Meriden Election 2025: Kim Carbone Pandiani Running For Board Of Education

MERIDEN, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in Meriden with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will cast their ballots in the Nov. 4 election for the position of mayor, along with seats on the City Council and Board of Education.

Meriden Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Kim Carbone Pandiani is running for re-election to the Meriden Board of Education as a Republican.

Occupation:
Retired Education Sales

Family:
I am the proud Mom of three amazing people and blessed to be married to Lee Pandiani for 32 years. I was born and raised in Meriden and my husband and I chose to raise our family here and educate our children in the public school system.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I am seeking re-election to the Board of Education.

Why are you seeking this office?
I have been fortunate to have a front row seat and truly experience first hand how a quality education can positively change the lives of children. I am so proud of our blue ribbon schools, award winning music and art programs, summer enrichment programs and improved graduation rates.

We have seen significant participation in AP and ECE courses, academic and athletic accolades further underscore our students accomplishments. Our community thrives when parents are active partners in their child’s education. I am committed to continue to work with all stakeholders to provide safe, supportive schools where all students can excel.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Economic inequity is a major concern in our community. While the roles and responsibilities of this position cannot realistically solve such a significant struggle, I can do my part to advocate for the students in our community by ensuring equity in education, regardless of a student's age, race/ethnicity, socio-economic status, and other identities.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
As a current board of education member, I have a deep understanding of our district policies and guidelines. I have had time to build real relationships with our teachers, school administrators, staff, and our parents. I believe the endorsement by the Meriden Federation of Teachers is a testament to our strong working alliance and mutual trust. In my retirement, I have the time and energy required to visit schools, return constituent calls, and prepare for all subcommittee and regular board meetings. I acknowledge the challenges our families face and I have a keen focus on serving the needs of all students, regardless of their abilities and backgrounds.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I plan to continue to prioritize the safety of our schools and well-being of our students. Another goal is increasing student voice in the decisions that directly impact their education. Additionally, I plan to continue to build upon our partnerships with trade schools to provide pathways to sustainable lifelong employment.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
In my time on the BOE, I have had the privilege of contributing to various accomplishments that have furthered the success of our students and community. One of our most impactful achievements was assuming management of Edison Middle School, which resulted in significant savings to our city. In this transition, we were able to efficiently utilize the entire building and grounds for Meriden students and reduce class sizes at our two other middle schools. Another notable accomplishment was the ability to offer students training toward certifications that are in demand. Our high school students can achieve the following all before graduation. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), EMT certification, and Servsafe certification. Each success comes with a set of unique challenges that can only come to fruition with collaboration with our teachers and staff, open communication with parents, open-mindedness, and a focus on the prosperity of all of our students.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My mom always taught me to treat everyone with kindness and respect, something I keep in mind every day.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
As a graduate of our Meriden Public Schools, and a proud parent of three children who have attended Meriden schools, I believe in our school system! I am eager to continue to work with parents and students and represent our community to ensure that all students succeed.