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Talia Rodriguez
From Ballotpedia
Talia Rodriguez is running for election to the Buffalo Board of Education to represent West District in New York. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 4, 2025.[source]
Rodriguez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Talia Rodriguez was born in Buffalo, New York. She earned a bachelor's degree from St. John Fisher College in 2010, a graduate degree from the State University of New York, Empire State College in 2012, and a law degree from the University of Buffalo in 2015. Her career experience includes working in nonprofit management.[1]
Elections
2025
See also: Buffalo Public Schools, New York, elections (2025)
General election
The general election will occur on November 4, 2025.
General election for Buffalo Board of Education West District
Incumbent Jennifer Mecozzi, Mustafa Abdo, and Talia Rodriguez are running in the general election for Buffalo Board of Education West District on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
 | Jennifer Mecozzi (Nonpartisan)  | |
 | Mustafa Abdo (Nonpartisan) | |
 | Talia Rodriguez (Nonpartisan) | |
| ||||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
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Campaign themes
2025
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Talia Rodriguez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Rodriguez's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I’m Talia Rodriguez, a fifth-generation West Side resident, mother, attorney, and lifelong advocate for equity. I hold a J.D. from the University at Buffalo School of Law and have spent my career working to uplift vulnerable children and families across Buffalo. If elected, I would be the first Latina to serve on the Buffalo Board of Education—a reflection of our community’s growing diversity and resilience.
Raised in a proud union household, I’ve carried forward the values of solidarity, fairness, and collective power. As a department representative for United University Professions (UUP), I championed workers’ rights while serving as Associate Civic Engagement Director at Buffalo State University and Director of the West Side Promise Neighborhood. I know firsthand how strong schools, strong unions, and strong communities go hand in hand.
My work has always centered the people most often left behind. As the West Zone Leader at Say Yes Buffalo, I played a crucial role in establishing the BPS Saturday Academy to expand student opportunity. I founded and secured funding for the Lafayette High School business competition, opened food pantries to fight hunger, and expanded summer lunch programs to address food insecurity. I’ve also helped direct critical funding to organizations serving underserved communities.
I’m running for the Board of Education to ensure every child has access to a safe, inclusive, and high-quality public education.- Community First, Always Talia is a fifth-generation West Side resident and working mother who knows that schools thrive when they are rooted in the voices and values of the communities they serve. She’s not a career politician—she’s a neighbor, a parent, and an advocate who listens. Her campaign is grounded in lived experience and deep local connection. Talia believes that decision-making should be transparent, inclusive, and accountable. As a board member, she will fight to ensure students, families, educators, and staff are meaningfully engaged and respected in shaping the future of our schools.
- Equity, Health & Justice Talia brings a health equity and social justice lens to school leadership—because zip code, income, race, or language should never determine a child’s chance at success. She has championed ESL learners, LGBTQ+ youth, foster children, parenting students, and others who are often left behind. She’s led initiatives to expand food access, improve school inclusion, and connect families to vital resources. Her advocacy is centered on ensuring all students not only learn, but feel safe, supported, and seen in their schools—emotionally, socially, and academically.
- Proven, Data-Informed Leadership Talia has a track record of delivering results that meet real needs—from launching BPS’s Saturday Academy to securing funding for student competitions and community programs. She believes data should guide smart, equitable decisions—especially when it comes to school safety, communication, and student outcomes. Her leadership blends compassion with strategy, ensuring that our students are not only educated but prepared for life after graduation. Talia will prioritize policies that build career and world readiness, and she will hold systems accountable to deliver on that promise.
I’m deeply passionate about public policies that advance educational equity, youth empowerment, and community wellness. My work has centered on ensuring that all children—regardless of their zip code, language, race, or family income—have access to a safe, inclusive, and high-quality education. I care deeply about policies that support working families, protect the rights of educators and school staff, and remove barriers for historically marginalized students.
I’m especially focused on the intersections of education, health equity, and social justice—schools don’t exist in isolation. Access to nutritious food, mental health supports, culturally responsive curriculum, and safe learning environments are all essential to student success.
