Richardson | April 2026

Election

BY ISABELLA ZEFF

Richardson ISD board of trustees, District 3

KEY: *Incumbent

Richardson ISD board of trustees, Place 6

What would your top priorities be if you are elected?

Euan Blackman Occupation & experience: Current Classroom teacher with 23 years experience and Educational advocate at the school board level for a decade... www.euan4risd.com

Nazlee Burney Occupation & experience : Teacher; six years of classroom experience; Director of Admissions in private school; Masters of Education www.nazleeburney.com

Luis Fernando Rojas Occupation & experience: Truck driver; joined 2025 RISD bond steering committee; presented bond tax increase to board of trustees www.luisrojasforschoolboard.org

Why are you running for school board?

I’m running to continue contributing my time and experience to help guide RISD during a time of change. Our district has made meaningful progress, and I want to build on that momentum by supporting great teachers, strengthening student outcomes, and ensuring every student is prepared for the opportunities ahead.

My top priorities are supporting and retaining excellent teachers, protecting classroom resources, and ensuring strong academic growth for every student. I will also work to expand innovative learning opportunities and career pathways that prepare students for success after graduation.

Eric Eager* Occupation & experience: CEO & Cofounder, 4impactdata; RISD Trustee since 2020; CPA; technology entrepreneur; Leadership Richardson graduate; parent... 972-788-0796 Blake Sawyer Occupation & experience: US Operations Director for technology company; parent, long-time Richardson resident, member of several district committees... www.blake4richardson.com

Why are you running for school board?

I'm running because RISD needs a trustee already inside the system, not learning it. After 23 years in the classroom, nine district committees, and attending nearly every board meeting this decade, I know where the problems are. My son graduated from Pearce and our district matters to me personally.

I have lived in this district for 18 years and am deeply rooted in this community. I’m running for the school board because I believe diversity is one of our district’s greatest strengths. Our board reflects our community, and I hope to contribute to that representation while supporting all students...

I’m running because I want a better future for children all over the city.

As an RISD parent with students at every level, I am invested in our schools’ success daily. I have long advocated for academics, safety, accountability and transparency. As your trustee, I will ensure RISD serves every student with integrity and excellence, focusing on helping each child reach their unique potential.

As your trustee, my priorities will be students, educators and taxpayers. With children in SPED and advanced programs, I know how to advocate for individualized achievement. I will empower teachers to focus on academics and ensure fiscal integrity to keep RISD a prosperous, top-tier district for the next 50 years.

What would your top priorities be if you are elected?

First: maintain competitive teacher pay. RISD's pay plan cut turnover from 17% to just 11%. Second: Make RISD a destination district by expanding choice programming such as magnet schools, AP, OnRamps/Dual Credit college options. Enhanced CTE offerings with the new center coming soon.

I would ensure that RISD remains a district that families actively choose to be part of, even as the state expands voucher programs. I will advocate strongly for teacher support in the classroom, recognizing the significant pressure educators face to ensure student growth and success.

I believe our power is greater than we’re told. As a community leader, I aim to strengthen failing schools, support teachers with better pay, and ensure every child succeeds. Together, we can build an education system that leaves no student behind and creates opportunity for all.

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.

DALLAS 9500 N Central Expy (214) 369-2800 ADDISON 15055 Inwood Rd (972) 239-5891