Hamden Election 2023: Mario Ciccarini Running For Board Of Education

HAMDEN, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Hamden with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 7 and cast their ballots for mayor and town clerk along with seats on the legislative council and board of education.

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

Mario Ciccarini, 51, is running for election to the Hamden Board of Education as a Republican.

Education.

Doctorate in Education, University of Bridgeport; Sixth Year Certificate in Educational Leadership, SCSU; Master of Arts in Teaching, Sacred Heart University

What is your occupation?

School Principal (11 years)

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Marina (wife), lifelong Hamden resident; Marissa (22) - HHS class of 2019; Alyssa (20) - HHS class of 2021; Sophia (17) - HHS class of 2024; Michael (9) - West Woods Grade 4

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

No

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

As a public educator of 26 years, I have knowledge and experience that I can bring to the Hamden Board of Education. I can ask questions that perhaps other board members are unable to ask. I also want to be a voice for all Hamden parents as a fellow parent. I believe in full transparency throughout the school district. Students, families, and staff should have a say in critical decision-making. I also believe that we need to ensure that funding streams, including grants, are going to services that support our students. I also stress the importance of early detection and intervention for at-risk students so we can support them before the gaps become larger. I also believe in the equitable distribution of resources to the students (and schools) that need them the most. As a Hamden board member, I can help guide decision-making that serves the best interests of all Hamden students.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is \_\_\_, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Student safety, health, and well-being

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

I have diverse experience in public education that no other candidate or sitting board member has. I have served as a classroom teacher for 13 years and school leader for 13 years. I have experience at both the elementary and secondary levels. I have several degrees, including an Ed.D., in Educational Leadership and I am able to apply my expertise and skills in practical and meaningful ways to support students best.

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

I have 26 years of experience working in public education and with boards of education. I am aware of the amount of work that goes into serving on a board and am willing and able to meet these demands with the utmost integrity and transparency.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

As an educator, treat every child as you would want your own child to be treated.

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

I have been a Hamden resident for 26 years. I have four children who have gone through or are currently in the Hamden school system. Some students are successful in our schools, but not all students. We have great potential to meet the needs of a diverse student population, but we need to do a better job supporting our staff with the resources they require to address these student needs.

Are you running for office in Hamden? Email vincent.salzo@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile on Hamden Patch.