THANK YOU, Ledyard!
In 2023, Ledyard's Democratic candidates
flipped the Town Council and Board of
Education Blue for the first time in decades!
In 2023, Ledyard's Democratic candidates
flipped the Town Council and Board of
Education Blue for the first time in decades!
Meet Your Democratic Town Councilors and BOE Members!!
Town Councilors
April Brunelle
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April Brunelle is the proud owner of two Ledyard Businesses, April’s Balloon Creations LLC and April Kneads Dough. She is an artist, children’s book illustrator, professional voice talent, entrepreneur, community volunteer, and local neighbor who inspires others to see the beauty in and around our town.
April volunteered for many years as a member of the Ledyard Farmer’s Market Committee. She sewed and distributed hundreds of masks for locals and medical professionals/hospitals during the COVID pandemic. She is always willing to share her talents and smiles whenever she can and cares deeply for our town. April has a Bachelor of Science Degree from URI and worked for many years at Pfizer in Quality Assurance before she started her businesses. She is well versed in business and local culture and she truly wants to help our town shine bright. |
Jessica Buhle
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Jessica has lived in Ledyard for over six years and brings a wide array of skills and experience to her campaign!
Whether it's organizing the highly-popular Harvard-Yale Regatta Festival, running her photography business, or serving on numerous Town Boards and Commissions, Jessica sees first-hand what kind of potential this town has! Before running for Town Council, Jessica got her BS in Accounting from Hawaii Pacific University, worked in Town Hall as an Assistant to the Tax Collector, and served as an Ombudsman for two commands on the Submarine Base (one at sea and one ashore). She also served on the Beautification and Parks and Recreation Committees before moving to the Economic Development and Conservation Commission. She has also been a LEAF Trustee since 2022. She is a huge fan of this town, and if you join her on a Pickleball court, you'll see how big a fan she is of that, too! Jessica is the embodiment of Community, Advocacy, Representation, and Education, and she has the skills to put them all in to action on her first day in office! |
Carmen Garcia-Irizarry
Photo by Elena S. Blair Photography
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"I am running for Town Council because I believe that it is very important that the community is involved in all the decisions made by our town government. My focus is to ensure that all voices are heard and respected. I will work towards improving communication between the Town Council and the public so all residents are properly informed of the budget process, and town events and services available. I will work to help the town explore new opportunities for a community center in Ledyard, economic development, land conservation, and senior citizens services. I love Ledyard and I am committed to our community."
💠 Ledyard resident since 2007 💠 Employed at Pfizer as a chemist, since 2006 💠 Owner of Carmen Garcia Photography LLC. since 2018 💠 President of Ledyard Educational Advancement Foundation (LEAF) 💠 Member of the Ledyard Conservation Commission, 2018-22 💠 Coordinator of the Science Fair at Juliet W. Long from 2014 to 2019 "I have lived in Gales Ferry for 16 years with my husband and three children. My oldest child graduated from Ledyard High School last year; she is an incoming sophomore at Yale University. My middle son is 15 years old; he is an incoming sophomore at Ledyard High School. My youngest son is an incoming 6th grader at Ledyard Middle School. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico and graduated from the University of Puerto Rico in 2002 with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry. I have been working as a scientist at Pfizer since 2006. I am the owner of Carmen Garcia Photography LLC. I was a member of the Ledyard Conservation Commission for about 4 years. Currently, I am the President of LEAF (Ledyard Education Advancement Foundation) an organization dear to my heart, as we work with the Ledyard School District to support excellence in our schools." |
Naomi Rodriguez
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Currently serving on Ledyard Town Council (2021-2023):
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While serving on the BOE (2019-2021), Naomi:
- Served on the Diversity and Inclusion Committee as an active BOE member.
- Served on the Strategic Planning Committee. Helped with the vision and district goals to ensure that all students leave able to thrive and succeed in any endeavor.
- Served as the Ledyard Public Schools Representative to LEARN, serving Southeastern CT.
- Served on the LEARN Negotiation Committee to negotiate the administrators contract.
- Organized and arranged for the Ledyard Summer Meals Program through Groton Public Schools FY 2020.
- Involved with Ledyard Public Schools participating with the Teacher Residency Program through LEARN to bring minority teachers to Ledyard.
