Bob Baines: Ward 9 School Committee candidate

Bob Baines is the incumbent Ward 9 School Committee member.

Occupation: Retired West High School Principal and former Mayor

Education/Background: Bachelor of Education and Master’s in School Administration

How long have you lived in Manchester? 79 Years

Hobbies/Fun Fact about you/other biographical info. Love listening to Jazz and spending time with my wonderful family.

Why should someone vote for you?

I believe that you can’t have a great City without a great public education system. I am committed to help our school system become great by ensuring our students are obtaining 21st Century skills and that all students are meeting their full potential.

How many public high schools should there be in Manchester, where should they be and should any of them be magnet schools?

We are exploring reducing the number of high schools in Manchester. No decision will be made on this without strong public input.

Should all public high schools in Manchester offer some sort of vocational training or should vocational classes by centralized at the current Manchester School of Technology campus?

We are currently exploring all options related to this issue. We are awaiting recommendations from our district administration and consultants working with the school district. This is a complex issue that needs extensive and thoughtful study.

What is your opinion on the first phase of the Manchester School District’s facilities plan? (finishing fifth grade expansions at the middle schools/new Beech Street Elementary)

I am committed to completing the first phase of the plan. This plan was approved by the School Board and Board of Mayor and Alderman before I was elected two years ago and financial commitments were made.

What is your opinion of Education Freedom Accounts?

I am concerned that the limits on family income for receiving state dollars were eliminated and at the same time the State is planning to reduce State support for Manchester by over $12M. This would be devastating to all public schools in Manchester. This issue needs further study by our state leaders.

How can the Manchester School District attract and retain talented staff?

By providing the necessary resources for having great schools and to support our teachers as they educate all of our students with a focus on excellence and steady progress on student achievement. A great school system attracts and retains great teachers and administrators.

What are your thoughts on the Manchester School District’s curricula? 

Curriculum is aligned for the first time across all of our schools thanks to the hard work of the school and district leadership.

What are your thoughts on school budget deliberations in 2026? 

Representatives from the school district, school board and mayor are meeting each month in preparation for the next budget cycle.

Anything else you’d like to add not mentioned here and what is the best way voters can reach you if they have more questions?

I love Manchester and remain committed to ensure my home town remains and great place to call home. That is why I continue to serve. Contact information is provided on the school district website.


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