Michael Hansen| Board of Education
Bio and Qualifications
I am a parent who loves their children, and a community member who cares deeply about their neighbors, and that must count for something. Also as a tradesmen I am well suited to represent the needs of students who wish to pursue alternative career paths to college, and offer insights to fellow Board of Education members who may not be familiar with the unique challenges of these fields. I have been in the construction / transportation field since 2006. I have worked in carpentry, electrical, concrete, high voltage line work, electronics, and networking. I currently supervise the communications department for Amtrak in the North East corridor, overseeing construction and maintenance of critical network infrastructure for Connecticut and Massachusetts. I am involved in projects with budgets ranging from a few thousand dollars to billion dollar infrastructure upgrades. Why should someone vote for you?
I believe education should be well funded and teachers should be well paid, the future is determined by the actions we take today. I believe a quality school system benefits the town as a whole. When you talk to parents it is amazing how many moved here specifically for that reason. I support the use of technology in education while urging caution on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the learning process. It is important to teach a student how to learn though traditional means before opening the door to a reliance on AI. I do not support the banning of books, access to knowledge should not be limited. A parent can choose what their own child should or should not read, but it is unreasonable to make that choice for others. I fully support the LBGTQ community in their right to the same educational and extra curricular opportunities of their peers. |
Education Montville High School, 2006 What inspired you to run for local office? I am running for the region 18 Board of Education because there are unprecedented challenges facing this next generation, a hyper competitive global job market, increased social media pressures, rapid technological growth including AI, climate change, and pressures from the federal government to erode quality public education. Preparing our students for college continues to be a priority, but I believe there is opportunity to create resources and a culture that supports our students who want to pursue a career in the skilled trades or other industries. As a father with two young children from a pro-labor, working class background I believe I can add to the diversity of voices on the BOE so we can continue to provide top quality education to all of our students. Volunteer Activities
Board of Directors Lyme, Old Lyme Food Share Garden Old Lyme Pre K soccer coach Volunteered to benefit local artists and Saint Jude's CT Army National Guard, 6 years What do you like to do in your spare time? Gardening, Cycling, Antique Automobiles. What’s your favorite place in Old Lyme?
My favorite place in Old Lyme would be any one of the open spaces through out town. I can often be found wondering though with my family, or pedaling with friends. What is something not many people know about you? I am a nerd for all things mechanical and old, be it bicycles, farm equipment, cars, or tools. This has earned me the nickname "Rusty" much to my wife's chagrin. What is your favorite book?
"Tribe" by Sebastian Junger |