Meet Cara Lascko Files, candidate for the Board of Education and a second-generation educator! Inspired by her mother’s example, Cara developed a lifelong passion for teaching and is dedicated to helping every student thrive. As a lifelong resident, graduate of Thomaston High, and parent of an 8th and 3rd grader, she is committed to ensuring all kids in town receive an equitable and innovative education that prepares them for success.

For over 20 years, Cara has taught in both the Waterbury and Hartford Public School systems. She has extensive experience mentoring new teachers as a cooperating teacher for several state universities and in TEAM, designing curriculum across subject areas, and was recognized as Duggan Elementary’s 2023 Teacher of the Year.

Cara holds degrees in Art Education, Holistic Thinking, and Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Computer Science Instruction, along with national credentials as a Google Certified Educator and ISTE Certified Educator.

Beyond the classroom, she leads her school’s philanthropy team, guiding students in fundraising for organizations such as Connecticut Children’s Hospital, the Saint Mary’s Foundation for Breast Cancer, and the United Way of Greater Waterbury—resources that also benefit Thomaston families.

On the Board of Education, Cara plans to focus on retaining highly qualified teachers by ensuring they have the professional growth and support they need. She believes our district needs strong leadership at the superintendent level that emphasizes student retention, staff well-being, and trust with families and educators. She will also work to ensure the budget reflects community values by focusing on student achievement, fair compensation, and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars, while keeping student needs central as the town reviews the facilities study.

Cara is ready to strengthen communication and trust between families, educators, and the district, support teachers, and keep students at the center of every decision. Together, we can build on Thomaston’s strengths and create schools that reflect our community’s values and prepare children for bright futures.