Republicans make gains on NL school board

New London - The Democrats maintained control of the Board of Education Tuesday, though the once-dominant party now has just a one-vote majority.

The Republicans gained a seat, bringing their total to two, as challengers Barbara R. Major and Jason Catala each won election, while the Green Party candidate, Ronna K. Stuller, who was cross-endorsed by the Republicans, also won.

"I'm in shock," Stuller said, as she celebrated Tuesday with her fellow Green Party members at Union Station.

As he did in 2007, Democratic incumbent Bill Morse got the most votes. Morse had 1,597, followed closely by Catala with 1,547.

Catala's election to the school board marks his return to elected office in New London. He previously served on the board and on the City Council.

"A couple of years ago I was told I wasn't a fit in New London," he said. "Tonight the voters have spoken."

Waterford teacher and New London native Louise Hanrahan, a Democrat, finished third in the election standings, with 1,514 votes.

Hanrahan credited her experience as a teacher and her positive campaign as reason for her election. She said she is looking forward to working with board members of all parties.

"We are all working for the best interest of the children of New London," she said.

A former "placeholder" on the ballot, Major, who is also Republican registrar of voters, finished fourth.

Democratic incumbents Alvin Kinsall and Susan Connolly each won re-election, while Elizabeth Garcia-Gonzalez was not returned to office.