Berlin Candidate Profile: Gary Brochu

Name: Gary Brochu 

Occupation: Attorney; Shipman & Goodwin

Incumbent or Newcomer: Incumbent, BOE member since 1997

Other elected offices held: None

Community Service: Board of Directors, Connecticut Association of Boards of Education, WISH Program Tutor, UpBeat

Biggest Issues Facing the School System: The Board of Education has been proactive in addressing school facility issues – McGee, the Griswold bus loop and additional classrooms, and now the High School.  Over the next few years the Board of Education will need to work closely with the Building Commission and Town Council to ensure that High School renovation efficiently meets the needs of our students.

Looking to the near future, our school district will face a number of challenges – expanded and more comprehensive state testing, the common core academic standards, a state-mandated teacher evaluation process – all of which will require focused and concerted effort on the part of the school district in order to meet them.  In addition to the school district’s work enhancing educational opportunities for all students.

Any areas of special interest that you would like to concentrate on if elected: Our school district has made some wonderful progress in the past few years; improved student outcomes, a new program of studies at Berlin High School, expanded and more rigorous course offerings, and a proposal to move to full day Kindergarten.  Looking ahead, the Board of Education would like to expand our World Language program, both in grades and offerings, as well as improve student instrument through a better and more sophisticated use of technology.

Anything else you would like to add about yourself and why you hope the voters will choose you: During my time on the Board of Education, the Board has evolved into a high functioning, professional governance board.  State and National associations have recognized the Berlin Board of Education as a model of a highly functioning board of education.  More importantly, during this time period student achievement has increased and the quality and scope of our academic offerings have improved.  Our work and our meetings are focused on what’s best for children, not on partisan posturing or individual agendas.

Despite our progress, there is still more work to be done.  As a member of the Board of Education, I have worked very hard to ensure that our schools are an object of pride and an asset to our community.  I am absolutely committed to the principle that every child is precious and irreplaceable; and that providing a quality education is a moral imperative. 

I seek to return to the Board of Education because there is more to be done, and because my commitment to our schools and community remains undiminished.  I ask for your vote so that I can continue to work on your behalf.