I’m especially focused on the intersections of education, health equity, and social justice—schools don’t exist in isolation. Access to nutritious food, mental health supports, culturally responsive curriculum, and safe learning environments are all essential to student success.
I’m inspired every day by my 8-year-old son—his curiosity, kindness, and hope remind me why this work matters and motivate me to build a better, more equitable future for all. I also look up to the incredible examples set by my family. My grandmother’s bravery in marching with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. instilled in me a deep sense of justice and the power of grassroots activism. My father, a dedicated County administrator and proud union member, taught me the importance of public service and standing up for workers’ rights. My mother, a healthcare worker and union member, showed me compassion and resilience in the face of challenges.
I would recommend “Mindset” by Carol Dweck to anyone wanting to understand my political philosophy. This book highlights how fostering a growth mindset—believing abilities can develop through effort—shapes student outcomes far more than simply mimicking adult behaviors or fixed traits. It reflects my belief that education must empower students to be resilient, curious, and confident learners. This perspective fuels my commitment to creating schools that support every child’s potential through inclusive, nurturing, and equitable environments.
The most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, courage, and compassion. Integrity means doing the right thing—even when it’s hard—and staying rooted in your values. Accountability means being transparent, responsive to the people you serve, and willing to listen, learn, and adapt. Courage is essential to stand up for what’s right, especially when advocating for communities that are often ignored or underserved. And compassion is the foundation of good leadership—seeing the humanity in every person and leading with empathy.
An elected official should also be collaborative, data-informed, and community-centered. We don’t lead in isolation—we lead in partnership with the people. That means showing up, staying grounded, and keeping the voices of students, families, and workers at the heart of every decision.
An elected official should also be collaborative, data-informed, and community-centered. We don’t lead in isolation—we lead in partnership with the people. That means showing up, staying grounded, and keeping the voices of students, families, and workers at the heart of every decision.
I bring a strong commitment to equity, integrity, and collaborative leadership—qualities essential for effective public service. My background in law, community advocacy, and union work has equipped me with the skills to listen deeply, build consensus, and advocate fiercely for underserved communities. I am adaptable and solutions-oriented, able to navigate complex challenges while centering the voices of families, educators, and students. Above all, my passion for education and social justice drives me to work tirelessly to create opportunities and foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Someone elected to the Buffalo Board of Education holds the vital responsibility of ensuring our public schools provide a safe, inclusive, and high-quality education for every student. This means setting clear policies that prioritize equity, supporting educators and staff with fair contracts and working conditions, and ensuring resources are distributed fairly across all schools.
Board members must also be accountable to the community—listening to students, families, teachers, and neighbors—and making decisions with transparency and integrity. They should champion programs that address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs, including access to mental health supports, nutritious meals, and culturally relevant curriculum. Ultimately, the board must work to prepare every student to graduate career- and world-ready, equipped to thrive in a diverse and evolving society.
Board members must also be accountable to the community—listening to students, families, teachers, and neighbors—and making decisions with transparency and integrity. They should champion programs that address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs, including access to mental health supports, nutritious meals, and culturally relevant curriculum. Ultimately, the board must work to prepare every student to graduate career- and world-ready, equipped to thrive in a diverse and evolving society.
I want to leave a legacy of meaningful, lasting change that ensures every student—regardless of their background—has access to a high-quality, equitable education that prepares them for success in school, work, and life. I hope to be remembered as a leader who uplifted marginalized voices, fostered community trust, and championed policies that addressed not only academic needs but also the social, emotional, and economic challenges our students and families face. Ultimately, I want my work to inspire future generations to continue striving for justice, opportunity, and inclusion.
One of the first historical events I remember learning about is the 1990s push for Puerto Rican self-determination and cultural pride, which deeply influenced many in our community during my early years. Growing up, I was especially inspired by my grandmother, who marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement. Her courage and dedication to justice have shaped my commitment to equity, community empowerment, and advocacy for marginalized voices, especially within our vibrant Puerto Rican and broader Latino community.
My very first job was an internship with the U.S. Court System, where I worked for a year focused on combatting violence against women and human trafficking. This experience deeply shaped my commitment to justice and advocacy, giving me firsthand insight into the importance of protecting vulnerable populations and navigating complex legal systems. It laid the foundation for my dedication to public service and equity, which continues to drive my work today.
