What you need to know
Incumbent Nate Robb is running against challengers Josh Jaros and Kyle Calhoun for MISD Position 7 in the May election.
The last day to register to vote is April 3 and early voting will begin April 22, with election day on May 3, according to prior reporting.
The details
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 https://elections.mctx.org. For more election coverage, go to communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
*indicates incumbent
Josh Jaros
Experience:
carpenter, Republican Precinct 77 Chair, advocate on education issues locally/statewide, father's rights state leader
Candidate Website:
https://JoshforMISD.com
Contact Information:
936-446-6763
Why are you running for Montgomery ISD board of trustees?
I am running to lower property taxes, give teachers real raises, not just a promise of a raise, and to close security loopholes that are currently present in school safety.
What is your top priority if elected?
Lowering property taxes is my top priority. When the district allows uncontrolled spending, that money can only come from one place, the taxpayers. The school board sets the tax rate and is responsible for managing how this money is spent.
What is the biggest issue facing MISD, and how would you address it?
We have a spending problem. I have received calls from across the district where property taxes continue to rise while teacher pay is not addressed. I would implement cost-cutting procedures and reduce the dependence on bonds.
How can trustees help MISD prepare for anticipated student enrollment growth?
We plan for additional student enrollment by redistricting where needed. Several school districts in Texas are closing schools because enrollment is declining. We do not need to overbuild, we need to plan sensibly.
How will you balance your responsibility to help MISD schools and students with your responsibility to the community when it comes to taxation?
Just because we can build it, doesn't mean we should. Good representation means we look at everyone in the district and set a tax rate that allows for reasonable education at a reasonable cost. We can have great schools and keep property taxes low.
Kyle Calhoun
Experience:
general manager, Kureha Energy Solutions; professional leader; church community leader; military leader, veteran; community leader
Candidate Website:
https://kylecalhoun.com
Contact Information:
281-797-7798
Why are you running for Montgomery ISD board of trustees?
Retention of quality staff, child safety, fiscal accountability, school funding and demonstration of Christian-based principles are my key components and identifying reasons for running. I look to serve our community and taxpayers that serve my family to the best of my ability.
What is your top priority if elected?
My top priority if elected is to be a voice for the teachers and the community as it relates to the needs of our district.
What is the biggest issue facing MISD, and how would you address it?
School choice and recapture are the biggest issues facing our district. It is crucial that we speak up on these issues and hold elected officials accountable to the needs of the community and district. We are responsible for speaking out against the legislation negatively impacting our children and community.
How can trustees help MISD prepare for anticipated student enrollment growth?
Trustees can assist with growth by ensuring that funds are properly allocated to allow for growth. This will require concise and clear communication with residents and taxpayers as to why the funds are needed and how previous funds were allocated.
How will you balance your responsibility to help MISD schools and students with your responsibility to the community when it comes to taxation?
When referring to the needs of the district, the students and teachers come before the taxpayers. However, it is paramount that we do everything within our power to fund the school appropriately with the taxpayer in mind. Taxpayers deserve transparency as well in order to better understand the allocation.
Nate Robb*
Experience:
business owner; current board member; member, Bond Task Force Committee; ample hours of educational training
Contact Information:
832-248-3177
Why are you running for Montgomery ISD board of trustees?
I’m seeking reelection to ensure MISD provides a premier education, supports teachers and maintains strong community values. I’ll guide our growth responsibly while keeping the district financially sound, prioritizing student success and fostering transparency—ensuring every decision benefits our children, teachers, and taxpayers.
What is your top priority if elected?
My top priority is maintaining financial responsibility while prioritizing teacher salaries, student safety and academic excellence. We must invest in schools while ensuring transparency and accountability. Supporting educators, expanding student opportunities and planning for growth will keep MISD a premier district.
What is the biggest issue facing MISD, and how would you address it?
Managing rapid growth is MISD’s biggest challenge. We must plan ahead with responsible budgeting, strategic facility planning and investment in educators. Advocating for proper state funding, improving facilities and ensuring small town values guide decisions will help MISD grow successfully while protecting taxpayers.
How can trustees help MISD prepare for anticipated student enrollment growth?
Trustees must prioritize long-term facility planning, teacher recruitment and resource allocation. We must proactively address growing needs, advocate for additional funding and engage the community in data-driven decisions to keep schools safe and class sizes manageable.
How will you balance your responsibility to help MISD schools and students with your responsibility to the community when it comes to taxation?
Balancing student needs with taxpayer responsibility requires transparency, strategic budgeting and long-term financial planning. Every dollar spent must directly benefit students and maintain high standards. Careful growth management, fiscal responsibility and community input will keep MISD a premier district while respecting the financial impact on Montgomery families.
