Board of Education: Democrat John Keegan

I am an unabashed advocate for public education. It is the cornerstone of our great nation. The first public school was established in Boston 1635, and some of our most recognized founding fathers benefited from this school including Ben Franklin, John Hancock and Sam Adams.

This might all sound a little high minded and perhaps overly patriotic, but what would you expect from an individual that won his first primary on Sept. 11, 2001 and was elected to the Board of Education shortly thereafter. That election season strengthened my commitment to public service and instilled a singular focus on improving Hamden Public Schools.

Today, I feel we have done a lot to make our schools better, to help our students get a solid educational background. Over my 12 year tenure the board has achieved much, from establishing full day kindergarten, building a world class middle school, expanding and enhancing sports programs and facilities, remodeling and refreshing school curriculum to reflect best educational practices and continuing to support the recruitment and retention of our most important asset, the classroom teacher.  But there is still much to do. We can never be satisfied and must continue to improve.

I have two children, one a graduate of Hamden High and another currently attending the High School, so I understand the challenges to Hamden Public Schools as a parent, a resident and a taxpayer.  It has been an honor and privilege serving the Town of Hamden for 12 years and I ask that you allow me to continue to serve you.