Margie Villalpando currently represents District 2 on the San Marcos CISD board of trustees. Villalpando is running against challenger Elizabeth Trevino in the May 6 election. Early voting in the race runs April 24-May 2. For more information on polling locations click here.

Why are you running?

I am running for re-election to continue my service to SMCISD as a trustee and to support the mission and core commitments of the District.

What will be your top priority if elected? 

I would pursue all options available to the district to eliminate the achievement gaps within our student populations. After reading a recent Moak, Casey & Associates report on SMCISD, I am convinced that the challenges we face in the district contribute to the achievement gaps. The challenges have been identified and we need to address them.

Why do you think you are qualified to be a trustee? 

I have dedicated myself to training provided by TASB and CRSS. School Board Professional Training: Leadership TASB Class of 2011 Master Trustee Center for Reform of School Systems 2012-2013 TASB Delegate Assembly Member since 6-2008 Education: BAAS, SWT (Texas State University) San Marcos public schools

San Marcos CISD has made a financial commitment to a full-day pre-kindergarten program that is largely funded by the district rather than through paid student tuition. Do you believe this commitment should be re-examined as part of the budgeting process for the 2017-18 school year? Why or why not? 

All SMCISD departments, programs, and campuses are re-examined during the budgeting process every year and funds are allocated from general funds, specific programs, federal or state funds based on the needs of the particular program.

- Do you support the district's 2017 bond and the projects included within the bond package? Why or why not? 

Yes. I support the bond because after a study on growth and overcrowding of the district and a needs analysis on all campuses was done by the firm of Perkins and Will, it was evident that a bond was needed to address the findings of the study. The board voted to propose the SMCISD bond that will provide a new elementary school, upgrades to all schools, address capacity, equity and other needs for the district. The bond will not increase the tax rate.