Keller ISD voter guide for May 3 election: Meet the school board candidates
Voters in the Keller school district will elect three school board members. Places 1, 2 and 3 are up for grabs with only two incumbents.
In 2026, Places 4 and 5 will be up for election with Places 6 and 7 to be voted on in 2027.
The board oversees the superintendent and manages the district with a budget of $340 million.
You can go to one of these locations for early voting from April 22-April 29. For Election Day voting on May 3, head to one of these polling places.
Keller spokesperson Bryce Nieman said there are three issues the board will face: funding, with the state Legislature not increasing the basic allotment for the past six years despite record inflation; workforce availability, with fewer and fewer college graduates pursuing careers in education; and the declining student enrollment across the region.
See how each of the candidates plan on taking those challenges on.
Keller School District, Trustee Place 1
Scott Bruce
Age: 47
Campaign Website: www.scottbruce4change.com
Best way for voters to reach you: scott@scottbruce4change.com
Occupation: Business professional, adjunct instructor, and servant leader with extensive experience in education, leadership development, and organizational operations
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Masters in Business Administration, Masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Masters in Public Administration and Leadership
Have you run for elected office before? No
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
I’ve spent over a decade actively serving the Keller ISD community through mentoring programs, parent engagement initiatives, and student support activities. I partnered with the district’s Counseling and Intervention Department to pilot a youth mentoring program and volunteered through Watch D.O.G.S., All Pro Dads, and the Timber Creek Athletic Booster Club. I’ve also participated in mock interviews and career day events to help students prepare for life beyond high school. As a university-level adjunct instructor for more than 10 years, I bring an educational perspective grounded in leadership and development. I currently serve on nonprofit boards focused on youth and education, and I’ve created mentorship and leadership programs that empower future leaders. I believe in building relationships and have met with nearly every current board member to better understand how to serve collaboratively and effectively.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
$250 Lisa Dougherty Ft Worth TX 76137
$250 Chad Powers, Cincinnati OH 45040
$100 Travis Clegg Ft Worth TX 76244
$100 Julie Bergeron Ft Worth TX 76244
Why are you seeking this office?
I’m running for school board because I care deeply about the future of Keller ISD. As a parent, educator, and business professional, I believe we need steady, student-focused leadership that puts kids—not politics—at the center of every decision. I’ve spent over a decade volunteering in our schools through mentoring programs, booster clubs, and parent engagement efforts. I want to take that service to the next level and help strengthen the connection between the board, our educators, and our community. With my background in leadership, education, and organizational improvement, I bring a fresh perspective and a servant leader’s mindset. My goal is to ensure Keller ISD is a place where students thrive, teachers feel supported, and trust is rebuilt through transparency, collaboration, and action.
What are your top three policy priorities?
My top three priorities are student outcomes, teacher support, and rebuilding trust through transparency. I will advocate for all students by focusing on academic achievement, career readiness, and expanding opportunities across special education, CTE, the arts, and athletics. I also believe that teacher retention is critical—our educators deserve competitive pay, professional development, and a culture that values their voice. Lastly, I will work to restore community trust by promoting transparency and early engagement. That means involving stakeholders in meaningful ways before decisions are made, clearly communicating the why behind board actions, and creating space for ongoing two-way dialogue. These priorities reflect my commitment to servant leadership and ensuring Keller ISD is a place where students thrive, teachers are supported, and families feel heard.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
I will measure success as a trustee by the impact we have on student outcomes, the trust we rebuild with the community, and the support we provide to our educators. If more students are thriving academically, socially, and emotionally—regardless of their background—that’s success. If families feel heard, teachers feel valued, and transparency is no longer a buzzword but a standard, then we’re moving in the right direction. I’ll also measure success by how well we function as a board—making data-informed decisions, respecting diverse perspectives, and always keeping our focus on what’s best for students. True success is when Keller ISD becomes a district families are proud to be part of and where every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent?
