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A retired educator is challenging the District 6 trustee in the May 4 North East ISD trustee elections.
Incumbent Steve Hilliard, a U.S. Air Force veteran, is seeking a second four-year term in office. He is being opposed by Terri Chidgey.
District 6 covers the Stone Oak area.
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.
Early voting will be held April 22-25 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; April 27, 29 and 30 from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; and April 28 from noon-6 p.m.
Election Day polls will be open May 4 from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Details on polling sites are available at https://tinyurl.com/5n7bh56b.
What makes you think you’re qualified to represent District 6 in NEISD?
With extensive experience across all levels of education, including serving as a teacher, principal, and executive director for curriculum development, I offer a solid foundation for decision-making at NEISD. My tenure as a supervisor for student teachers at the University of the Incarnate Word further enhances my qualifications.
Briefly, what are the three top issues that your campaign is focusing on?
My three top priorities are: Preparing our students for a future of their choice, whether it be college, military, service, or the workforce; hiring and retaining quality teachers; and ensuring the safety of our students and staff.
In terms of what constituents see as the issue most important to them, what is your experience or approach to that issue that distinguishes you from your opponent?
In our community, there's a strong desire for a cohesive, respectful school board capable of harmonizing diverse viewpoints to drive positive change for our district, a departure from recent discord. My leadership style is collaborative and forward-thinking offering a refreshing alternative to my opponent's polarizing approach.
What makes you think you’re qualified to represent District 6 in NEISD?
I am proactive, solve problems, ask insightful questions and am unafraid to discuss areas where NEISD could improve, like teacher/student retention, behavior, and fiscal accountability. I understand a board is not an extension of administration but a check against it in service of the people.
Briefly, what are the three top issues that your campaign is focusing on?
Continuing to increase collaboration between teachers and parents to improve areas where frustrations were allowed to take root, such as behavior, academic decline and staff burnout. Working toward a positive, professional board that’s open to transparency, improvement, and understands its duties include policy and independent informed oversight. Transparency is key, too.
In terms of what constituents see as the issue most important to them, what is your experience or approach to that issue that distinguishes you from your opponent?
Independence. Staff and parents see and appreciate the difference in a trustee without deep ties to the establishment. Before my election, the board approved everything; no dissenting votes for years. I'm from the outside, with executive, legal and policy experience. Independence is critical to serving the people with courage.
