Mark Warden
Running forWard 8 School Board
in 2023
Running as Non-Partisan Election
As the owner of a small business, I try to understand and honor the challenges of budgeting, personnel issues, technology and systems, market trends, and a work-life balance. I served eight years in the NH legislature and dealt with long meetings, emotionally charged issues, and competing interests. As a taxpayer, I want government to be more efficient and fiscally responsible. I’ll bring this experience to the Manchester School Board (BOSC).
I served four terms in the NH House of Representatives and about a decade ago on the Goffstown Planning Board.
Current jobReal Estate Broker
Long-time advocate for limited government and volunteer for nonprofits
NH Association of REALTORS public policy committee
Taxpayer advocate
Former local planning board member
Served on board of NH Land and Community Heritage Program (LCHIP)
Time lived in NHMoved to Manchester in 2007. Other than about 5 years in Goffstown, the rest of the time I've lived in Manchester.
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Websitehttp://www.markwarden.com/
Why are you running for this office?
The taxpayers of Manchester need more representation on the School Board. The cost of public education has skyrocketed while both enrollment and student test scores have gone down. My aim is to increase accountability and transparency in the school district.
What qualifies you as the best candidate for this office?
Ward 8 voters have traditionally elected fiscally conservative candidates to office and I will continue with that mission to represent taxpayers.
What are your thoughts on the Manchester School District's relationship to city government?
To protect property taxes from going even higher, it’s important for the aldermen to have oversight on MSD projects and spending.
What are your thoughts and plans for the number of public schools needed in Manchester (with breakdown of elementary/middle/high schools in that number?)
With declining enrollment and flexible options for families such as private schools, ESAs and homeschooling, we certainly don’t need to build any new schools. It may make sense to shutter some under-utilized or under-performing schools. I look forward to hearing the superintendent’s recommendations.
What are your thoughts/plans on improving grade-level proficiency scores?
School staff, teachers and principals are in the best position to know what needs to be done. Since proficiency scores have been declining steadily, perhaps resources need to be reallocated to where they are more effective.
How would you address student equity?
This question is too vague and seems to be politically biased. Teachers and principals should be respected and expected to manage their schools appropriately.
What are your thoughts on extra-curricular offerings in Manchester public schools?
There are some fantastic offerings in our district, such as music programs, organized sports, and many more. The question of who funds these things is an important discussion.
What are your thoughts on per-pupil expenditures/costs per student?
The cost per student in MSD is higher than it should be. Taxpayers should expect more accountability and fiscally responsible budgeting from schools. Many private schools offer what is arguably a superior educational experience at a lower cost per student.
What are your thoughts on attracting and retaining high quality Manchester School District staff?
Excellent teachers and staff and management should be competitively compensated. Merit-based pay should be on the table.
What are your thoughts on the Manchester School District's relationship with private schools, charter schools and other school districts that have tuition agreements with Manchester?
In general, competition breeds excellence, along with better service and often at a lower cost. The taxpayers, parents and students in Manchester should have lots of options to suit their individual needs and situations. The more choices students and their families have, the better.
What are your thoughts on and plans on school safety?
A one size fits all approach to school safety is not the solution. School management should continue to work with the superintendent to find creative, adaptive solutions.
What are your thoughts on and/or plans for addressing remote learning/other uses of technology in local education?
Students have a variety of learning styles and we could say that no two students learn the exact same way. Technology has an important role to play in education and every other aspect of our society. I don’t think that 100% remote learning is appropriate for most students and their families. Again, the more choices, the better. I’m also concerned about the potential violations of privacy that some tech products bring with them.
What are your thoughts on or plans for addressing vocational and career-focused educational initiative?
Tell me more! In general, I strongly support more options for trades and career-focused educational tracks for the high school ages.
What are your thoughts on as well as plans for addressing issues and costs related to Special Education/IEPs?
