2025 Patch Candidate Profiles: Tracy Patterson, Board Of Education, Manchester.

MANCHESTER, CT — Tracy Patterson is running for the school board in Manchester.

Candidate's Name:

Tracy Patterson

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Manchester

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

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
Insurance Professional 27 years

Family:
Husband and 4 children

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Yes. I am seeking my third term on the board.

Why are you seeking this office?
I’m seeking re-election to the Manchester Board of Education to continue building on the progress we’ve made in creating strong schools, empowered educators, and thriving students. Over the past several years, I’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful leadership and community partnership can move us forward and I want to ensure that momentum continues.

As Board Chair, I’ve worked collaboratively to strengthen academic achievement, expand early college opportunities, and center equity in every decision we make. But our work is not done. From closing opportunity gaps to improving student well-being and supporting our teachers, I remain deeply committed to advancing policies and practices that make Manchester Public Schools a place where every student can be successful.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Strengthening student achievement while continuing to address the lasting effects of the pandemic on learning and well-being.

There is no single issue when it comes to meeting student needs. Academic success must go hand in hand with supporting the whole student; nurturing their social, emotional, and physical well-being, and ensuring access to enriching activities that promote growth beyond the classroom.

I intend to continue championing programs that challenge students academically, build confidence, character, and critical thinking, and provide opportunities for them to explore their passions. Our goal is clear: to develop well-rounded, capable young people who are prepared to thrive—whether they choose college, career, or another postsecondary path—and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
What sets me apart is experience, perspective, and a proven ability to lead through challenge and change. As a working mother with children in the district, I understand the realities families face and the need for strong communication, transparency, and trust between home and school. I don’t lead from theory. I lead from lived experience.

Supporting the district through the pandemic taught me the importance of collaboration, compassion, and accountability. As Board Chair, I’ve worked closely with my colleagues, town leaders, and administrators to make thoughtful, student-centered decisions that keep Manchester moving forward.

With more than two decades of leadership in business operations, I bring strategic, financial, and organizational skills that support effective governance and sound decision-making. At the heart of it all, I believe strong relationships are the foundation of thriving schools and a strong community.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I remain committed to advancing equity and inclusion across Manchester Public Schools. Our students deserve to see themselves reflected in their teachers, administrators, and leaders. As a Board member, I will continue to champion efforts to recruit and retain a diverse, talented workforce that mirrors our student body and strengthens our learning community.

I will also continue advocating for the resources needed to support student achievement, particularly for our most disenfranchised students. By appropriately leveraging district resources for optimal outcomes, we can expand academic opportunities, strengthen staff development, and ensure every student has what they need to thrive.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
As Board Chair, I’ve worked collaboratively with my colleagues to make thoughtful, student-centered decisions—all of which passed with unanimous support this past year.

During my time on the Board, Manchester Public Schools has achieved significant progress through the collective efforts of many. Together, we successfully completed the opening of all new state-of-the-art elementary schools on time and within budget. The district has expanded college credit, career, and STEM opportunities to prepare life-ready graduates, launched a new reading program, seen rising math and science scores, created cell phone–free classrooms, strengthened on-site counseling, and supported more than 3,000 students and families through our Family Resource Centers.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The best advice I ever received was simple but powerful: “It’s all about the people.” That wisdom has guided me throughout my career and in every leadership role I’ve held. When you prioritize people, listening, empowering, and valuing their contribution, everything else falls into place. It’s a principle I live by.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
Public service is personal to me. I began this work as a parent who wanted to make a difference and continue it as a leader who believes in the power of strong schools and strong communities.

My decisions are guided by integrity, collaboration, and a belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made expanding opportunities, modernizing schools, and advancing equity and inclusion but I know there’s more to do.

Moving forward together isn’t just a message it’s how real progress happens. When we stay connected, do the hard work, and keep students at the center, we create lasting change—for all of us.