• Develop mentorship programs where older students or community members can provide guidance and support to struggling students.
• Encourage active parental involvement by organizing regular meetings and activities to enhance the home-school connection.
• Ensure that the curriculum is engaging and relevant, using innovative teaching methods and resources.
• Expand extracurricular offerings to provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and talents.
• Increase access to counseling services to address the emotional and social needs of students.

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

Having more recent student education experience within the Danbury school system than any other Board of Education candidate, I am uniquely positioned to bring a fresh, innovative approach. My firsthand experience as a student in our community has given me insight into the strengths and areas where improvements can be made. I am passionate about creating more progressive and relevant educational policies that address the evolving needs of our students. As a candidate, I am committed to harnessing this perspective to contribute to the future and development of the school system that will ensure the best possible education for all Danbury students.

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

School overcrowding, expand and innovative curriculum, classroom resources, students and teacher ratio, proper allocation of funds and improve education equity

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

My extensive background in Finance, Technology, Training, and IT Project Management has provided me with unique experience and skills which include: understanding of IT integrations and infrastructure, financial management and funds allocation, policy development, problem solving, and successfully completing multiple implementations and projects as a project manager. Because of my background and accomplishments I can contribute valuable insights and perspectives to discussions and decisions related to technology, budget, curriculum, policy development, and student engagement.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Do what is right, not what is easy. Strength of character leads us to do the right thing, even when there are easier options.

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

I was born and raised in Danbury and graduated from Danbury High School 2003 and WCSU 2007. I've worked in Danbury through my entire 15 years of my professional career. My point is I have deep roots and connection to Danbury, and I believe securing the best future for Danbury and all generations starts with the education system. I will loyally represent and support Danbury.