Voters Guide 2016: Tarrant County school board candidates
The Star-Telegram sent a Voters Guide questionnaire to all the candidates appearing on ballots in various school districts throughout Tarrant County in contested races on May 7. These are their responses:
Arlington school board
Place 4
Luis Castillo Could not be reached
John Hibbs
Age: 54
Occupation and/or main source of income: National Sales Manager
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Arlington, 20 years
Web site: Vote for JOHN HIBBS School Board Pl#4
Education background, including all degrees: Texas Christian University BA 1985
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Currently in my 6th year of service on the AISD Board of Trustees Place #4. Children’s Ministry @ Lake Arlington Baptist Church, Board Member: Arlington Children’s Charities, Upward Youth Coach/Youth Athletic Programs 20+ yrs., PTA Life Member, PTA Extended Life Member, Tarrant County Girls Inc. Strong Man of the Year, YMCA, Theater Arlington, Chairman: Arlington Central Library Capital Campaign
Offices you have sought and/or held before: No other
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: Voters should choose me because of my proven commitment, demonstrated effectiveness and professionalism. I have demonstrated the ability to build a sound strategic plan, discipline to stick to the plan and adapt as needed to make Arlington schools the best place to learn, grow and work. The AISD is at an exciting pivotal stage. Now is the time to for proven leadership. In addition to my board accomplishments, I invested thousands of hours spanning 15 years volunteering in the AISD. I believe that this was essential to understand the unique needs of students and educators.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: Successfully implement the strategic plan and emerge as a premier district. I support the strong, reasoned, researched solutions. Increase student achievement for ALL students – advanced students, struggling students and every student. This requires expanding K-12 advanced academics, career and vocational programs and exceptional fine art, athletic and extracurricular offerings. Recruit and retain the best educators while maintaining strong financial security. The AISD should continue to offer competitive salary and benefits together with positive, innovative and well-managed work environments. In addition, the district should strive to encourage the end of high stakes testing by encouraging the state to adopt a more balanced approach.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you: I am running for re-election to complete the work I started. The district is reaching an exciting and pivotal point. I am proud of our accomplishments thus far, but my goal is for the district to emerge as premier. I worked hard developing the Achieve Today, Excel Tomorrow strategic plans and I see the outcomes and the impact on our community. In order to ensure the goals of the strategic plan are realized, the district must have high performing, productive and proactive leaders in place. I see this work as a calling and respectfully ask for your continued support.
Azle
Place 5
Sam Merck Did not respond
Robert Seals Did not respond
Crowley
Place 5
Eric Christopher Johnson, Jr.
Age: 19
Occupation: Student
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 19 years
Education background, including all degrees: 12 years in CISD system as a student and am currently enrolled at Tarrant County College.
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: I have volunteered as a local Presiding Judge (election judge), at the Benbrook Heritage Fest, the American Heart Association Heart Walk downtown as well as the local animal shelter.
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office:
I have the unique perspective of someone who has been in Crowley ISD. My direct experience in the system would prove invaluable in determining the best way to face the district's challenges that lay ahead. Additionally, as a student I have seen the effectiveness of individual programs and policies as well as the differences that they can make in the lives of students when properly implemented.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: We are currently integrating technology into our classroom without implementing the necessary policies to best use it. I want to see that teachers are involved in the creation of these policies to ensure that the potential of technology we use is realized. With the possibility of a major university creating a new campus in the district, we can create continuing education programs for not just the students but the teachers so we can improve the quality of the teacher that teach our students. Additionally we need to make students more aware of existing programs for college and/or vocational training that they would not otherwise be aware of earlier than they currently are so that they are best positioned to take advantage of these programs.
Ryan E. Ray
Age: 33
Occupation and/or main source of income: Attorney/Property Tax Consultant
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 33 years
Web site: Ryan Ray for Crowley ISD Board of Trustee's on Facebook
Education background, including all degrees: High School Diploma from Crowley High School in 2001, B.A. from Washington & Jefferson College in Washington, Pennsylvania in 2005, J.D. from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law (now A&M) in 2008.
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Former Vice Chair of the Texas Bar Association Law Student Division, former Parliamentarian of the Bess Race PTA in 2010, served on the CISD Board since 2012, served as Vice-President of the board since 2015, founded the District Sustainability Committee at CISD, served 2 out of 4 years as Delegate at the Texas Association of School Boards, recently elected by my peers to represent Region 11 on the statewide committee that will establish the Education Advocacy Agenda for 2017.
Offices you have sought and/or held before: I have served as Crowley ISD Trustee, Place 5 since 2012. Elected Vice-President of the Board by my peers in 2015.
