Q&A: Hear from the candidates for Cy-Fair ISD school board Position 7

Why are you running for the CFISD board of trustees, and what makes you the best candidate?

Our district deserves strong advocates. As a parent and volunteer, I have a vested interest in the educational success and well-being of our students, educators/staff and community. I’m running to champion student success, support educators/staff and facilitate collaboration that strengthens our community.

Given mixed feelings about the TEA's rating system, how do you think district success should be measured? What makes a successful district?

While state ratings provide one perspective, true district success goes beyond test scores and data. Success should be measured by student growth, teacher support, parent engagement, and how well we prepare students for life beyond the classroom academically, socially and emotionally. Mastery in those areas will make a successful district.

What are the biggest issues CFISD is facing, and how would you address them?

Teacher retention/support: Advocate for sufficient pay increases, affordable healthcare, additional support and classroom autonomy. Student success: Ensure every child has the tools and support needed to be successful. Seek stability and continuity in curriculum implementation and adaptation. Parent involvement: Create a system of transparency and collaboration between the student ...

How will you take community feedback into account when making decisions?

Every voice is valuable. As a trustee, I will actively listen to parents, educators, students and community members, seeking feedback through open dialogue and collaboration. Decisions should reflect the needs of those directly impacted, ensuring our schools remain student centered and community driven.

If you could change one district policy, what would it be and why?

I’d restore certified librarians to campuses. In Texas, less than 60% of students in grades 3-8 read at grade level. Removing librarians can only worsen this. We need dedicated literacy leaders to inspire and equip motivated readers at every age. Reading is the foundation of lifelong success. Bring our librarians back.

Why are you running for the CFISD board of trustees, and what makes you the best candidate?

I am running for school board because, as a parent, educator, and public education advocate, I care deeply about our students’ success and school effectiveness. By fostering communication, thoughtful decision-making and strong leadership, I aim to ensure the best educational and workplace opportunities for everyone in CyFair ISD.

Given mixed feelings about the TEA's rating system, how do you think district success should be measured? What makes a successful district?

The district can use formal and informal assessments, plus key data like graduation rates, CCMR, staff retention, and teacher satisfaction, to measure success. Reviewing multiple data sources, not just state data, provides a fuller understanding of student achievement, teacher morale, and overall satisfaction with the district.

What are the biggest issues CFISD is facing, and how would you address them?

The greatest challenge CFISD faces is its budget deficit. Financial stability is vital for competitive teacher pay, classroom resources, staff development and student programs. Board decisions must prioritize student success and safety while fostering trust, transparency and thoughtful action. When teachers and staff feel valued and supported, students thrive.

Why are you running for the CFISD board of trustees, and what makes you the best candidate?

I bring proven governance experience, financial expertise, and a lifelong commitment to education. My service as a former trustee, who eliminated year-round schools in 1996, CPA background, and military discipline equip me to make tough decisions that strengthen schools, support teachers and put students first.

Given mixed feelings about the TEA's rating system, how do you think district success should be measured? What makes a successful district?

Success is measured by student literacy, safe classrooms, teacher retention and community confidence. A successful district ensures children read on grade level, graduates are college or workforce ready, and parents trust the system.

What are the biggest issues CFISD is facing, and how would you address them?

Too many students cannot read on grade level. Discipline issues disrupt learning. I will fight for consistent policies, stronger literacy programs and fair state funding. Budgets must prioritize classrooms, not bureaucracy.

How will you take community feedback into account when making decisions?