Pataky appointed to Board of Education

TORRINGTON >> The Torrington Board of Education welcomed a new member to its ranks Wednesday evening, as Wendy Pataky, a former teacher and graduate of the city high school, was appointed after a recent resignation.

Pataky will succeed Jim Lamoin, who resigned in February for personal and professional concerns, and finish out the remainder of his term, which runs through Dec. 4.

As part of her working life, Pataky worked as a teacher in Newtown, Westport, and Litchfield, according to a release distributed Wednesday.

She served in a number of capacities during her time working in the education system, according to the release, including teacher mentor, curriculum advisor, and department coordinator.

She is a graduate of the University of Connecticut, according to the release, in addition to Torrington High School, and holds a master’s degree in American Studies from Fairfield University.

Her two sons, Charlie and Tommy, both attend city schools.

Pataky said after the meeting that sought to join the board based on her background in education and desire to lend her support to the community.

“I look forward to starting with the board and just contributing as much as I can to get us through this budget, and then getting on some committees,” said Pataky. “I enjoy being part of a community, and I believe that, with the time that I

have now, I am able to contribute.”

Pataky was nominated by the Democratic Town Committee to fill the vacancy after previously running for a position on the board in the last election cycle.

“Wendy Pataky will be an excellent addition to the Board of Education,” said committee chair Danielle Palladino in the release. “She brings vast experience as an educator and has been active participant in Torrington’s school system. She will be ready on day one to be an active and productive member of the board.”

Board of Education member Bill Knight voted against Pataky’s appointment, citing the difficulty of joining the board at this point in the budgeting process.

Joanne Brogis, a Board of Education member who ran alongside Pataky on the Democratic ticket, praised her willingness to prepare in response to Knight’s concerns Wednesday.

“When I ran with her, she researched everything. She was very knowledgable in any of the issues that were going on,” said Brogis. “I know she’ll take this head on and she’ll work at it, and do what’s required to fulfill the commitment.”

BEN LAMBERT — THE REGISTER CITIZEN Wendy Pataky was appointed to the Torrington Board of Education Wednesday. Above, Pataky, left, is sworn in by member Ellen Hoehne.