Candidate Q&A: Keller ISD board of trustees Place 3

Why are you running for office?

SW: Keller [ISD] is a great school district that my family has been proud to call home for over 20 years. During this time, I have watched our district grow and transform while providing students incredible opportunities. As a mom of six kids, three [of whom are] graduates and three [of whom are] current students, I have experienced this firsthand. I will be a passionate advocate for the next generation on the school board, fighting to help all of our students reach their full potential.

What are the biggest challenges facing the families and staff in Keller ISD?

SW: Keller ISD, like many other school districts across the country, is experiencing learning gaps, specifically when it comes to student literacy. The latest district data indicates that students in grades K-8 began the school year reading well below grade level. Reading is a critical skill that is the foundation for a student’s future opportunities and success after high school. All students deserve the opportunity to graduate high school with the tools and knowledge they need in order for them to become productive members of society.

If elected, what would be your top priorities?

SW: I value an environment where parents feel heard and the school board holds itself to the highest of standards. I would apply this principle, starting with myself. This looks like maintaining expectations of excellence, having a culture of transparency and encouraging parental involvement in schools (i.e., volunteering, substitute teaching, serving on PTAs, etc.). A more informed and involved community makes for better public education, and this is an important component when it comes to addressing the myriad of challenges that the district is experiencing. Parents and educators need to partner with one another to help students achieve their full potential.

What are some new ideas or programs you would like the Keller ISD board of trustees to explore?

SW: KISD has incredible teachers who are working hard to prepare students for life after high school. I will stand by our teachers and equip them with the helpful resources they need to develop new work programs, trade school opportunities and certifications through KCAL and the CTE departments for our students. I am open to hearing all perspectives and making choices that best reflect the needs of our students and community.

Why are you running for office?

JD: I'm running for the above office as I feel that I have lots of life experiences that I would bring as a candidate for the board of trustees.

What are the biggest challenges facing the families and staff in Keller ISD?

JD: Some of the biggest challenges that are facing the families and staff of KISD is retaining qualified teachers to remain in the field during the pandemic that we are going through. Also giving families support needed to keep children safe [is important].

If elected, what would be your top priorities?

JD: If elected, one of the top priorities would be to give teachers increased salaries equal to other school districts.

What are some new ideas or programs you would like the Keller ISD board of trustees to explore?

JD: I would like the board to explore increasing security in all the schools.