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Dripping Springs ISD, Board of Trustees, at-Large Choose 2

The Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees (School Board) consists of seven nonsalaried district patrons elected for a term of three years. All Board of Trustee positions are at-large positions representing all of the people in the school district.The Board has final control over all major decisions regarding school policy, curriculum, expenditures, and building programs. It is the board’s responsibility to provide tax monies for maintenance and operation of the schools, to submit bond issues to district voters for construction of school facilities, and to hire the Chief Executive Officer for the district

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Olivia Barnard (NP)

Biographical Information

What education, training and experience qualifies you for this position?

I have been serving as a Trustee since June 2022, during which time I have expanded my knowledge of public-school governance. I possess a proven understanding of policy, finance, student outcomes, and district oversight. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of legislative finance frameworks and local finance. My background in construction and real estate have brought unique perspective and skills. I am committed to ensuring that engaging and informing stakeholders remains a top priority. I consistently seek opportunities to deepen my knowledge and actively engage the community with district activities. I maintain required continued education certifications.

What motivates you to seek this position?

I am motivated to continue in this position because the work is incredibly important and rewarding. I am dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for every student, creating a positive environment for educators and administrators, and being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars. We are at a pivotal moment in terms of growth and the development of fundamental values within the district. As we adjust to a larger population, we are balancing new needs while managing and maintaining existing facilities. I believe Board stability is critical at this phase. Seeing our students' accomplishments, effectively and efficiently managing growth, and being supported by the community are all major motivators for me.

With the update to ICE immigration enforcement in schools, what is the current student safety policy that protects the rights of immigrant students and their families?

Often in public education districts must navigate changing policy. That is something that is monitored constantly. The district is legally compelled to adhere to state and federal laws. Dignity and privacy are respected in any interactions involving law enforcement. DSISD provides a range of resources to support students and families during such events.

When planning new school buildings, what infrastructure plans would you suggest to address energy efficiency and water sustainability?

When planning new school buildings, we rely heavily on input from community committees, district personnel, construction professionals and other municipal information. Our planning is guided by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) requirements, and we adhere to current codes and guidelines. My personal input has always been, and will continue to be, focused on building modest, modern facilities that meet the educational needs of our students. I prioritize using the longest-lasting, lowest-maintenance, and most efficient materials and methods to ensure the sustainability and longevity of these buildings. Water is a specific and unique challenge for Dripping Springs which the district addresses on a per site basis.

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Tricia Quintero (NP)

Biographical Information

What education, training and experience qualifies you for this position?

Public education is very important to me, and I have devoted a lot of time and effort to make it successful. I first became involved many years ago when my young kids attended school in Hays CISD. I wanted to ensure the district remained a great place, so I became a member of the Student Health Advisory Committee. I also joined the Facilities and Bond Oversight Committee and became its chair, helping the district grow responsibly. When my family and I arrived in Dripping Springs in 2020, I jumped in again. Prior to joining the board in 2022, I served on the Special Education Parent Committee. I've served the community while on the school board as the PTA liaison, SHAC liaison, and budget collaborative committee liason to name a few.

What motivates you to seek this position?

I trust DSISD with my most precious resource—my kids! Right now, I proudly enroll 4 children in elementary and middle school, which means our family is very active in district activities and wholly invested in its success. It's very important to me that our family be actively involved. By being active, I hope to set a good example for my kids, give something back to the community, and build relationships that wouldn't otherwise exist. Because community is so important to me, I've been proud to work with my colleagues over the years to improve our district's community outreach programs. For example, I love and appreciate the opportunity to speak directly to our Veterans, keeping them informed of the latest school happenings!

With the update to ICE immigration enforcement in schools, what is the current student safety policy that protects the rights of immigrant students and their families?

School boards have few and defined responsibilities, with outstanding student outcomes at the center. I hope to fulfill my duties while helping to create an excellent educational environment for all of our students, all while following the law.

When planning new school buildings, what infrastructure plans would you suggest to address energy efficiency and water sustainability?

It's obvious that Dripping Springs is bursting at the seams with growth, and the district will need a steady hand to manage its energy and water needs in the future. Fortunately, the Dripping Springs team is excellent, and we will continue to build relationships with all city and county elected officials to ensure that we grow responsibly while providing the world-class education our amazing district is known for.

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Ron Jones (NP)

Biographical Information

What education, training and experience qualifies you for this position?

I attended public school, and earned a degree in Business Administration at Otterbein Universtiy. I've worked in education technology and served on the Dripping Springs Education Foundation Board for 8 years

What motivates you to seek this position?

To advocate for ALL students and provide monetary oversight and planning for growth to continue academic progression in a meaningful and profound manner.

With the update to ICE immigration enforcement in schools, what is the current student safety policy that protects the rights of immigrant students and their families?

The district should follow all local state and federal laws.

When planning new school buildings, what infrastructure plans would you suggest to address energy efficiency and water sustainability?

The ideal infrastructure should consider teaching and learning at its core. There are energy efficiency practices and solutions which have been more impactful than others. Careful planning and execution can ensure a sustainable and resourceful infrastructure for the life span of the building.