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VOTE411 Voter Guide

Harris County Department of Education, Place 7

The Board of Trustees acts to establish policies governing the operation of Harris County Department of Education. As a governmental body, it can take action only by majority vote at a legally called public meeting. The board elects the County Superintendent as its chief executive officer to administer the organization. 6-year term.

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    Silkey Joshi Malik
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

Qualifications: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?

Issues: What are the two (2) most pressing issues that you will face in the office that you seek? Describe your "specific" plans/ideas for addressing these issues.

district Harris County
Education ​University of Houston​​​​​​​​2021-Present ​PhD Student, Political Science ​Subfields: American Politics, Public Policy West Texas A&M University​​​​​​​​2017 ​Master of Busi
Occupation Trustee and Graduate Teaching Assistant
I am well qualified for this position because I am already doing the work and have done it effectively. I currently serve as a Trustee for the Harris County Department of Education, where I provide oversight of budgets, programs, and long-term strategy for an agency serving more than 25 school districts. In this role, I have focused on accountability, equity, and making sure public resources are used responsibly to support students and families across Harris County.

My background in political science and public policy strengthens my ability to evaluate data, ask informed questions, and understand how board-level decisions translate into real impacts.
1. Protecting funding for student services A major issue is maintaining strong, stable funding for programs like Head Start, special education, and after-school services. My plan is to continue prioritizing these programs during the budget process, closely reviewing spending, and advocating for transparent, responsible use of funds so resources are protected and directed where they have the greatest impact. 2. Ensuring access and accountability Another key issue is making sure services are accessible and effective across a large and diverse county. I plan identify gaps, strengthen partnerships with school districts and community organizations, and push for accountability so programs reach the students who need them.