- Served on Planning & Zoning Commission for 10 years, former Vice-Chair
- Parks & Recreation Commission Member (2018-2019)
- Co-founding member of Ledyard District-wide Recycling Program in the Ledyard Public Schools (2008-2013)
- Ledyard Center School Green Team member (2009-2013)
- Ledyard Center School PTO Volunteer (2007-2013)
- Ledyard Center School Classroom Volunteer (2007-2013)
- Shining Stars Friend through Ledyard Center School (2009-2019)
- Dow Chemical Community Advisory Panel member (2005-2019)
- Charter Commission Member (2009)
- Energy/Green ad hoc committee member (2009)
- Agricultural ad hoc committee member (2009)
- Justice of the Peace (2013 – present)
- Senior Commission Member (2016 - 2019)
- Chair, Ledyard Democratic Town Committee (2013-2015)
- League of Women Voters member (2009-present)
"I am highly passionate about serving my community well. My experience and insight have been an asset in the past to the Ledyard Board of Education, Ledyard Public Schools, and I look forward to continue to bring my skills and energy to our Town Council.
I am a skilled listener and communicator. I know how to use a limited budget effectively and I am a champion of small businesses, seniors and our schools. I am unafraid to ask tough questions. If you want someone to represent Ledyard who has integrity, honesty, values, and istransparent, then I am the person for the job!
My husband, Maik Schuler, and I have lived in Ledyard for 23 years. Maik was extremely active in the Ledyard Soccer Club as a coach and has worked for Pfizer for 23 years. Our daughter Crystal graduated from Ledyard High School and University of Connecticut, Storrs. Our son Aidan attended Ledyard Center School and this fall will be a junior at Tufts University."
Follow Naomi at: Naomi Rodriguez for Town Council on Facebook.
I am a skilled listener and communicator. I know how to use a limited budget effectively and I am a champion of small businesses, seniors and our schools. I am unafraid to ask tough questions. If you want someone to represent Ledyard who has integrity, honesty, values, and istransparent, then I am the person for the job!
My husband, Maik Schuler, and I have lived in Ledyard for 23 years. Maik was extremely active in the Ledyard Soccer Club as a coach and has worked for Pfizer for 23 years. Our daughter Crystal graduated from Ledyard High School and University of Connecticut, Storrs. Our son Aidan attended Ledyard Center School and this fall will be a junior at Tufts University."
Follow Naomi at: Naomi Rodriguez for Town Council on Facebook.
Tony Saccone
Photo by Jessica Buhle
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Worked for many years with Congressman Courtney to get a new law passed that protects fire police. From The Day CT:
"...Celebrat[ing] a new law that protects fire police — a mostly volunteer cohort who protect first responders on emergency scenes — in the event of serious injury or death in the line of duty.
Saccone learned that under the Public Safety Officers Benefits Program, fire police weren't protected with the same benefits that firefighters and other first responders receive if they suffer serious injury, or even death, on the job.
For 10 years, Saccone has advocated to change that. And with the help of Courtney, pushed Congress to revamp protections under the PSOB program. On Nov. 18, 2021, Saccone stood beside President Joe Biden as he signed into law the Protecting America's First Responders Act, which expanded protections for first responders and folded fire police into the program.
The law improves the benefit program for first responders by now including fire police; increasing benefits for first responders who suffer serious injuries; and improving protections for their family members in the event of their death."
Read more at Fire police celebrate new law, with local roots, that expands first responder protections
"...Celebrat[ing] a new law that protects fire police — a mostly volunteer cohort who protect first responders on emergency scenes — in the event of serious injury or death in the line of duty.
Saccone learned that under the Public Safety Officers Benefits Program, fire police weren't protected with the same benefits that firefighters and other first responders receive if they suffer serious injury, or even death, on the job.
For 10 years, Saccone has advocated to change that. And with the help of Courtney, pushed Congress to revamp protections under the PSOB program. On Nov. 18, 2021, Saccone stood beside President Joe Biden as he signed into law the Protecting America's First Responders Act, which expanded protections for first responders and folded fire police into the program.
The law improves the benefit program for first responders by now including fire police; increasing benefits for first responders who suffer serious injuries; and improving protections for their family members in the event of their death."
Read more at Fire police celebrate new law, with local roots, that expands first responder protections
Gary St. Vil
Gary A. St. Vil: A Dedicated Advocate for Ledyard's Future
🏡 Rooted in Community 🏡
"For nearly two decades, my wife, Katrina, and I have proudly called Ledyard home. I work as an engineer for a prominent aerospace manufacturer, while my wife contributes her talents to a local not-for-profit. As devoted parents, we've raised three exceptional children – Justin, Imani, and Gary – two of whom are Ledyard High School graduates. Our family is eagerly giving back to the community that has enriched our lives, all while cherishing moments with our first grandson, Enzo.
