Nicholas St. John (New Hampshire)

Nicholas St. John is a member-elect of the Manchester Board of School Committee in New Hampshire, representing Ward 8. He assumes office in 2026.

St. John ran for election to the Manchester Board of School Committee to represent Ward 8 in New Hampshire. He won in the general election on November 4, 2025.

St. John completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Elections

2025

General election

General election for Manchester Board of School Committee Ward 8

Nicholas St. John defeated Malinda McCusker in the general election for Manchester Board of School Committee Ward 8 on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Nicholas St. John (Nonpartisan)	52.0	820
	Submit photo	Malinda McCusker (Nonpartisan)	48.0	756

	There were no incumbents in this race. Source	Total votes: 1,576
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

The primary election was canceled. Malinda McCusker and Nicholas St. John advanced from the primary for Manchester Board of School Committee Ward 8.

Endorsements

St. John received the following endorsements.

New Hampshire Young Democrats
603 Forward

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Nicholas St. John completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by St. John's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

As a former teacher turned engineer, I bring both classroom experience and new ideas to the table. I’ll work to invest in our teachers and schools to deliver the education that our kids deserve here in Manchester.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Accountability That Works. Every dollar should show results in student achievement, teacher support, and safe schools.
Student Rights, Not Censorship. Kids have the right to a world-class education, freedom to learn, and schools free from political interference. Parents and teachers should have a real voice, not outside agendas.
Real School Safety. True safety means smaller class sizes, anti-bullying programs, mental health resources, and respect for every student.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Smart Investment in Education Fiscal responsibility isn’t about cuts; it’s about investing wisely in teachers, STEM, and trades so kids are ready for the real world.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look at regular people, and how they give back to the community. I want to give back in anyway that I can. The more people that look out for others the better our society can be.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

The most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and the willingness to put people over politics. Voters deserve leaders who are transparent, who listen more than they speak, and who are willing to do the hard work of solving problems instead of recycling slogans.

As a former teacher, I learned quickly that students thrive when adults are consistent, fair, and committed to their growth. Those same principles apply to public service: every decision should be rooted in what will help our community’s kids succeed. As an engineer who has served in the U.S. Space Force and now works in the private sector, I know the value of evidence-based problem-solving. We need elected officials who use facts, not fear, to make decisions — who plan for the future rather than fight yesterday’s battles.

I also believe humility and service are essential. An elected official is not a ruler, but a representative of the people. That means engaging openly with parents, students, teachers, and taxpayers, and ensuring every voice is heard. It means owning mistakes, being accountable for results, and always remembering that the trust of the community is something to be earned, not assumed.

At the end of the day, character shows in action: showing up, putting in the work, and never forgetting that the job is about building a stronger future for our kids and community. Those are the principles I live by and will carry into office.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibility of a School Board member is to put students first. Every decision — from budgets to curriculum to facilities — should be guided by one simple question: Does this help our kids succeed?

That means ensuring our schools are safe, modern, and welcoming. It means investing in teachers, because no system can rise higher than the people in the classrooms every day. It means keeping politics out of education and making sure students have the freedom to learn, explore, and prepare for the real world.

Another core responsibility is fiscal stewardship. Taxpayers deserve confidence that every dollar is spent wisely. But fiscal responsibility doesn’t mean cutting corners — it means making smart investments in teachers, technology, trades, and STEM so our students are ready for the jobs of the future.

Finally, the role requires accountability and accessibility. A School Board member is a representative of the community, not a distant authority. The job is to listen to parents, students, and teachers; to weigh their perspectives honestly; and to be transparent about decisions and outcomes.

I bring experience as a former teacher, the problem-solving mindset of an engineer, and a record of service to my community. My responsibility in this office would be to make sure Manchester’s schools prepare every student for success, and that our community can be proud of the opportunities we provide for the next generation.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I don’t think about legacy too much, just want to impact people in my life positively.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Gay marriage being legalized. I was 20.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked as a grocery bagger, for two years, starting when I was 16.

What is your favorite book? Why?

