Monroe Election 2021 Profile: Chrissy Fensore Martinez

MONROE, CT —Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Monroe will be on the ballot.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 2, Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on various topics of importance in town.

Patch will post these candidate profiles over the next couple of weeks, so check back often to see the latest.

Democrat Chrissy Fensore Martinez, 48, is running for Board of Education in Monroe.

Occupation: Education Administrator

Family: Jim - husband George - son 18 Kendyl - daughter 15 Julian - stepson 10

Experience: None

Family in government: No

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

As a lifelong Monroe resident I have seen the needs and demographics of our town change significantly over time. I feel it is imperative that the school district make the necessary changes to adjust with our community needs. I hope to use my knowledge and background in public education to work towards making those necessary changes. Our progress needs to include consideration of the evolution our town has seen in its residents' needs.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I hold a Masters' Degree in special education as well as a CT state certification as a public school administrator. With 26 years experience in the field of education and I feel that I stand out as a candidate. My knowledge and background is something that stands out in a candidate for a board of education.

Accomplishments:

I have worked in public schools as both a special education teacher and special education director. In my current role as Director of School Partnerships for Aspire Living & Learning and I oversee programs for students with behavioral needs in schools across CT and New Hampshire. I sit on the board of directors for the Reading League Connecticut (formerly the Dyslexia Society of CT) and am the secretary for Monroe SEPTA.

Other issues:

During a time of divisiveness in our country as well as individual communities and I feel it is so important to keep the focus on children when making decisions for school districts. We can and should make necessary changes while discussing difficult topics. This needs to happen in order to continue to keep students safe in schools as well as provide them with the best education possible.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I am and adjunct professor in the department of special education at the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford and CT.