Questions for Pearland ISD Board of Trustees Candidates

Name: Jenny Francis

Position Seeking: School Board Trustee Position 6

Campaign Website:

Campaign Facebook:(1) Facebook

Campaign Email: jennyfrancisforPISD@gmail.com

Campaign Telephone:713-409-7618

Question 1: How do you define the role of a trustee?

Candidate Answer: I define the role of trustee with children as the ultimate focus, the role of a trustee is to

• Adopt goals and priorities and monitor success
• Adopt policies and review for effectiveness
• Evaluate Superintendent
• Adopt a Budget & Set a Tax Rate
• Communicate with the Community

I promise to attend meetings regularly, and study the issues carefully.  I will take my role as trustee seriously and do what I believe is best for public education, and do what is best for all students!

Question 2: What makes you passionate about education? 

Candidate Answer: I am passionate about education because our teachers are the backbone of the educational system. Their dedication shapes young minds and influences generations. I pledge to put more money into the budget to tackle the staffing and teacher shortages. I will advocate for competitive salaries and ongoing professional development opportunities. When teacher pay is an issue, fewer people want to become teachers, it’s that simple. Higher pay for our educators, will keep teachers in the classroom, and from having to work a second job.

When teachers thrive, our students thrive.

Question 3: Elected Trustees are part of what is called Team of  8. This refers to the concept of trustees working with the superintendent to implement policy. What makes you uniquely qualified to help the trustees achieve the district’s direction from a team perspective and build consensus to help shape the direction of improving PISD?

Candidate Answer: I have worked as a team in Pearland for the past 10 years in a variety of volunteer roles.  I have been doing this with my children’s teachers for years and would like to to be a part of the school board.

I am a team player. Teamwork, faithfulness, and respect are qualities I also possess. I have a deep sense of purpose and commitment. I want to contribute my time and talents while collaborating as a team with the other board members and the superintendent. I’d be grateful for your vote. Thank you.

Question 4: How do you define College, Career and Military readiness?

Candidate Answer: Whether it be College, Career or the Military, our students have many options available. All students should graduate from high school ready for college, careers, the military, or any future they choose in life. College- and career-ready graduates should be able to enter and succeed in entry-level post-secondary classes without the need for remediation. Also, House Bill 3 dated 2019 offers up to $5000 to reward districts for graduates for taking the next step in their career planning by enrolling in postsecondary institutions, completing a credential, and/or enlisting in the military. In the 2022-23 Texas Academic Performance Report over 75% of Pearland graduates have at least one college, career, military readiness indicator. Also according to that same report, other post-secondary indicators our graduates scored almost 150 points higher than the states average on the SAT and 5 points higher on the ACT. So if you ask me what does it mean for our students to be prepared to succeed as adults, I would answer “everything our teachers are doing now is working!

Question 5: How do you define quality public education outcomes?

Candidate Answer: Learners (student)who are eager and ready to learn, supported by their families, environments that are safe for all learners.

Question 6: Pearland ISD was selected as part of Raise Your Hand Texas Trustee Advocates Program Cohort. What qualifications do you bring to support this initiative and program?

Candidate Answer: I advocate for all students, Texas public schools and our teachers. I am ready to work hard learning all I can. I am prepared to give it all I’ve got. I am looking forward to this 18 month long course. I think it’s a blessing that across Texas there were only 8 counties selected and Pearland was one. I am ready for this training and all other courses I am able to take to learn the responsibilities of the job of school board trustee.

Question 7: Pearland ISD has a May ballot measure. Are you for or against the bonds? What questions would you ask during the process?

Candidate Answer: I was privileged to serve on the 2024 Bond Advisory Board. I am voting YES for both Bonds.  I do support both the infrastructure and technology bonds.  I was privileged to serve on the 2024 Bond Advisory Committee and saw the infrastructure needs of our aging campuses. I find that there are roofs that are 16-18 years old, Heating and AC repairs and replacements that are overdue, freon that is outdated. I also see the great need for improving our technology, upgrading our phones and internet and how by doing this, will keep our Pearland ISD students safe and on track globally with their peers.

Plus - There is No tax increase to voters.

 I would ask the following questions.

1.) #BuildPearlandProud - Do you want the outsides of the buildings to look like the insides? Yes!

2.) Would we save money by replacing the lightbulbs with led  (so we could replace less often? Yes!

3.) Would we save money by having in-house technicians do most of

the work, as opposed to contractors? Yes!

Question 8: What is your stance on mental health support within schools? How would you advocate for policies or resources to support the mental and emotional well-being of students? 

Candidate Answer: I believe schools should support all students’ healthy well-being on campus. I would advocate for resources and policies to support the mental and emotional well being of students on campus by ensuring there is always funding available for necessary programs our counselors may need .Our schools should be havens where our teachers and students feel safe from acts of violence on campus, such as bullying, fighting, or worse. Safety is non-negotiable. The school board can ensure students have adequate access to mental health services and legislature needs to fund adequate mental health professionals in schools.

