Guilford Election 2021: Jennifer Baldwin For Board of Education

GUILFORD, CT — The state Municipal Election is Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns.

Unaffiliated candidate Jennifer Baldwin, 49, is running for Board of Education in Guilford.

Occupation: Attorney with the Office of the Chief Public Defender

Family: Taylor - 15 years old Steven - 11 years old

Experience: Secretary for AW Cox PTO; Secretary for Baldwin Middle School PTO

Family in government: No

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

Guilford is facing many of the same pressing issues as school systems around the country: impacts from Covid, declining enrollment due to demographic shifts, and unfortunately, extremists seeking to unwind the important work our schools are doing in implementing much-needed initiatives around equity, inclusion, and social justice. Our schools are tasked with preparing our students to be global thinkers and productive contributors to their future workplaces and communities--both of which will be rich in diversity. As a member of the Board of Education, I intend to support the efforts already started, and to work with my fellow board members and the administration to expand upon them.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I know that our teachers work hard every day to provide a high-quality educational experience for my children. I trust that our administrators are continually learning and relying on facts to implement appropriate curriculum, policies and programs to best prepare our students to thrive after they leave school. I believe in equity of experience and an inclusive atmosphere in which every single student, not just the high achieving students, are provided with the unique tools and support they need to learn and to become productive global citizens. My opponents want a color-blind approach that doesn’t acknowledge the lived experiences of marginalized groups. They support the adoption of Trump’s 1776 Unites curriculum to whitewash our history. They suggest cameras in classrooms, oppose mask mandates, and more. The contrast couldn’t be clearer between myself and my opponents.

Accomplishments:

I am a practicing criminal defense attorney for vulnerable or marginalized defendants. My entire day is spent listening and negotiating. As a member of the Board of Education, I would listen to constituents, problem solve and negotiate as needed to ensure high achievement for all students in Guilford. I am a current member of the Special Education and Baldwin PTOs and would draw upon my years of experience in PTO roles in which I have learned how our administrators must balance the needs of many stakeholders including students, parents, and faculty.

Other issues:

I know that mental health issues continue to be a concern, particularly as we begin to emerge from and process the experience of living through a global pandemic. I will strongly advocate for continuing science-based initiatives in support of the mental and physical well-being of students, and inclusive of their social and emotional growth.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I have 2 kids currently attending Guilford Public Schools and have built strong relationships with teachers and administrators in town. I have special knowledge surrounding Special Education and I get involved as much as I can. I have not remained in the shadows. I would love to continue to serve my community and be your next Board of Education member.