For Place 3, local business owner Nekosi Nelson will face Jim Sneeringer, a retired software developer and former LISD board member.
Place 3 incumbent Christine Mauer told Community Impact she is not seeking re-election, because her youngest child recently graduated from the district.
Candidates were asked to answer the questions provided in 50 words or fewer and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Jim Sneeringer
Experience:
retired software developer; 18 years experience on LISD board from 1993 to 2011
Candidate Website:
https://www.jim4lisd.com
Why are you running for this position?
Education is extremely important to our students, so this is my way of giving back to the community that has done so much for me. Education is extremely important to our students, so this is my way of giving back to the community that has done so much for me.
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
LISD is doing a good job. I want to keep the focus on parent involvement and achieving the highest levels of student learning.
If elected, what is your number one priority to address?
Student learning and parent involvement
What changes would you like to see addressed at the state level regarding public education?
I appreciate the state data that helps evaluate student learning. The brouhaha about religion in the new state standards is hard to evaluate from press reports, but I have yet to see anything claiming that the standards are proselytizing, only that they include some Judeo-Christian history.
Nekosi Nelson
Experience:
Local business owner with 23 years of program management experience, including twelve years in education
Candidate Website:
https://www.nekosiforlisd.vote
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running for the school board with three guiding commitments: servant leadership, a belief in the power of public education, and helping Leander ISD set the standard for excellence. My focus is on improving student outcomes, supporting families, building community, and empowering teachers to create personalized learning for every student.
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
Improving student outcomes and addressing the achievement gaps are paramount. I will advocate for whole-child, personalized learning, STEM integration, expanded access to innovative programs, and stronger family partnerships. Early childhood intervention and enhanced mental health services are also key to ensuring every student reaches their full potential.
If elected, what is your number one priority to address?
My top priority is building on the diligent work of the Long-Range Planning Committee by increasing collaboration with the board and engaging the broader community. By developing actionable steps toward long-term goals, we can address population growth, optimize facilities, and create innovative learning experiences while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
What changes would you like to see addressed at the state level regarding public education?
Texas ranks 44th in per-pupil funding, leading to resource shortages, larger class sizes, and budget deficits. The state's failure to increase the basic allotment since 2019, despite rising inflation, and underfunding special education are critical issues. Fully funding public schools is a non-partisan issue we must all champion.
