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. For more information about voting in Montgomery County, visit www.elections.mctx.org.
Richelle Theilen
Experience:
served the community for over 10 years, whether directly in WISD schools or through youth sports, volunteer work in church or via donations to various charities; was the parent contact for the Leadership Committee at BMS for three years
Occupation:
Realtor
Contact Information:
713-553-6434
Why are you running for election?
This is my first time running for office. I believe that a school board must be responsive and receptive to families, staff, students and the community at large. Transparency is key. My efforts as a board member would center around serving all children in our community, maintaining a structure that supports vision, empowers our staff and provides leadership.
What will your top two priorities be if elected?
accountability and transparency
WISD received a C accountability rating for the 2021-22 school year. If elected, how will you work to improve the ratings within the district?
We need to listen to the voices of teachers; what do they need? They deserve to be able to teach. I will encourage change when change is necessary. I will not ignore problems; being proactive instead of responsive is the responsible choice.
As a growing district, what challenges do you believe Willis ISD faces, and how will you help address those challenges?
Willis faces a ton of new opportunities in education. It’s why I believe we need change. Our current members have served many years; it’s time for fresh ideas, new/updated policy, fresh eyes and ears. Giving all stakeholders a voice that matters and making teachers empowered will be our first steps to change.
John Hinna
Experience:
Four years of leadership over the Outreach Program at Willis Cowboy Fellowship; over 42 years working experience in the private sector; working relationships with all levels of employees, upper management, customers, public, owners, etc.
Occupation:
Retired
Contact Information:
936-444-9412
Why are you running for election?
After having kiddos in WISD for 15 years and watching the changes, I am not happy with the direction things are heading. … After much thought, consideration and prayer, I decided to give it my very best and help our kiddos, staff and parents be proud of the education they receive at WISD.
What will your top two priorities be, if elected?
1. Communication and transparency between administration, staff, parents, students and public. 2. Providing an education our kiddos can be proud of, respected and honored to say they attended Willis ISD school.
WISD received a C accountability rating for the 2021-22 school year. If elected, how will you work to improve the ratings within the district?
My thought is, something is missing somewhere. First, find out where the ball is being dropped, then investigate why, research what other districts have done or are doing to fix the issues and with help from others implement these changes.
As a growing district, what challenges do you believe Willis ISD faces, and how will you help address those challenges?
At the current time, the most important issue we as a district are facing is overcrowding. The situation puts much stress on everyone. Some classrooms have 35 kiddos. … The solution is to make sure our teachers are respected, appreciated, supported and allowed to teach the students the necessary education to be successful and productive citizens.
Nikita Lagway
Experience:
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
Occupation:
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
Contact Information:
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
Why are you running for election?
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
What will your top two priorities be if elected?
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
WISD received a C accountability rating for the 2021-22 school year. If elected, how will you work to improve the ratings within the district?
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
As a growing district, what challenges do you believe Willis ISD faces, and how will you help address those challenges?
Candidate did not respond by deadline.
Christen Arnold (incumbent)
Experience:
Board member since 2006
Occupation:
Director, Montgomery County Drug and DWI Court
Contact Information:
936-524-0666
Why are you running for election?
I am running for re-election to so that I can continue to serve the constituents of Willis ISD. Willis is on the brink of great things. We are a fast-growing district and continued leadership is vital at this time.
What will your top two priorities be if elected?
Retain great staff and safety.
WISD received a C accountability rating for 2021-22 school year. If elected, how will you work to improve the ratings within the district?
The C rating is not where the district strives to be. Fortunately, we have new staff leading our two largest campuses. The new staff has a vision and is implementing new strategies with their staff while at the same time working with central office staff. We must continue to meet the needs of our staff with trainings and resources.
As a growing district, what challenges do you believe Willis ISD faces, and how will you help address those challenges?
Our district continues to grow each year, we must be prepared and provide the ample resources needed to our students and staff. We must maintain the current facilities that we have and prepare to build new ones when and where needed.
