BY MARY KATHERINE SHAPIRO
Lewisville ISD board of trustees, at-large Place 6
Madison Lopez Occupation & experience: Attorney, Denton County prosecutor (2024-2025), Mosaic Family Services human trafficking legal intern (2024) https://lopezforlisd.my.canva.site
Michelle Alkhatib Occupation & experience: Current LISD board trustee, former teacher & principal, LEF president-elect, PTA leader & advocate www.michelle4lisd.com
Why are you running for office?
As an LISD graduate and parent myself, I am invested in the district’s health and success. I have called this community home for over 20 years, so I understand our strengths and the challenges we face. I believe my expertise, skills, and passion would make me a strong asset.
As a trustee for the past two and a half years, I’m proud of our progress and eager to build on it. With proven experience, dedication, and a clear vision, I remain committed to serving all students, staff, and families while helping every student thrive.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
The district is navigating statewide changes in education policy that require a careful understanding of staff needs and parent perspectives. Like many Texas school districts, we face questions about long-term financial health and concerns about overall student outcomes. We must tackle these challenges head-on in a collaborative manner.
LISD faces critical challenges with declining enrollment and a deficit budget. These pressures impact resources, staffing and long-term stability. We must make strategic, student-centered decisions to protect academic excellence, support our teachers and ensure every child continues to receive the high-quality education our community expects and deserves.
If elected, what would be your top priorities?
Student achievement and well-being come first. Specifically, I want to see elementary reading and math scores rise through greater academic support and effective resources. We must also prioritize parent voices as we make decisions. And finally, we must ensure long-term financial health through the responsible spending of taxpayer dollars.
My top priorities are student success, supporting teachers and fiscal responsibility. I am committed to addressing enrollment and budget challenges, strengthening academic opportunities, and fostering safe, supportive schools where every student can thrive. With experience and vision, I will continue working to protect and grow LISD’s excellence.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like LISD to explore?
Safety in our schools is critical. I support exploring a program where qualified veterans in our community can volunteer to help protect our students, contingent on passing background checks and psychological evaluations.
I would like LISD to explore a community leadership program that engages parents and residents in learning about our schools and district. This initiative would strengthen partnerships, build understanding and grow future leaders who can advocate for and support student success, ensuring a stronger connection between LISD and the community.
Why should I vote for you if I were in your district?
As the only attorney on the board, I would bring professional expertise and decision- making experience as a former prosecutor. I also personally understand the challenges facing our students, having graduated from LISD and navigated the changing landscape of education as a college student during the pandemic.
You should vote for me because I bring both prior community service and board experience, with a proven track record of advocating for students and teachers. As an experienced voice, I remain committed to strong leadership, fiscal responsibility and ensuring every child in LISD has the opportunity to thrive.
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. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
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FLOWER MOUND - HIGHLAND VILLAGE - ARGYLE EDITION
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