Melissa Lee and Charlie Torres are running for Place 2. The position is held by Tony Hanson.
Alex Okafor is running unopposed for Place 1. The position is held by David Aguirre.
Once elected, trustees will serve three-year terms.
Early voting begins April 22 and ends April 30. Election day is May 4.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Melissa Lee
Experience:
District involvement: advocate, guest educator, volunteer, PTO Leader. Background: corporate finance, strategic planning, analytics.
Occupation:
Volunteer & Community Advocate
Candidate Website:
http://tinyurl.com/5bvfpdss
Contact Information:
[email protected]
Why are you running for this position?
I'm running because my time volunteering in our schools supporting students and staff, building relationships, and advocating through letters and public comments has helped me gain understanding and interest in critical issues facing PfISD. These experiences have heightened my commitment to our kids, compelling me to seek a trustee role.
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
I’m concerned about public education funding in Texas and its impact on the district’s financial stability, reduced educational opportunities, student outcomes and safety, and staff retention. I’m worried about the district’s long-term ability to fulfill its mission to students, and the impact on its status as a favorable destination district.
If elected, what is your No. 1 priority to address?
My foremost commitment, if elected, is assessing the district's financial standing, aiming to minimize the impact of financial decisions on students and staff, safeguarding educational opportunities within PfISD. Preserving the integrity of public education is vital to unlocking the full potential of our community and fostering a thriving academic environment.
Charlie Torres
Experience:
Trustee; Education Foundation leadership; PfISD SHAC and District committees; PTO and HHS-FFA; Teacher advocate.
Occupation:
Retired and Education & Community Advocate
Contact Information:
Coming soon
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running for the school board because I am passionately committed to advocating for the comprehensive educational needs of all PfISD students. My goal is to enhance community awareness, foster strong support and encourage active district participation to ensure our students succeed now and in the future.
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
My primary concern is ensuring PfISD’s financial stability by optimizing taxpayer dollars, minimizing waste, and improving collaboration between district administration and staff. I’m equally committed to enhancing communication and collaboration with the community, ensuring transparency and accountability in all decisions.
If elected, what is your number on priority to address?
My priority is addressing the educational needs of our 25,000-plus PfISD students, supporting their journey to post-graduation success. Our diverse district requires enriched educational experiences, both in and out of the classroom. We must support our educators and ensure equitable access to quality education, fostering academic achievement for all.
