Board of Education Honors Jim Sanders Sr.
By Robin Vinci | Editor at October 6, 2023 | 6:00 pm | Print
James Sanders Sr. passed away last fall after battling illnesses for several years. On Monday, the Board of Education gave his family the chair he sat on for many years while on the school board.
“Jim sat in the same chair in the same location for at least 10 years,” Sharon Beloin-Saavedra, school board president told Jim’s wife Marylou. “This is his chair with his name and a plaque for you to take home.”
The plaque read, “James E. Sanders Sr. Lifetime of service to the children of New Britain 1980-2015.”
Before Sanders passed away the school board had honored him for his 30 year milestone with a lifetime achievement plaque and watch during a ceremony.
“After he passed, board members wanted to find the right way to honor him,” said Saavedra. “Some people loved him and some had a hard time getting along with him, but you always knew where he stood. He was tough on the outside, but very sensitive on the inside.”
Saavedra recalled that many times after a heavy discussion, the two would go to CJ’s Restaurant for breakfast and a make-up session.
“The waitresses would say Jim was there with his other wife,” said Saavedra. “Tonight the board wants to honor Jim and his family for his 35 years of service.”
Elaine Zottola, school board member who came up with the idea of honoring Sanders with the chair, said there were two words to describe him - “loveable curmudgeon”.
“When he was happy he would have a twinkle in his eye and when he was unhappy, he would have a scowl,” said Zottola. “He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.”
Nick Mercier, vice president of the school board said he only knew Sanders for about a decade, but Sanders had integrity.
“He always spoke his mind and did not back down on his views,” Mercier said. “It was always a pleasure to serve with him on the board.”
Assistant Superintendent Paul Salina said that Sanders always knew flag etiquette and was there for students. Sanders would hold the chains on the sidelines of New Britain High School football games and often would get injured doing so.
Marylou Sander recalled a game where her husband was knocked down and sat on the bench. When asked if he was alright, he said he was fine and wanted a helmet to get back into the game. He was taken to the hospital.
“We just missed our 56 anniversary,” said Marylou Sanders. “He was a good guy. I loved him and I do miss him.”
Sanders’ daughter Gayle is now a school board member and his son Jim Jr. is on the Common Council.
“I feel his presence at board meetings,” said Zottola. “It’s usually when Gayle speaks.”
“I’ve known Jim for a few years. For my 23 years in New Britain, he has always been a part of education,” said Superintendent of Schools Nancy Sarra. “We can see the family traits in Gayle.”
