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Learn more about the candidates running for Prosper ISD board of trustees Place 7 ahead of the May 4 election.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the question provided without attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by last name.
Current Place 7 trustee Jim Bridges did not file for re-election.
Why are you running for office?
I'm a fierce advocate and believer in the power of public education. Prosper ISD has been instrumental in shaping the lives of my children, and I'm grateful for the positive impact it has had on them. Witnessing firsthand how the district has nurtured their academic growth, and supported their pursuits.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
The prevailing sentiment regarding Prosper ISD's biggest challenge has been growth. I view growth as an opportunity we must embrace and adapt to. The true challenge lies in maintaining Prosper ISD's position as the most innovative and forward-thinking district in North Texas amidst this period of rapid expansion.
How do you plan to address these issues?
To tackle this challenge effectively, it's imperative that we maintain a clear understanding of our "why," and maintain focus on several key areas. First and foremost, student outcomes must remain at the forefront. Secondly, teacher recruitment and retention are paramount. Finally, fostering community buy-in is crucial.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
School safety: I will support investments that make safety a priority. Academic excellence: I will support administration to create and implement rigorous academic curriculum. CTE/arts/athletics: One of our greatest strengths is the opportunities students have to excel in real world skills. Staff recruitment and retention.
Why are you running for office?
Horace Mann said, “education is the great equalizer” and I am dedicated to protecting and supporting public education so all students can thrive. It is evident Prosper ISD is doing great things and I desire to serve this district to ensure the continued success of students, teachers, administrators, and families.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
Effectively navigating continued rapid growth in Prosper ISD is paramount to our continual success. We have incredible personnel in district and keeping talent and recruiting more should be a major focus. Prosper is a high-performing district and maintaining high-level academic excellence can be daunting, but we must stay the course.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Rapid growth: Continue to responsibly add/renovate facilities to provide the best environment. Keep/recruit top talent: Work within state guidelines and be innovative to ensure best possible compensation. Academic excellence: Keep/secure the best staff, curriculum, resources, and facilities to eliminate obstacles hindering nonstop success and growth.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
If elected, I will collaborate with our talented superintendent and fellow trustees to sustain stellar student success. Keeping/recruiting top talent is crucial, including addressing the emotional well-being and compensation of staff. Above all, I desire for every learner to feel safe, empowered, and equipped as we “honor traditions.”
Why are you running for office?
I have previously served in this exact seat. I am no stranger to the role nor requirements of being an effective trustee. While I have the utmost appreciation for our district, I know we can work together to properly address areas that require consistent oversight and attention.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
Challenge: Dependency on data presented to board by demographers and making decisions with public dollars based on such data. Data is relevant. Data is helpful. But, data is not always 100% accurate, and data has difficultly incorporating unknown variables and/or predicting the future.
How do you plan to address these issues?
It’s challenging to make decisions with public dollars—including bond packages—based on data from demographers. As a taxpayer and community member, such decisions keep you up at night when you are one of seven that casts the vote and held accountable by your community.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
My immediate priority would be to celebrate with the students, immediate and extended family members of class of 2024 of Prosper High School, Rock Hill High School and Walnut Grove High School. Priority two would be welcome and engage the many new families that will join our community.
