Norwalk Election 2021: Janine Randolph For Board Of Education

NORWALK, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in town 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 a few topics.

Democrat Janine W Randolph, 54, is running for the Board of Education in Norwalk.

Occupation: Healthcare Travel Coordinator and Billing Specialist; Mother.

Family:

Spouse: Theodore (Ted) Randolph

Daughters:

• Payton (18) Norwalk High School graduate
• Natalia (11) 7th grader at Nathan Hale Middle School

Pets:

• 3 dogs, 4 cats and 1 snake

Experience: None

Family in government: No

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

The ongoing battles around the educational system. We have Connecticut's #1 City School District, which is an excellent achievement, but we need to strive to rise on Connecticut's #1 School District's overall list. It starts with the budget; first, getting approvals and second, assigning the funds wisely. I intend to do whatever is needed to make both of these things happen while working with all sides and council members.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I'm very willing to listen to all sides. I strongly believe we need to work together or we won't truly succeed. We're all Norwalkers and looking to do what each of us thinks is best for Norwalk.

Accomplishments:

I have been in leadership positions throughout my life. I work hard and always rise to the top if given the chance. I've gone from president of my High School to my College Sorority and to pivotal positions in employment. I draw greatly from my Restaurant and Hospitality and past Co-President PTA roles to handle budgets as well as decision-making.

Other issues:

I believe we need to increase social-emotional learning and mental health awareness, particularly through this pandemic. I want the budget process and funding to be more transparent while improving equity through the school system. I also believe strongly in growing teacher recruitment and retention to help with the matters stated prior.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

Although I work, I consider my main occupation to be mother. My nickname is J9 (for Janine) and Mama J. The children of Norwalk move me greatly and I want to do the best I can do for all of them.