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: My entire K-12 career was spent in Crowley ISD, I know many of the teachers and administrators from my time there, this background is very useful when trying determine how the district will be impacted by our policies, it also gives me a profound vested interest in the District, that and the fact that I have 3 sons who all be enrolled in CISD schools at some point. Additionally, I believe my legal training is beneficial in helping the board work through legal issues and simply to know what questions to ask our attorney's.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: CISD has some great teachers, staff and students. I think we need to do more to get students engaged, which is why I am optimistic about the programs of choice we are starting to roll out. It's hope and belief that by giving the kids, and their parents, more choice they will start to become more invested in their education and more motivated. This strategy has been successfully employed in other districts and I think we have the leadership in place and the planning to get it done effectively.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you: While I've only been on the board four years after this election I will be the second longest serving member (if re-elected) which I find striking. Since getting on lead the charge to establish a sustainability committee for the District which has already helped to save the District over $100,000 in energy savings by working to bring in an energy consulting firm, not only are we saving money but teaching kids about energy conservation and reducing our impact on the environment.
Lizdelia “Liz” Piñón
Age: 40
Occupation and/or main source of income: TCU doctorate student educational leadership, superintendent intern 2015-2016
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 4 years
Web site: www.lizdeliapinon.com
Education background, including all degrees: B.A. Political Science – University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; M.Ed Literacy – Northern Illinois University; Educational Administrative Certificate – DePaul University, presently working on doctorate In Education at TCU
Offices you have sought and/or held before: Church Board treasurer & Sunday school teacher for 15 years, Fort Worth Mom of Multiples board, ECI Community Advisory Committee board and just nominated to Cook Children’s Hospital GI Family Advisory Council.
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office:
I believe that with my experience in finance (6 years) and as a professional educator in the roles of paraprofessional (1 year), teacher (8 years), doctorate student in educational leadership at TCU (3 years) and superintendent intern (1 year), I know what types of “hard” questions need and should be asked of the district. I also am a parent to four special needs children in the district. I know what the schools they attend are doing well and what they need to improve on.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them:
1. CISD Board of Trustees need more PROFESSIONAL EDUCATORS – I will demand efficient and effective curriculum and instruction that serves the needs of ALL students. 2. I will be a TAX WATCHDOG – I believe CISD can be an efficient district that doesn’t require tax increases and can get rid of inefficient expenditures. My background as an auditor at Citibank will serve me in this area. 3. I believe that CISD should be providing Stellar Education Opportunities for ALL– I will make sure to attend to the needs of all students including special needs, Gifted and Talented, and student that perform at ALL levels. There should not be 3 out of the 10 elementary schools not meeting Annual Yearly Progress. There should be a goal focused plan with specific benchmark steps to make sure ALL schools in CISD are successful.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you:
I have always been a dedicated advocate of ALL children. I believe that educating our students is our greatest gift to humanity. In the recent Disney movie “Zootopia” the bunny named Judy said some very important words that I agree with: “Look inside yourself and see that change starts with you. It starts with me… It starts with everyone.” It’s a movie about adapting to challenges and coming together to move toward the same goal. I believe Crowley School District is facing some unique challenges and it is in need of a strong, educated, and effective team to help all students be successful.
Place 6
Gary Grassia
Age: 40
Occupation and/or main source of income: Restaurant owner
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 40 years
Web site: NA
Education background, including all degrees: Southwest High School, East Texas State University (now East Texas A&M), Tarrant County College
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Crowley ISD Board Trustee - 2015-Present, Chisholm Trail Education Foundation - November 2013-Present, Guardianship Services, Inc. Board Trustee - 2011-2015, I have volunteered my time to the band program from the 6th grade level up to the high school level, Oakmont Elementary - PTA Board and Carnival Chair, Sue Crouch Intermediate - numerous committees, I have volunteered my services over the past 7 years as a restaurant owner to the Fort Worth Zoo, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Kids Who Care, and The Greatest Gift Catalog Ever, 4 years as a Crowley Soccer Association Assistant Coach.
