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Editor's note: Clarification regarding the position both candidates are applying for.
Incumbent John McStravick and candidate Joseph Ferguson are the two candidates up for election for Tomball ISD position three on Nov. 3.
What you need to know
Early voting begins Oct. 19 and runs through Oct. 30, according to the Texas Secretary of State's website. Election Day is Nov. 3, and polls are open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Registered voters can cast their ballot at any polling location during early voting and on Election Day. Voters can visit www.harrisvotes.com for more information.
26 years as a trustee providing strong leadership, fiscal responsibility and excellence for every student.
Why are you running for this position?
I’m a THS graduate, father of three TISD graduates, and have six grandchildren who call TISD home. I’m invested in the success of TISD because I love this community, believe in pub ed, and am passionate about protecting and strengthening the quality of education our families have come to expect.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district?
The District’s greatest challenge will be managing continued growth while navigating an uncertain and changing state funding system. I support long-term fiscal planning, responsible budgeting, and strong communication/advocacy with state and local legislators to ensure resources are used efficiently and our District remains financially sound.
How do you plan to make sure concerned Tomball ISD parents' voices are heard on the council?
Parents are essential partners in Tomball ISD. I am committed to keeping their voices at the center of our decisions through multi-platform communications, accessible board meetings, and meaningful opportunities to serve on district and campus committees. I will continue listening, engaging, and advocating for our community and students.
What can the district improve on when it comes to supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom?
Our teachers deserve to feel supported, respected, and valued. I will continue to work with Dr. Z to strengthen classroom discipline methods, reduce unnecessary non-instructional demands, provide meaningful professional development, and pursue innovative competitive compensation so that we continue to recruit/retain the outstanding teachers who make TISD Destination Excellence.
Tomball ISD's special education population is growing, while funding struggles to keep up. How can the district help address the needs of its special ed students?
The growth in SPED services is a statewide issue. Our SPED team works hard to ensure every student receives the individualized services needed to succeed. I will continue supporting recruitment/retention of caring staff, strengthening family partnerships, understanding new funding formulas, and advocating with local legislators to address funding gaps.
Professional educator for over 20 years, having worked as a classroom teacher and campus administrator.
Why are you running for this position?
I owe a tremendous debt to Tomball ISD. I started here as a student at Tomball Elementary School and graduated from Tomball High School. The efforts and influences of TISD teachers over those years have contributed immensely to the adult I grew up to be, and the successes I've had.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district?
Rapid growth can lead to issues related to boundary realignments, capacity crunches, constant facility expansion, and operational bottlenecks. Proactive planning, maximum transparency, and open two-way communication with the community and district employees are some ways to support everyone working together to meet these challenges.
How do you plan to make sure concerned Tomball ISD parents' voices are heard on the council?
I would advocate for the reduction of restrictions on public comments during Board meetings. Citizens do not lose our First Amendment rights by being at a Board meeting. The right to petition the government for a redress of grievances is one of the oldest civil liberties in our legal tradition.
What can the district improve on when it comes to supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom?
Ensure that clearly defined policies are in place that focus on safety in classrooms, administrative support when students become disruptive, and fiercely protecting teachers' instructional time. Outside of the classroom, we should ensure that teachers are empowered to have a healthy work/life balance as a part of the district’s culture.
Tomball ISD's special education population is growing, while funding struggles to keep up. How can the district help address the needs of its special ed students?
Some strategies could include implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in general education classrooms; high-leverage general education and special education co-teacher models; and collaborative ARD meetings that avoid being procedural compliance checklists and strive to be genuine partnerships by structuring meetings around parent input, student strengths, and clearly measurable goals.
