Patch Candidate Profile: Tricia Massucco For Norwalk Board Of Education

NORWALK, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:

Tricia Massucco

What office are you seeking?

Board of Education At Large

What town do you live in?

Norwalk

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Republican

Occupation:

Director of Elementary School Based Programs

Family:

My son, Christopher Massucco, 27, is a Project Manager in Miami, FL. My daughter, Olivia Massucco, 25, is a Pediatric Nurse for Mass General Eye and Ear in Boston, MA and Ava Massucco, 18, is a Sophomore at the University of Miami, studying Public Relations and Communications. I am so proud of all of their accomplishments.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

No.

Why are you seeking this office?

I have been proud to call Norwalk home since 1996. My three children attended Norwalk Public Schools, with two graduating from Brien McMahon High School. Like many families, I’ve followed the ongoing debates about our schools. How do we fund them? How do we support students and teachers? How do we secure our fair share of ECS funding and how do we manage unfunded mandates?

These challenges have persisted for decades and property taxes alone cannot shoulder the burden. That is why I want to be part of the solution. Our schools need a Board of Education that champions students, teachers and families with accountability and balance.

It’s not always about investing in the “shiny new wagon”; it’s about directing more resources into classrooms where they matter most. I believe in building a strong, fair and sustainable future for Norwalk’s schools and I am ready to do the work to get us there.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:

The single most pressing issue is school funding. We need a budget that puts students first by increasing resources at the school level, streamlining Central Office, and expanding public–private partnerships. I would also advocate for real change with the ECS funding formula. Every dollar we redirect to classrooms helps ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Norwalk voters face a choice. Some candidates may focus on big projects, Central Office priorities or maintaining the status quo. I focus on what matters most: students, teachers and classrooms. I bring firsthand experience as a parent and community member, a record of listening to families and a commitment to putting resources where they have the greatest impact. My approach is collaborative, solutions-focused and accountable because every child in Norwalk deserves the opportunity to succeed.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Our Board of Education needs to restore transparency and accountability with Norwalk Residents. Too often, the board has forgotten why it was elected. Decisions at the highest level must be openly discussed and at times challenged to ensure they reflect the best interests of students, teachers and families.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Since 2009, I have continued to build on my experience in education. I now serve as the Director of Elementary School-Based Programs for our community’s largest after-school provider, where I manage programs that support student growth, family engagement and school success. Every day I see first-hand the challenges that principals, teachers and students face. In after-school programs, we have built supports that extend the academic day, including resources for social-emotional learning. This work has shown me how important it is to give students the tools they need both inside and outside the classroom and why strong partnerships are critical to their success.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The greatest advice I’ve ever received is to be part of the solution and be part of a team. These are principles I carry in every decision I make, whether in education, as a parent or as a community member. I don’t just point out challenges. I always work to find solutions by bringing stakeholders together to find concencus around issues.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am a consensus builder, committed to working hard for the families and residents of Norwalk. I understand that challenges exist, but I believe in finding solutions, not just pointing fingers. My guiding principle has always been simple: Be Part of the Solution.