What you need to know
Candidates running for the FBISD 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.
The ballot order could not be accessed in time for publication, so candidates were listed in alphabetical order.
Vanessa Marsters
Experience:
director of operations; 20 years business management; [homeowners association] president (10 years); LCISD Strategic Planning Committee
Candidate Website:
https://vanessa4lcisd.com
Contact Information:
N/A
Why did you choose to run for LCISD board of trustees?
Through my active participation in Lamar CISD, including the Strategic Planning and zoning committees, I’ve seen where my leadership, strategic planning and financial skills can contribute. I am committed to enriching the district through responsible growth, strong leadership and expanded learning opportunities that benefit students, teachers and families.
What is your top priority if elected to represent LCISD?
Teacher recruitment and retention. Ensuring LCISD attracts and keeps quality educators is essential to student success. I will advocate for competitive compensation, professional development and a strong support system to make LCISD a top choice for teachers and staff.
What are the main challenges the district is now facing, and how would you plan to address them?
LCISD’s hypergrowth, teacher retention and student discipline are key challenges. I will support proactive school planning, competitive teacher compensation and consistent enforcement of discipline policies. Responsible budgeting and stakeholder collaboration will ensure the district grows effectively while maintaining high academic standards and a safe learning environment.
Are there any programs or policies you'd like to see introduced or changed in the district?
I am committed to introducing a full-time summer enrichment program open to all students, offering [science, technology, engineer and math], arts, and leadership development. I want to see consistent enforcement of discipline policies, improvements in transportation efficiency and continued focus on safety measures to ensure a secure and productive learning environment for all students.
Demographers have said LCISD is in hypergrowth status due to new home starts. How will you help the district manage the incoming growth?
I will advocate for responsible rezoning, efficient bond use and long-term planning to manage LCISD’s hypergrowth. Serving on three zoning committees, I understand zoning’s impact beyond numbers. I also support the district’s efforts to address Texas’ failure to classify schools as critical infrastructure, leaving districts to manage growth alone.
Leslie Menchaca Gracia
Experience:
working mom with 20-plus years of real estate and mortgage operations experience, LCISD graduate and …
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573127224808
Contact Information:
346-535-9233
Why did you choose to run for LCISD board of trustees?
As an LCISD graduate, longtime resident and working mom of three, I’m deeply connected to this district. I’m running to ensure every voice—students, families, teachers and community members—is heard, and to help build a district where every student thrives and every educator feels valued.
What is your top priority if elected to represent LCISD?
Recruiting and keeping great teachers is essential. I’ll advocate for fair pay, increased state funding and collaborative leadership that values educators’ expertise. I’m here to serve our community—not any agenda—and ensure decisions reflect the needs of all students, families and stakeholders.
What are the main challenges the district is now facing, and how would you plan to address them?
Rapid growth and attracting quality educators are key challenges. I’ll work to strengthen collaboration with cities, developers and families to ensure growth is well planned, while also focusing on supporting teachers, improving communication, and ensuring district decisions reflect the values and priorities of our community.
Are there any programs or policies you'd like to see introduced or changed in the district?
I want to strengthen partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to expand career pathways, hands-on learning and mentorship programs. Every student, no matter their path, should have access to opportunities that prepare them for success after graduation.
Demographers have said LCISD is in hypergrowth status due to new home starts. How will you help the district manage the incoming growth?
With my career background, I understand the importance of proactive, transparent planning. I’ll work to ensure LCISD collaborates with cities, developers and community stakeholders to manage growth responsibly while keeping neighborhood schools strong, safe and well-resourced.
