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Three candidates filed to run for the District 3 seat on the Richardson ISD board of trustees in the upcoming May 2 election. Trustee Debbie Rentería is not seeking reelection for the seat.
Candidates were asked to limit responses to 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers have been edited or cut for style and clarity or to adhere to guidelines.
Candidates have been listed in alphabetical order.
Current classroom teacher with 23 years experience and Educational advocate at the school board level...
Why are you running for school board?
I'm running because RISD needs a trustee already inside the system, not learning it. After 23 years in the classroom, nine district committees and attending nearly every board meeting this decade, I know where the problems are. My son graduated from Pearce and our district matters to me personally.
What are the biggest challenges facing Richardson ISD?
RISD faces a chronic budget shortfall and declining enrollment: two pressures that mean fewer teachers and fewer resources in classrooms. These aren't future risks; they're happening now. We must protect classroom funding to ensure student achievement goals are met.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I championed RISD's teacher pay plan, so I know efficiency reviews work. I'll push for audits like the 2022 TASB review, redirect every saved dollar to teacher pay and classrooms, expand choice programs to attract families and publish transparent School Report Cards so parents track exactly where money goes.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
First: maintain competitive teacher pay. RISD's pay plan cut turnover from 17% to just 11%. Second: Make RISD a destination district by expanding choice programming such as magnet schools, AP, OnRamps/Dual Credit college options. Enhanced CTE offerings with the new center coming soon.
Teacher; six years of classroom experience; Director of Admissions in private school; Masters of Education
Why are you running for school board?
I have lived in this district for 18 years and am deeply rooted in this community. I’m running for the school board because I believe diversity is one of our district’s greatest strengths. Our board reflects our community, and I hope to contribute to that representation while supporting all students and families.
What are the biggest challenges facing Richardson ISD?
I feel the biggest challenges facing Richardson ISD are unfair funding from the state, retaining our high-quality teachers, and closing the student achievement gaps, especially middle school math.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I’ll strongly advocate for the state to increase the basic allotment and invest in public education. I’ll work to ensure continued pay raises and to foster a culture of trust and support for all teachers. I’ll promote data-driven strategies that close achievement gaps where every student demonstrates meaningful academic growth.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
I would ensure that RISD remains a district that families actively choose to be part of, even as the state expands voucher programs. I will advocate strongly for teacher support in the classroom, recognizing the significant pressure educators face to ensure student growth and success.
Truck driver; joined 2025 RISD bond steering committee; presented bond tax increase to board of trustees
Why are you running for school board?
I’m running because I want a better future for children all over the city.
What are the biggest challenges facing Richardson ISD?
Some schools in our district are facing academic challenges. I’m committed to taking the necessary steps to enhance our district’s overall academic performance. Excessive screen time for academic work hinders the focus on book work.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Try collaborating with the rest of the board to identify areas for improvement. Engage in conversations with the teacher and the community to gain insights into what strategies are effective and which ones are not. By doing so, we can pave the way for a brighter future.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
I believe our power is greater than we’re told. As a community leader, I aim to strengthen failing schools, support teachers with better pay, and ensure every child succeeds. Together, we can build an education system that leaves no student behind and creates opportunity for all.