My favorite book is Mindset by Carol Dweck. It explores how our beliefs about learning and intelligence can shape student success. This book has deeply influenced my approach to education, emphasizing the importance of fostering a growth mindset in both students and educators. By encouraging resilience and a love of learning, we can help every student reach their full potential and prepare for the challenges of the real world.
Bad Bunny’s “Tití Me Preguntó.”
One significant struggle in my life has been navigating spaces where Latinas and women are often underrepresented, especially in male-dominated fields and leadership roles. Facing inequity and implicit bias has challenged me to work twice as hard to have my voice heard and my contributions valued. On a personal level, balancing family responsibilities, including being a mother, with professional and community commitments has required resilience and determination. These experiences have strengthened my empathy and fueled my passion to advocate for equity, representation, and opportunities for all marginalized communities.
The primary job of a school board member is to serve as a trusted steward of the public education system—ensuring that all students have access to a safe, equitable, and high-quality learning environment. This involves setting policies that support student success, advocating for fair resources and strong support for educators, and holding the district accountable to families and the community. A school board member must listen deeply, lead with integrity, and prioritize the voices and needs of students, families, and staff to build schools where everyone can thrive.
The West District is Buffalo’s most impacted and high-need community, facing significant challenges such as economic hardship, food insecurity, and barriers related to language and access. Yet, it is also a place of incredible strength, rich culture, and untapped potential. The district’s diverse families—especially its large Latino and New American populations—bring vibrant traditions, resilience, and a deep commitment to education and community.
I believe that by investing in our schools with equity, respect, and culturally responsive policies, we can unlock the full potential of every student. Our community’s diversity is a powerful asset that enriches the learning environment and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. My campaign is about turning challenges into opportunities and celebrating the strength that comes from our shared culture and collective hope.
I believe that by investing in our schools with equity, respect, and culturally responsive policies, we can unlock the full potential of every student. Our community’s diversity is a powerful asset that enriches the learning environment and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. My campaign is about turning challenges into opportunities and celebrating the strength that comes from our shared culture and collective hope.
Supporting the diverse needs of the West District requires an inclusive and holistic approach. I would prioritize culturally responsive teaching and curriculum that honors the backgrounds and languages of our students. For faculty and staff, I would advocate for ongoing professional development focused on equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed practices to ensure all educators feel supported and empowered.
I believe in strengthening wraparound services—such as mental health supports, language access, and family engagement programs—to address barriers beyond the classroom. Listening to students, families, and staff regularly will guide responsive policies and resources. By fostering collaboration among educators, community organizations, and families, we can build a supportive environment where everyone thrives.
I believe in strengthening wraparound services—such as mental health supports, language access, and family engagement programs—to address barriers beyond the classroom. Listening to students, families, and staff regularly will guide responsive policies and resources. By fostering collaboration among educators, community organizations, and families, we can build a supportive environment where everyone thrives.
Building authentic relationships with the broader community is essential to effective school leadership. I will prioritize consistent outreach and engagement by attending neighborhood meetings, cultural events, and community forums throughout the West District. I plan to partner closely with local organizations that serve our diverse populations—such as immigrant and refugee support groups, Latino advocacy organizations, parent-teacher associations, and youth empowerment programs.
I will also work to connect with faith-based groups, small businesses, and unions, recognizing their vital role in community life. Listening sessions and accessible communication—offered in multiple languages—will be key to ensuring all voices are heard. By fostering trust and collaboration, I aim to build a network of partners committed to advancing equity and opportunity for every student and family.
I will also work to connect with faith-based groups, small businesses, and unions, recognizing their vital role in community life. Listening sessions and accessible communication—offered in multiple languages—will be key to ensuring all voices are heard. By fostering trust and collaboration, I aim to build a network of partners committed to advancing equity and opportunity for every student and family.
Good teaching goes beyond delivering content—it inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience while meeting students where they are. It incorporates culturally responsive practices, differentiates instruction for diverse learners, and fosters a supportive classroom where students feel safe and motivated to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Effective teaching prepares students not only with knowledge but with real-world skills like collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence.
