Rose Ann Hardy

I began my life in Auburn, Maine and lived there until I was 8 when my mother remarried to an Air Force sergeant. As a military dependent I lived on Cape Cod; 3 years in Japan, just 10 years after World War II when the Communists were attempting to gain a foothold; 1 year in Mississippi in 1958 at the beginning of mandated integration of public schools; and 2 years in northern Maine. These experiences instilled in me the values inherent in democracy and why preservation of those values should be the first priority in our political system.

After graduating high school with honors, I earned a B.S. with honors from Gorham State Teachers College with a major in Secondary Education and a minor in History and Geography. I later completed additional course work at the University of Connecticut and Wesleyan University and then earned an M.S. from Rhode Island College majoring in Supervision and Curriculum Development Secondary Level.

I have been an East Lyme resident since 1966, where I began my teaching career lasting
54 years first in the Social Studies Department of East Lyme Jr. High (Department Head), then later in the History Department of East Lyme High School.

I served as President of the Lillie B. Haynes PTA and as President of the East Lyme Teachers Association. I also created a special group for adults to discuss educational issues called “PACE” (People Co-operating for Education) which lasted for several years.

I organized numerous special opportunities for my students to further their participation in events beyond the classroom. These included a debate team, a mock trial team, student representatives to the Board of Education, and many class trips throughout the country for Model U.N. Conferences and Model Congresses.

Since 1985 I have served on the East Lyme Board of Selectmen. During this time, I served as First Selectman from June-December 1998 and as Deputy First Selectman for 3 terms. I have also been ex-officio to most boards and commissions in Town.

I have received many commendations for my work as a teacher and for my public service, including a Special Citation from the U.S. House of Representatives, and most recently in 2023, recognition from the New London County Bar Association for Law Related Education.

When not serving the Town, I remain active in many community organizations, including the East Lyme Scholarship Association (Co-Chair) and the East Lyme Historical Society.

I estimate that around 4,500 students passed through my classroom doors over the years. I have enjoyed my teaching career and my community involvement. I hope to be re-elected to the Board of Selectmen to continue representing the Town that I love. Who doesn’t love being part of a friendly Town with dedicated Town employees, many volunteers giving their time to participate on boards and commissions, beaches and parks, small business owners who also contribute extra to the Town--guess that says it all. See you at the polls!