A parent-teacher-association chapter president and substitute teacher is facing a retired business attorney and math teacher for the open District 1 school board seat in the May 4 North East ISD elections.
Hollywood Park resident Lisa Thompson, an educator and parent, is jockeying with Michael Gurwitz, a San Antonio resident, for the District 1 post where current board Secretary Sandy Hughey declined a re-election bid.
Hughey has sat with the NEISD board since 2000, and has served as board president and vice president. District 1 covers much of the north central San Antonio area between Loop 1604 and Loop 410, including Hollywood Park and Hill Country Village.
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. Community Impact’s attempts to contact Gurwitz were unsuccessful.
Early voting will be held April 22-25, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; April 27, 29 and 30, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; and April 28, 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 1 in NEISD?
I'm the right choice for District 1 because I have experience as a teacher, I've been a PTA president at multiple schools, and I'm an NEISD parent. I've seen what is great in our schools and areas for improvement.
Briefly, what are the three top issues that your campaign is focusing on?
Advocate for public education. The state must fully fund our public schools. We need to make sure we are supporting teachers and keeping them in NEISD, and have students come to a school that is a safe, exciting, thriving environment. Keep parents informed, involved and engaged with the communities around our schools.
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?
After numerous forums and blockwalking in District 1, I can firmly say parents are worried about private school vouchers, and hiring and retaining quality teachers. I want to make sure the state hears my community and that means making sure that public education is fully funded.
What makes you think you’re qualified to represent District 1 in NEISD?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
Briefly, what are the three top issues that your campaign is focusing on?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
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?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