Voters should choose me because I bring a unique blend of experience, integrity, and long-standing commitment to Keller ISD. As a parent, adjunct instructor, business professional, and active community volunteer, I’ve spent over a decade serving our schools through mentoring programs, booster clubs, and parent engagement. I’m not running for a title—I’m running to serve with a student-first mindset, a data-driven approach, and a servant leader’s heart. My campaign is self-funded, free of outside influence, and grounded in transparency and accountability. I’ve taken the time to meet with current board members, listen to concerns across the district, and prepare to lead on day one. I offer a fresh perspective backed by real-world leadership, and I’m committed to making decisions that are thoughtful, informed, and always focused on what’s best for kids.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
For over a decade, I’ve been actively involved in Keller ISD as a parent and dedicated volunteer. I partnered with the district’s Counseling and Intervention Department to help launch a youth mentoring pilot program and have consistently served through Watch D.O.G.S., All Pro Dads, and the Timber Creek Athletic Booster Club. I’ve also participated in mock interviews and career readiness events to help students prepare for life beyond high school. My involvement goes beyond events—I’ve built relationships with educators, staff, and families to better understand the needs of our schools. I’ve taken the time to meet with nearly every current board member to prepare myself for collaborative service. My passion for this district is rooted in firsthand experience, and I’m committed to serving with the same energy, consistency, and heart I’ve brought to every role I’ve taken on.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
I was against the proposal to split Keller ISD because the data presented to the public did not justify it as a viable or responsible option. While I understand the frustrations that led to the conversation, such a significant change must be based on clear, transparent data and a thorough plan that demonstrates long-term benefits for students and taxpayers. The analysis raised serious concerns around cost, logistics, and equity—and lacked the community engagement such a decision deserves. If this idea were ever to move forward, it would need to be fully developed, well-communicated, and ultimately put to a community-wide vote at the right time. Major structural changes should never be rushed or driven by emotion. I believe in uniting, not dividing, and working to strengthen Keller ISD from within by focusing on what truly improves outcomes for all students.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
The lack of increased state funding puts real pressure on our district, and we must respond with smart, strategic leadership. I plan to focus on responsible budgeting, ensuring that every dollar spent supports student learning, teacher retention, and campus-level needs. We need to evaluate what’s working, eliminate inefficiencies, and prioritize resources where they make the greatest impact. I’ll also advocate for transparency in financial decision-making so the community understands how funds are being used. While we push for better support at the state level, we must also maximize local partnerships and explore innovative solutions to stretch limited resources. My background in managing large teams and budgets has prepared me to lead through challenging financial times with focus, accountability, and a commitment to keeping students at the center of every decision.
Marissa Bryce
Age: 36
Campaign Website: ElectMarissa.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Website contact form or Facebook page
Occupation: HomeMaker
Education: Bachelor’s degree
Have you run for elected office before? No
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
I believe strong communities are built by people who step up and serve. I’ve chaired three PTA committees, taught an after-school club, chaperoned school events, and even been the school mascot. I’ve spoken at school board and HOA meetings to help bridge communication and advocate for what matters—like safer school zones and protecting our neighborhoods from unwanted development. I’ve helped organize HOA events, hosted block parties for Fort Worth Police, and campaigned for local and state leaders who reflect our values. I stay informed, and I believe parents should always have a seat at the table. I’m a consistent, educated voter who believes real leadership means showing up and serving.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
As of March 24th, 2025 Bret Dawkins, Scott Beedle, and Mark Christenson.
Why are you seeking this office?
I believe a calm, truthful voice is needed amid confusion—and I can be that voice. The district supports my children; now I aim to give back by building opportunities and quality education for all. Trustworthy leadership and clear communication is essential, and I am committed to earning trust and creating clear communication to breakdown chaos.
What are your top three policy priorities?
