Byron Matto, Portsmouth School Board Candidate

Byron Matto

Age (as of Election Day)

41

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

School Board

Party Affiliation

Family

Married with 3 children age 13, 11, and 3

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Political Science

Occupation

Software Engineer - 15 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

N/A

Campaign website

byronmatto.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

Looking to serve the community in the best capacity I can.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The most existential issue facing our school district the cost of living and ensuring our public employees and afford to live in our community.

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

My 15 years writing software and building systems means I am conditioned to take an iterative and data driven approach. I "allergic" to defining the solution before the problem space is properly understood and we have the data to help inform initial takes. Problem solving is about following the data, iterating, and never being attached to a solution because of "common sense".

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Equity, oversight, and safety.

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

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Don't let perfect be the enemy of the good. Trust is foundational to any relationship.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

It would be an honor to serve this community in the capacity of School Board member.