Patch Candidate Profile: Michael Hyman For Stamford Board Of Education

STAMFORD, 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 the city.

Candidate's Name:
Michael Hyman

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Stamford

Campaign Website
https://www.2025endorseddems.c...

Party Affiliation:
Democratic

Occupation:
Not-for-Profit Leader, 19 years. 20 years as insurance and healthcare executive and consultant.

Family:
I am a father of 3 now. My daughter Nancy passed away a little over a year ago. My son Alex and his beautiful wife Karla live outside of Washington with two of the most gorgeous and intelligent granddaughters imaginable. My wife Jennifer and I are parents to Julia, a clinician practicing in Boston and Jenna Marie a graduate student in Buffalo.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Elected to the Board of Education.
Ferguson Library Board appointee.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running for re-election with the very same sentiments and reason that I did 3 years ago. Our schools have a profound impact on the health, welfare and quality of life for all of us individually and collectively. I believe in Stamford and I know we have provided a solid and rigorous education for most of our students, but we must do everything in our power to deliver on that promise for all in our care. Only through persistent dedication to that cause will yield the results we want and need from our school district. I believe in service and have spent a lifetime committed to ensuring that our youth receive the benefits of an education and is a promise kept.

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 the Stamford Public Schools community is "finding common ground."
Some would suggest that our ability to come together began to fray with the Pandemic. We fought over whether to wear masks, attend indoor events, and to vax or not. Somewhere along the way we lost our ability to civilly and humbly speak and listen to one another without caustic and conspiratorial intent.
As much as I might want to, it's beyond my power to change the past. What I, and we, can all do is direct our focus on the future and what we want to see happen for our schools. The opportunity is here and now as we select a new leader-educator for SPS.

As the current president of the BOE, I am attempting to create the space and allot the time for the Stamford community of students, educators, faith leaders, the business community, not-for-profit partners, and all taxpayers use this time to reset and re-center our values on education and what we as a community desire from our schools and new school leader. If we are successful at hearing each other, we can begin a new day to work on the major challenges in front of us from school building projects, funding our schools, and most important - creating a school environment that values all.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
Actually having been on the board is a major difference. However, my experiences as an educational advocate and activist for decades is a critical difference.

I also believe that I am the only candidate running that has actually stood before students 180 days, and created and/or nurtured their excitement for learning, grading papers, doing lesson plans, and collaborating with their parents.

While in no way would I suggest that my experiences are better than others, I do bring a unique perspective to the BOE. Lastly, being on the board is not a once-a-month Tuesday night meeting. As no other candidate , I am aware of the dedication and commitment it takes to meet the long hours required to do this job right.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Some candidates may see a single issue as a way of getting elected but being on the board is about an expansive set of needs, priorities, and aspirations. I will ask voters to vote for candidates committed to "finding common ground" so that we can actually address the challenges facing our schools.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Restored critically needed school and student services to the 2025-2026 school budget including universal school lunch, OSS (office support staff) positions, and middle school advocates program.

Approved CES/SPS joint-venture to provide special ed services in-district and lowering cost to taxpayers.

Led the Board effort to deny City approvals to cannabis dispensaries on West Side and Cove areas.

Successfully navigated two consecutive City board approvals for the SPS budget with needed increases.

Negotiated financially sound labor contracts with Administrators (SAU), Teachers (SEA), Para Facilitators, and Security Guards supporting the needs of the City and its valued employees.
(I believe that a livable wage is so important for the people who work day in and day out with our children. These contract agreements have been one of the great joys of my life.)

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Make your parents proud!

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
My wife and I have been proud residents of Stamford since 1992. Our daughters were born here and our town has been a wonderful place to raise a family. I can think of no better tribute than to do everything possible to leave it more "wonderful" than I found it.

I am both optimistic and persistent that our schools' better days are ahead. I would be honored to have your support to ensure that happens.

Please feel to reach me at hyman4boe@gmail.com.