What you need to know
The board approved calling a special election to replace the vacant position at an Aug. 25 meeting in a 5-1 vote. The election comes after trustee Buddy Bonner resigned this summer due to the district’s nepotism guidelines.
The last day to register to vote is Oct. 6. Early voting will take place from Oct. 20-31. Election Day is Nov. 4.
LISD uses Denton County Elections Office locations and Tarrant County Elections Office locations. Specific polling locations and hours can be found on Denton and Tarrant counties’ websites.
Michelle Alkhatib
Experience:
Current LISD board trustee, former teacher & principal, LEF president-elect, PTA leader & advocate
Candidate Website:
https://www.michelle4lisd.com
Contact Information:
972-896-3211
Why are you running for office?
As a trustee for the past two and a half years, I’m proud of our progress and eager to build on it. With proven experience, dedication, and a clear vision, I remain committed to serving all students, staff, and families while helping every student thrive.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
LISD faces critical challenges with declining enrollment and a deficit budget. These pressures impact resources, staffing, and long-term stability. We must make strategic, student-centered decisions to protect academic excellence, support our teachers, and ensure every child continues to receive the high-quality education our community expects and deserves.
If elected, what would be your top priorities?
My top priorities are student success, supporting teachers, and fiscal responsibility. I am committed to addressing enrollment and budget challenges, strengthening academic opportunities, and fostering safe, supportive schools where every student can thrive. With experience and vision, I will continue working to protect and grow LISD’s excellence.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like LISD to explore?
I would like LISD to explore a community leadership program that engages parents and residents in learning about our schools and district. This initiative would strengthen partnerships, build understanding, and grow future leaders who can advocate for and support student success, ensuring a stronger connection between LISD and the community.
Why should I vote for you if I were in your district?
You should vote for me because I bring both prior community service and board experience, with a proven track record of advocating for students and teachers. As an experienced voice, I remain committed to strong leadership, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring every child in LISD has the opportunity to thrive.
Madison Lopez
Experience:
Attorney, Denton County prosecutor (2024-2025), Mosaic Family Services human trafficking legal intern (2024)
Candidate Website:
https://lopezforlisd.my.canva.site
Contact Information:
972-822-6909
Why are you running for office?<br>
As an LISD graduate and parent myself, I am invested in the district’s health and success. I have called this community home for over 20 years, so I understand our strengths and the challenges we face. I believe my expertise, skills, and passion would make me a strong asset.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
The District is navigating state-wide changes in education policy that require a careful understanding of staff needs and parent perspectives. Like many Texas school districts, we face questions about long-term financial health and concerns about overall student outcomes. We must tackle these challenges head-on in a collaborative manner.
If elected, what would be your top priorities?
Student achievement and well-being come first. Specifically, I want to see elementary reading and math scores rise through greater academic support and effective resources. We must also prioritize parent voices as we make decisions. And finally, we must ensure long-term financial health through the responsible spending of taxpayer dollars.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like LISD to explore?
Safety in our schools is critical. I support exploring a program where qualified veterans in our community can volunteer to help protect our students, contingent on passing background checks and psychological evaluations.
Why should I vote for you if I were in your district?
As the only attorney on the board, I would bring professional expertise and decision-making experience as a former prosecutor. I also personally understand the challenges facing our students, having graduated from LISD and navigated the changing landscape of education as a college student during the pandemic.
