What are your campaign focuses?
I am running for re-election because I want to continue to ensure that every student receives a high-quality education in a safe environment, that our teachers and staff feel supported and valued, and that our school district continues to be a source of pride for our community.
Do you have children or grandchildren in the FISD system?
My son is a 12-year senior who graduated in 2023. He now attends Ole Miss and is studying finance. My nephew is also a 12-year senior who graduated in 2022. He is a junior at Texas A&M studying sports management. I have two nieces in FISD. One is in 4th grade and one is a sophomore who is also a Wranglerette.
What is your perspective on standards-based learning (SBL)?
Standards based learning (SBL) is about mastery in grade level skills through individualized feedback. “Standards” refers to what a student should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. My perspective is that there is a breakdown in understanding of SBL when it comes to grading and we need to continue to work on communication to fix it. SBL is not a change in the TEKS, it is a change in the approach for each student’s learning journey. For students in K-5, they are building their foundation of knowledge that they will need for junior high and above, and we want to ensure that students are mastering the skills needed to be successful. There is still accountability and rigor, that has not changed. If anything, I think it gives students self confidence to exceed their expectations.
What is your perspective on the current learning reassessment policy?
The JH and HS reassessment policy can be highly beneficial for students. It empowers students to take ownership of their learning, making them accountable for understanding and mastery of the material. For it to be successful, consistency and communication are essential. The process involves learning the material, practicing (with opportunities for feedback), and relearning, when necessary, followed by testing for mastery. Students must invest personal initiative in mastering content to qualify for reassessment. Teachers have the flexibility to address individual needs. They can focus on specific concepts where a student struggled and reteach/retest those specific deficiencies. This tailored approach fosters a purposeful learning journey, ensuring that students receive the support they need to succeed and thrive academically. I think we need to look at ways to support teachers in the classroom with the additional workload that comes with reassessment.
What are your opinions on current teacher workload and pay?
In the last four years that I have been on the board, the district has worked very hard to give raises, one-time supplemental payments and/or insurance contribution increases. Teachers and classroom para-professional’s workloads have increased over time, especially with a move to more individualized instruction. My goal if re-elected, is to work with the district to find ways to get teachers more help in the classroom. This could happen in a variety of ways such as more aides/para-professionals, smaller class sizes, and/or getting an additional planning period. Any of these options would allow teachers more time to manage their respective workloads. This initiative will take additional funding; therefore, we will need to continue pressing legislators at state level to increase funding for public schools. Teachers are the backbone of our district. Our students cannot be successful without them.
What specific parts of the current FISD system are you hoping to change?
In the current FISD system, I envision growth over change. Families are drawn to Friendswood because of the reputation for quality education and top safety ratings. We consistently receive high rankings in the state regarding academics, extracurricular activities, and fiscal responsibility. We have 100% passing rate on all safety audits. However, I recognize that the district is not perfect, and we are constantly working to innovate, improve and grow.
What is your position on current bond initiatives for facility improvements?
It has been 5 years since we have brought together our Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). Prior to that, it was 13 years since a bond initiative was done for the new junior high. The recommendation that the last committee brought forth has now come to life in FISD as we are drawing closure on the 2020 bond package. There will always be improvement items needed as Friendswood grows and facilities age. The board recently voted to convene a new Citizens Advisory Committee, consisting of district leadership, parents, community members and students. Bringing this group together will ensure we stay on track with improvements and provide consistent, innovative resources for the district. I look forward to hearing their recommendations.