I will prioritize enhancing parental rights, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and fostering clear, compassionate communication among all stakeholders. Drawing on my experience in education committees and conflict resolution, I’ll work to build a supportive, transparent environment that cultivates trust, accountability, and success in our education system.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
Measuring the success of school board policies takes more than checking boxes—it requires meaningful, results-driven outcomes. Some of the key indicators should include improved parent and teacher satisfaction. When families and educators feel heard, valued, and supported, trust grows. Student achievement and engagement must also be considered. Gains in test scores, attendance, and extracurricular participation show that students are in an environment that supports both academic and personal growth. Increased parent engagement—through event attendance, curriculum involvement, and volunteering—signals confidence in the system and investment in student success. Lastly, community trust is essential. Positive feedback at board meetings, clear communication, and partnerships with local organizations point to a district that’s responsive and student-centered. When all of these areas show progress, it means policies are working—and the district is on the right path.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent?
Voters should choose me because I represent their values—truth, trust, clarity, and common sense. I will be consistent in who I am and what I stand for. I’m not a career politician with slick talking points. I’m a mom who shows up—volunteering, leading, speaking up, and standing in the gap when no one else does.
I care deeply about the kids in this district, and I’m committed to giving them the strong, grounded education they deserve—one that prioritizes academics over agendas, supports our teachers without political interference, and respects parents as the primary decision-makers in their children’s lives.
I’ll fight for financial responsibility, push for clear communication, and make sure decisions are made with families and students at the center. You won’t have to guess where I stand or wonder if I’ll cave under pressure. I’m here to serve, to listen, and to lead with integrity.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
I’ve been deeply engaged with our school district, both in leadership and advocacy roles. I’ve chaired three different PTAs, taught after-school clubs, and chaperoned field trips and school events. I’ve also worked behind the scenes doing hair and makeup for show choir competitions and served as the school mascot. I’ve campaigned for school board trustees, served on school-level and district-level committees, and actively engaged in discussions about policies to better understand them and educate other parents. Throughout all of this, I’ve focused on fostering better communication between parents, teachers, and the district to ensure our children receive the best education possible.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
I chose to stand for more information during the district detachment discussion. As part of the Special Projects committee and attending board meetings, it was clear we lacked critical details to make an informed decision that served both students and taxpayers.
Once we learned about the cost to divide the $700 million in bond debt, it became clear that detachment wasn’t feasible. This issue alone made it clear to me that no further discussion or consideration was needed. However, my concerns went beyond just financials; they were about understanding the deeper emotional impacts and ensuring clarity for everyone involved.
The conversation became clouded by emotions, and our educational focus was often lost. We needed calm voices and clear communication, but those were in short supply. Now, it’s time to heal the division, rebuild trust, and move forward with unity for the benefit of our district and its students.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
Advocating for hard decisions. We have to make budget cuts and we need to set money aside for saving. We are getting to the point where there isn’t “fat” to cut and we’re getting close to cutting “muscle” in order to make things work. This means looking into closing schools and cutting back programs, even cutting 1% from multiple programs can provide a little breathing room. We need to focus funding on meeting the students basic education needs and providing teachers with the resources needed to make that happen.
We also need to continue pushing for the Texas legislature to step up and stop playing politics with our students. They need to stop underfunding mandates and fund public schools so we can do the job needed without cutting off limbs.
Randy Campbell
Age: 65
Campaign Website: randyforkisd.com
Best way for voters to reach you: randy@randyforkisd.com
Occupation: Retired pilot
Education: B.S. Agricultural Engineering, Power and Machinery Specialty
Have you run for elected office before? No
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
Citizens Bond Advisory Committee, Keller ISD, 27 years Board of Advisors at YMCA
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
Patrick Graham, Ann Potts, Dr. Thomas Black, M.D.
Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking this office to help restore integrity and transparency to the Keller ISD Board of Trustees, improve the financial rating of the district, and refocus attention on academic success.
What are your top three policy priorities?
1. Restoring confidence in the Board of Trustees by rebuilding trust through transparent decision making 2. Reversing the movement toward privatization of Keller ISD. We must end our relationship with the T.E.E. (Texans for Educational Excellence) and hire an attorney to represent the school district, not just the Board of Trustees. 3. Retaining our professional educators by showing them the respect they deserve, and providing stability to their careers by putting the district on a firm financial footing.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
I will measure the success of Keller ISD by 1. Improving the academic outcomes for ALL students. 2. Retaining our professional educators and administrators. We must make Keller ISD into the destination school district that it once was for teacher recruitment. 3. Improving the Financial Integrity Rating (FIRST rating) for the school district from the current 70 to at least 85 over the next three years.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent?