God’s Equation (Physics) It is about Einstein toiling the end of his life in search of a theory of everything. He did not succeed.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Superman, so I could end all wars, and bring humanity together.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Eating healthy is a struggle. It is so easy to just get takeout every day. It takes a lot of effort to prepare and eat healthy meals consistently.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

The primary job of a School Board member is to make sure our schools are giving every student the best possible chance to succeed. That means focusing on three big things: setting priorities, ensuring accountability, and representing the community.

First, the Board sets the vision and direction for the district. It’s not about micromanaging teachers or classrooms, but about making sure the system has clear goals — strong academics, safe schools, and opportunities for every child.

Second, the Board is accountable for how resources are used. Our responsibility is to make sure every tax dollar is spent wisely, with real results in student learning, teacher support, and modern facilities.

Finally, the Board must be a voice for the community. That means listening to parents, students, and teachers, keeping politics out of the classroom, and ensuring decisions are made transparently and fairly.

In short, the School Board’s job is to create the conditions for success: empower teachers, invest in schools, and make sure Manchester’s kids are prepared for the future.

Who are your constituents?

My constituents are the people of Ward 8 and, more broadly, the students, families, and taxpayers of Manchester. While only Ward 8 residents vote in this election, the decisions I make as a School Board member will impact every student, teacher, and parent in our city.

First and foremost, students are at the center of everything. They’re the reason this office exists — every policy, budget, and program should be measured by how it helps kids learn, grow, and prepare for the future.

Next are parents and families, who deserve a real voice in shaping the schools their children attend. Their trust is essential, and their perspectives need to be respected.

Teachers and school staff are also key constituents. They’re the ones who carry out the day-to-day work of education, and our responsibility is to support them with the resources, training, and respect they need to succeed.

Finally, taxpayers and community members are constituents as well. They have the right to expect accountability, transparency, and confidence that their investment in schools is being used wisely.

So when I say “constituents,” I don’t mean one group over another — it’s all of Manchester, with students at the heart of it.

How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?

Supporting the needs of our students, faculty, staff, and community starts with listening. Every group has a different perspective, and the role of a School Board member is to make sure those voices are heard and reflected in decisions.

For students, the priority is opportunity. That means safe classrooms, strong academics, vocational pathways, and the freedom to learn without politics interfering. Every Manchester student deserves a fair shot at success, whether their future is in college, a trade, the military, or straight into the workforce.

For faculty and staff, support means respect, resources, and competitive pay. I’ve been a teacher, and I know how challenging the job is when class sizes are too large, when resources are stretched thin, or when educators feel undervalued. Investing in our teachers is investing directly in our kids’ success.

For the wider community, it’s about accountability and transparency. Taxpayers deserve confidence that their dollars are being spent wisely, not wasted. Families deserve schools that reflect the values of safety, respect, and inclusion. Businesses and employers deserve a school system that graduates students ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

My approach is to combine my classroom experience, my technical training as an engineer, and my commitment to service to make sure Manchester schools work for everyone. When our students succeed, the whole community succeeds.

How will you build relationships with members of the broader community? Which groups, organizations, stakeholders will you specifically target?

Building strong relationships with the community is one of the most important responsibilities of a School Board member. The decisions we make in the district affect not just students and teachers, but the entire city, so collaboration has to extend beyond the walls of any one school.

First, I’ll be present and accessible. That means attending neighborhood meetings, PTO events, and community forums, but also making myself available one-on-one by phone, email, and in person. Trust is built when people know they can reach you and get a fair hearing.

Second, I’ll seek out partnerships with key organizations that directly impact students’ lives: local nonprofits that provide after-school programs, youth sports leagues, community health providers, and groups focused on mental health and family support. Strengthening those connections ensures that students get wraparound support, not just what happens in the classroom.

Third, I’ll work closely with teachers’ unions, parent-teacher groups, and student councils. Teachers and staff need to feel respected and heard, and students themselves should have a direct voice in shaping their education.

Finally, I’ll reach out to the business and higher education communities. Manchester’s economy depends on a strong pipeline of skilled graduates, and our schools should be connected to employers, trade programs, and colleges so students see clear pathways into the future.

In short, I’ll build relationships by listening, showing up, and creating ongoing dialogue with families, educators, community groups, and local employers. When we work together, Manchester’s schools and students are stronger.

