Candidates running for the board were asked to complete a questionnaire 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.
Candidates shared the issue they believe is most pressing for the district, the offerings the district should prioritize in the face of expanded school choice and how to accommodate the growing enrollment of special education and bilingual students.
The ballot order could not be accessed in time for publication, so candidates were listed in alphabetical order.
For more information on the election, visit the district’s website.
*Indicates incumbent
James Cross
Experience:
retired KISD principal/executive director Southeast Texas Education Coalition
Candidate Website:
https://crossforkatyisd.com
Why did you choose to run for the Katy ISD board of trustees?
I am a recently retired educator who worked in KISD for 20 years. I believe my experience being the leader of a large campus is like running a business, and 30 years in education has given me a perspective that is valuable to the role of school board trustee.
What do you think is the most pressing issue in KISD, and how would you address it?
Funding and teacher shortage. Attract new teachers to the profession. Once the funding is given from the state, a more accurate analysis of the budget will allow us to address this issue adequately.
With the expansion of alternatives to public schools, what offerings should KISD prioritize for its students?
KISD offers the most robust and varied curriculum and programs in the region. KISD is a destination district for families because of its success and its wide variety of programs for students. There is a pathway for every student from [Advanced Placement] courses, [Career and Technical Education], [science,technology, engineering and math], and beyond.
What support should the district provide to accommodate the growth of special education and bilingual enrollment?
No private, charter or public school provides as many options as KISD. What we need to focus on is the ever-changing global demand for jobs to constantly ensure we are preparing students for future careers.
Victor Perez*
Experience:
retired. Former [chief financial officer] for [New York Stock Exchange] and NASDAQ energy companies, and a former corporate banker.
Candidate Website:
https://victorperezforkatyisd.com
Contact Information:
713-825-4377
Why did you choose to run for the Katy ISD board of trustees?
I have deep roots in KISD. Our three children graduated from KISD and we have four grandchildren in KISD. I ran to improve the education of all children by getting back to the basics, as well as to protect parental rights and our conservative Katy community values.
What do you think is the most pressing issue in KISD, and how would you address it?
Funding for the needs of our diverse community. We must prioritize resources in the classroom to ensure the success of students. We have demands to build and repair schools, compensate our staff fairly, and fund the needs of special education and bilingual students. I take seriously my oversight responsibility.
With the expansion of alternatives to public schools, what offerings should KISD prioritize for its students?
KISD provides more than alternative schools can provide. Parents want their children to excel in core subjects like math, reading, science and social studies. This must always be our focus. Additionally, career and technical education is one that will grow and provide alternative paths for many students.
What support should the district provide to accommodate the growth of special<br>education and bilingual enrollment?
The key is to reduce teacher attrition and improve their job satisfaction. The teacher shortage is highest in special education (SPED). I advocated for a new behavioral learning center for our SPED students. As a Cuban immigrant, who learned English in the classroom, I appreciate the needs of bilingual students.
