Meet the Democrat: Patricia Johnson

"Meet the Candidates" is a feature on Southington Patch designed to help you get to know your local candidates before you take to the polls this November. Each profile was submitted directly by the candidate.

Take a moment to review each profile so you can be informed and prepared when you go to the polls on Nov. 8.

This week, we begin looking at the Board of Education candidates. Be sure to look back at the Town Council and Board of Finance, which we featured the last two weeks, and stay informed.

Name: Patricia Johnson
Age: 68
Party, Position Seeking: Democrat, Southington Board of Education

Family information: I am married to Tim Johnson.  Our family includes our son, Tim, his wife, Joanne, sons, Ben and Sam; our son, Jeff; and our son, Matt, his wife, Erica, son, Tucker.

Occupation: As a retired realtor, I know the value that education plays in the quality of life in Southington.  The image of our town as a desirable place to live is enhanced by the excellent reputation of its school system.  I want to continue to work to maintain that image.

Political Experience: Elected member of the Southington Board of Education for the past 20 years.

Other Experience: Member of the Southington Historical Society and the CT Forest and Park Association.

Why did you run for office?
For the past two decades, I have been privileged to serve as a member of the Southington Board of Education. During my tenure, I have worked to help provide each and every student with the opportunity to achieve success. I believe in the value of education and will continue to do all that I can to encourage student learning.

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?
My primary focus is to promote excellence in education, while being mindful of my fiscal responsibility to town taxpayers. I am committed to seeking innovative means of funding student educational needs.

What do you feel is the biggest issue facing Southington today?
The biggest educational issue for the Southington schools is, I believe, preparing students to graduate with 21st century skills. Students must be prepared to succeed in a changing employment environment.

What skills do you have that you could bring to the community?
As a Board of Education member of long standing, I bring an understanding of the town of Southington educational issues from preschool preparation to post-secondary training. I have been a member of the Board of Education Finance and Curriculum Committees, as well as, chair of its Policy and Personnel Committee. This experience, I believe, will be valuable in making decisions for the students and citizens of Southington.