2026 Candidate Spotlight: Meet Dani Paez

EDGEWOOD, MD — Dani Paez has entered the race for Harford County Board of Education District A. Patch posed questions to each candidate running for office.

Below you will find Paez's responses, verbatim:

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Name: Dani Paez
Age on Election Day: 30

Email address: daniforharco@gmail.com

Campaign website/Facebook page:
daniforharford.com/
facebook.com/DaniPaezforHarCo

Do you have any previous political experience? If so, please state and explain how that experience will influence your time in office if elected.

Previous political experience includes working with the Central Committee, where I gained valuable insights into political processes and community organizing. Additionally, I have worked at New Working Majority for almost four years, New Working Majority was a consulting organization dedicated to supporting labor unions, community organizations, and social enterprises advocating for racial,
economic, and gender justice. I helped contribute to grassroots efforts, electoral activity, and grassroots lobbying initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized communities and building collective power.

What do you believe is the single-most important issue facing voters in the district you’re looking to represent? How do you intend to address those issues?

I believe the single-most important issue facing voters in our district is the quality and accessibility of education. Ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education, have access to resources, and are prepared for their future is essential for the growth and success of our community.

To address these issues, I plan to work closely with educators, parents, and community members to support policies that improve school funding, enhance educational programs, and ensure safe and modern learning environments. Additionally, I will advocate for initiatives that promote equity and opportunity for every student, so that all children in our district can succeed and reach their full potential.

How do you differ from other candidates running against you?

I differ from other candidates because I am the youngest running for this position. I am a proud product of District A schooling, and as the daughter of immigrants who was an ESL student and received free/reduced lunch, I look and sound like many of our district’s students. My background gives me a unique perspective and a genuine understanding of the challenges our students face.

How would your work experience benefit the goals/objectives you’ve outlined in your campaign and/or the office you’re seeking?

My work experience has equipped me with skills that directly benefit the goals and objectives I’ve outlined in my campaign. I have experience managing budgets and finding innovative ways to fund initiatives. I am adept at identifying grants and other funding opportunities to support our community.

Additionally, I know how to collaborate effectively with others
and reach across different groups to find solutions to complex problems. These skills will help me serve our community efficiently and pursue the goals I am committed to achieving.

What is your opinion of the work being done by the current office holder, and how will you improve on it?

I believe the current office holder is doing well in their work, and I appreciate the efforts they have made for our community. I hope to continue supporting my district by building on these efforts, addressing any remaining challenges, and working towards even greater
improvements. My goal is to contribute to the positive momentum and ensure that our district continues to thrive.

How do you feel about the school system in your area and what improvements would you like to see be made?

I believe the school system in our area has a strong foundation and is dedicated to providing quality education to students. However, there is always room for improvement. I would like to see increased investment in school resources, modernized facilities, and technology to better support both students and teachers.

Additionally, I believe we should focus on promoting equity and ensuring that every student has access to the same opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances. Strengthening mental health services,
enhancing extracurricular programs, and fostering a safe and inclusive environment are also important steps toward making our schools even better. My goal is to work collaboratively with educators, parents, and community members to implement these improvements and ensure our school system continues to grow and succeed.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

While I may be young, I am fully dedicated to this role and committed to serving our community. I have already begun familiarizing myself with the implementation of the blueprint to understand how I can best contribute.

Additionally, I am working towards my master's degree in Public Administration to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective leader and advocate. I am passionate about supporting students, educators, and parents, and I am eager to work collaboratively to improve our district and ensure a brighter future for all.