Hays CISD at-large Q&A

Vasquez-Jones: I will support all proposals that entail upgrades, new technology in classrooms and training for all faculty and staff. Having the latest and current technology and software is imperative to be able to build strong classroom teachers and students. Technology growth should be supported throughout all grade levels (prekindergarten–12th grade). All teachers and students will be able to use technology in a variety of capacities. Hays Consolidated Independent School District will strive for the utmost high-tech learning environment.

2. Why should voters choose you?

Bryant: Voters should select me because I will continue to serve as the voice for students, their parents and the community. I have demonstrated, during my first term as a board trustee, my commitment to providing the best possible education for our children is my first goal. Rather than imposing my own agenda, I listen to the parents and teachers who are on the front lines of educating our children and ensure their voices are heard by the administration. I worked to lower the teacher-to-student ratio, to raise teachers' salaries, and to improve communications between the administration and parents.

McManus: I have many years of effective executive leadership including managing multi-million dollar budgets and building successful teams of people committed to solving problems. As a district I don't think we excel at either of those. We must find creative ways to involve more stakeholders in the ownership of educating our kids and not make it all about edicts from the central office. I am passionate about graduating the best kids we can. They are more than test passers but young adults ready for whatever challenges are ahead of them. As a community working together we can make this a reality.

Vasquez-Jones: I have been an educator for over 20 years. I have worked with many students of all ages (6 years–21 years old) and know what it takes to build strong students. I also have been blessed to work with many teachers, staff, administrators, parents and the community. It truly "takes a village to raise a child." It takes all stakeholders to build strong schools, leaders, and students. Thus, I have the background knowledge to share with others to strive for excellence!

3. What is the most pressing issue facing the district?

Bryant: Our phenomenal growth is the most pressing issue for the district as we expect an average of 657 new students each year. This high rate of growth makes it difficult to maintain the ideal teacher-to-student ratio for our students, to construct the number of new school buildings that are necessary and to retain quality teachers by providing for the salary compensation they deserve. The board of trustees must solve this problem and balance the budget.

McManus: Well, the obvious answer is growth and it is sure to be a challenge for many years to come but just handling additional kids is something we are pretty good at. My issue is that we have become bigger but not better. Don't let growth be the excuse that keeps us from focusing all the attention we can to what happens in the classroom. I want our children to be quality learners in a district that fosters imagination, uniqueness and success. Dragging everyone into the muddy middle is not success; it's babysitting.

Vasquez-Jones: Size! This community is growing rapidly and more schools are needed. We must be ready for this fast-growing community. Our students deserve the best, and overcrowded schools are not what I want.