Contact Committeeman Guzmán: [email protected]

Jonathan S. Guzman Mercedes serves on the Lawrence School Committee, representing the community where he was raised and where his commitment to public education first took shape. Born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, and raised in Lawrence by his Dominican mother, Justina Mercedes, Jonathan is the son of a hardworking family whose experiences shaped his understanding of resilience, opportunity, and the importance of strong public schools.

Jonathan is a proud graduate of the Lawrence Public School system. During his time at the Math, Science, and Technology Academy at Lawrence High School, he founded the Humanitarian Club, a student-led organization dedicated to service, leadership, and civic engagement. The club quickly became a model for youth involvement, organizing community projects and supporting local families. His early leadership experiences in Lawrence schools helped spark his interest in education, equity, and community advocacy.

After graduating in 2014, Jonathan attended Fitchburg State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Political Science. He became the first in his family to complete a four-year degree. At Fitchburg State, he served as a student senator, led the Latin American Students Organization to earn “Organization of the Year,” and participated in national student success initiatives through the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. His time in higher education strengthened his belief that every student—regardless of background—deserves access to high-quality learning environments and meaningful support systems.

Jonathan returned to Lawrence committed to serving the community that shaped him. In 2019, he was elected to the Lawrence School Committee, later serving as Vice Chair. His work on the committee focuses on ensuring that students, families, and educators have the resources, transparency, and support they need. He helped implement the Lawrence School Committee Rules in 2021 and worked to secure specialized governance training for committee members in partnership with the Massachusetts Association of School Committees. He has also contributed to districtwide initiatives such as the Anti-Racist Committee and the Portrait of a Graduate project, both aimed at strengthening equity and student readiness for life after high school.

Throughout his service, Jonathan has remained focused on the needs of Lawrence students and families. He has worked collaboratively with educators, administrators, and community partners to strengthen local schools, expand opportunities, and support safe, inclusive learning environments. His commitment reflects the values of the city he grew up in and continues to call home.