Editor’s Note: HK-Now.com and Haddam Killingworth News asked candidates for the Regional School District 17 Board of Education to provide brief biographies as a way of introducing themselves to voters. The statement below is from Kelly Haeckel, who is running for the BOE from Haddam. The candidate’s reply is unchanged from the original as submitted. HK-Now.com and Haddam Killingworth News are not responsible for errors in grammar, usage, punctuation or spelling.
As a lifelong resident of Higganum and proud Haddam-Killingworth graduate, Kelly Haeckel has always called this community home. She and her husband are raising their son here, giving her a personal stake in ensuring that our schools remain strong, supportive, and focused on student success.
Kelly’s journey of leadership spans more than 20 years in healthcare administration. As Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Middlesex Health, she has led large teams, balanced complex budgets, and worked tirelessly to improve outcomes for the people she serves.
These skills—collaboration, transparency, and fiscal responsibility—are the very qualities she will bring to the Board of Education. Kelly is committed to supporting teachers with the resources they need, fostering an inclusive and welcoming learning environment, and ensuring every student feels valued both inside and outside the classroom. She believes in making thoughtful, responsible decisions that strengthen the district while honoring the trust of taxpayers.
With her deep roots in the community, proven record of leadership, and unwavering dedication to children and families, Kelly Haeckel will be a strong advocate for students, parents, and teachers alike.