What constitutes good teaching? How will you measure this? How will you support advanced teaching approaches?

Good teaching combines deep content knowledge, high expectations, and the ability to engage and challenge every student while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and social-emotional growth. It adapts instruction to diverse learning styles, incorporates data to inform decisions, and balances rigor with support. Assessment should be continuous, combining formative feedback, performance-based tasks, and reflective practices rather than relying solely on standardized tests.

I would measure teaching effectiveness through multiple metrics: student growth and engagement data, classroom observations, peer and administrative evaluations, and student and parent feedback. These measures ensure a holistic view that values outcomes, process, and classroom culture.

To support advanced teaching approaches, I would provide ongoing professional development, mentorship, collaborative planning time, and access to technology and innovative instructional resources. Teachers would be encouraged to experiment with project-based learning, interdisciplinary units, and adaptive technologies, with a culture of reflective practice and knowledge-sharing across the district.

What strategies or plans would you advance to ensure the schools are properly funded?

I would pursue a multi-tiered approach to ensure sustainable funding. First, I would maximize state and federal allocations by actively applying for all grants, special programs, and Title funding available. Second, I would advocate at the local and state level for equitable funding formulas that reflect student needs, particularly for underserved populations. Third, I would implement transparent budgeting practices to prioritize classroom resources, staff development, and infrastructure improvements. Fourth, I would cultivate partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations for supplemental support and innovative programs. Finally, I would explore cost efficiencies—energy savings, shared services, and strategic procurement—without reducing instructional quality, ensuring every dollar directly benefits students and learning outcomes.

What principles drive your policies for safety in schools?

My safety policies are guided by the principles of prevention, preparedness, equity, and responsiveness. Prevention focuses on creating secure physical and digital environments through infrastructure, training, and proactive threat assessments. Preparedness ensures clear protocols, regular drills, and coordinated response plans with staff, students, and first responders. Equity ensures all students and staff, regardless of background or ability, have equal access to safety resources and support. Responsiveness emphasizes timely communication, crisis management, and post-incident support to restore a sense of security and trust. These principles balance physical protection with mental well-being, fostering a safe, supportive environment where learning can thrive.

How might you support the mental health needs of students/faculty/staff?

I would support mental health by establishing a comprehensive, proactive framework for students, faculty, and staff. This would include access to trained counselors, social-emotional learning programs, and confidential support services. Regular mental health screenings, stress management workshops, and resilience-building activities would be implemented for all groups. For faculty and staff, professional development would address burnout prevention, work-life balance, and peer support networks. I would also integrate clear referral pathways, crisis intervention protocols, and community partnerships with mental health organizations. Promoting an open, stigma-free culture around mental wellness would be central, ensuring everyone feels safe to seek help and supported in maintaining their well-being.

What existing district policies would you like to change, or what new policies would you like to implement?

I would focus on policies that enhance equity, student success, and staff support. Existing disciplinary policies should shift from punitive approaches to restorative practices that address behavior while keeping students engaged in learning. Attendance and grading policies could be updated to emphasize mastery and growth over rigid metrics. I would implement a district-wide mental health and wellness policy, ensuring access to counseling, social-emotional learning, and crisis support. Technology policies should balance innovation with privacy and security safeguards. For staff, I’d establish mentorship, professional development, and career pathway policies to improve retention and performance. Finally, I would create clear parent and community engagement policies to foster transparency, collaboration, and accountability across the district.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Manchester Education Association

603 Forward
New Hampshire Young Democrats

Manchester City Democrats

Describe your ideal learning environment for students.

My ideal learning environment balances high expectations with support, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and real-world application. It is student-centered, inclusive, and adaptable, where every learner feels safe, valued, and challenged. Classrooms are collaborative yet allow for individual exploration, integrating project-based learning, technology, and hands-on experiences to make abstract concepts tangible. Clear structures and routines provide consistency, while flexible approaches accommodate diverse learning styles and needs. Teachers act as facilitators and mentors, encouraging inquiry, problem-solving, and creativity rather than rote memorization. Assessment is multifaceted—combining formative feedback, performance tasks, and reflective practices—to guide growth rather than punish errors. Beyond academics, the environment cultivates social-emotional skills, resilience, and civic responsibility, connecting learning to life skills and community engagement. Strong partnerships with families, staff, and the community reinforce this ecosystem, ensuring students are supported holistically, empowered to reach their potential, and prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.

