CT Patch Candidate Profile: Hanna Tedros For Milford Board Of Education

MILFORD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Hanna Tedros, a Democrat, is a Milford resident running for Board of Education in the 5th District.

Occupation:

Director, Learning Experience

Family:
My husband and I have been married for 12 years, on November 2nd. I have 3 kids—Olive, 10 years old; Bryson, 8 years old; and Xavier, 4 years old.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

no

Why are you seeking this office?
I’m running for the Board of Education in Milford’s 5th District because I care deeply about the future of our community. My husband and I co-own Café Atlantique, and through our small business, I’ve seen how strong schools help build a vibrant, connected town. As a parent, my top priority is making sure my children—and all children in Milford—receive the best education possible so they can grow, dream, and succeed. And as a professional who’s always looking ahead at how the world of work is changing, I want to help our schools prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

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 my constituents is ensuring that every child has equitable access to a high-quality education, no matter which school they attend or what their background is. Milford is growing more diverse, and while overall performance is improving, not every student has the same opportunities or support systems. At the same time, our teachers—who are the heart of that work—are being asked to do more with limited resources.

If elected, I intend to focus on strengthening teacher support so they have the time, training, and resources they need to help every student thrive, and on ensuring resources are allocated equitably, so that schools and students with higher needs get the extra support they deserve. That means regularly reviewing data, listening to educators and families, and advocating at both the local and state level to make sure Milford’s schools are set up for every child’s success.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I bring a unique mix of perspectives, drawing from my roles as a parent, small business owner, and learning professional. I’m deeply invested in Milford’s schools, understand how education strengthens our community, and have the skills to help our district adapt to a changing world. I lead with collaboration, data, and a genuine commitment to supporting teachers and students.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Beyond teacher support and equitable access, I plan to focus on strengthening communication between families, educators, and the Board, ensuring that decisions are transparent and community voices are heard. I also want to prioritize responsible budgeting, so we can prepare for future funding challenges without sacrificing the quality of our schools. And finally, I care deeply about student well-being—making sure our schools are safe, inclusive places where every child feels supported academically, socially, and emotionally.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I’ve spent my career leading large-scale learning and development initiatives for global organizations, managing budgets of over $8 million and teams across multiple regions. I’m an expert in adult learning, and while that differs from K–12 education, there are many shared principles, like clear goals, strong support systems, and continuous feedback. I’ve built programs that help people adapt to change, develop critical skills, and thrive in complex environments. I bring strategic leadership, operational experience, and a deep commitment to learning—all of which I believe will serve Milford’s schools well.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
“If you meet a jerk on Monday, that person’s a jerk. If you meet jerks all week, you’re the jerk.” I carry this with me in every leadership role, and it’s especially relevant to Board of Education work. If one person raises a concern, they may need support or clarity. But if many people—teachers, families, or students—are raising similar issues, it’s a sign that we need to reflect on our approach, policies, or communication. It’s a reminder to lead with humility, listen closely, and be willing to adjust so the Board can truly serve the community well.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I’d like voters to know that my commitment to Milford’s children goes beyond my own family. I’m a foster and adoptive parent, actively involved with the Connecticut Alliance of Foster and Adoptive Families and the Department of Human Services. I also work with local non-profits to help build leadership skills and create job opportunities in our community. These experiences have deepened my belief that every child deserves to feel supported, included, and set up for success—both in school and beyond.