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Although the two men are running individually, they are actively campaigning together to focus on the board's larger needs. Both are fathers to children enrolled in Darien schools and know firsthand the challenges parents and educators face. They began their campaigns on Sept. 22.
Burke has served four years on the Darien Representative Town Meeting on the education, town government structure and administration and public health and safety committees. He is a member of the Darien Democratic Town Committee and a coach for Darien Little League, Darien Travel Soccer, Darien Junior Football and Basketball Leagues.
Burke works as a litigator for law firm Eckert, Seamans, Chernin and Mellott and attended Fordham University’s School of Law and Skidmore College. He and his wife, Kathleen, have lived in Darien since 2008. They have twin sons who attend Middlesex Middle School.
“Over the next several years, the BoE will continue to be challenged. We’ll be making critical decisions related to selecting and supporting a new superintendent, ensuring that we avoid potential crisis, and providing a superior education for all of our students,” Burke said.
“As board members, we need to raise our level of awareness of state regulations, education trends and school management efficiencies. We will have to make tough choices, but they should be well-informed and provide some degree of balance and fairness.”
Imbimbo has been a Darien resident for 17 years. He has served on the Darien RTM for four years on the education, rules, parks and recreation and public health and safety committees. He served as the Royle School PTO Co-Chair of the Father’s Council and has been a coach for Darien Youth Softball and the Darien Soccer Association.
Imbimbo runs Broken Window Books, a publishing services and product development company and is an editor, developer and author of children’s books and kits. He holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut and a journalism degree from Syracuse University. Imbimbo and his wife, Kristen, have two daughters; one who graduated from Darien High School and one who started her senior year this year.
“I am committed to applying my experience, insights and creative problem-solving skills to enhance the Board of Education’s decision-making. Darien’s high-quality public education is a tremendous asset to our town, but rising enrollments and cuts at the state level have created strains on the system,” said Imbimbo.
“To maintain high standards, we need to plan ahead for future challenges, raise awareness in the community, and all pull together. I plan to help the board build on our strengths, identify future pressure points and work with the community to ensure we continue to deliver excellent education."
Both candidates are welcoming feedback from the community. Residents can reach Imbimbo at tonyimbimbo@yahoo.com or by calling (203) 656-2764. Burke can be reached at mjb84@aol.com or by calling (917) 656-2835.
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