I am bringing 45+ years of leadership experience to the job; 12 years in the Air Force/Air Force Reserves, 33 years as an airline pilot/Captain, 27 years of service in leadership at a nonprofit as a board member at the YMCA. Keller ISD is struggling, and I know what it means to work under pressure when the stakes are high and there is little margin for error.
This will take time and perseverance. I am retired and my children are grown, so I have the time to do this right.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
I have lived in Keller ISD for 32 years. I first came here for the quality public schools, like so many others. I have seen the district grow from one high school to four high schools. Both of my children graduated from Keller ISD schools, and my wife and I were athletic boosters/band boosters. I worked on the demographics for a citizens bond advisory committee in the mid-90s, when Keller ISD was on the cusp of a building boom. We had to plan for 400% growth over a 10-15 year time span. That bond passed successfully, and we built schools in advance of the development. I attend meetings of the Board of Trustees regularly, often speaking against vouchers.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
I was opposed to the split of Keller ISD. It was clear from the Moak-Casey Report that there was no economic advantage to the detachment, and in fact there could be real harm to the students of the west side and to the property values of those neighborhoods.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
The State Legislature has underfunded our schools, and that trend appears to continue with the 89th Legislature. Keller ISD has a projected $9.4 Million budget shortfall, and will have to prioritize resources around core academic instruction; closing/consolidating campuses, finding more efficiencies in staffing and programs, and selling properties. I would be willing to do any of those if we could offer the teachers a pay raise. It should be noted that vouchers will only exacerbate the problems, and I will never relent in the fight against vouchers as long as our public schools remain underfunded.
Keller School District, Trustee Place 2
Jade Holbrook
Did not respond to candidate questionnaire.
Jennifer Erickson
Age: 45
Campaign Website: Erickson4KISD.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Erickson4KISD@gmail.com
Occupation: Communication professional
Education: Bachelor of Journalism from University of Missouri at Columbia
Have you run for elected office before? No
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
I’ve been volunteering at my daughter’s school for years and serve on the PTA board. I completed the Keller ISD Community Ambassador program to learn more about the district and its finances. And I currently serve on the Keller ISD Student Health Advisory Council.
When my daughter was in preschool I served on the board of it and pushed for better teacher pay and resources.
I also help with my daughter’s Girl Scout troop and volunteer at the theater she performs with.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
Ann Potts, RJ Morrison, Julie Cloud
Why are you seeking this office?
I am passionate about public education. I worry about students being left behind and want all students to succeed. I see our teachers struggling. The current Keller ISD board has limited input from families across the district. I want to give a voice to all working families in our district and increase respect, trust and integrity in our board. My daughter is in fifth grade. We have many more years with Keller ISD. I want to improve the district for her, all students and all our dedicated teachers.
What are your top three policy priorities?
1. Restoring respect and integrity. The community was greatly harmed by the idea to split the district. We need to work together to emerge stronger with better support for our teachers, and my skill in collaboration will help. Time must also be spent engaging our communities and stakeholders to restore trust and demonstrate the integrity of decisions. My job is to serve everyone to the best of my ability, and that starts with respect. I will meet people where they are to learn how to serve their needs.
2. Financial transparency and accountability are vital. Aging facilities, changing demographics and lack of funding increases from the state (not even to adjust for inflation) are hitting Keller ISD hard. We need leaders we can trust to honestly discuss the issues, collaboratively develop solutions and work with our community to develop a cohesive path forward, together.
3. Keeping politics out of classrooms.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
I will measure success in how our financial picture looks each year, in teacher retention and academic success metrics.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent?
I am tenacious. I will ask the tough questions and press for answers. I will not sit meekly by and watch things happen. I have a strong reputation for getting projects done, and done well, collaborating with individuals to meet our collective goals and juggling many priorities at one time.
