Patch Candidate Profile: Marianne Johnson, Board of Education

EAST HAVEN, CT —The 2023 municipal election is heating up in East Haven and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

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

Democrat Marianne Johnson, 67, is seeking reelection to the Board of Education.

Education.

Bachelor of Arts in Education, Master of Arts in Education, Sixth Year Degree in Administration. I have 35 years of experience in education.

What is your occupation?

Retired principal

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

My husband, Raymond, was a teacher at East Haven High School for 24 years. Our sons, Chris and Greg both graduated from East Haven High School and received degrees from Eastern Connecticut State University.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

I am currently a member of the East Haven Board of Education

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I have been in education my entire life and now that I am retired I have time to give back to my community to ensure every child gets a quality education.

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

Ensuring their children are getting a quality education to prepare them for the workforce in the future. I intend to support varied programs at all levels to meet the needs of our diverse learners.

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

I have experience teaching elementary and middle school students, so I understand what students need to be successful. As a former principal, I developed budgets to meet the needs of our entire school community. I also developed partnerships with families. As a lifelong resident of East Haven, I love our community and hope to make a difference in the lives of our children.

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

I hope to work closely with our Central Office team and members of the community to better understand And address the current needs of our district.

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

I was a successful teacher and administrator at East Haven Academy. I received the Chamber of Commerce Award for Outstanding Educator.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be kind, patient, and respectful to all and always keep an open mind.