Sharon Giglio, Nashua Board Of Education Candidate

Sharon Giglio

Age (as of Election Day)

74

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

Board of Education (incumbent seeking re-election)

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Two adult children who received a quality education in the Nashua Public Schools. One grandchild attending a public school in Nashua currently.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

Education

BA in Sociology Mass Amherst 1971. Masters of Library and Information Studies URI 1997

Occupation

Retired School librarian. Almost thirty years experience in public education.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Currently on the Nashua Board of Education since 2020. Running for re-election.

Campaign website

Sharon Giglio for Board of Education (on Facebook)

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am running for a second term on the Nashua Board of Education because I believe I can make a difference in the future of our public schools in Nashua. I have shown that I am receptive to the concerns of my constituents as well as the concerns of the students and staff. My experience on the BOE this past three plus years has allowed me to grow in my role and has deepened my appreciation for the Nashua School District and my belief that public schools are a necessary part and right of our democracy. All of our children deserve the best educational opportunities. Although I am a retired school librarian, the BOE provides me with multiple opportunities to continue to support and enrich public education in Nashua.

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

Since COVID our schools have been unable to be fully staffed. Working as the Chair of the BOE's Human Relations Committee, I have supported the hiring of qualified candidates and want to continue to support and retain our valued staff at all levels. The curriculum and programs in place for all our students for success will be enriched by our district being fully staffed. If re-elected I would like to continue in my role with Human Resources to continue to bring our staffing back to its optimal level and look forward to contract negotiations.

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

I began my time in education as a school volunteer, then worked as a paraprofessional at New Searles School, while attending graduate classes to become a school librarian.The combination of my career in public education in addition to my current tenure on the BOE differentiate me from others who are running. Having been a long-term library substitute in the libraries of three of Nashua's elementary schools (2016-2019), not only inspired me to run for the BOE in 2019, but working in the schools enabled me to see daily the challenges presented to our students and the staff who teach and care for them.

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.

The issue of redistricting elementary schools is one that needs to be studied and needs to involve all stakeholders. This is not something that should be hurried along. With the opening of our new middle school in the fall of 2024, we will endeavor to provide equal educational and STEAM opportunities for all our students. Most pressing for me is that each child receives what is needed for him/her to succeed in school and in life. In addition to academics, the arts; after-school clubs and athletics open doors for student success overall. Our students need opportunities to find what most inspires them to head to school each day.

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

The past three plus years on the Board of Education of which I am proud. Seven years as the School Committee Secretary for the Chelmsford Public Schools which allowed me to experience the processes and responsibilities to support the mission and vision of our public schools.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Be honest!

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

I try to always be honest and have a high code of ethics. I am willing and capable of working with others and am open-minded enough to listen to others viewpoints. I am good listener and am capable of compromise when it is in the best interests of the Nashua School District.