Meet the candidates
Newcomers Gracie de Leon and Oscar Silva have filed for Position 1 on the HISD board of trustees, as previously reported by Community Impact. The position is currently held by Robert Sitton, who previously announced he would not be seeking re-election this year.
According to the district’s website, each of the seven members of HISD’s board of trustees is elected to an at-large position—meaning they represent the entire district rather than a specific portion of the district—for four years in a nonpartisan election. HISD board positions 3, 4 and 5 are also up for election May 3.
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.
What's next
Early voting for the May 3 election will run from April 22-29. For more information about voting in Harris County, click here.
Gracie de Leon
Experience:
Parent, small business owner, director GO Imaging, CTE Board Humble ISD, US Military Selection Board
Candidate Website:
https://www.voteforgracie.com
What’s the biggest challenge the district is currently facing, and how do you plan to address it?
Excellence. Our school district needs a stronger focus on academic excellence for all students. This requires providing necessary resources and opportunities, alongside supporting teachers with the tools, training and time they need. Investing in educators and setting clear academic expectations is key to fostering an environment where students can thrive.
How will you work to help the district move forward following the recent appointment of a new superintendent?
Inquisitive. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with the superintendent at events like HOSA Health Horizons and the Humble Leadership Academy. As school board members, it’s vital to collaborate with the superintendent, staff and community. By staying inquisitive and fostering open communication, we can drive HISD toward success and improvement.
How will you work to ensure campuses are adequately funded throughout the district?
Audit. To fund our campuses, I advocate for regular audits to ensure transparency and efficiency. Collaborating with local officials and communities is key to securing sustainable funding, while monitoring statewide opportunities. This approach will help our district stay competitive and ensure campuses receive the resources they need.
Oscar Silva
Experience:
Bank learning/development professional, volunteer at WatchDOGS, Title I site-based committee, builder of HISD Parents
Candidate Website:
https://www.oscarforhumble.com
Contact Information:
281-318-1264
What’s the biggest challenge the district is currently facing, and how do you plan to address it?
The district needs to continue to build renewed trust and unity. I’ll prioritize open communication, listening sessions and collaborative decision-making led by our expert teachers and staff. By focusing on student and teacher needs, we can mend relationships, rebuild confidence and establish a more inclusive, supportive environment for everyone.
How will you work to help the district move forward following the recent appointment of a new superintendent?
I’ll collaborate with the board and new superintendent to set clear, measurable goals. By maintaining open dialogue, evaluating progress through data and regularly engaging stakeholders, we ensure everyone’s voice is heard. Uniting around shared objectives will help us move forward confidently and strengthen overall district performance.
How will you work to ensure campuses are adequately funded throughout the district?
I will work with the board to advocate for proper funding from state legislators. I will champion teacher-led advisory committees that guide spending decisions to reflect frontline needs. By collaborating with lawmakers and educators, we can strive to secure the resources our schools need.
