2025 Patch Candidate Profiles: Aaron Hoffman, Board Of Education, Stafford

STAFFORD, CT — Aaron Hoffman is running for a school board seat in Stafford.

Candidate's Name:
Aaron Hoffman

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Stafford Springs

Campaign Website
https://www.facebook.com/Staff...

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
High School History teacher for 23 years.

Family:
I am married and have four children ranging from 5-16 years old.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I was elected to the Board of Education and the Zoning Board of Appeals in Stafford in 2021.

Why are you seeking this office?
I have decided to run for a second term because I believe that I bring an important perspective to the Board and to Stafford Public Schools. I am running again because there is a lot of great work that is already in motion in the district and I would like to continue to serve and support this work being done on behalf of our students and the community.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
the town budget. I, along with other elected Republicans, are committed to respecting the tax payers in the Stafford community and only approving a budget that little to no increase each year. Despite financial challenges that the public schools face, it is important to evaluate each line in the budget to prioritize the impact the line has on student achievement. We must continue to create cost saving programs, apply for all possible grants and hold the state accountable for unfunded mandates.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I have served on the Board of Education for the past 4 years where I have also been a member of the Curriculum and Policy Committees. This school year marks my 23rd year of teaching high school history and I also coach high school baseball. In addition to my role in the classroom, I have served on various committees, written curriculum focusing on students at the center of the educational process, and helped shape schoolwide policies from schedules to grading and attendance. The difference between myself and other candidates is that I have the educational background that understands the needs of today's students and the challenges of today's public education system.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
The other major issues that Stafford Public Schools and the Board of Education need to address are Special Education programing, the relationship between the town and SPS, supporting classroom teachers, and most importantly how to create a rigorous academic community that challenges all students to reach their potential.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I believe that my first term on the Board of Education has given me the track record and the experience to earn a second term. I have consistently stood up for taxpayers against significant budget increases. I have fought to keep the liberal woke agenda out of our schools. I have pushed administration to begin a program that will help keep high need students in district. I have been a part of a number of personnel changes in this district that has led to talented new members joining our educational community. In a second term, I will continue to be an outspoken member of this board that will challenge and support administration in meeting the needs of Stafford students and staff.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My Little League baseball coach always said, "throw as hard as you can, for as long as you can." This advice can be applied to all phases of life. In whatever you do, do it at 100% for as long as you can.

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