Patch Candidate Profile: Bria Pepe, Redding Board Of Education

REDDING, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Redding and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Special education teacher Bria Pepe, 41, is running for a seat on the Redding Board of Education as a Republican.

After graduating from a public high school in Long Island, Pepe attended Boston College and earned a BA/MA History, then completed here MSEd in inclusive elementary special education at Hofstra University.She has also extended her certification, through a program at CUNY Hunter College, to include teaching students with special needs in grades 7-12. Pepe and her husband, Jake, have a young daughter.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

No

Why are you seeking this office?

I’ve been working in education for over 15 years, and I’m interested in sharing my experience and knowledge for the betterment of our town and its children and families.

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

Declining student achievement in math and reading is a pressing issue in our town, state, and nation. At the same time, mental health concerns have spiked for our young people. I hope to maintain and increase focus on academic achievement, while providing the resources our students need and partnering with families to foster habits to improve students’ well being.

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

I only know the other candidates by name and party affiliation and therefore wouldn’t assume to know what differences we might have. I do know that we all live in Redding, and I’m pretty sure we all have children. Given those two factors, I think we probably have a good deal in common.

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

I know the changing age cut off for children entering Kindergarten will impact our constituents. I’m sure there will be decisions made that involve the school board.

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

I was adopted from Colombia when I was only a few months old by a working class family in New York. As a first generation college graduate, I have lived the American dream. Consistent and rigorous input from my parents gave me the tools I needed to do well in school, graduate college, and dedicate my life to education. My parents, who celebrated their fifty-fourth wedding anniversary this month, instilled in me a love and respect for family values. I consider my family- my wonderful husband and amazing daughter- to be my greatest accomplishment.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My father has always told me that hard work and dedication lead to accomplishment.

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

Moving to Redding has been such a blessing and a joy for our family. I’m looking forward to serving the citizens of Redding in my position on the board.