BY CHLOE YOUNG
*INCUMBENT
Leander ISD board of trustees, Place 4
Why are you running for this position?
What are your major areas of concern for the district?
I am a mother of three that have experienced the LISD system. My oldest two children had the opportunity to experience LISD when it was a destination district. I’d like to restore our district to this status by shifting the focus to academic excellence.
I am concerned with the decline in academics; teacher turnover; and financial state of the district, specifically noneducational spending and salary growth that indicates funds are not being prioritized for schools and teachers.
Brandi Burkman Occupation & experience: I work in network management, and have served in roles with PTA, boosters and Destination Imagination. www.brandiforlisd.com
I am passionate about advocating for public education and love serving my community. Since 2015, I’ve been actively involved in all aspects of LISD. My commitment to showing up, engaging with the community and my knowledge of the district make me the right choice to continue serving as a trustee.
My main concerns are teacher retention, budget constraints from outdated state funding formulas and the need for stronger early intervention programs. Tackling these issues is key to retaining quality educators and ensuring all students, especially those at risk, receive the support needed for success.
Anna Smith* Occupation & experience:
Leander ISD parent, school board trustee/vice president, community recruiter for Girl Scouts, school volunteer www.annaforlisd.com
I believe that Leander ISD deserves a board of trustees that is willing to listen and work with all of the community, regardless of affiliation. I’m running to build community, foster open dialogue with integrity and ensure transparency for everyone in LISD.
Our STAAR test scores are not meeting our goals by almost all metrics; our teachers are leaving the district, which means classrooms are not filled; and students and families are leaving LISD in greater numbers because their needs are not being met.
Zach Zayner Occupation & experience: program manager, teacher, department head, curriculum writer in Baltimore, founder of Baltimore VEX Robotics League www.zaynerforlisd.com
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.
There’s a new storyteller in the driver’s seat. Hop In & Travel With Us for Season 53 of Texas Country Reporter with new host J.B. Sauceda.
23
LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION
Powered by FlippingBook