Tolland Candidate Profile 2019: Karen Moran, School Board

TOLLAND, CT — Tolland's election season is at its peak, 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.

Karen Moran is running for Board of Education (incumbent) as a Democrat.

Occupation:

2005 - Present: Domestic Engineer and Community Volunteer
2000 - 2005: Direct Marketing Coordinator, Retail Brand Alliance, Enfield, CT
Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:
2013 - Present: Board of Education member

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

I believe one of the important issues for Tolland is for our leaders (paid and elected) to find a balance between cost, and preserving the quality of our town and school services. As a Board of Education member the past 6 years, and a resident the past 21 years, I know that our school system is one of our biggest assets. It not only continues to attract young families to our town, but it also is a direct link to our property values. Even with the crumbling foundation crisis, a strong public school system keeps us competitive, attractive, and supports the whole community and its local economy.

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

My past experience on the BOE offers historical knowledge in regard to budget process, contract negotiations, as well as our goals and visioning for the Tolland school district. As a new Board is established just as we have initiated the budget process, this is crucial for keeping an efficient process in place as other new board members get up to speed on the abundance of information that will be given to them.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

I support and continue to guide our Superintendent's efforts in the following:

• 21st Century Teaching & Learning
• Infusing our curriculum with the technology needs of today
• An equitable learning experience for ALL of our Tolland students
• Social & Emotional Learning
• Engaging in a Strategic Prevention Framework
• Programing that offers opportunity for cost avoidance

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

Evidence of my ability to handle this job include my six years of committee work with the BOE including 2 cycles of contract negotiations, my dedication in advocating for Tolland Public Schools with our state legislators and CABE (CT Association of Boards of Education); Coordinating a town community conversation; past experience in working with our schools and staff as PTO President and community volunteer.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Although not directly shared with me, this sentiment has always stuck with me as a profound way to lead.
It's easy, lazy to lead with fear.
It's harder to lead with hope.
(Michelle Obama)

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

I strive to continue serving my community and leading through positivity. I am running for re-election simply because I care.