Phil Hogan shares with Patch why he should be reelected as a Board of Education member in New Canaan.
NEW CANAAN, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.
Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.
Candidate's Name:
Phil Hogan
What office are you seeking?
Board of Education
What town do you live in?
Republican
Occupation:
Private Investor
Family:
Milana (wife), Holly (daughter, 14), Casey (son, 12), Charlie (son, 11), Kyle (son, 9)
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No.
Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Board of Education - elected in 2021.
Why are you seeking this office?
To work collaboratively with the superintendent and his administration to optimize education in New Canaan.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
A Hypothetical North School. I intend to listen, ask questions, and ultimately make the decision that's best for New Canaan families, children and taxpayers.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I don't think there's a ton of daylight between candidates this election cycle.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I'd like to take a closer look at Social & Emotional Learning to ensure that the content and application are both targeted and effective.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
My leadership during COVID is my proudest achievement, but Healthy Start Times, School Security, and my relentless pursuit of getting national politics out of New Canaan schools prove I can handle the job.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak. That's a famous quote rather than advice that was ever given to me, but it's especially relevant to the BOE role where we're constantly hearing presentations and interacting with constituents who have lots to say!
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
My 2021 candidacy was out of left field and a reflection of the not so pleasant times we were all living through. My sincere hope is that my record and willingness to meet and work with anyone makes me palatable to all New Canaan voters, including the ones who were skeptical of me when I first ran for the Board.