A Community Voice for Every Student

I believe potential exists in every classroom. Our job is to make sure opportunity does too.

Joann Guzman believes education changes lives, families are essential partners, and every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.

The daughter of Nicaraguan immigrants, Joann grew up watching her parents build a life through hard work, perseverance, and a deep belief in the power of education. Those values shaped her commitment to service and continue to guide her leadership today.

As the parent of three Hayward Unified students, Joann understands the hopes, challenges, and responsibilities families experience every day. Navigating IEPs and advocating for her own children inspired her to become an advocate for others. What began as helping her own family grew into years of service supporting students, empowering parents, and strengthening partnerships between schools and the community.

Joann has served as Parent Ambassador Lead, PTA President, and Chair of the School Site Council at both the elementary and middle school levels. She also serves on the Hayward Unified School District Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee and has contributed to School Based Decision Making, the Family Advisory Committee, Parent Advisory Committee, Safety Committee, SPEDAA, and VAPA. Through these leadership roles, she has worked alongside families, educators, administrators, and district leaders to improve communication, strengthen trust, and keep students at the center of every decision.

Committed to lifelong learning, Joann returned to Chabot College where she maintains a 4.0 GPA while preparing to continue her education in psychology.

Her educational journey reinforced a belief that guides her work every day:

Removing barriers doesn't lower expectations. It creates opportunity.

Joann is running for the Hayward Unified School District Board of Education because she believes strong schools are built through partnership, transparency, and listening. She is committed to ensuring every child is seen, every family is heard, and every educator has the support and resources needed to help students succeed.

No child should ever leave our schools believing they aren't capable. Our responsibility is to help every student discover their strengths, reach their potential, and know they belong.

If you'd like to share your ideas, ask a question, or learn more about the campaign, Joann welcomes the opportunity to connect.