Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the question provided without attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Jeff Dearing
Experience:
VP of Finance for NISD Education Foundation, Board Member Metroport Chamber. Business Owner since 2003.
Occupation:
CEO Diamond Financial, Financial Advisor
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/share/19yFUF5THg/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Contact Information:
N/A
Why are you running for office?
I’m running for school board because I deeply care about our students, teachers and the community. With my wife and daughter teaching in NISD and my children enrolled or graduated [from the district], I’m fully invested in ensuring every child receives a high-quality education and that our district thrives.
What are the biggest challenges facing the school district?
Sadly, state funding is one of the biggest challenges in education. Schools are expected to do more with less, impacting students, teachers and programs. We must invest in our schools, not just maintain them, to ensure every student receives the best possible education. The state has to do better.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I’m committed to advocating for fair funding, smart budgeting and transparency. I will work to ensure resources go directly to students and teachers, push for cost-effective solutions and engage the community in funding decisions. Our schools deserve investment so every child gets the quality education they deserve.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Building on our strong foundation, I will work with the community and Board of Trustees to keep student success at the heart of everything we do. We are a top district for a reason, and it would be an honor to help strengthen it even further.
Joe Washam
Experience:
Serving as a parent-volunteer on many Northwest ISD committees and attending school board meetings
Occupation:
Retired combat-wounded US Army Infantryman & Dallas Mavericks Advisory Council member
Candidate Website:
https://www.joewasham.com/
Contact Information:
N/A
Why are you running for office?
I’m running to bring strong leadership, accountability and a student-centered approach to Northwest ISD. As a combat-wounded veteran, parent and husband of a teacher, I’ll advocate for enhanced educational opportunities, responsible growth, policies that support teachers and ensure all students are prepared for college, careers or military service.
What are the biggest challenges facing the school district?
Northwest ISD faces rapid growth, teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, student behavior issues and the need for the legislature to solve the school funding crisis, including increasing the daily allotment, special education funding, underfunded mandates like school safety and full-day pre-K.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I regularly meet with state lawmakers in Austin, advocating for better educational funding. I encourage public involvement through PTA and the NISD Advocacy Committee, aiming to boost district transparency and educate voters about the state’s mismanagement of funds and the unfair impact of the Robin Hood recapture system.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Empowering students – providing the tools, opportunities and support needed to inspire learning, unleash potential and prepare students for success. Supporting teachers – investing in educators with the resources, training and respect they need to create thriving classrooms and enhance student achievement. Building community – strengthening partnerships between schools, families and businesses.
