Ridgefield Election: Selina K. Bell For BOE

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

Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns.

Democrat Selina K. Bell is running for BOE in Ridgefield.

Occupation: Co-director, Ct Citizens For Science

Family: Three daughters. Two dogs.

Family in government: No

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

There are many issues facing our town that need addressing. To insist that one is more important than another might negate another person's experience, and I won't do that. However, one problem that seems to be an issue regarding every situation, whether it be zoning, education, safety, etc., seems to be the issue of partisanship and polarization. When people put ideology over good policy, this becomes a detriment to public health, education, and safety. As a Board of Education Member, I will listen first and act second. I will analyze the evidence that is presented and vet the experts accordingly. There will be times when compromise will be necessary, and I will reach across the table to do just that. I will listen openly objectively, and compassionately. As a Board of Education Member, and I will work together with those who wish to generate beneficial change for Ridgefield students.

Accomplishments:

I have worn various hats in my lifetime, and have learned many lessons. As former owner of an IT consulting firm, I supervised 20 employees which provided me with expertise in budgets, strategic planning, employee management and deployment; as owner of the Pieceful Child, I worked with parents and educators to successfully navigate the IEP process and facilitate positive, proactive change for children with special needs; as co-director of the non-profit, CT Citizens for Science, I have successfully advocated for student-centered legislation at the state level, and as a mother of three daughters who graduated from Ridgefield Public Schools, and I know first hand the challenges parents and students face in our complex world.

Other issues:

I am a strong pro-health advocate, so while I understand that the basics, reading, writing, math and science are extremely important, I also acknowledge that we cannot educate children who are not mentally, physically, and socially healthy. By providing our children with the necessary tools to grow into emotionally healthy adults, we also enable them to embrace all the exciting learning opportunities that the Ridgefield Public School System has to offer. Academic excellence cannot be achieved while a child is suffering, and the building blocks of learning must include how to maintain a balanced, and healthy lifestyle.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

My Greatest reason for running for Board of Education is to improve students' lives: academically, socially, and emotionally, and to make a lasting difference for those who come after us. Just as I worked extremely hard to pass pro-health student centered legislation, and I will also use my experience and tenacity for the best interest of your child.