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.
Dixie Jones
Experience:
Classroom teacher, reading Interventionist, literacy coach, elementary school administrator, director of elementary curriculum
Occupation:
Retired school administrator
What are your priorities if elected?
Student success has always been my priority. I have been an educator for 34 years. The Alvin ISD community has changed dramatically. I believe our ultimate goal is still the same, to graduate students well prepared to achieve their life goals, leading our community into the future.
What changes, if any, would you make to the district’s budget?
The district’s budget has to be built with the needs of the students as the ultimate focus. It needs to be flexible, changing as the need dictates and as the state and federal funding fluctuate.
What programming, if any, would you like to see changed, added and/or adjusted?
Continuing to build on the current career and technical education (CTE) and dual<br>credit programming will benefit our students, whether they decide college is in their future or not. The offerings Alvin ISD currently provides gives students career options that they may decide to expand on after graduation.
What do you think can be done to help the district keep up with its growth?
The Citizens’ Advisory Council and other focus groups bring a large group of community members together to assess the needs of the district from many perspectives. It helps AISD maximize the available resources for the entire community, avoiding undue hardships through frequent rezoning.
Would you support the district going out for a bond within the next year?
As the district continues to grow, it will be necessary at some point to consider another bond. With careful management of available resources this option should not be proposed until it is absolutely necessary to ensure student needs are met.
Danielle Swiney
Experience:
21 years of retail field experience, budget management; strategic planning; staff retention
Occupation:
Financial services professional (New York Life)
Candidate Website:
www.facebook.com/people/elect-danielle-swiney-for-alvin-isd-trustee-position-III/61557173697941
Contact Information:
346-733-3190
What are your priorities if elected?
Addressing the mental health in our students. In-depth training for parents over the student code of conduct. Helping parents and students navigate the 504/[special education] process.
What changes, if any, would you make to the district’s budget?
I will prioritize equitable resource distribution, student success, educator support, facility maintenance and community input in the school budget. Transparency and accountability are key. Every decision will aim to benefit all students and enhance learning environments.
What programming, if any, would you like to see changed, adjusted and/or added?
Finding the funding to continue [social and emotional learning] services for students. Reimbursing coaches for mandatory [commercial driver’s licenses]. Also, budget for them to have a monthly allowance/insurance. Allocating funds for teachers to attend state/national [professional developments].
What do you think can be done to help the district keep up with its growth?
To address the district's growth, I propose strategic planning for new school construction and infrastructure expansion. Collaborating with city planners, we'll anticipate demographic shifts and allocate resources efficiently. Additionally, advocating for increased state funding and exploring innovative solutions will ensure our district can accommodate growth sustainably.
Would you support the district going out for a bond within the next year?
As a candidate, I'm committed to ensuring our district has the resources needed to support student success. While I understand the potential benefits of a bond, I would prioritize a thorough evaluation of current financial status, community input and long-term planning before making a decision on pursuing a bond within the next school year.
Rebecca Zavala
Experience:
Real estate professional, boutique owner, Hispanic chamber ambassador, business development committee member
Occupation:
Real estate professional and boutique owner
Contact Information:
832-853-0719
What are your priorities if elected?
If elected to the school board, my priorities would revolve around ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. I would advocate for programs that support the social and emotional well-being of students, as well as initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion and cultural awareness within the district.
What changes, if any, would you make to the district’s budget?
Considering the district's budget to efficiently allocate resources for students, educators and the community. My strategy focuses on promoting transparency and accountability in budget choices by involving the community for feedback. By making strategic adjustments to the budget, we can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for everyone.
What programming, if any, would you like to see changed, adjusted and/or added?
In terms of school board programming, adjustments that could enhance student success include more emphasis on life skills, critical thinking and career readiness. Adding mentorship programs, extracurricular diversity and financial literacy courses could further enrich the educational experience, fostering well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.
What do you think can be done to help the district keep up with its growth?
To help the district keep up with its growth, I believe in proactive planning and collaboration with the community. This could involve investing in infrastructure improvements, expanding facilities and implementing strategies to manage increasing enrollment effectively.
Would you support the district going out for a bond within the next year?
As for supporting, I would assess the specific needs and impact of such a decision on the community. If the bond is deemed necessary to address critical infrastructure or educational needs that cannot be met through existing resources, I would support it after thorough evaluation and community input.
