Patch Candidate Profile: Jim Gildea, Derby Board of Education

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

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

Democrat Jim Gildea, 56, is a Derby resident running for the Board of Education.

Education

BBA Business Administration

What is your occupation?

Director of Manufacturing

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

Children: Christina, Samantha, Melissa, Jessica, Emily, Matthew and Joshua

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Board of Education 26 years and Chair for 18

Connecticut Technical Education Career System Advisory Board

Connecticut Public Transportation Council

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 am seeking this office, because I believe the education of our children is perhaps one of the greatest priorities we have as a society.

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

Ensuring that we are able to provide our students the tools necessary at an early age to be competitive learners and at the same level as their peers from surrounding communities.

I intend to continue to be a steward of taxpayer money to ensure that it is spent as wisely as possible. In addition, we as a school system will continue to work to get as much grants as possible to help us provide critical services.

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

I have 26 years of experience, with 18 as chair serving on the board of education.

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

In a world that has seen way too many instances of gun violence in our schools, I believe that ensuring our schools are as safe and secure as possible as another major responsibility that I plan to focus my time on.

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

During my tenure on the board, we have seen our math and ELA scores increase, our elementary schools be designated as schools of distinction and our students going out to the world prepared to be successful

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

That is easy to sit back and be critical of government, but if you have concerns, and you think you can do better, then roll up your sleeves and get involved.

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

I am a life long resident of the city of Derby, and I am dedicated to making our town better. I also believe strongly that I represent the citizens of my town. I am always here to be a resource.