Candidates were asked to fill out questions and answers from Community Impact. They 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.
*Indicates incumbent
Dawn Champagne*
Experience:
Six years on the Katy ISD school board, 20 years volunteering in Katy ISD and the community
Occupation:
Retail merchandising
Candidate Website:
https://facebook.com/groups/160538218075918/about
Why are you running for this trustee position?
I am running for re-election because I would like to continue to advocate for students, parents and teachers. I want to help ensure that this district remains a premier one by continuing to support Katy ISD’s mission statement, “to provide unparalleled learning experiences.”
What are your top qualifications for the trustee position?
I am a devoted advocate for Katy ISD and the people within the district. I have the time, willingness and enthusiasm that it takes to serve. My top qualifications are organization, time management, empathy, ability to know which questions to ask and when, intelligence, flexibility, open-mindedness, and kindness.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?
1. Katy ISD is a fast-growing school district; 2. Our students are underfunded by the state of Texas; 3. Teacher shortages; and 4. The education gap. We need to continuously look for ways to increase funding and/or create programs to take care of these needs.
Why should voters support your candidacy for the position?
I am a diligent advocate who is constantly available and easily reachable. I have no further agenda beyond my nonpartisan role as a board member. My utmost goal is to provide a premier education to each and every child in our district, so that they can be the leaders of ...
David Olson
Experience:
Parent of two Katy ISD students; member of two high school fine arts booster clubs; 30-plus years in the petrochemical industry
Occupation:
Chemical engineer/account manager, BASF Corporation
Candidate Website:
https://olson4katyisd.org
Why are you running for this trustee position?
I believe current trustees no long share my beliefs and values, or that of the larger community, especially when it comes to parent’s rights.
What are your top qualifications for the trustee position?
My wife is an employee of the district; I have a 2023 graduate of Katy ISD and a current sophomore. I hear the day-to-day challenges and issues from an employee and a student perspective. My 30-plus years in the private sector brings a fresh perspective to public service.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?
Teacher retention and fiscal responsibility. The district needs uniform and effective student discipline so teachers and staff feel safe and respected in the school. The public expects the district to make necessary spending decisions like one’s residents have faced in the three years of high inflation.
Why should voters support your candidacy for the position?
Parents with children in our schools want individuals on the board who face the same issues as our residents do daily. Residents also want members of the board who share in their local values, not be influenced by outside individuals and organizations.
