South Windsor Candidate Profile 2019: Esstman, BOE

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.

Beth Esstman

Age (as of Sept. 1, 2019)

43

Town of Residence

South Windsor

Position Sought

BOE

Party Affiliation

Republican

Family

Lee Crane - spouse; Children - Sophie Crane (16), Xavier Crane (14), Holden Crane (12) and Dalton Crane (9)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Yale University - Master of Science in Nursing

Occupation

Geriatric and Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner - 19 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

BOE 2015-present; Vice Chair BOE 2015-2017

Campaign Website

theswrtc.org

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

Rising enrollment is a current challenge for our community. We must provide adequate facilities and staff to accommodate our rising student population. This requires a financial commitment that does not allow for much flexibility. However, our obligation to respond to the rising enrollment cannot distract us from other initiatives. We must continue to promote student achievement and opportunities by creatively eliminating unnecessary costs and further maximize spending to balance the financial demands necessary to address the increasing enrollment.

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

With four children currently attending 3 of the schools in town, I have a unique perspective of the district. I have first hand exposure to communications with families, classes, academic requirements, and student opportunities (including music, athletics and clubs) at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. This gives me a strong knowledge of our strengths and also of areas where we could improve as a district. My experience as a parent of children with varying skills and interests currently attending multiple schools in our district allows me to knowledgeably and effectively advocate for students and families.

List other issues that define your campaign platform

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