They are Mark Schluter and Amanda Smith.
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 contests to answer questionnaires.
*indicates incumbent
Mark C. Schluter*
Experience:
Served as NISD board member for 27 years. Volunteer in the various classroom opportunities.
Occupation:
Civil engineer project manager
Why are you running for office?
The most important reason that I am running for office is because the future of our nation depends on the education of our students. I want to insure that our students are college, career and military ready through a rigorous curriculum and real-world experiences.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city/school district?
School funding for needed programs, teacher support and retention along with open communication are the biggest issues. It is critically important to be transparent with district shared goals. Shared goals means collaboration with the community, parents and students not just internally.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Encourage our legislators to support our students without burdening our taxpayers. For communication, I would advocate for more community forums where the superintendent and 2-3 board members listen to our parents and residents. Listen to and support our teachers to see what resources they need to be successful.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
1. Students - give our kids the tools they need to succeed in the world after they graduate NISD; 2. Communication - reaching out to students, parents and community members to keep them 100% informed; 3. Budget - insure our tax dollars are utilized in the classrooms
Amanda J. Smith
Experience:
I am on the PTA. I was a substitute teacher in NISD. I am in the NISD leadership program.
Occupation:
Finance
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091348406321&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Contact Information:
817-715-1001
Why are you running for office?
Safety will always be top priority for our children. I will always vote to make sure we have equipment and tools to keep everyone safe. I will always be truthful and realistic. I am a candidate that wants to make sure your child is comfortable being exactly who they are.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city/school district?
Having more diversity and inclusion. Making all students feel welcome no matter race, sexual orientation or religion. Really listening to the younger generation and implementing their ideas.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Making sure students and staff feel safe, respected and want to come to school are most important. Actually going into the schools and asking staff and students how they would like to see change and how they would like to learn/teach is a great place to start.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
As the youngest candidate, with a 10-year-old child in the school district, I feel I can really relate to parents and students alike. I will strive to make sure everyone’s voice is heard, and to do what’s best for the district and our students and staff.
