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VOTE411 Voter Guide

Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Board of Trustees, Place 1

Trustees are elected to specific positions but represent their entire independent school district and have the following responsibilities mandated by State and Federal laws: select and employ the superintendent, manage public schools, establish operating policies, monitor expenses, adopt and approve a budget, and adopt employment policies. Additionally, they have the authority to set tax rates, levy and collect taxes, buy and sell property, exercise eminent domain, accept donations, charge fees, and call bond elections. Trustees elect their own officers: President or Chair, (Vice president or vice chair), Secretary and Treasurer.

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    Shannon Braun
    (N)

  • Candidate picture

    Cynthia Rial Graham
    (N)

Biographical Information

Why are you running for the school board and how does your background prepare you for this office?

How will you balance parental concerns with students’ need for accurate, comprehensive, and inclusive curriculum and policies?

How will you provide for full access, engagement, and transparency of school board actions for district stakeholders?

How will you deal with teacher and student loss in the district?

What are the most critical issues facing your school district, and how will you address them?

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Campaign Phone 8322645960
Campaign Email cynthia4gcisd@gmail.com
Campaign Website http://cynthia4gcisd.com
Campaign X (Twitter) Handle @cynthia4gcisd
Occupation ESC Region 10 Educational Consultant
Education M.Ed Educational Leadership
Experience 23 years in Education
I am running because I have dedicated the last 22 years to the development of students and teachers, and I am deeply committed to preserving and enhancing the exceptional reputation of GCISD. Throughout the last three years, I've witnessed the challenges facing our school district, from the needs of students and teachers to the overall culture of our schools. My background in serving public schools as an educator and school volunteer will allow me to address the diverse needs of our district.
GCISD is witnessing a shift away from a system where staff and parental involvement played a significant role in decision-making regarding curriculum and policies. Both the curriculum and policies surrounding our students’ learning needs to be comprehensive and inclusive. As a board, we need to be transparent and respectful with all stakeholders and allow for concerns to be heard and addressed. We should engage in meaningful dialogue, actively seeking feedback, and work towards solutions.
When reflecting on past practices within GCISD, I remember the importance of regular meetings with the community, where we pulled back the curtain to provide insights into how every aspect of the educational system operates. Reinstating this practice could foster understanding and collaboration among all stakeholders. I believe public education can transform lives, and I am dedicated to ensuring that GCISD remains a district of excellence where every voice is valued and heard.
To combat teacher loss, we must invest in mentorship programs that provide guidance for both new and experienced teachers. We need to prioritize ongoing professional learning that offer teachers access to training and advancement opportunities, ensuring they are equipped with the latest research-based practices. By focusing on student needs, expanding special programs and boosting enrollment we can create an environment that appeals to families and brings students back to GCISD.
The most critical issues facing our school district are the erosion of special programs, the loss of talented educators and families, and the failure to address a growing deficit despite claims of fiscal responsibility. I also recognize the importance of promoting collaboration and professionalism within the board itself. I am dedicated to fostering respectful and civil dialogue among Trustees while making prudent financial decisions that support continued property value growth. I feel confident that together, we can revitalize GCISD's legacy of excellence!