West Haven Election 2023: Pat Libero Running For Board Of Education

WEST HAVEN, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in West Haven with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 7 and cast their ballots for the position of mayor, along with seats on the City Council, Board of Education and more.

West Haven Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Pat Libero, 71, is running for re-election to the West Haven Board of Education as a Republican.

Education.

BS andMS- Special Education,6th year in Educational Leadership. All from SCSU

What is your occupation?

Retired from WH BOE- Special Ed teacher, assistant principal at Bailey MS and WHHS, Principal of Carrigan MS and Mackrille ES
37 years

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

3 children, 2 grandchildren

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I am seeking re-election for my 4th term

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I love our school system and would appreciate the continued opportunity to serve our students, parents and staff.

I love working to keep our students involved through sports, the arts, tech ed, etc.

I would like to see tech ed expanded to all the schools, starting with Carrigan and Bailey.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is \_\_\_, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Meeting the needs of a diverse population and getting them ready for life and the job market.
I intend to keep pushing for more job training and life skills, utilizing internships and hoping to expand the programs we have now

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

All 3 of my children were educated in the West Haven School system and it served them well. I want that for all students.

I have 3 degrees in Education, experience from pre-k through college. I have taught at UNH and have supervised student teachers from SCSU.

I served as a surrogate parent at PPT'S , representing students who were in the foster care system, counseled administrators, worked at private schools since my retirement.

Education is my passion.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Upgrading our schools and equipment, protecting parental rights, reviewing our policies,procedures, curriculum- there is always work to be done to stay current.

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

I served as chair for 2 years and secretary/treasurer.

I attend many outside activities including, but not limited to, sports events, plays, concerts, etc.

I frequently visit schools and talk with students and staff.

It's important to keep in contact.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be you- everyone else is taken!

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am always open to communication and enjoy hearing from my constituents.

Are you running for office in West Haven? Email vincent.salzo@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile on West Haven Patch.