Question 9: How do you view the role of a trustee in influencing curriculum decisions to ensure they reflect both state standards and the unique needs of our community?

Candidate Answer: As a trustee, as I understand it, the State dictates the curriculum. I do not believe it would be my job to influence the curriculum.  I trust the teachers and administrators to make good choices regarding the curriculum.

Question 10: Public education plays a key part in the development of our local workforce. What is your vision for the district’s engagement with the business community in ensuring programs meet the local needs?

Candidate Answer: I’d like to propose Career and technical education programs continuing relationships with business owners but further, I'd like to propose regular surveys of the business community and partnering with business, industry, community colleges and more of the small businesses, so that when we have job fairs, our graduates can find jobs and have more opportunities that are close to home.

Question 11: Pearland ISD is a major employer in the community. As a Trustee, how can you ensure Pearland ISD attracts and retains quality educators and staff?

Candidate Answer: By keeping pay competitive, we can ensure we continue to employ the best educators and staff. If we want teachers to remain on longer and not retire, or quit or have to get a second job, we need to  pay a decent wage, with benefits and cost of living. If we are able to put more money into the budget to tackle the staffing and teacher shortages, we will keep the teachers we have on board longer.

Each candidate also gets 300 words to provide a bio.

I am a mom of 6 and grandma of 3 My oldest daughter graduated Pearland High school, my triplets currently attend PHS, and my twins attend Junior High East. Two of my grandkids attend Shadycrest Elementary. I am an HOA Board Director for our neighborhood. I served on the 2024 Bond Advisory Committee. I’m The Treasurer for the Pearland ISD Council of PTAs. The Volunteer Coordinator at PHS, the current PTA President at Junior High East and For the past 10 years, I have held a variety of volunteer roles in the District. I am also an Air Force Veteran. From Day one in Basic Training, you are taught the core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in all we do. We do not work in the Air Force, we  serve in the Air Force! Being a School Board Trustee in my opinion is not just a title; it is a commitment that takes energy, dedication, and sacrifice. A heart and mindset for service allows me to embrace the expectations and requirements of serving on the board. I believe instilling those core values during my career as an airman, and in the work I have done in this great school district, have given me the experience to serve our teachers, staff and students in Pearland.  I am running for school board because I have enjoyed volunteering in our schools and would like to continue that service to this community. Beyond What I learned in the Air Force, Teamwork, faithfulness, and respect are qualities I also possess.

This is what I have been preparing for for 10 years!

I’d be humbled and grateful for your vote for school board position 6. Thank you!

Name: Terrence Campbell

                Position Seeking: Pearland ISD Board of Trustees, Position 6

                Campaign Website: www.TerrenceDCampbell.com

                Campaign Facebook: www.facebook.com/TerrenceCampbellPearlandISDTrustee

                Campaign Email: tcampbell@ongrowingsolutions.com

                Campaign Telephone: 832-802-4951

Question 1: How do you define the role of a trustee?

Candidate Answer: An elected community representative bridging the gap between community and school administration who is responsible for:

1. Policy Making, that is setting policies that govern the operation of the school district.
2. Budget Oversight, ensuring that financial resources are allocated appropriately to support the district's educational goals.
3. Hiring and Oversight of Superintendent, who is responsible for the day-to-day management of the school district.
4. Community Engagement and Advocacy, active engagement with parents, students, teachers, and other stakeholders to gather input, address concerns, and communicate the district's priorities and decisions.
5. Accountability, ensuring transparency and accountability in the district's operations, including academic achievement, financial management, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Question 2: What makes you passionate about education?

Candidate Answer: My word here is impact.

I believe that people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Education has the power to unlock the potential of individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

I believe in the inherent abilities and talents of people and I see education as the key to realizing that potential. I developed a personal passion for education through interactions with dedicated teachers who have made a positive impact on my life. Like Ms. Frankovich.

I have had many opportunities to witness the transformative influence of educators and how they shape future generations. Teaching is the profession in which all other professions are made, and now more than ever, we need ambassadors willing to advocate for this profession.

Question 3: Elected Trustees are part of what is called the Team 8. This refers to the concept of trustees working with the superintendent to implement policy. What makes you uniquely qualified to help the trustees achieve the district’s direction from a team perspective and build consensus to help shape the direction of improving PISD?

Candidate Answer: It appears that Pearland ISD is doing well in this area in comparison to their peers. Nonetheless, Pearland ISD can continue to attract and retain quality educators and staff by:

- Providing an environment which demonstrates that they are valued and appreciated

- Providing a positive work culture

- Competitive pay

- Competitive benefits

- A good work/life balance.

Unfortunately, I do not think that these tools are within the complete control of the school board as many factors contribute to competitive pay, benefits, and work/life balance. This includes the freeze on the current basic allotment per student issued by the state legislature, unfunded mandates, and requirements issued by TEA. However, whenever it is within the board’s control, positive movement should be focused in these areas.

