Patch Candidate Profile: Alexandrea Kemeny, Norwalk Board Of Education

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

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

Independent Alexandrea Kemeny is a Norwalk resident running for the Board of Education in District A.

Education

Bachelor of Science & Masters in Education.

What is your occupation?

Director of Crystal Theatre.

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

Daughter, Hannah Daley, 28 years old, McMahon and University of South Carolina Graduate in Social Work , Indeed employee, home-owner and Norwalk resident.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None.

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

No.

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'm seeking a position on the Board of Ed. to support the students and taxpayers of Norwalk. Born and raised in Norwalk, I was well-educated by its public schools. But having since been a teacher for 31 years in the Norwalk school system, I've witnessed first-hand the decline in behavior and academic expectations for our students and teachers. I believe in results and outcomes. When the current policies prove wanting, it is time for a change.

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

One of the most critical issues facing our education system is the need to improve classroom standards and expectations. It is a problem that the board can address at no cost and can create a more positive learning environment. Unfortunately, disrespect has become pervasive in schools, with students, teachers, administrators, and parents all contributing to the problem. The lack of consequences for disruptive behavior in the classroom and the lack of support for teachers make it difficult for them to do their jobs effectively. Board policies do not encourage good behavior from students, and it's time for students and teachers to take responsibility for their actions. I plan to work on policies that promote a more professional attitude from everyone involved. This includes respecting attire and speech, taking ownership of learning, and providing support to teachers from the central office.

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

As a retired, experienced teacher of 31 years in the Norwalk school system, I have first-hand knowledge of how things work in the schools. Born and educated through Norwalk's public school system, I have a loyalty and love for our city and want to effect a return to higher standards and expectations.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I am not challenging an incumbent.

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

I intend to address the teacher burnout in our schools, evidenced by the high rate of resignations this year. This is a result of the lack of ownership teachers have in their classrooms. Teachers aren't allowed to run their classrooms due to mandates from the central office and the state. There is insufficient support for students to address learning issues that cause behavior problems. Too many students are pushed along before acquiring the skills needed for success and then fall so far behind they lose interest and hope in school. They're promoted because of their age or size. We've got to figure this out. We are failing our kids, especially the high-level students. More time is invested in the low-achieving students than the high-achieving students who fend for themselves, knowing they'll succeed no matter what. These are issues we must address and come up with creative solutions.

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

For 31 years, I have worked as a teacher and parent while still working, co-founding, and teaching at Crystal Theatre, a Norwalk-based 501C-3 children's theater of 35 years. Since retiring, I've got the time and energy to dedicate to the Board and our school system.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Remember that your values are what make you unique, and they should guide you in all aspects of your life.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I do not believe any political affiliation should have a role in or be associated with the Board of Education. The Mission of the Board: "Norwalk Public Schools shall provide an excellent and equitable education, ALL students graduate future-ready as civically responsible, globally engaged, and positive contributors to an ever-changing and diverse world." There is nothing political there. The Board needs to accomplish its mission. Data reveals that 39% of our students are proficient in reading K-10. That's 60% NOT on reading grade level!! We are allowing our students to fail. Yes, COVID-19 is still partly to blame, but lowering our expectations has been going on for years. Students will step up to the plate if we expect them to, but it's only human nature to skate by if allowed.