Tolland Candidate Profile 2019: Kate Howard-Bender, Town Council

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.

Kate Howard-Bender is running for Two-year Board of Education as a Democrat.

Occupation:

17 years, English and Spanish teacher in public schools; 5 years, Assistant Principal in public school

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Currently Board of Education Member in Tolland (appointed)

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

The single most pressing issue in our town is our reluctance to be hopeful about our future. Though we have a great number of challenges, we have also had a great number of wins, and with teamwork, we can continue to move forward. I plan to focus on the positive momentum, and to engage all relevant stakeholders in practical, 21st century solutions for our issues.

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

I have a wealth of experience in public education, as a teacher, and as a mom. I know what schools need to run well, and I know that communities are judged by the quality of their schools. I hope to continue to fortify the Tolland Public Schools so that we can point to them as a continued source of pride and effectiveness.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

We need to embrace positivity, and prepare our kids to live in an ever-evolving, diverse global environment. We need to do everything in our power to foster constructive communication. We also must do all that is in our power to tackle climate change in a constructive manner.

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

My 22 years' worth of experience as an educator and my dogged determination to understand how systems and laws work in order to support students are evidence that I am qualified for this job.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Keep your side of the street clean: take accountability for yourself and make sure that you have caused no harm.

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

We are better when we work together. We need all the residents, parents, seniors, kids, college students et al, to join forces and constructively work to address the challenges and opportunities we have in Tolland. I hope to be chosen to serve in this capacity for you!