What will you do to build a relationship with parents in the district?

To build strong relationships with parents in the district, I would prioritize transparent communication, consistent engagement, and genuine collaboration. I would establish multiple channels for parents to connect with me—email updates, social media, town halls, and in-person meetings—ensuring they feel heard and informed. I’d actively solicit parent input on curriculum, extracurricular programs, and safety policies, using surveys and focus groups to make decisions more inclusive. Recognizing that families have diverse needs and schedules, I would offer flexible opportunities for involvement, from volunteer initiatives to virtual Q&A sessions. I’d also ensure parents understand how district resources are allocated and the rationale behind key decisions, fostering trust through transparency. Finally, I would focus on proactive problem-solving, addressing concerns quickly and respectfully, while highlighting successes in student learning and community programs. By creating a culture of mutual respect and partnership, I aim to make parents feel like true collaborators in shaping a thriving educational environment.

What are your preferred strategies for faculty, staff, and administration recruitment?

My approach to recruiting faculty, staff, and administration focuses on attracting high-quality candidates while fostering a diverse, collaborative, and mission-driven workforce. Key strategies would include:

1. Targeted Outreach: Leverage professional networks, educational associations, and online platforms to reach candidates aligned with our district’s values and goals.
2. Diversity and Inclusion: Prioritize recruiting from varied backgrounds to ensure our staff reflects the student body and brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
3. Competitive and Transparent Hiring: Offer clear role expectations, competitive compensation, and growth opportunities to attract and retain top talent.
4. Pipeline Development: Partner with universities, teacher preparation programs, and local training initiatives to cultivate emerging educators and administrators early.
5. Collaborative Selection: Include faculty and parent input in hiring panels where appropriate to ensure alignment with school culture and community expectations.
6. Retention-Focused Recruitment: Highlight professional development, mentorship programs, and career pathways to attract candidates interested in long-term growth within the district.

This combination ensures we hire capable, motivated individuals who are committed to student success and district improvement.

Are there any areas of school curriculum you would like to see changed?

Yes. I would prioritize curriculum that is more interdisciplinary, skills-focused, and relevant to real-world challenges. STEM subjects should integrate applied problem-solving and technology, including AI literacy, coding, and data analysis, rather than teaching theory in isolation. Humanities and social sciences should emphasize critical thinking, media literacy, civic engagement, and ethical reasoning. Life skills—financial literacy, mental health awareness, communication, and resilience—should be systematically incorporated. I would also expand opportunities for project-based and experiential learning, internships, and community partnerships, ensuring students can connect classroom concepts to tangible outcomes. Finally, curriculum review should be continuous, data-informed, and inclusive of teacher and student feedback, allowing flexibility to adapt to evolving workforce needs, societal shifts, and student interests.

What role should artificial intelligence have in your school district?

Artificial intelligence should serve as a tool to enhance learning, streamline operations, and support data-driven decision-making while maintaining ethical safeguards. In classrooms, AI can personalize instruction by analyzing student performance in real time, identifying gaps, and recommending tailored resources to accelerate growth. It can assist teachers with administrative tasks—grading, attendance, lesson planning—freeing more time for direct student engagement. District-wide, AI can optimize resource allocation, predict enrollment trends, and support early interventions for at-risk students. Crucially, AI use must include transparency, privacy protections, and teacher oversight to prevent bias or overreliance. Additionally, AI literacy should be part of the curriculum, equipping students with skills to understand, evaluate, and ethically apply these technologies in the real world. The goal is not to replace educators but to empower them and students, making learning more adaptive, efficient, and equitable.

Candidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable?

I was saddened by a story about a father whose son was being crammed into a school that was combined due to the budgetary restraints being forced on our school district by the mayor and city.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

I have volunteered for every election of my adult life.

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Footnotes

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Nicholas St. John (New Hampshire)

Contents

Elections

2025

General election

General election for Manchester Board of School Committee Ward 8

Nonpartisan primary election

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2026 Elections

2025 Elections

Election analysis

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Public Policy

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