Eligible residents have until April 3 to register to vote. The early voting period starts April 22 and ends April 29. Election Day is May 3.
The gist
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 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. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
The names of incumbent candidates are marked with a *. Candidates are listed in ballot order.
Janette Church
Experience:
Prosper ISD teacher with 15 years experience in education
Occupation:
National Director of Marketing
Candidate Website:
www.facebook.com/church4prosperISD
Why are you running for office?
I am a lifelong Texan, long-time Prosper resident, mother of two high school students, and former teacher. As a product of Texas public schools and retired Prosper ISD educator, I'm running for school board because I believe that teachers belong at tables where decisions that affect the classroom are made.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
Teacher retention, along with a decline in new teachers entering the field, is a paramount issue facing. Data shows that up to 50% of new teachers leave the field within 5 years, and the number of college students majoring in education has decreased by 35% in the last 10 years.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Teachers stay in and join districts with a culture of being supported. Supporting and retaining good administration is one of the best ways to support our teachers. In addition, it’s crucial that we ensure every teacher feels empowered with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the classroom.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Making sure that students, staff, and families feel supported is my main focus. The most important part of a child’s education is the three-part relationship between parents, teacher, and student. As a teacher, fostering that relationship was crucial. As a trustee, strengthening that relationship will guide every decision I make.
Garrett Linker*
Experience:
Incumbent trustee. Member Finance, Advocacy, Staff Recruitment & Retention, and Zoning Committees
Occupation:
Small business owner, financial services
Candidate Website:
www.garrettforprosper.com
Contact Information:
469-919-2484
Why are you running for office?
I’m running for re-election to keep our school board balanced. Diverse perspectives strengthen our district. Serving PISD students is one of my greatest honors. My role is to support the district and its stakeholders while ensuring necessary accountability; providing both support and oversight makes for a stronger Prosper ISD.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
Prosper ISD must maintain its exceptional student and teacher experience while growing by 3,000+ students annually. Key challenges include staffing, recruitment, retention, and morale; ensuring safety for students and staff; practicing financial stewardship; and overcoming inadequate state support for public education—all while meeting the high expectations of our community.
How do you plan to address these issues?
We must prioritize competitive pay, strong recruitment, and retention strategies to support staff. Expanding safety measures, including reevaluating police officer pay, increases student and staff security. Responsible budgeting maximizes resources amid limited state funding. I advocated for and helped approve construction audits to enhance transparency ensuring we remain fiscally responsible.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
My top priorities are ensuring students have the best opportunities in academics, arts, athletics, and CTE, while ensuring staff feels valued and supported. I will prioritize safety for all students and staff, work to make every family feel like they belong, and continue advocating for public education in Prosper ISD.
