CT Patch Candidate Profile: Gabriela Koc For Stamford Board Of Education

STAMFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 3 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing the city.

Gabriela Koc, a Democrat, is running for re-election on the Stamford Board of Education.

Candidate's Name:

Gabriela Koc

What office are you seeking?

Stamford Board of Education

Age:

30

District:

N/A the board of education is citywide

Party:

Democrat

Campaign website:

https://www.boedems2026.com/

Occupation:

State employee

Family:

Yes, oldest of 3 and married

Does anyone in your family work in government?

My little sister

Previous public office:

Board of Education, I am running for a second term.

Why are you seeking this office?

I'm running for reelection because our district is welcoming a new superintendent, and continuing board members can help provide the stability they need to succeed. Over the past term, the board's culture has improved a great deal, and I want to keep building on that progress. I also want to finish the job I started, including putting our new student representative board policy into practice so students have a real voice in decisions that affect them. I'll keep advocating for more resources so our students, teachers and staff get the support they deserve by working with other boards and our state delegation. When difficult decisions have to be made, I'll take the time to listen, explain my reasoning openly, and make sure our stakeholders feel heard.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:

Like many urban districts, Stamford Public Schools faces challenges that strain our students, staff, and facilities. As a Board member, I can trace many of them back to deep, systemic shortcomings in how public education is funded. But for the average student, pointing to structural failures is neither practical nor helpful. Before students can work toward state standards and graduate with purpose and optimism, they need a foundation of connection and a sense of self-efficacy.

That is why I believe improving school climate in our middle and high schools must be a central focus. I intend to work with our Superintendent and his team on innovative, practical improvements in social-emotional learning, student voice, mental health supports, and restorative practices.

On the policy side, bringing students into district governance as key stakeholders sends a clear message: the adults in charge hear them and believe in their ability to lead and make a difference. In my second term, I want to pass a policy establishing student representation on the Board, along with structures that support and enrich student representatives' participation over time.

I know that passing and monitoring policies like these requires working across the aisle, leading with curiosity and transparency, and setting ambitious goals. The relationships and collaboration I've built over the past three years have prepared us as a team to partner with our new Superintendent on policies, budgets, and governance practices that put students first.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

At 30, I am the youngest candidate in this race. Seeking a second term, I am wiser and savvier, but not jaded, and I'm more optimistic than ever about what we can accomplish together.

Voters may see negative comments about our schools online or in the local news. The reality is that every day, thousands of Stamford families trust our teachers and administrators with their children. Public education is a constant in our community, and it will remain the most accessible choice for parents who believe in the promise of a free, appropriate public education.

I was raised to believe that promise is a core American value. When my family immigrated to this country, they placed their hopes and dreams in my public education, believing it to be the "great equalizer." I know most Stamford Public Schools families feel the same way, and for me, that belief is deeply personal.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

As Chair of the Policy Committee, I helped launch a major project to update our entire policy book and align it with the standards of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE). If re-elected, I am committed to seeing that work through.

I also plan to work with our administration on a comprehensive local and state advocacy plan for public school funding. That plan will include clear, accessible outreach so that families, staff, and the broader Stamford community understand what is at stake and how they can help.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As I seek a second term, I bring experience and a stronger command of how to get things done as a Board member.

During my first campaign, I ran on bringing a welcome center to Stamford Public Schools. With our collective support, the district established one. I followed through on that promise.

I have also invested in my own growth. On my own initiative, I have completed several professional development programs in policy, governance, and advocacy.

In 2026, grassroots Latino organizations honored me with the Mujeres Destacadas award. They recognized my work to raise awareness of our school budget process and my volunteer support for immigrant families in Stamford.

I have also mentored students and led programs, both professionally and as a volunteer. My work has reached a wide range of young people, from high-achieving students interested in civic education to students at risk of entering the criminal justice system.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

"Always assume best intentions, but don't act on assumptions. Act only on clear expectations." I rely on this advice every day as a Board member. Assuming good faith lets me work across the aisle and lead with curiosity. Insisting on clear expectations keeps our work transparent and our goals measurable.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I don't plan to stay on the Board of Education for decades. One of my goals is to inspire people who believe in the promise of public education to run for the Board themselves. Our schools need more leaders who are willing to step up and help drive change.

If that sounds like you, I'd love to hear from you. Email me at gabikoc.ct@gmail.com and we can talk about whether serving on the Board might be right.