2025 Patch Candidate Profiles: Kwasi Ntem-Mensah​, Manchester Board Of Educartion

MANCHESTER, CT — Kwasi Ntem-Mensah is running for the school board in Manchester.

Candidate's Name:
Kwasi Ntem-Mensah

What office are you seeking?
Manchester Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Manchester

Campaign Website
https://www.manchesterctdems.i...

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
Fathering Initiative Coordinator- 9 years

Family:
I am married to a lovely lady, Trudy who is a Social Worker. Between us we have 3 children: Francis (19), Vida (17) and Portia (14). I am also an uncle with lots of lovely nephews and nieces.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Appointed 2022-2023 (Manchester Board of Education)

Why are you seeking this office?
Our children need the right tools to meet today’s challenges and prepare for the future. Education—whether formal, informal, academic, or practical—remains the foundation for overcoming these ever-evolving demands. Listening to concerns, addressing needs, and nurturing the diverse talents of our youth are essential. I am committed to being a youth advocate and parental voice on the board, working to advance the structural improvements in education that our children deserve.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is reading proficiency, a challenge that impacts not only academic achievement but also the long-term success and opportunities available to our children. When students struggle to read at grade level, it creates barriers in every subject, limiting confidence, engagement, and future prospects. Addressing this issue requires an intentional, multi-pronged approach that supports students, empowers teachers, and engages families.
First and foremost, children must be encouraged and motivated to attend school consistently. Daily attendance is the foundation upon which learning is built; without it, teachers cannot provide the individualized instruction, tutoring, and guidance students need to grow. Creating an environment where students feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to come to school every day will ensure they have the opportunity to strengthen their reading skills. This commitment to consistent presence in the classroom is the first step toward improving literacy and unlocking the full potential of every child.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
What sets me apart is my deep connection to the parents and citizens of Manchester. I am not only present but actively engaged, constantly volunteering at community events and ensuring that every voice is heard. I have long been an advocate for students, consistently offering thoughtful suggestions to improve their educational experience. I connect with our youth, providing both a listening ear and meaningful guidance, while my work as a Fatherhood Consultant allows me to support fathers and families directly. As a graduate of the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Family Engagement program, I bring both expertise and lived experience to the table. My commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and adaptability is unwavering. Above all, I serve as a father, a husband, and a dedicated community servant—grounded, accessible, and determined to put families first.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Continued support for parental and community engagement to enable the board of education serve the children qualitatively.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Over the past two school years, our Board of Education has worked tirelessly to strengthen Manchester’s schools and better serve our students and families. We have made meaningful progress in addressing absenteeism, with more students coming to school consistently and engaging in their learning. This speaks to the efforts of our educators, families, and community partners who are helping create an environment where children want to be present and can thrive.
We have also demonstrated strong fiscal stewardship, passing budgets that balance the rising costs of education while still protecting essential services and investing in innovative projects. Even when faced with funding challenges, we made careful choices to prioritize the needs of our students.
At the same time, Manchester continues to lead in sustainability. Through the SMARTR2 renovation project, we have transformed our elementary schools into state-of-the-art, net-zero buildings. These schools are not only modern and energy-efficient, but they also reflect our commitment to building a future that is healthier and more sustainable for our children.
Worthy to note is we are advancing equity across our district. By openly examining data around discipline and working to close disparities, we are taking deliberate steps toward ensuring that all students—regardless of background or circumstance—are treated with fairness, respect, and opportunity.
Together, these efforts show that we are building a school system that is fiscally responsible, environmentally forward-thinking, academically strong, and deeply committed to equity and inclusion. Manchester’s children deserve nothing less.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Give off my best and do it passionately devoid of race or color and leave a positive legacy.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I will continue to working hand in hand with guardians and teachers to nurture a positive and healthy learning environment for our children. I am an immigrant and I love the Great Town of Manchester.