To measure good teaching, I support a balanced approach that includes student growth data, classroom observations, and meaningful feedback from students and families. Evaluation systems should emphasize continuous professional development rather than punitive measures.
I believe our curriculum must evolve to meet the demands of today’s rapidly changing world and the diverse needs of our students. Expanding advanced technical training and apprenticeship opportunities is essential to prepare students for high-demand careers and lifelong success. I support partnerships with local businesses, trade schools, and community colleges to create hands-on learning pathways in fields like technology, healthcare, green energy, and skilled trades.
Additionally, I would advance innovative programming that integrates social-emotional learning, financial literacy, and digital citizenship to equip students with critical life skills. Expanding arts, athletics, and wellness programs is also vital for holistic development.
To ensure our schools are properly funded, I would advocate for transparent and equitable budgeting that prioritizes the needs of high-impact, high-need schools in our district. I will work closely with state and local officials to secure increased funding, emphasizing the critical link between resources and student success.
Addressing decreasing enrollment is essential, as it directly impacts funding formulas. I would promote community engagement campaigns to rebuild trust in our schools and highlight the strengths and improvements within our district. Expanding innovative programs, career pathways, and wraparound services can attract and retain families.
My policies for safety in schools are driven by principles of equity, respect, and holistic well-being. Safety means more than physical security—it includes creating welcoming environments where every student feels emotionally and socially supported. I prioritize restorative practices over punitive discipline, focusing on conflict resolution and mental health resources to address root causes of behavioral issues.
I believe in investing in trained counselors, culturally responsive staff, and strong relationships between students, families, and school personnel. Safety policies must also ensure equitable treatment for all students, free from bias or discrimination, so that every child can learn without fear. Ultimately, a safe school is one where students are empowered, supported, and prepared to thrive.
I believe in investing in trained counselors, culturally responsive staff, and strong relationships between students, families, and school personnel. Safety policies must also ensure equitable treatment for all students, free from bias or discrimination, so that every child can learn without fear. Ultimately, a safe school is one where students are empowered, supported, and prepared to thrive.
Supporting mental health requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach. I would advocate for increased access to mental health professionals—such as counselors, social workers, and psychologists—within schools to provide timely support for students, faculty, and staff. It’s important to integrate social-emotional learning into the curriculum to help students build resilience, self-awareness, and coping skills.
For faculty and staff, I support professional development around mental health awareness and stress management, along with resources that promote workplace wellness. Building partnerships with community mental health organizations can expand services and ensure continuity of care. Creating a culture that reduces stigma and encourages open conversations about mental health is essential to fostering a safe and supportive school environment for everyone.
For faculty and staff, I support professional development around mental health awareness and stress management, along with resources that promote workplace wellness. Building partnerships with community mental health organizations can expand services and ensure continuity of care. Creating a culture that reduces stigma and encourages open conversations about mental health is essential to fostering a safe and supportive school environment for everyone.
I don't think I have one! My campaign manager is very funny though.
I believe our district must rethink policies around data collection and discipline to better serve all students, especially those who are justice-involved or facing hardship. We should expand data gathering to include students’ basic needs—such as whether they have access to meals, housing stability, and other essentials—to ensure support systems can be targeted effectively. Understanding students’ lives outside of school, including the work they do and their social-emotional challenges, is crucial for shaping responsive policies.
Regarding discipline, I support reducing suspensions and replacing punitive measures with restorative practices that address root causes and help students heal and grow. Social-emotional learning must be fully integrated into education as a core component, equipping students with skills to navigate relationships, manage emotions, and prepare for the real world. These policy shifts will create a more equitable, supportive environment that promotes both academic and personal success.
Regarding discipline, I support reducing suspensions and replacing punitive measures with restorative practices that address root causes and help students heal and grow. Social-emotional learning must be fully integrated into education as a core component, equipping students with skills to navigate relationships, manage emotions, and prepare for the real world. These policy shifts will create a more equitable, supportive environment that promotes both academic and personal success.
National Democratic Municipal Officials, SMART Local 71, UFCW District Union Local One, 1199SEIU
My ideal learning environment is safe, inclusive, and nurturing—where every student feels valued, seen, and empowered to reach their full potential. It is a space that celebrates diversity, embraces different learning styles, and incorporates culturally responsive teaching that reflects students’ backgrounds and experiences.
