Amy Clark Canty, Milford School Board Candidate

Amy Clark Canty

Age (as of Election Day)

42

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

Milford School Board (SAU 40)

Party Affiliation

Family

Robert Canty- Husband; 2 children attending Milford elementary schools.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

CAGS- Educational Leadership from Plymouth State University; MST- English from University of New Hampshire; BA- English (cum laude) from Boston University

Occupation

Educator- 18 years in public and private schools.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

N/A

Campaign website

Amyclarkcanty.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

To help support our school district in providing the best possible education for all students in Milford

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The most pressing issue is the division within our school community. As a board member, I intend to create more transparency between stakeholders by ensuring clear communication and accountability. I believe that much of the strained relationship between stakeholders stems from a lack of accountability and communication when there are concerns.

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

With the exception of Mrs. Zaino, the most critical difference between me and my fellow candidates is that I am an experienced educator. I fully understand the role of the school board as well as the many challenges that face our educational system, because I have worked as an educator for the past 18 years.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

We must support the behavioral and social-emotional needs of our students. We must create a fiscally responsible plan for addressing our district’s crumbling infrastructure. We must support our staff and students by creating a more positive learning environment. We must recruit and hire the best possible educators. We must focus on helping each of our students achieve their individual learning goals.

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

Besides 18 years of teaching experience, the main accomplishment that is evidence of my ability to handle this role would be earning a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

No one has all of the answers, because we can always learn more. Be comfortable saying, “I don’t know, so let’s figure it out.”

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

Every day, I strive to live with a kind heart and an open mind. With this way of being, I will work to listen to all stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of the unique perspectives that make up our community, and I will use this knowledge to guide all of my decisions as a school board member.