We need new voices bringing ideas to the table. I have been involved with the district for several years learning and meeting people. The next few years are going to be tough ones for Keller ISD. We have a lot stacked against us at the moment, but our potential is great and our people teaching our students each day are fantastic. It is going to take people willing to dig in, put politics aside and work hard for our students and our staff. They’re the reason we’re here and who I’ll keep in mind with every decision.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
I’ve been volunteering at my daughter’s school for years and serve on the PTA board. I completed the Keller ISD Community Ambassador program to learn more about the district and its finances. And I currently serve on the Keller ISD Student Health Advisory Council. I have been attending and often speaking at Keller ISD board meetings for several years.
During the course of my campaign, my team and I have knocked on thousands of doors and spoken with voters across KISD. I will continue to engage our community.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
I was opposed to the concept and frustrated only some of the data actually was shared with the community. That massive of a change requires careful consideration and input from a variety of stakeholders. A few people should not have the power to make a change that would have drastically impacted working families across the district. We need to be honest about the challenges the district faces and openly discuss our priorities and potential solutions, seeking input and expertise from across the community, not just handpicked friends and donors.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
I will speak with legislators in favor of better funding public education, which should come first. Vouchers would be detrimental to our schools that are already struggling with receiving no increase in the basic allotment since 2019. We have to find ways to engage our communities to put pressure on legislators to adequately fund our schools. Our community depends on our schools and our children deserve a high quality public education.
Joni Shaw Smith
Age: 47
Campaign Website: www.joniforkellerisd.com
Best way for voters to reach you: joni@joniforkellerisd.com
Occupation: LIVE Events Producer and Creative Director
Education: BS and MA, TCU
Have you run for elected office before? Keller ISD Board of Trustees, Pl 2- 2022- Present
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
I’ve traveled to Austin, or met locally, and talked with our legislators, advocating fiercely for better funding, school safety and real reform to the STAAR. I’ve met with local businesses to build partnerships or provide efficiencies to the district.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: Not personally, but yes, as a Board Trustee for Keller ISD
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
Scott Grahm, Amy Hill, Travis Clegg
Why are you seeking this office?
For the past three years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of serving as trustee and Secretary of the Keller ISD School Board. I am running for re-election because I am deeply invested in this district—not just as a trustee, but as a parent, a longtime community member, and an advocate for strong schools and student success. I’ve always believed that strong relationships between teachers, staff, and parents—and the ability to have a voice in decision-making—are essential to ensuring every child gets the best education possible. Serving on the board these past three years has only strengthened that belief. I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of our incredible educators, walked the halls of our vibrant campuses, and had honest conversations with administrators about the challenges and opportunities ahead. I have listened, learned, and worked tirelessly to ensure that Keller ISD remains a destination of excellence and I want the opportunity to continue the work.
What are your top three policy priorities?
Before we focus on policy, we must first rebuild trust, stabilize finances, and retain our teachers.
Rebuilding Trust: The district split debate caused fear, confusion, and the loss of valued staff. Now that it’s over, we must begin to heal—through transparency, communication, and a renewed focus on students.
Financial Stability: Though we’ve passed balanced budgets and found $30M in efficiencies, we still face a deficit. We need creative funding solutions—corporate partnerships, energy and tech investment, and smart administrative streamlining—to preserve programs and fix aging facilities without raising taxes.
Teacher Retention: Our teachers are leaving due to instability, stagnant pay, and feeling unsupported. They need competitive salaries, less red tape, and real appreciation. When we value our educators, our students thrive.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
I’ll measure my success as a trustee by how well we serve students, support educators, and rebuild community trust. If students are thriving, teachers feel valued, and families choose Keller ISD with confidence, then we’re on the right track. Retaining top talent, maintaining transparent communication, and fostering strong partnerships are key indicators. Success also means passing balanced budgets, being good stewards of taxpayer dollars, and planning wisely for the future. Most importantly, it’s about ensuring every decision puts students first and leaves the district stronger than when I started.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent?
