What to know
The board of trustees is comprised of community members who are elected to serve three-year terms without pay. CISD board members are elected at-large for specific places on the board.
The last day to register to vote is April 3 and early voting will take place April 22-29. Election day is May 3.
CISD uses Dallas County Elections voting locations found here.
Community Impact surveyed candidates prior to the election. Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words. Answers may have been edited to comply with word count guidelines or for style and clarity.
Jonathan Powers
Experience:
Coppell ISD Ed Foundation Board Member, CYSA Board Member, iLead, Leadership Coppell and Bond Oversight Committee.
Occupation:
Attorney
Candidate Website:
http://www.powers4cisd.com
Contact Information:
682-225-9190
Why are you running for office?
Public education is under attack in Texas, and our district faces a changing landscape. I want to be part of the local solution, helping CISD maintain its tradition of excellence and stand out against private and charter competitors. I will tirelessly advocate for our students and teachers at all levels.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
The three biggest issues for CISD are navigating state constraints to provide for our teachers, planning for declining enrollment, and balancing our budget.
If elected, what would be your top priorities?
My top priorities as a school board member would be to address the biggest challenges facing CISD. To continue supporting our teachers, we must have open, transparent conversations about building for a CISD with fewer young children living in Coppell and Irving.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like CISD to explore?
Teachers burning out and leaving the profession is a real problem. We should focus most urgently on ideas that support our teachers and make their jobs easier and more fulfilling. For example, expanding opportunities for teachers to work remotely on training days would allow flexibility a few days per year.
Why should I vote for you if I were in your district?
I am committed to CISD for the long haul; this is where my family has laid down its roots. I will advocate for every student and teacher in CISD and always focus on the bigger picture. I’ve consistently been committed to uniting our community to tackle problems facing our district.
Julie Waters
Experience:
Mom to 3 kids, School Volunteer Extraordinaire, Anti-Trafficking Attorney, Community Leader, UIL Academics Coordinator, Aggie
Occupation:
Attorney
Candidate Website:
http://www.VoteForJulieWaters.com
Contact Information:
832-461-5865
Why are you running for office?
I am running for the Coppell school board because I’m passionate about children and public education. I genuinely want to serve the public and strengthen our community. At my core, I love people, I believe in the power of education, and I’ll work tirelessly to ensure that every voice matters.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
CISD is experiencing unprecedented financial difficulties and low enrollment. Consequently, budget deficits and school closures, with more possibly on the horizon, have become a reality. I am tackling these issues head on with creative, community engaged, holistic thinking and direct communication with our legislators in Austin to request more funding.
If elected, what would be your top priorities?
My top priorities would be (1) safety and security for our students, (2) meeting the academic needs of our students, and (3) collaborating on fiscally responsible and comprehensive plans for closing the deficit and preserving our schools.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like CISD to explore?
As a board member, I would advocate for the district to explore opportunities to enhance offerings in artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, financial literacy and skilled trades like plumbing and HVAC. If funding allows, expanding our STEAM initiatives and performing arts would also be a priority.
Why should I vote for you if I were in your district?
As a nonprofit leader, attorney, and mom to three elementary aged children, I am an experienced out of the box thinker who will passionately and creatively advocate for our children. The district is facing uncharted territory in critical times, where fearless leadership and energy is needed. I get things done!