Offices you have sought and/or held before: Crowley ISD School Board Trustee Place 6 - held, Texas House of Representatives District 97 - sought
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: First, I am an involved father not only concerning myself with my children's needs but also being involved with the general happenings of the Crowley School District. Second, I am a successful business owner. I analyze financials, draft budgets, tweak operations, evaluate human resources, and assess customer satisfaction. Each of these operations are essential as an effective trustee. Finally, as an owner of a child development facility, I have taught children in a classroom setting and understand the importance of parent involvement, having a disciplined class structure, making learning fun, and having to apply differentiated learning styles.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: Individual Child Development - Not every child learns the same. Making sure each child has the opportunity to flourish. I would continue to help implement choice programming that fit individuals needs. Top to Bottom Communication - I would like to implement a way each side (teachers and administrators) can critically analyze any problems and work in partnership to resolve them. Public Perception: CISD is a great district that many have pushed aside or forgotten about. I would like to continue grass roots rebuilding especially through social media.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you: I am a father of three children in this district. My family and I live the same daily struggles that every other parent and child face. I have children on the AP track and a child who requires special education services. I understand there are differences in how children learn, in how each child performs, and how at the end of their high school career, the only thing that matters is whether or not each child has the tools needed to succeed in their life.
Leticia Ann Gonzales
Age: 45
Occupation and/or main source of income: Office Manager and owner of the MetroplexFutsal League in Fort Worth
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 45 years in Fort Worth
Web site: NA
Education background, including all degrees: FWISD High School Diploma, Continuing Education classes in business and computers.
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement:
Offices you have sought and/or held before: None
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: As a small business owner and an office manager I have the financial background in managing large accounts, creating budgets and monitoring expenses. I’ve proven to be dependable and have leadership qualities and mentoring our youth as coach for Crowley Independent Soccer Association including serving on the board for the last 7 years.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: We need to test students early to address learning disabilities. By addressing this issue early on we can help students and parents with programs that will able the student to be successful and to achieve their educational goals. We need to put into place a new bully policy and look into programs that can address this issue within our schools. Look into incentives to get and keep good teachers within our district and give them a more control over their classroom so that we not only create a great learning environment for the student but a good work place for them as well.
Place 7
Lyndsae Benton Did not respond
Sherri Whiting Did not respond
Keller school board
Place 1
Jim Stitt Did not respond
Kellie McGee
Age: 38
Occupation and/or main source of income: Speech Language Pathologist at Texas Health Resources- Alliance Hospital
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 9 years
Web site: KISDNoTaxHike.com
Education background, including all degrees: Westmoore High School in Moore, OK.; graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas Woman's University with a Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders in May 2001. Texas Christian University, Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology in May 2003.
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Have taught Sunday School for over 15 years. Part of the leadership team at church leading the young marrieds group with my husband. Secretary of Freedom Elementary PTA and have been an executive board member for past 4 years.
Offices you have sought and/or held before: Freedom Elementary PTA Secretary
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: Primarily, I am a mom that has two young children in KISD who cares that they have the best future possible. I would bring a fresh perspective and would offer a voice to other parents in the district. I want to be a part of making decisions that will continue to place Keller as one of the best school districts in the state. I have worked as a school SLP and seen first-hand the challenges that teachers and special education are facing. I believe in working with and supporting teachers with the tools needed in a technology driven culture.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: 1. Overspending: I will focus on cutting waste, more fiscal responsibility and operating within a budget. 2. Gender ideology and its influence on education and student safety: I will insure policy meets the needs of the whole student body rather than special interest groups. 3. Keeping students academically challenged and competitive in the ever changing technology world of today: I will promote programs that encourage academic inquiry across all learning styles and groups and not just rote memorization.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you: I am a conservative Christian that places God and family values paramount. I want Keller ISD to be considered one of the great school districts in DFW and continue to be a reason for parents to move to the Keller area. I want to encourage academic inquiry. I will represent the parents and support teachers. I am interested in improving the gifted and talented programs and in improving technology. I am not interested in raising taxes.
Place 3
Kris Kittle
Age: 42
Occupation and/or main source of income: Adjunct Professor; Researcher
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth; 3½ years
Web site: KISDNoTaxHike.com
Education background, including all degrees: AAS in Office Systems from Southeast Technical Institute; BAS in Interdisciplinary Studies (English & Business) from Dallas Baptist University; MEd in Higher Education from Dallas Baptist University; PhD in Higher Education with an emphasis on the community college from UNT.
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: I have served as a pet sitter and foster home for a local dog rescue organization. I have served as a Buddy at a local ministry for families with special needs children. I serve as a toddler’s Coach in my church. I serve as a small group leader for an international Bible study organization.
Offices you have sought and/or held before: This is the first time I have run for office.
