Why should someone vote for you?
Public education is under brutal attack at the federal, state, and local levels. Those who oppose it are dismantling this foundational institution with reckless disregard for our kids, our educators, and our future. It’s a dangerous threat to our community’s overall well-being and prosperity, and it is wrong. I am driven to pursue public service out of genuine concern and a deep belief in public education as a pillar of democracy. I am unapologetically pro-public schools. I have a heart for service and for kids, and an urgent desire to direct my energy toward listening, learning, and working toward informed, equitable solutions.
How many public high schools should there be in Manchester, where should they be and should any of them be magnet schools?
It’s important to routinely review data, trends, and projections pertaining to Manchester’s population changes, neighborhood development, and economic health in order to make informed decisions about the number and capacity of public high schools needed to serve our community. Other factors to consider include demographics, condition and age of school buildings and grounds, overhead costs, and modernization needs. A comprehensive, data-driven approach ensures that our facilities align with current and future needs. Magnet schools are designed with varying structures and purposes. Understanding their role within the MSD requires careful analysis to evaluate potential impact and identify opportunities for equitable access and outcomes for all students.
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?
Successfully preparing our future workforce is a win-win for our students and our business community. I believe that all high school students would benefit from exposure to some vocational training early in their high school experience to help inform their post-graduate decisions. However, establishing full vocational programs at every high school could strain resources and increase overhead, especially since MST serves other area high schools. I would like to seek more information from our administration and educators on how we could expand access without duplicating efforts. Technology is changing our world at lightning speed, and I believe the priority is to be as proactive and strategic as possible to prepare our students for the careers of tomorrow.
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)
Addressing aging facilities and modernization requirements is an important challenge to any school district that aspires to be forward-thinking. I commend the decision-makers for their thoughtful approach to commencing the facilities projects. The first phase of the facilities plan is an important investment involving good planning and informed preparation. The additions and renovations at our four middle schools support the middle school model that is standard in most communities. Beginning the process to build a new Wilson/Beech Street School not only allowed us to close aging Hallsville and Wilson Schools, but to recommit to a learning environment that meets 21st Century educational needs. Change can be difficult and risk might feel uncertain, but I believe with informed consideration of facts and details, collaboration and dialogue, and good judgement, we can avoid the pitfalls of indecision or stagnation.
What is your opinion of Education Freedom Accounts?
Education Freedom Accounts directly siphon money intended for our state’s public schools to private and religious schools, and are now available to all New Hampshire families regardless of household income. There is little transparency, accountability and oversight, as the program’s third-party administrator, The Children’s Scholarship Fund, does not track student enrollment data. Therefore, a full audit has yet to be completed since the program’s inception in 2021, so we do not really know how the NH Department of Education is administrating the program. This is not how to responsibly steward NH taxpayer funds.
How can the Manchester School District attract and retain talented staff?
Educators and Educational Support Professionals are the heart of our schools. I’ll advocate for competitive pay, professional development and staff training, and working conditions that attract and retain top talent who feel valued and appreciated.
What are your thoughts on the Manchester School District’s curricula?
I encourage curricula that nurtures a child’s curiosity, exposes students to a wide range of topics and interests, promotes critical thinking skills, emphasizes strong literacy and STEM proficiency, and embraces the whole child and their educational experience. As for specifics in the Manchester School District’s curricula, I will learn more, but I defer to the expertise of the professionals who are charged with educating our children.
What are your thoughts on school budget deliberations in 2026?
I am extremely disappointed that Mayor Ruais cut $9.5M from the 2025-2026 Tax-Cap Compliant School Budget after it had been approved unanimously by the BOSC and Chair Ruais himself. After further negotiation with the Board of Aldermen, only $1.5M was restored to the school budget, creating a shortfall leading to reduction of positions and services, and forcing the MSD to tap into the principle of the Education Trust to cover some school operating expenses. This practice is not sustainable and cannot continue. I will participate in the 2026-2027 budget process with prudence and pragmatism. I will advocate for a better understanding of how to use the Education Trust as a legacy endowment, with plans to grow it as an investment and access annual interest incurred only, and not spend the principle down. I will also approach the budget with an investment mindset, knowing that our kids are depending on us to provide them with tools to best prepare them for their future, and that our Educators and Educational Support Professionals know they are supported. It is my earnest hope that the State Legislature will finally take seriously its responsibility to appropriately fund New Hampshire public education, as the New Hampshire Supreme Court has reaffirmed twice in the recent weeks.
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?
As a recently retired nonprofit development professional, I bring decades of experience creating vibrant connections and nurturing relationships with integrity and commitment. I am prepared to tackle complex challenges through collaboration and accountability. My six kids and step-kids are all graduates of NH public schools. Seven of my nine grandkids attend or will soon attend NH public schools, and my husband dedicated 40+ years as a NH public school teacher, administrator, and coach. I, too, am a product of public education! My commitment is genuine, and my belief in our community is sincere. I am eager to earn your trust. My name on the ballot appears as Cindy Rodenhauser Stewart, but I am known socially and professionally as Cindy Stewart. I invite voters to reach out to me! My contact info is posted on my website at cindystewartformanchester.com.