Round Rock Edition | October 2024

Election

*Incumbent

Round Rock ISD board of trustees, place 1

What will be your top priorities if you are elected? Holding elected officials on RRISD board to high standard of excellence to achieve academic excellence and improve literacy for all students; striving for transparency and accountability to enhance public trust and communication between trustees and community; supporting teachers and staff; listening to constituents to continue RRISD’s reputation of being a destination district. My top priority is increasing school funding, which has been stagnant since 2019 despite rising costs. I will advocate for full funding to ensure a quality education for students. Additionally, I aim to attract and retain talented teachers by ensuring they are paid well enough to avoid needing a second job.

What uniquely qualifies you for this position? 18 years in healthcare management; adherence to regulatory guidelines/policies; exceptional work ethics and communication skills essential for project completion and conflict resolution; effective in solution seeking, decision making, budget balancing and problem solving; open minded and ability to empathize with others from varying backgrounds and who possess differing viewpoints; raising twin daughters in RRISD. As the incumbent, I offer experience and continuity. My background includes years as a dedicated PTA volunteer and active participation in Leadership Round Rock ISD, Emerging Leaders Academy and various conferences with TASB, MASBA and NSBA.

Joshua Escalante Occupation & experience: Project manager. Goals oriented, effective communicator, ability to lead teams

in high-stress environment www.escalante4rrisd.com

Estevan J. “Chuy” Zarate* Occupation & experience: Teacher, actor, corporate trainer. Incumbent candidate for Place 1, chaired various positions and served on the executive board at local and council PTAs www.chuy4rrisd.com

Round Rock ISD board of trustees, place 2

What will be your top priorities if you are elected? I advocate for improved resources and programs for students with learning differences, equitable funding across schools and a 90% graduation rate. My goals include increasing access to advanced coursework for students with special needs, enhancing mental health support, and ensuring all students have the resources for academic and emotional success. My top priorities will be student-centered policies that promote equity and accessibility, transparent budgeting to ensure funds are used effectively, and strong support for teachers through competitive salaries and professional development. I’ll also foster community engagement and implement policies that improve educational outcomes for all.

What uniquely qualifies you for this position? With a finance background and an MBA, I am well- suited for the school board trustee role. My skills in fund management, data analysis and strategic planning, combined with my active volunteer work in education, demonstrate my commitment to enhancing our school district’s effectiveness and supporting students.

April Guerra Occupation & experience: Financial analyst. As the mother of a dyslexic student, I advocate for diverse learning needs and inclusivity. www.aprilguerra.com

I am uniquely qualified as a fifth-generation educator, former team lead at Westwood and mother of two RRISD students. My experience in PTA leadership, special education advocacy and active involvement in district operations provides me with a comprehensive understanding of RRISD’s needs and the ability to drive meaningful change.

Melissa Ross Occupation & experience: Educator and consultant. Certified teacher, former Westwood HS team lead, PTA and RRISD leadership roles, accessibility services advocate www.melissaforrrisd.com

An Investment in Today's Texas Teachers is an Investment in Tomorrow's Workforce Stay Informed, Advocate, and Get Involved.

RaiseYourHandTexas.org

Paid by Raise Your Hand Texas

20

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Powered by