Leadership That Delivers. Focused On The Future
Our kids deserve leaders with the skills, vision, and commitment to deliver. Together, our team brings unmatched expertise and personal investment in Ridgefield’s schools. We are parents, professionals, educators, and leaders who will deliver results for Ridgefield:
- Innovation that leads to real-world student success
- Maximum value from every dollar to help kids learn
- Schools that draw new families and keep property values strong
- Steady leadership that reflects Ridgefield’s values
Our Priorities
Fiscal Responsibility
We recognize that strong schools and sound finances go hand in hand. Transparency builds trust, strengthening both schools and community.
- We will focus spending on students and keep programs efficient for taxpayers. In every budget conversation, we will ensure taxpayer dollars help kids learn and thrive.
- We will improve financial reporting, giving Ridgefield residents a clear understanding of how Ridgefield’s tax dollars are being spent.
Academics: Opportunities and Resources for Every Type of Learner
We are devoted to strengthening all learning pathways in Ridgefield Public Schools (“RPS”) so that our students leave school confident, capable, and ready for whatever future they choose.
- Cultivate student achievement by prioritizing school resources for STEM and humanities instruction.
- Expand opportunities in advanced coursework, career and technical education, and real-world learning experiences.
- Broaden post-graduate pathways beyond traditional four-year colleges, including skilled trades, internships, apprenticeships, and workforce readiness.
- Attract and retain the highest caliber of teachers at RPS. Nothing has a greater impact on student success than the quality of their teachers.
Student Health & Wellness
Assured, confident, healthy kids learn better. Ridgefield is a leader in supporting student well-being. We’ll build on our success and ensure Ridgefield students continue to thrive by:
- Making sure kids have solid mental health support for everyday needs, tough moments, and real emergencies.
- Investing in social-emotional learning programs in every school.
- Expanding training for athletic coaches and educators to recognize and respond to student mental health needs.
Equity & Opportunity
Every child deserves a chance to shine. We are committed to nurturing programs that meet students where they are, offering opportunities to enrich and expand their educational journey, in the arts, sciences, business, athletics, or community service.
- The Board secured funding to realize the vision for a new Alternative High School and Transition Program under Chair Tina Malhotra’s leadership.
- Equity means ensuring that all students feel safe and secure in classrooms, on playing fields, and on stage. Building a culture of inclusion and belonging means all Ridgefield students feel supported and valued.
Community Engagement
Strong schools make Ridgefield strong. We are united by a shared spirit of service and dedication to Ridgefield:
- We will engage with the community to infuse Ridgefield’s values into our decisions. ● We will strengthen the voices from families, students, and residents to shape the future of our schools through the newly activated Outreach Committee spearheaded by Chair Tina Malhotra.
Meet the Candidates
Tina Malhotra
Incumbent
Kathryn Graf
Angela Rice
Scott Sigel
Tina Malhotra
The current Chair of the Ridgefield Board of Education, Tina has served since 2020 and has been instrumental in leading the district through the COVID era and into recovery. With deep ties across Ridgefield, through Ann’s Place, ABC, SOAR Together, the Rotary Club, Youth Commision, and more, she is committed to community engagement and building bridges between the Board of Education and residents. As a parent of a Ridgefield graduate, Tina brings continuity, proven leadership, and a strong network of community connections.
Kathryn Graf
A financial and accounting professional with 11+ years as a Certified Public Accountant, Kathryn has guided Fortune 500 companies through complex financial and operational decisions. She has managed teams in public and private companies, and advocates for transparent reporting and responsible spending. As a parent of two RPS students (one current, one future), Kathryn brings critical expertise in financial stewardship to the Board of Education.
Scott Sigel
A visionary CEO and education advocate, Scott leads a national nonprofit that expands wireless connectivity for all. With 10+ years of executive experience scaling venture-backed companies, he has a proven track record in fiscal leadership, innovation, and building future-ready solutions. Scott mentors startups and education nonprofits, and as a parent of two RPS students (one current, one future), he brings both professional and personal commitment to preparing students for tomorrow.
Angela Rice
A lifelong educator, and engaged parent of two RPS students, Angela has 14+ years of experience as a teacher and administrator in public, charter, and independent schools. She is an AP English teacher and a longtime leader in Ridgefield’s PTAs, including serving as Co-President of the Ridgefield Joint Council of PTAs. Known for her collaborative style and tireless dedication, Angela advocates for all kids to have a sense of belonging in our schools.
The Ridgefield Democratic Team
The Democratic candidates for the Ridgefield Board of Education bring financial expertise, executive leadership, classroom experience, and active community service. We are parents of children at every stage of RPS, elementary, middle, high school, and post-graduate. As your representatives, we’ll carry this responsibility with focus and purpose. We’ll work efficiently, prioritize what matters most, and make thoughtful decisions that deliver the greatest good for all students and the Ridgefield community.