I’m running for re-election to provide steady, unifying leadership during this pivotal time for Keller ISD. As the only candidate with three years of proven board experience, I’ve fought to keep public dollars in public schools, passed balanced budgets, increased school safety, strengthened curriculum, and built strong community relationships. Transparency, communication, and involvement have always guided my leadership. I’ve been present on campuses, celebrated students, and stood with teachers and families to ensure all voices are heard. As we face budget challenges, teacher retention issues, and lingering division, I remain committed to responsible financial management, competitive salaries, innovative revenue solutions, and restoring trust in our district.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
Since my oldest first started Kinder in 2013, I’ve been all in—serving on multiple PTA boards in a variety of Chair positions, being a room mom, volunteer, chaperoning field trips, and staying involved every step of the way. The last few years I’ve also served on and chaired the SHAC, Legislative Priorities, and Big Event Committees, among others, and currently serving on the KISD CTE Board.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
My position was very clear—splitting Keller ISD would have been a devastating mistake. It was bad for students, bad for teachers, and bad for our entire community. Over the past few months, we’ve seen firsthand the chaos and division this issue has caused. Teachers and students are being recruited by neighboring districts, families are considering moving away, and dedicated educators are searching for jobs elsewhere in hopes of finding stability, including the loss of our superintendent. Beyond the emotional toll this has already created, the financial reality is undeniable. From the data presented and the questions I’ve asked, a split would only double our financial struggles, not solve them, leaving two underfunded, unstable systems fighting for resources. The cost of duplicating administrative structures, services, and facilities would strain both districts, ultimately shortchanging our students. We should be working together to find solutions—not tearing our district in two.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
We need to have real conversations about funding and press hard on our legislators to fix the broken system—especially around underfunded mandates and daily allotment-based funding that doesn’t account for inflation or actual student needs. We need to make a move to enrollment-based funding so that we can attempt to open campus doors each day on an even playing field. We must also continue strengthening partnerships with corporate sponsors and aggressively pursuing grants to enhance and expand our programs.
Keller School District, Trustee Place 3
Chelsea Kelly
Did not respond to candidate questionnaire.
Ed Duncan
Age: 81
Campaign Website: same as email (jeduncan444@sbcglobal.net)
Best way for voters to reach you: Call me at 8175641525
Occupation: Retired adult probation officer
Education: B A from TCU Criminal Justice
Have you run for elected office before? Yes 2022 KISD Board Of Trustees
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
Band parent in Keller ISD, volunteer at North Riverside Elementary, certified volunteer within Keller ISD, supporter of PTA at North Riverside Elementary and Fossil Ridge High School, 3 bonus children, 2 in North Riverside and a 10th grader in band at Fossil Ridge
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: NO
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: NO
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
Myself, no other contributors
Why are you seeking this office?
To bring about positive change in the matter in how the decisions made by the Board are understood and in compliance with state statutes.
What are your top three policy priorities?
1) To balance advocating for the community’s interest while making well-informed decisions that could go against popular opinion. 2) Find solutions to declining enrollment in KISD that once was known as a great school district. 3) Finding solutions to retain highly qualified teachers and maintaining high quality education opportunities for all students.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
I can measure my success as a trustee if there is less discord regarding the Board ‘s decisions within the community and people can see this is being done up front and not behind doors as it has been in the past.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents?
Voters should choose me over the other individuals that are running due to the experience and knowledge that I have attained over the last 30 or more years of experience as an adult probation and clinical supervisor with MHMR Addiction Recovery Center dealing with other state agencies.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
I have and still am involved as a Band parent and volunteer at North Riverside Elementary School.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
I was and still am opposed to splitting the district. It was going to be too expensive to maintain 2 separate school districts. Also it was done without letting the community know why it was being discussed in the first place.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
I dont have any plans at this time other than possibly looking at combining positions within the district that could provide more funds. More pressure should be put on our legislators in Austin to increase funding for local schools instead of pushing vouchers for private schools. Another possible solution for lack of additional funding would be for schools having keep the property taxes raised in the county instead of sending a portion to Austin.
Nikki Paris
Age: 40
Campaign Website: www.nikki-paris.com
Best way for voters to reach you: nikkipariskisd03@aol.com
Occupation: Stay at home mom
Education: Bachelors degree in Merchandising
Have you run for elected office before? No
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the community.
