What you need to know
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.
*Indicates incumbent.
Jennifer Erickson
Experience:
[Parent Teacher Association] board member; business professional; parent and volunteer in district; district committee member
Occupation:
communications
Candidate Website:
https://www.Erickson4KISD.com
Contact Information:
n/a
Why are you running for office?
I want the best education possible not just for my daughter, but for all KISD students. I will ask the tough questions and focus attention on what matters most—supporting teachers and students. I want to unite us and build people up, not tear apart the district.
What are the biggest challenges facing the school district?
The financial situation caused by lack of funding increases from the state has caused many challenges. The current board continues to spend money on unnecessary expenses. I will drive fiscal responsibility by treating taxpayer dollars with respect and focusing on the issues that greatly impact our teachers and students.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I am a former reporter who loves to dig into data and ask questions until I get the answers. We need board members who are transparent, focused on metrics and who will make the tough decisions. I will also tirelessly ask the state to fully fund public education, not vouchers.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
My top priority is restoring trust and credibility in the board by being open and honest about the challenges we are facing and the possible solutions. Our community has united behind our district and I see opportunity to pull in new voices to help us craft long-term solutions.
Jade Holbrook
Experience:
public policy at the state level
Occupation:
attorney
Candidate Website:
https://www.holbrookforkisd.com
Contact Information:
n/a
Why are you running for office?
Our district needs smart, strategic leadership to effectively navigate its current challenges and opportunities. I’m committed to transparent governance, data-driven decision-making, efficient use of taxpayer funds, and working tirelessly to ensure academic excellence in Keller for future generations.
What are the biggest challenges facing the school district?
The biggest challenge by far is the district’s financial instability. The district’s expenses continue to outpace revenue, and the state has failed to deliver any meaningful funding increases. Overcoming this challenge is necessary in order to support critical initiatives like student achievement, teacher retention and school safety.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I’ll leverage my professional experience to advocate for increased state funding and pursue funding opportunities the district is not currently capitalizing on. I’ll prioritize financial oversight and accountability, a business-minded approach to budgeting and long-term financial forecasting. Our district must be responsible stewards of taxpayers’ dollars.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
My priorities are simple—student success and fiscal responsibility. Students deserve an excellent education, free from invading political agendas. We must attract and retain high-quality teachers, ensure parent’s rights are respected, and support efforts to keep our schools safe. Fiscal responsibility will be key to our district’s success.
Joni Shaw Smith*
Experience:
Secretary of board of trustees for KISD since 2022, KCAL/CTE board member
Occupation:
live events...
Candidate Website:
https://www.joniforkellerisd.com
Contact Information:
817-800-9002
Why are you running for office?
I am running for re-election to bring unity to a divided district through leadership that truly listens and cares. Our community deserves a school board that prioritizes transparency, collaboration, and the success of every student. I am committed to bridging divides and ensuring all voices are heard in KISD.
What are the biggest challenges facing the school district?
KISD faces serious challenges, including budget shortfalls, inadequate state funding, teacher retention struggles and the threat of a district split. We must prioritize competitive salaries, responsible financial management and community unity to keep our schools strong and ensure every student continues to receive a high-quality education.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I will continue to pursue innovative revenue solutions, operational efficiencies and community partnerships to support our schools while advocating for proper state funding. By prioritizing transparency, open communication and fiscal responsibility, I will rebuild trust, retain great teachers and keep KISD united without burdening taxpayers or sacrificing student success.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
To rebuild trust, reopen the lines of communication with transparency, bridge the community divide, and bring focus back on our students and their success.
