South Windsor Candidate Profile 2019: Craig Zimmerman, Bd of Ed

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — South Windsor's election season is heating up, and there are plenty of contested races with candidates eager to represent their town in November's municipal election. Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns, and has been publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Craig Zimmerman is running for Board of Education as a Democrat.

Occupation

Retired - Manager, State of Connecticut Department of Social Services

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Currently Chairman of the Board of Education ... Currently a member of the Public Building Commission ... Former Chairman of the Parks & Recreation Commission

The single most pressing issue facing our town/district is _______, and
this is what I intend to do about it.

Providing the best possible education, in safe and fully accessible buildings, to an increasing number of students as our school district continues to grow at a higher rate than any other neighboring town. My No. 1 priority is to help get the referendum for Pleasant Valley Elementary School passed and the school built. I am also committed to working with Superintendent Dr. Kate Carter, and my fellow board members, to provide our teachers and staff with all the tools they need to provide each of our students with the high quality education they need and deserve.

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

Under Dr. Carter's leadership, the nine members of our Board of Education have normally worked very well together.

List other issues that define your campaign platform

Respect and work in a collaborative manner with our administration, our teachers and all our staff members. Continue to make smart well researched financial investments to move the district forward - most recently adding STEM, World Language and a District Safety Director.

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

Was part of the team responsible for our 3 new Elementary Schools (1 now open and 2 others currently being built), and spending less per student while providing more services and a better education.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

From my mom, who instilled in me the basic but very important advice that we need to treat everyone with the respect and friendship we would like to receive in return.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your
positions?

I have been a volunteer youth baseball and basketball coach in town for over 40 years. I would sincerely appreciate your vote for my entire Democratic team.