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: As a former university administrator and current adjunct professor, I feel my unique knowledge and experience can help ensure our graduates are prepared for life post-high school. When I was growing up, my dad served on our small, Midwestern town’s school board where the focus was to keep administrative costs down to ensure education dollars end up in the classroom. I hope to bring that emphasis to KISD to help ensure money spent goes to educating kids rather than filling additional administrative positions.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: 1. For the last several years, KISD has been running a deficit. As with all organizations, KISD needs to review its spending habits. I support hiring an internal auditor who can determine and eliminate excess spending. 2. Last fall the board attempted to put social issues ahead of education by considering transgendered bathrooms. Classroom education needs to supersede social agendas. 3. Several schools have maxed out their physical space. Navigating a change in zoning boundaries while helping families feel comfortable with the changes is vital.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you: I currently have two children in the district so I have a vested interest in ensuring the district provides exemplary schools. I think I would bring a fresh perspective to the board with my higher education experience and knowledge.
Cindy Lotton
Age: 61
Occupation and/or main source of income: HEB ISD Counselor
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 37 years
Web site: Re-elect Cindy Lotton Keller ISD Board of trustees Facebook
Education background, including all degrees: Bachelor Education, Baylor University; Masters in Education/school counseling certification, Dallas Baptist University.
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Served on Keller ISD Board of Trustees since 2004
Offices you have sought and/or held before: current Vice President, past President and Board Secretary
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: My experience on the Board of Trustees is a valuable asset to the district. During my tenure we have hired two excellent superintendents, passed several bond proposals and grown by over 10,000 students. We have also seen the largest cuts in public education in years; during my tenure as board president the district lost 26 million dollars in state funding. Our task to maintain the level of academic progress was ominous, but we were successful. We are currently involved in a class action lawsuit with other fast growth school districts in Texas to address the inequality in school funding. Keller ISD continues to win awards for it's fiscal responsibility and financial transparency, we continue to be leaders in innovation, academic, athletic and extracurricular awards across the state.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: I believe that three of the most critical issues facing public schools in Texas are the aforementioned in-equity in the state funding system, the overemphasis on standardized testing, and the changing cultural environment of our students.
Eagle Mountain-Saginaw
Place 3
Tim Daughtrey Did not respond
Blake Mabry
Age: 37
Occupation and/or main source of income: Lead Pastor of Ministries, The Table Community Church
City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 25 yrs
Web site: https://www.facebook.com/Blake4Kids/
Education background, including all degrees: B.S. in Exercise Science, Texas Tech; M.S. in Sport Management, Texas Tech; Texas Teaching Certifications in Secondary ELA, Secondary Speech, All-Level PE, Secondary Marketing, 10 years teaching/coaching HS football & track (Boswell HS, Central HS - Keller, Byron Nelson HS)
Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: YMCA Soccer Coach, NW YMCA, Saginaw Fire Department - Chaplain, Board of Directors - Community Link Mission, Member of EMS Rotary Club, Lead Pastor of Ministries - The Table Community Church, Watch D.O.G.S. - Eagle Mountain Elementary School, Member of EMS District Planning & Advisory Committee (DPAC), EMS ISD Hall of Fame Committee Member, Recognized by Saginaw Area Chamber of Commerce as Citizen of the Year for 2015.
Offices you have sought and/or held before: Vice President, EMS Rotary Club
In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: 1. I have 'skin in the game.' As of the 2017-2018 school year, I will have a Kindergartner, a 4th grader, and a Senior in EMS ISD schools. My wife and I are graduates of EMS ISD, I am a former teacher and coach in the district, and my family has been part of this community for over 40 years. I love my kids, I love this school district, and I am passionate about our community. 2. I want to serve our community. I believe being part of a community means stepping up to serve when there is a need. 3. I am an educator. My wife and I have almost 20 years combined experience teaching and coaching in public education, and I believe that experience will be valuable to Dr. Chadwell and the current trustees.
In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: 1. School Funding: EMS ISD was hit hard by the TAD glitch, and it has caused some serious shortfalls that will impact our kids. In addition, the funding from the state level is still an issue that is up in the air and will impact how we are able to educate the kids in our community. 2. Rapid Growth: I have been a part of 2 rapid growth districts in my educational career, and EMS ISD is in a phase of rapid growth. I propose to address them as part of a team representing our community and kids. I don't know everything, but will bring what I have to the table and be part of the solution.
In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you: I believe the current school board is operating well, and I believe in Dr. Chadwell's leadership. With that being said, my desire is to step in and be part of that team. I don't believe my presence on the EMS ISD School Board will bring drastic change or never before seen success. I hope that I can simply bring my gifts and perspectives to help propel the team, district, teachers, and ultimately the children our district serves toward the goals and objectives set forth by Dr. Chadwell and his staff. I have my eyes on and hands in several areas of our community and believe that my perspective and passion for unifying and excellence will be beneficial to the EMS ISD.
This story was originally published April 26, 2016 at 3:06 PM with the headline "Voters Guide 2016: Tarrant County school board candidates."