🌳 Nurturing Our Hometown 🌳
My passion for Ledyard fuels my candidacy for Town Council. Amidst the inevitable growth and changes in Southeastern Connecticut, I am committed to safeguarding Ledyard's unique identity for future generations. My key objectives include upholding the excellence of our education system, enhancing essential water and sewer infrastructure, and preserving accessible open spaces.
🤝 A Record of Service 🤝
My commitment to our community runs deep, evident through my volunteer roles and service:
🗳️ Your Choice for a Resilient Ledyard 🗳️
As a candidate for Town Council, I am committed to preserving the essence of Ledyard while embracing positive change. Let's work together to ensure that our community thrives, offering a promising future for every resident. Visit my Facebook page to learn more about my vision and join me on November 7 in shaping a brighter Ledyard for all."
🏡 Rooted in Community 🏡
"For nearly two decades, my wife, Katrina, and I have proudly called Ledyard home. I work as an engineer for a prominent aerospace manufacturer, while my wife contributes her talents to a local not-for-profit. As devoted parents, we've raised three exceptional children – Justin, Imani, and Gary – two of whom are Ledyard High School graduates. Our family is eagerly giving back to the community that has enriched our lives, all while cherishing moments with our first grandson, Enzo.
🌳 Nurturing Our Hometown 🌳
My passion for Ledyard fuels my candidacy for Town Council. Amidst the inevitable growth and changes in Southeastern Connecticut, I am committed to safeguarding Ledyard's unique identity for future generations. My key objectives include upholding the excellence of our education system, enhancing essential water and sewer infrastructure, and preserving accessible open spaces.
🤝 A Record of Service 🤝
My commitment to our community runs deep, evident through my volunteer roles and service:
- Planning and Zoning Commission (2022-Present): Guiding responsible development to ensure Ledyard's charm endures
- Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Commission (2022-Present): Protecting our precious natural resources for generations to come
- St. John’s Teen Ministry, Youth Counselor (2019-Present): Mentoring and shaping the lives of our youth
- SECT Chamber of Commerce, Installation of Outdoor Storage for the ARC, Team Member (2018): Collaborating for practical solutions that benefit the community
- Early College Opportunity Program, Mentor (2015-2016): Investing in the educational and professional aspirations of our local student
- Ledyard Youth Football, Assistant Coach (2008-2011): Instilling values and teamwork in our youngest citizens
🗳️ Your Choice for a Resilient Ledyard 🗳️
As a candidate for Town Council, I am committed to preserving the essence of Ledyard while embracing positive change. Let's work together to ensure that our community thrives, offering a promising future for every resident. Visit my Facebook page to learn more about my vision and join me on November 7 in shaping a brighter Ledyard for all."
Ledyard Board of Education Members
Mary Harris
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Mary is currently serving in her first term on the Board of Education. Her background as a teacher of science helps her bring a beneficial perspective and insight to the BOE. She works towards ensuring equal opportunity for quality education for every student. She is a skilled negotiator and advocate. She works to pursue common ground with differing voices as much as possible, while also standing up for what she believes is right.
Mary is running for a second term because, with one term of experience under her belt, she will continue to be an effective and knowledgeable contributor to our school system. Background/Experience:
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Danya Hill
Photo by Jessica Buhle
"My family and I moved to Ledyard 6 years ago as my husband was getting ready to retire from the military. We were looking to settle down in a small town with good educational programs.
We have three boys that are thriving in school and they are receiving individual support to promote their best educational outcome. I have been involved in the school as a room parent and volunteered weekly to assist in the classroom prior to COVID. I am also involved in town sports and have coached my kids on various sport teams.
I am an Occupational Therapist working in homecare treating our local adult and older adult clientele. I am running for Board of Education to support all children in our district so they can have the best possible educational success and opportunity."
We have three boys that are thriving in school and they are receiving individual support to promote their best educational outcome. I have been involved in the school as a room parent and volunteered weekly to assist in the classroom prior to COVID. I am also involved in town sports and have coached my kids on various sport teams.
I am an Occupational Therapist working in homecare treating our local adult and older adult clientele. I am running for Board of Education to support all children in our district so they can have the best possible educational success and opportunity."
Joanne Kelley
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"As a Ledyard resident since 1978, I have educated three children and three grandchildren (2 current) in Ledyard Public Schools. To say I am invested in our school district is an understatement.