This environment prioritizes social-emotional well-being alongside academic achievement, with access to mental health supports, restorative practices, and strong relationships between students, educators, and families. Classrooms are engaging and hands-on, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. Resources are equitably distributed so all students have what they need, whether that’s technology, nutritious meals, or enrichment programs.
No one could have fully prepared for the unprecedented challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. Our district faced immense obstacles in rapidly shifting to remote learning, ensuring student and staff safety, and addressing widening inequities. While there were successes in mobilizing resources and adapting to new realities, the experience also revealed gaps in emergency preparedness, communication, and technology access.
Moving forward, I believe the district must adopt a robust emergency preparedness framework that emphasizes collaboration among educators, health officials, families, and community partners. Clear, timely communication and data-driven decision-making will be essential to modify operations quickly and effectively during any future crises. This approach will help us protect our school community’s health, maintain educational continuity, and ensure that all students continue to receive the support they need under any circumstance.
Moving forward, I believe the district must adopt a robust emergency preparedness framework that emphasizes collaboration among educators, health officials, families, and community partners. Clear, timely communication and data-driven decision-making will be essential to modify operations quickly and effectively during any future crises. This approach will help us protect our school community’s health, maintain educational continuity, and ensure that all students continue to receive the support they need under any circumstance.
Building strong relationships with parents is a top priority. I will create open, welcoming channels for communication that respect families’ languages, schedules, and cultural backgrounds. This means hosting regular community meetings, family forums, and listening sessions both in person and virtually, with interpretation services to ensure accessibility. I want parents to feel their voices are valued partners in decision-making, not just recipients of information.
I’ll also work to strengthen parent engagement by collaborating with schools, PTAs, and community groups to provide resources and support that empower families—from understanding school policies to accessing wraparound services. My goal is to build trust through transparency, responsiveness, and consistent outreach so parents feel connected, informed, and confident in their child’s education.
I’ll also work to strengthen parent engagement by collaborating with schools, PTAs, and community groups to provide resources and support that empower families—from understanding school policies to accessing wraparound services. My goal is to build trust through transparency, responsiveness, and consistent outreach so parents feel connected, informed, and confident in their child’s education.
My preferred strategy for recruiting faculty, staff, and administration centers on equity, inclusivity, and community alignment. I believe it’s vital to attract diverse candidates who reflect the rich backgrounds of our students and families, ensuring culturally responsive teaching and leadership. To do this, I support proactive outreach to minority-serving institutions, community organizations, and professional networks that connect with educators of color and bilingual professionals.
I also emphasize creating welcoming and supportive work environments that prioritize professional growth, mentorship, and competitive compensation to retain top talent. Partnering with local colleges and universities for pipelines, offering apprenticeships or residencies, and involving current staff and community members in recruitment processes will help build a team committed to equity and student success.
I also emphasize creating welcoming and supportive work environments that prioritize professional growth, mentorship, and competitive compensation to retain top talent. Partnering with local colleges and universities for pipelines, offering apprenticeships or residencies, and involving current staff and community members in recruitment processes will help build a team committed to equity and student success.
In today’s increasingly diverse and vibrant community, especially with many new American families making Buffalo their home, there is a critical need for greater transparency and community input around the school budget. Financial decisions must be accessible and understandable to all families, including those for whom English is a second language or who may be unfamiliar with local government processes.
Engaging our community in meaningful conversations about how funds are allocated empowers families to advocate for their children’s needs and ensures that the budget reflects the priorities of all residents. I am committed to promoting clear communication and inclusive outreach so that every voice—regardless of background or language—can help shape a school system that is equitable, accountable, and truly serves our diverse students.
Engaging our community in meaningful conversations about how funds are allocated empowers families to advocate for their children’s needs and ensures that the budget reflects the priorities of all residents. I am committed to promoting clear communication and inclusive outreach so that every voice—regardless of background or language—can help shape a school system that is equitable, accountable, and truly serves our diverse students.
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See also
2025 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on June 13, 2025
