We reached out to the seven individuals running for three contested positions on the Katy ISD Board of Trustees and asked them a few questions. These are their un-edited responses.
Bill Proctor (incumbent)
Age: 66
Occupation: Retired educator, over 40 years in education
Years in the Katy area: since 2005
Campaign website: https://billproctorrepresentingyouonthekisdboard.wordpress.com/
Q&A
-What are your top two priorities, if elected?
Katy ISD must keep up with the rapid growth while ensuring quality education at all campuses across the district. We need to make sure that we provide equally for all of them.
We need to have additional opportunities in career and technical education. We can partner with our local community college while expanding the offerings at offerings at the Miller Career Center.
-Why do you want to run for this elected office?
I bring a unique set of talents to the KISD Board. I have been a counselor, instruction, district administrator, educational researcher, and developed educational policies for all levels of education. My educational experiences will help Katy ISD address the challenges of the future. I have six nieces and nephews that attend Katy ISD schools.
-Development and growth have been big themes for the Katy area in recent years. How would you help plan for future growth in the area, if elected?
We need to ensure that we are using all of our facilities wisely, balancing enrollments at existing schools. We are facing a demand for additional facilities as we continue to grow. One of the most prevalent comments that I is that many of our schools are overcrowded.
-In what two ways do you see yourself as an advocate for the residents you will represent if elected?
I believe it is my responsibility to do what is in the best interest of the students, parents, and taxpayers of the district. It is important to listen to the public. I have held my own town hall meetings in an effort to listen to the public. A single Board member cannot speak for the Board but can listen. My town hall meetings have been frowned upon by some Board members.
Ashley Vann
Age: 42
Occupation: Homemaker & Dedicated Volunteer
Years in the Katy area: over 20
Campaign website: www.votevann.com
-What are your top two priorities, if elected?
Growth & Safety of Students
-Why do you want to run for this elected office?
It is my belief that my involvement and investment in the district is a key ingredient that is missing on the current board.
-Development and growth have been big themes for the Katy area in recent years. How would you help plan for future growth in the area, if elected?
The growth is inevitable. People are moving to Katy for the schools. It is the role of a trustee to review, stay informed, question and approve or not approve plans presented by appointed committees and district employees. It would be my charge and commitment to listen to the Katy residents' concerns and desires, plus stay educated in what's best for our students, staff members and community.
In what two ways do you see yourself as an advocate for the residents you will represent if elected?
I am one of those residents. I work along side members of this community every day, and have a reading on the pulse of what is going on not only in the classroom, but also at the kitchen table.
