Three Leander ISD trustee positions are up for election, and each incumbent will face a challenger on Nov. 8. Each candidate was asked,
"If elected, what initiative(s) would you like to see the district pursue?"
Answers were edited for length. See more Q&As with LISD candidates in the September issue of
Community Impact Newspaper's Cedar Park/Leander edition, available free at communityimpact.com/lcp on Sept. 14.
Place 3 Incumbent: Pam Waggoner
Occupation: former insurance agent
Number of years on the LISD board: 12 total (2002-08, 2010-16)
A: We must give time for [new Superintendent Dan] Troxell to set his agenda. I believe a focus on [University Interscholastic League] academics in the primary schools is an initiative we will agree upon. … I also want to study [bringing] a magnet school to LISD. Our financial committee has been very beneficial to the board. I would like to explore other committees constituents could serve on that benefit the district.
Place 3 Challenger: Chris Remy
Occupation: software sales
Number of years on the LISD board: 0
A: With the proliferation of technology in the classroom, I would like the district to conduct a top-to-bottom review of how we are protecting student data and privacy. I also want to be sure that we have effective oversight of what electronic content is being presented to our children. As a big believer in the importance of the arts in education, another initiative I would like to explore is orchestra in LISD high schools.
Place 4 Incumbent: Grace Barber-Jordan
Occupation: adjunct professor of student development/licensed professional counselor
Number of years on the LISD board: 15
A: I would like to see us continue our focus on student learning and student safety, continue to manage all aspects of growth, continue to ensure curricular alignment meets [Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills] and college readiness standards, and continue the tradition of research-based professional development and research-based school construction.
Place 4 Challenger: Scott L. Rowe
Occupation: corporate tax accountant
Number of years on LISD board: 0
A: [No answer provided]
Place 5 Incumbent: Russell Bundy
Occupation: law enforcement
Number of years on the LISD Board: 9
A: Further develop district strategies on student development, curriculum standards, accountability and assessments, college and career readiness, school finances, the upcoming legislative session, etc.
Place 5 Challenger: James ‘Jim’ MacKay
Occupation: military training instructor, United States Air Force
Number of years on the LISD board: 0
A: “Leading to a Bright Future” begins with leading. If elected, you can expect to see me leading the efforts to address the priorities outlined above. I am also passionate about harnessing the collective power of diversity and inclusion. … I would like to apply the human relations training I have received from the military to create programs designed to celebrate our diversity and take advantage of our individual strengths.