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. 5, 2013.

This week, we are looking at the Southington Board of Education candidates.

Name: Patricia Johnson
Age: 70
Party, Board Seeking: Democrat, Southington Board of Education
Family information: I am married to Tim Johnson. Our family includes our son, Tim, his wife, Joanne, their sons, Ben and Sam; our son, Jeff; and our son, Matt, his wife, Erica, their 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, as well as improve, that image.
Political Experience: I have been privileged to be an elected member of the Southington Board of Education for the past 20 years.
Other Experience: As a life-long hiker, I am a member of the CT Forest and Park Association. My membership in the Southington Historical Society allows me to share my interest in American history with some great volunteers.

Why did you run for office?
I believe in the value of education, and its importance in the quality of life for all of us. During my tenure on the Board of Education, I have worked to help provide each and every student with the opportunity to achieve success, 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 bring to the community?
As a Board of Education member of long standing, I bring an understanding of the town of Southington’s educational issues from preschool preparation to post-secondary training. I have been honored to have served as the Vice Chair, as well as,  Secretary of the Southington Board of Education. I have been a member of the Board’s Finance and Curriculum Committees, and, previously, Chair of its Policy and Personnel Committee. This experience, I believe, will be valuable in making sound decisions for the students and citizens of Southington.

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