Claudette Kidd

Emerging Leaders of Color, Cohort 4

Claudette Kidd is a passionate educator, advocate, and community leader with over 15 years of teaching experience. She began her career in 2002 with the New Haven Board of Education, serving as a Head Start and Montessori teacher. A graduate in Early Childhood Education, Claudette is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, further strengthening her knowledge and commitment to serving her community.

Deeply rooted in advocacy, Claudette dedicates her voice and energy to amplifying those who are too often unheard—youth, the disabled, the elderly, people of color, and members of the LGBTQIA community. Her lifelong dream is to help build a society rooted in equity, equality, and justice for all.

Claudette is well known across New Haven for her fearless presence at Board of Alders committee meetings and at the State Capitol, where she consistently speaks truth to power. Her dedication to housing justice led her to serve as a member of the City of New Haven Housing Commission, where she continues to champion safe and equitable housing for all.

Currently, Claudette serves as a Client Engagement Specialist at the Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen, where she embodies a whole-person approach to care. She meets each client with respect, dignity, and cultural humility, ensuring that every interaction is free of stigma or judgment. Known for her empathy, emotional intelligence, and tireless advocacy, Claudette continues to inspire and empower her community every day.