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Voters in Lake Travis ISD may cast their ballots for two seats on the district's board of trustees in a May 4 election.
Christy Comfort, a former senior executive and substitute teacher, will face incumbent and former teacher Lauren White for Place 2.
Candidates were asked to answer the questions provided in 50 words or less and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
*indicates incumbent
Why are you running for this position?
As a fast growth district, Lake Travis is experiencing growing pains. I know that my professional experience, collaborative approach to problem solving, and heart for this community are needed traits as we work to ensure allocation of resources to the right areas and academic success for all LT students.
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
The major areas of opportunity are 1) implementation of assessment strategies that measure student learning outcomes and better inform teaching practices, 2) enforcement of current policy alongside policy adaptation that ensures clarity and consistency, and 3) strengthen parent and community partnership through welcomed involvement and appropriate allocation of tax dollars.
If elected, what is your No. 1 priority to address?
Academic excellence above all. As a mom, I want to ensure every LT student is well prepared for the transition post-high school and goes on to lead full and exceptional lives. Inside the classroom, a renewed emphasis on core academic tenets led by teachers that feel valued will be key.
What changes would you like to see addressed at the state level regarding public education?
There are many areas the state should improve on, most notably, an increase in teacher compensation among top performing teachers. Additionally, a funding increase that is not tied to mandatory additional expense. An overhaul to Texas’ school finance recapture program is also needed, so that more tax dollars stay local.
Why are you running for this position?
My experience as a board member and former teacher gives me unique insights into our district's challenges and opportunities. I want to continue to serve to ensure every student in Lake Travis receives an unparalleled education, preparing them not just for today, but for the future.
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
Academic outcomes, student safety, budget, and teacher retention and recruitment. With looming budget cuts due to stagnant state funding, it’s critical that the board carefully manage our limited financial resources. We must do so while still prioritizing student safety, academic success and teacher and staff retention and recruitment.
If elected, what is your No. 1 priority to address?
The safety and success of our students depends on our teachers and staff. We must do more to retain our dedicated, experienced staff, and to recruit the best candidates. This will require advocacy at the state level for funding for salary increases, and creative solutions like affordable housing.
What changes would you like to see addressed at the state level regarding public education?
The state should raise the basic allotment so that our district can keep enough property tax dollars locally to properly fund schools and pay teachers and staff appropriately for the important work they do. The state should also overhaul the accountability system; we can do better than the STAAR test.
