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.
What you need to know
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 support the growing enrollment of special education and bilingual students.
Candidates are listed by ballot order, according to the Fort Bend County Elections Administrator.
For more information on the election, visit the district’s website.
*Indicates incumbent
Angela Collins
Experience:
finance background, as well as writing policies and special education advocacy
Candidate Website:
https://www.meetangelacollins.com
Contact Information:
832-464-8577
Why did you choose to run for the Fort Bend ISD board of trustees?
In the beginning my initial drive was special education. Over the past several years there has been a decline in not only quality education, but also safety for the students and a financial deficit with the bonds.
What do you think is the most pressing issue in FBISD, and how would you address it?
I could not really pinpoint just one after talking to parents, students, teachers and administrators. For the future of our children, I would say closing the achievement gaps. students feel safe with the kids going to school every day. <br>
With the expansion of alternatives to public schools, what offerings should FBISD prioritize its students?
Quality education of course. One that really sticks with me though, is that parents and students feel safe with the kids going to school every day. <br>
How would you address the district’s staffing needs amid a national teacher shortage?
I think if there is a true answer to this it would already be resolved. Possibly taking things back to the basics and making sure that staff is supported from the upper administration level would be a good start. All things roll down hill, right now we need all boots…
What support should the district provide to accommodate the growth of special education and bilingual enrollment?
This is something that is very close to my heart, so truly listening to the needs of the teachers, paraprofessionals and special education staff. They need to feel heard without being afraid of repercussions and pay them their worth.
Afshi Charania
Occupation:
entrepreneur, president and business owner of a downstream energy company since 1999.
Candidate Website:
https://www.afshiforfbisd.com
Contact Information:
713-988-2786
Why did you choose to run for the Fort Bend ISD board of trustees?
As a former student and 35 year resident of FBISD, I’ve witnessed its tremendous growth and the challenges that come with it. While new schools are built, others remain over or under capacity, straining district finances. I’m running to promote fiscal responsibility, transparency and a strong focus on student wellness.
What do you think is the most pressing issue in FBISD, and how would you address it?
FBISD's most pressing issue is funding, forcing the district to do more with less. To thrive, it must embrace transparency, innovation and more active communication with stakeholders to ensure efficient management of resources.
With the expansion of alternatives to public schools, what offerings should FBISD prioritize for its students?
FBISD must be hyper innovative in its approach, one being to empower teachers with the freedom to be creative. The district would encourage schools to cultivate strong identities that connect with their communities. Proud stakeholders make neighborhood schools vital cornerstones, reinforcing their role in education and community development.
How would you address the district’s staffing needs amid a national teacher shortage?
Teachers are the foundation of a thriving school district. I would advocate for greater autonomy for teachers and staff while fostering open and honest communication between them and the administration. Providing teachers with more resources and support is essential. Teachers who feel engaged and valued make a lasting impact.
What support should the district provide to accommodate the growth of special education and bilingual enrollment?
The district must expand resources, enhance technology and streamline assessments for special education and bilingual students. Evaluations should be faster and more transparent, reducing burdens on parents. Strengthening [individualized education programs] with clear goals, timely tracking and ongoing communication ensures that students receive the support they need without unnecessary delays.
Rick Garcia*
Experience:
currently training to become a master trustee approved by the Texas Education Agency
Occupation:
project manager
Candidate Website:
https://www.voterickgarcia.com
Contact Information:
281-721-9275
Why did you choose to run for the Fort Bend ISD board of trustees?
I am running for re-election to keep Fort Bend ISD strong. I want to take this positive momentum from the last year and keep us moving in the right direction. With so many great things happening in FBISD, I want to continue being a part of that growth and progress.
What do you think is the most pressing issue in FBISD, and how would you address it?
Literacy is always a top priority and it’s especially important to ensure our students are reading and comprehending by the third grade. We must focus on early literacy and after school initiatives, and we also need to make sure we are continually monitoring progress throughout the year for all students.
With the expansion of alternatives to public schools, what offerings should FBISD prioritize for its students?
FBISD must remain competitive. By expanding its [career and technical education] offerings, you will see new courses such as cybersecurity, drone courses, eSports, and more offerings around [science, technology, engineering and math], and robotics. We should be focused on staying current with the industry and offering courses that help us…
How would you address the district’s staffing needs amid a national teacher shortage?
FBISD’s turnover rate is down to 6% from 13%. With the recent addition of a longevity bonus that rewards teachers based on years of service, and the implementation of a more flexible school calendar, we have seen decreases in unemployment. I want to focus on more affordable health insurance next.
What support should the district provide to accommodate the growth of special education and bilingual enrollment?
With the rise in the [special education] population, you also see a rise in the cost to educate those students and not every student needs the same services. We need more classroom support, and we also need to incentivize our SPED staff as those are the hardest roles to find.
