Patch Candidate Profile: Joan Littlefield, Shelton Board Of Education

SHELTON, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Shelton 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 Joan Littlefield, 65, is a Shelton resident running for the Board of Education.

Education

B.S.Nursing; Masters Public Heath, MBA.

What is your occupation?

I have been an advisor for public health systems in developing countries for 32 years.

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

I have two young adult children. One is a proud SHS grad.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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 believe that everyone deserves a high quality basic education, no matter what their future ambitions.

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

An under resourced school system. I intend to work with the entire Board of Ed and administration to ensure that teaching, support, infrastructure and activity needs are advocated for.

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

The difference between me and candidates from the other party is that I support well-rounded, student centered education and support.

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

The majority party in Shelton has sold out its commitment to students and wasted City funds that could support education.

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

I have supported many public sector services to maximize services with limited resources.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Pay it forward.

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

Not every student wants to go to college, or should. But every student should be well prepared for their chosen path and may find themselves changing paths over time. It is our responsibility to give them our best.