Board of Education Slate Endorsement

It has been an honor serving the students of our community as a member of the Tolland Board of Education for the last 2.5 years. Although my time has come to an end, I feel hopeful leaving it in the hands of the capable people I have worked with over the last two years and excited by our newcomers.

I ran with Jenn Gallichant and Jayden Regisford two years ago and I have been proud to watch them accomplish exactly what they campaigned to do. Jenn came in as a seasoned volunteer who wanted to continue her hard work for the students, staff and parents of Tolland Public Schools in a new and challenging way. Jenn did exactly that by her hard work on the Contracts and Negotiations committee, by negotiating and presenting to the board sound, fair and competitive contracts for almost all of the unions that make up our staff in TPS and passing all of them with bipartisan support. Jenn’s hard work will ensure we are retaining existing staff, attracting new hires and above all else, making sure that those who work in our schools with our children every day feel valued. I worked with Jenn in the Communications committee by which she served as chair. Jenn guided the committee to work together with the Superintendent to find new ways to reach out and communicate effectively to our community. Most of all, Jenn made sure to take every opportunity to observe and listen to our staff and students in school observations, budget meetings, on the Social and Emotional Health Committee, and student hearings.

Jayden Regisford wanted to bring his perspective as a former student in Tolland Public Schools to the boardroom and he did just that. As a young man himself and a long-time youth baseball coach, he empathizes on the student level and always ensured student voices were being heard and their needs considered above everything else. Often, I’d see Jayden light up when one of his former teachers entered the boardroom and vice versa. It has been wonderful to watch him grow as a board member and give his one-of-a-kind feedback. His work on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Taskforce was very personal and meaningful for him. His passion for wanting to help in the community, especially with our youngest community members, was always apparent. The Taskforce did amazing work this term and I know they couldn’t have done so without Jayden’s care and input.

Katy McNulty will bring to the board so much valuable expertise in so many areas, not only as a parent of a current Tolland High School student, but with her vast and accomplished work experience. As a financial manager, Katy works to increase profit through sensible financial practices, which will be paramount during the budget process. She has experience with ethical business practices and has a sound understanding of fiscal responsibility. Katy understands the delicate balance between managing the school budget and ensuring that our students have access to the resources and support they require to excel academically.

Chloe Coles brings a wealth of global experience and stewardship to our district.

What truly sets Chloe apart is her unwavering dedication to the well-being of our students and staff. She recognizes that the success of our schools hinges on not only providing quality education but also fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Chloe has a proven track record of working collaboratively with stakeholders to create an atmosphere that nurtures growth and development.

Chloe is the kind of dedicated and forward-thinking leader we need serving on our board of education.

I wholeheartedly endorse this wonderful slate and encourage you to vote for all these strong candidates on election day. With these individuals in office, our schools will continue to flourish, ensuring that every student receives the education they deserve.

Sincerely,

Sophia Shaikh