I’ve volunteered on Republican campaigns and served as PTA Board Chair. I’ve attended school board meetings—both in person and online—and emailed representatives, school board members, and local city council members about issues that conflicted with conservative values. I’ve monitored TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) meetings regarding our Texas history textbooks and written to representatives on this matter as well. When schools reopened after COVID, I collaborated with administrators to ensure the materials and environment were appropriate and safe for my children and other students. Additionally, I reached out to a neighboring city council when a local event—the Anderson Distillery hosting a drag show in downtown Roanoke—did not align with our community’s values, as I felt it failed to reflect the standards we uphold.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
-
Why are you seeking this office?
For the children in the Keller ISD, including my own. I want to ensure they attend schools that are safe from CRT and DEI, that keep boys out of girls’ sports, and that allow our children to feel comfortable and secure in bathrooms and locker rooms assigned to their birth gender. I also want my right—along with all parents—to know exactly what our children are learning in their classrooms and what our schools are introducing to them, and for them to be in an environment that supports their physical and mental health. I want to collaborate with the current school board members to explore ways to continue the efforts in bringing back a balanced budget and building our slush fund back up.
What are your top three policy priorities?
1. Communication- I will increase the amount of communication to our community by working with our administration to create a more effective system that will make community members feel more involved and informed. I will achieve this by creating a more comprehensive Q&A page, hosting meetings with our teachers and community members, and leveraging social media to enhance engagement and communication.
2. Revenue- With our current budget constraints in mind, I aim to explore and implement strategies to increase revenue for Keller ISD and as well as consolidating removing unnecessary costs.
3. Teacher Pay- Due to stagnant state funding, providing our teachers with long-term raises has become challenging. If we lack the financial resources to offer salary increases, I propose introducing alternative solutions that will benefit our teachers financially.
How will you measure your success as a Keller ISD trustee?
I will measure my success as a Keller ISD trustee by the progress accomplished concerning the priorities I’m most attentive to.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent?
I am a strong leader who prides myself on my integrity, dignity, character, and ability to hold myself and others accountable. I was raised with the mantra “You do the right thing even when no one is looking.” I take it seriously. Naturally, I am a very transparent person. I treat others with respect and am open to hearing different perspectives. I truly enjoy speaking with people, and I believe we can learn from each other if we respectfully listen and converse with the intent to understand. Being a school board trustee means leading by example with honor and professionalism, and I will do just that. I will leave my emotions at the door and respond with facts and logic. I will respect our board and my position on it. I will work with fellow board members to collaborate and come together on what is best for the students in Keller ISD. The children of this ISD should be the number one focus for the success of excellence in our district.
What have your involvements been in the school district?
I am a parent of two children currently attending Keller ISD. Throughout my children’s school years, I have been a dedicated volunteer. I have actively observed and attended our school board meetings. Additionally, I have held the position of PTA hospitality chair. I have always been active parent in communications with our administration, teachers, school board members and superintendent.
Were you in favor or opposed to the splitting of the district? Please elaborate on why or why not.
Splitting of the district was only a concept that was being explored. Unfortunately, the idea was unlawfully disclosed, and a false narrative was spread and made to look like it was going to be a decision made without the input of the community- which was not the case. I was in favor of the detachment of Keller proper from Keller ISD. I truly believe it’s what would have been best for all students of our ISD. With different populations, in size and needs, I believe detaching would have provided our students the opportunity to have their unique needs met. Given that our ISD has distinct needs across the district, it can be challenging to address those needs while maintaining a consistent and standardized approach for all schools, rather than tailoring solutions to each school individually. By detaching, each district could have benefited from the restructure through additional funding and more local control which would have better met the needs of our students.
How do you plan on navigating the lack of increased state funding for the district?
Without added assistance from the state, we must explore ways to make sure our current budget is used effectively and efficiently. We must put needs over wants and make hard choices that will, in the end, benefit our students the most. I will also research other avenues that will bring revue to our budget.