Through the years I was a constant volunteer in the various schools: Athletic Booster, Music Booster, chaperone, and teacher of religious education at JWL for Our Lady of Lourdes church. For the town of Ledyard, I served on the Assessment Board of Appeals for years and as a volunteer with Ledyard Libraries, delivering books to residents. I have been a member and Treasurer of the Ledyard Garden Club, the Ledyard Democratic Town Committee, and the Citizens Alliance for Land Use (CALU). Professionally, I have been a realtor since 1997, working primarily in the Ledyard/Mystic area and as a Military Relocation Specialist. |
I was first elected to the Board of Education in 2019 and re-elected in 2021. I am currently the Chair of the Policy Committee and serve on the Strategic Planning Committee and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. I am proud of the work the Board has done in recent years while dealing with difficult situations and unique challenges. I believe many significant improvements have been made, and continue to be developed and implemented in our school district, despite our limited resources. Increases to funding for the BOE have been the highest in years, as a result of the BOE working with the Town and the community to recognize and support our goals for meeting our students’ needs.
I believe the primary responsibility of our Board of Education is providing the best educational policies and opportunities for the students of Ledyard Public Schools, and that is my guiding principle. I ask for your vote to continue to work for our students."
Serving on Ledyard Board of Education, since 2019:
Follow Joanne on Facebook @Joanne Kelley for Ledyard Board of Education
I believe the primary responsibility of our Board of Education is providing the best educational policies and opportunities for the students of Ledyard Public Schools, and that is my guiding principle. I ask for your vote to continue to work for our students."
Serving on Ledyard Board of Education, since 2019:
- Member of Facilities Committee. Duties include oversight of LPS facilities’ routine maintenance via Ledyard's Director of Facilities, who provides monthly reports to the committee. Recent focus has been on the ongoing issues with the LMS and GHS building projects that continue to have many significant unfinished “punch list” items. The BOE Facilities committee has been attending many joint Town Council/ Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC) meetings, as well as touring the facilities in question, in an attempt to resolve the issues and encourage PMBC, via the Facilities PMBC Liaisons and the town council, to consider legal action against the Contractor at Risk for failure to complete these projects in a timely and workmanlike manner.
- Chair of the Policy Committee, which reviews, revises and maintains the District’s policies and bylaws that provide the framework for how our schools operate. Over the last year and a half, the committee has revised or added (and the full Board has approved) policies for the handling of Sexual Harassment and Discrimination, Parent Involvement and Communication, Bullying, Diversity in Recruitment, Equal Opportunity, Psychotropic Drugs, and Disaster and Emergency Preparedness, and others.
- Liaison to the Instructional Council, which approves all curriculum, including new or major revisions, prior to submission to the Board of Education for approval. This curriculum development by certified staff, along with resource materials, must meet the goals and legal requirements of the Board of Education. Curriculum developed, added or modified in the 19/20 and 20/21 school year included new or revised World Languages, Art, Consumer Math, Culinary, AP Physics, and AP Calculus AB courses, implementation of Bridges in Mathematics, and more.
- Realtor serving Ledyard and surrounding towns for 24 years
- Member and Treasurer of the Ledyard Garden Club
- Member and Treasurer of the Ledyard Democratic Town Committee
- Mother of three and grandmother of three; with 5 students in the Ledyard Public School District from 1980 to present
- Regular classroom volunteer, chaperone, Music and Athletic Booster and fundraiser for many years
- Member of the Eastern Connecticut Association of Realtors since 1997
- Member of the ECAR Professional Standards Committee
- Past member of the Ledyard Board of Assessment Appeals
- Past Volunteer for Ledyard Public Libraries
Follow Joanne on Facebook @Joanne Kelley for Ledyard Board of Education
Jenn Reguin
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"I am a wife and mother of 3 and a resident of Gales Ferry with my wife and son, who attends Ledyard Middle school.
I have been on the board for Gales Ferry School/Juliet W. Long, as well as Ledyard Middle School this past year. I am also on the Ledyard Little League board, serving as their player agent for all of the children in the district. My goal serving on both of these boards has always been to have the best interests in mind for the children regardless of outside influence and I always stand up for what is right. I bring experience and a diverse background to the table." |
"My wife and I have lived in 7 communities on both coasts over the last 37 years. When we moved to Ledyard, we chose to stay because of the community spirit and the quality schools. We continue to believe in our town.
“New England has a long tradition of volunteer public service. That spirit compels me to serve on Board of Education. It is an excellent way for me to serve and strengthen our town."
“New England has a long tradition of volunteer public service. That spirit compels me to serve on Board of Education. It is an excellent way for me to serve and strengthen our town."
