Election
Frisco ISD board of trustees, Place 1
Amit Kalra Occupation: Physical therapist www.drkalraforfisd.com
Muni Janagarajan Occupation: Information technology and real estate entrepreneur www.muniforfisd.com
Suresh Manduva Occupation: Technical lead at a retail company www.sureshforfisd.com
Why are you running for office?
My child attends Frisco ISD school, and education is important to me and my family. I want to represent the parents’ voice to foster open communication between the community stakeholders and the district. Championing the power of public education for a thriving Frisco ISD where excellence is upheld and redefined.
I firmly believe that education is a powerful equalizer, and we are fortunate to have an excellent school system in Frisco ISD. I am running to build on the district’s academic success by providing leadership in areas such as fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability, as well as enhancing safety.
Over the years, I have actively served in leadership roles within community organizations and dedicated my time to volunteering for student empowerment programs and service initiatives. I am running for Frisco ISD trustee to leverage my experience in serving our vibrant community of learners and educators.
What are the biggest challenges facing the district?
Balancing the budget, school enrollment, teacher retention, academic readiness, and school safety are the main areas affecting our district. External factors include the economy and the growing influence of AI. There is a communication gap between the district and the community due to the perception of communication received versus shared.
Falling student enrollment and funding challenges; past three years FISD is running deficit budget, accuracy in financial forecasting and enhanced transparency; attracting and retaining talented teachers; campus safety and security; disciplinary issues, cyber bullying, vaping and drugs; waterfall grading and lack of uniform district- wide grading policies affects academic excellence.
Like many other districts Frisco ISD is facing gaps in mental health and wellness support that impact students well-being and academic success and personal development. A gradual decline in enrollment will further strain an already deficit budget, adding to financial challenges.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I will demonstrate equity in attitude, trustworthiness in stewardship, integrity of character, honor in conduct, and commitment to working with the district and its stakeholders. I will demonstrate a strong voice in support of public education at the local and state level. We will shape bright futures together.
FISD needs to create a five-year, 10-year and 15-year vision to determine what FISD will look like in regards to enrollment, programs and facility standards. I will push for improvements in the budgeting process by encouraging the use of a district-wide zero-based budgeting approach, increase oversight.
Invest in student well-being, mental health and safety. Expand Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Peer Support Programs. Develop data-driven strategies by analyzing enrollment trends and reasons families choose alternative schooling options. Conduct a comprehensive budget review to ensure funds are allocated efficiently without compromising student success.
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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