Patch Candidate Profile: Xavier Guzman 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:

Xavier Guzman

What office are you seeking?

Board of Education at large

What town do you live in?

Norwalk

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Republican

Occupation:

IT Engineer (36 years), Teacher (private school, 8 years)

Family:

A wife, Monica 53 yrs old, VP of Sales at a manufacturing company.

Daughter Maria, Master in Epidemiology, 31 yrs old, living in Brooklyn, NY

Daughter Gabriela, Math Major, 27 yrs old, Sales and support at a manufacturing company.

Daniel, 18 yrs old, freshman at Wesleyan University.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No one does.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

No.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running for the Board of Education because I believe every student in Norwalk deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. As a long-time resident, parent, and educator, I have seen both the strengths and challenges within our schools. I am committed to improving academic skills, supporting teachers, promoting fiscal responsibility and transparency, and strengthening collaboration between schools, families, and the community.

Serving on the BOE will allow me to advocate for high-quality instruction, equitable resources, and thoughtful decision-making that keeps students at the center.

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 restoring trust through fiscal responsibility and transparency in how education dollars are spent. This is what I intend to do about it: push for clear communication, careful oversight of the budget, and decisions that keep student learning as the top priority.

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

Unlike some who may focus on single issues, I am committed to collaboration and balance. I will listen to all stakeholders: students, parents, teachers, and community members, and work to find solutions that reflect both academic needs and fiscal responsibility. My goal is not just to make decisions, but to build trust and unity in our district.

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

Other Issues I Intend to Address During My Campaign

Beyond academics, teacher support, and fiscal transparency, I will also focus on:

Equity and Access: ensuring all students have opportunities to succeed.

Safe and Supportive Schools: promoting student well-being and safe learning environments.

Family and Community Engagement: strengthening partnerships with parents and the community.

Career and Future Readiness: preparing students with skills for college, careers, and life.

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

Educational Experience: As a middle school teacher, I have successfully guided students in mathematics, science, and STEM, helping them build critical skills while fostering creativity and problem-solving.

Professional Expertise: Through my work as IT Engineer, I have managed complex technology and systems projects, developing skills in problem-solving, budgeting, and accountability — all essential for overseeing school operations.

Collaboration and Leadership: I have consistently worked with parents, colleagues, and community partners to improve educational outcomes, showing that I value teamwork and transparent communication.

Community Commitment: I have been a Norwalk resident for 21 years, actively involved in the community. This long-term perspective gives me a strong understanding of our district’s strengths and needs.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best advice I ever received was, ‘Never stop learning.’ It reminds me that growth and improvement are lifelong processes — for students, teachers, and leaders alike.

‘Do what is right, not what is easy.’ As a teacher, parent, and community member, this advice reminds me to make decisions with integrity, even when they are difficult.

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

I want voters to know that my commitment is to put students first in every decision. As a 21-year Norwalk resident, educator, and community member, I understand the importance of strong schools for the success of our children and the future of our city.

I am running for the Board of Education to strengthen academic skills, support teachers, promote fiscal responsibility, and ensure transparency. I believe in collaboration, listening to families and educators, and making thoughtful decisions that reflect the needs of our community.

Above all, I want our schools to be places where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.