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.
Community Impact is only asking candidates in contested May 4 elections to answer questionnaires.
*indicates incumbent
Charles Randklev*
Experience:
KISD board of trustees; 13 years in higher education, conducting research and mentoring students
Occupation:
Scientist and educator
Candidate Website:
https://www.vote4drcharles.com
Contact Information:
469-830-1832
Why are you running for office?
Keller ISD is an amazing district and I love serving our students, parents and amazing educators. We have accomplished so much but there is still more to do, which is why I am running for re-election for Keller ISD school board Place 6.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city/school district?
The economy and a broken system for school funding is our biggest challenge. We are currently re-balancing the school district’s budget in the middle of a $27 billion deficit caused by skyrocketing inflation (more than 17%), underfunded mandates and a state funding formula that has not been updated since 2019.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Austin is sitting on a historic $40 billion budget surplus, but they have chosen not to help. We have a plan filled with tough choices that no one wants to make. But we are committed to seeing it through so that we can ensure Keller ISD stays on track.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
1) Continue enhancing school security to keep our students and educators safe. 2) Continue balancing the budget and finding ways to reduce the tax rate and grow our general fund balance without hurting the quality of education. 3) Continue to look for ways to recruit and reward excellent educators.
Adrienne Sullivan
Experience:
Special education and procedural safeguards, citizens bond advisory committee, parent and community team, PTAs.
Occupation:
Engineer
Candidate Website:
http://bit.ly/AdrienneForSchoolBoard
Why are you running for office?
I have advocated for special education for over seven years, regularly speaking at board meetings and founded an organization to collaborate with the district on special education services. Driven by my passion and background, I will listen to our community, incorporating their feedback as we strive to improve public education.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city/school district?
School funding from the state is creating incredible challenges. Budget gaps have led to large changes and staff learning they won’t have jobs next school year leading to serious problems recruiting and retaining talented teachers. The board and district culture has faltered and lacks productive collaboration.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Collaboration needs to be at the heart of change. Budget issues are complex and we need to lean on the staff for their ideas and suggestions. We also need to have crucial conversations where we can weigh options and come up with sustainable solutions.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
I'll strive for transparency and am committed to working towards an inclusive, high-quality public education system that serves all KISD students. Special education is a passion of mine; the Stetson & Associates audit from 2020 outlines clear recommendations for improvements that should be implemented and would help all students.
