Patch Candidate Profile: Betty Hadlock, Orange Board of Education

ORANGE, CT — As the 2023 municipal elections get closer in Orange, there are plenty of races with candidates who are eager to serve in elected office.

Orange Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will publish candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Betty Hadlock is running for a seat on the Board of Education in Orange as a Democratic candidate.

Education.

BS and Masters at SCSU

What is your occupation?

Retired elementary school teacher. Taught for 28 years in Region 13 Durham/Middlefield

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Husband of 52 years, Kevin;

Daughters Jennifer, Kate and Karen and son, Michael — all educated in the Orange and Amity school systems; 7 grandchildren

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I have served on the Orange Board of Education for two terms, since 2015, and am seeking re-election.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am proud of our Orange schools. I will work to continue and promote our excellent academics and positive school climate and stay within a fiscally responsible budget. Our school buildings need to continue to be safe, secure and well maintained facilities where joyful learning communities can thrive.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Sustaining and maintaining our well respected schools while providing an excellent education for all our children. I intend to care for our children and support our teachers and administrators with sound policies and a responsible budget.

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

I believe all the candidates want what is best for all our students. Why else would you seek office?

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

I am a proud parent of four grown children who are all college graduates and hardworking, responsible and contributing members of society. I was a well respected teacher and leader in my district serving on various committees and mentoring many student teachers and first year teachers during my career. I served as a consultant and coach for Higher Order Thinking Schools after retirement and want to continue to be an active participant in the world of school that I know and love so well.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Do what you love and love what you do and make friends with the custodian!

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

My husband Kevin and I have lived in Orange for 42 years. None of our four children live in Connecticut. We decided to stay here in Orange because we love our town, care about this community and want to help Orange continue to be a great place to live.