Community Impact reached out ahead of the election to learn more about each candidate.
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.
More information on the May 3 election can be found on the district website.
Maritza Gonzalez-Cooper
Experience:
Current board trustee; past PTO president
Occupation:
Boerne ISD trustee / Claims adjuster
Contact Information:
210-865-9784
Why are you running for the school board?
Serving as Trustee has been an incredible journey working alongside dedicated educators, staff, and community members. Together, we will continue to make great strides in advancing our district’s goals, fostering a positive learning environment, and supporting the growth and development of all students.
What are the biggest challenges Boerne ISD is facing?
Increasing teacher pay and budgetary constraints are definitely significant challenges. Teachers are vital to shaping the future of our society. We must continue to look at ways to increase their salary.
How do you plan on addressing those challenges?
Being creative with budget constraints in a school district can be a real challenge, but it also opens up opportunities to think outside the box and implement unique solutions. We must continue to collaborate with local businesses, community organizations, maximize resources, and optimize staffing.
What is something you would like Boerne ISD residents to know about you?
I am the proud wife of a firefighter, mom of three amazing children who have attended various schools throughout Boerne, and am passionate about providing the best public education for our children.
Sarah Faulkenberry
Experience:
Master's in Public Administration; 9 years involved in the district in many different capacities; Current mother of BISD students….
Candidate Website:
https://www.sarah4schoolboard.com/
Contact Information:
432-934-2662
Why are you running for the school board?
As a military/veteran spouse and daughter of a public-school teacher serving on school board is an opportunity to honor the service and sacrifice that was taught at an early age. I will serve and use fostering the love of learning in each student as my focus when making decisions.
What are the biggest challenges Boerne ISD is facing?
Communication can help our challenges. BISD has faced continued growth with limited state funding for years. This impacted the decision-making process of the leaders in the district. By strengthening the communication between the district and the school board we can continue to strengthen trust in our community.
How do you plan on addressing those challenges?
The strongest component of communication is being proactive instead of reactive. We need to educate by communicating with the families and employees within the district preemptively. We can build trust with the community by continuing to engage and listen to their input and take actions with it in mind.
What is something you would like Boerne ISD Residents to know about you?
I have children at schools within the district that are not currently represented. This gives me an opportunity to offer a different [perspective] that is not currently available. BISD is great, and I will provide new energy and new ideas to make BISD even better.