Question 4: How do you define College, Career and Military readiness?

Candidate Answer: College, Career and Military readiness (CCMR) is a measure of potential future success for a graduating senior. This is one indicator on the current A-F Accountability rating system for public school district in Texas, managed by the Texas Education Agency. In short, success on this measure demonstrates that a student is prepared to go directly to work or enroll and succeed – without remediation – in a variety of postsecondary careers or institutions (depending on the individual student pathway) so that they are ready to enter a career or school of their choice.

By my review, it appears that Pearland ISD has traditionally scored well on this measure in the accountability system because Pearland students:
• Surpass the state’s SAT average by 156 points (2023)
• STAAR Performance was 19% higher than the state and region for students achieving Meets Grade Level standard or above (2023)
• Average SAT score for Pearland ISD students is nearly 150 points higher than the state and region average
• Stand alone career tech high school, allowing various certification and career pathways post graduation
• Over 100 students graduate with their high school diploma and associates degree each year

Question 5: How do you define quality public education outcomes?

Candidate Answer: A quality public education system is one that meets every child where they are and develops their unique gifts and talents into their individual highest potential. Key components of quality public education outcomes include academic achievement, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, social and emotional development, civic engagement and citizenship, and a focus on instilling a lifelong love of learning and personal growth. Overall, quality public education outcomes encompass a holistic approach to education that prepares students not only for academic success but also for personal fulfillment, civic engagement, and meaningful participation in a diverse and dynamic society.

Question 6: Pearland ISD was selected as part of Raise Your Hand Texas Trustee Advocates Program Cohort. What qualifications do you bring to support this initiative and program?

Candidate Answer: Public schools in Texas are under attack. I look forward to the opportunity to join with potential fellow trustees in learning how to successfully advocate for our students. I stand with our community in opposition to vouchers, and in request of greater scrutiny over charter school growth. These initiatives direct much needed resources and dollars away from public schools and into areas with little to no accountability.

Question 7: Pearland ISD has a May ballot measure. Are you for or against the bonds? What questions would you ask during the process?

Candidate Answer: Yes. I am a firm believer in investing in what is important to you. Ensuring the highest quality education possible for our children is certainly a worthwhile investment. And, in my discussions with community members across the community, many families agree with me. They appreciate the quality of Pearland schools and they are willing to pay for that success. They also appreciate that their homes maintain their value because of the quality of our public schools.

There are many reasons why I support this bond, but my top four reasons are:

• Equal access to educational resources for all students.
• This will help move our district forward in the area of technology.
• The opportunity to improve infrastructure, setting us up for the future.
• This will free up funds to make other essential updates, while our taxes WILL NOT increase.

Questions I would ask:

• What is the plan if the bond does not pass?
• What opportunities do we have for minimizing the need for bonds in the future?

Question 8: What is your stance on mental health support within schools? How would you advocate for policies or resources to support the mental and emotional well-being of students?

Candidate Answer: I believe that mental wellness is needed for every child to learn and thrive. A child who does not have their basic needs (i.e. food, safety, security) met cannot learn effectively.

I have had the opportunity to witness several of the unique programs that Pearland ISD has to offer through my experiences as a RISE mentor, and in my work with Care Portal. Pearland has made it a priority to develop a rich and vibrant fabric of community resources to cover students with when needs arise. Through their student outreach program, United for Kids meetings, ongoing training opportunities for parents, well established counseling professionals, and desire to connect with anyone who has a desire to support students, Pearland is well equipped to support the mental and emotional well-being of students.

The tools that Pearland ISD employs to support these needs could be strengthened and bolstered by increased financial support. Additionally, areas of opportunity might include greater attention to the impact that technology is having on our families and youth.

I also think that any efforts that we can make in enriching the family who supports the school child would be a worthy endeavor. Afterall, the school only has the child for 8 hours a day, and a large part of the mental load for each student is sourced from the family which raises the child at home.

Question 9: How do you view the role of a trustee in influencing curriculum decisions to ensure they reflect both state standards and the unique needs of our community?

Candidate Answer: In my review of board meetings, agendas and minutes, it appears to me that it is not the role of the trustee to influence curriculum decisions as long as they align with the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) established by the State Board of Education, and they are meeting established growth goals for students. Board members are tasked with overseeing the outcomes of curriculum decisions, therefore their power is in review of the outcomes not in the day to day management of the district. The district has an entire department of curriculum specialists, and it should not be the role of an individual trustee to manage those decisions.

However, parents and board members have access to curriculum oversight. Should an issue arise with a curriculum decision then the trustee should work with the superintendent to ensure that the issue is resolved in a timely and appropriate manner.

Question 10: Public education plays a key part in the development of our local workforce. What is your vision for the district’s engagement with the business community in ensuring programs meet the local needs?

Candidate Answer: Pearland ISD already appears to have a robust engagement with the business community, but I am certain that those efforts can always be strengthened. It appears that Pearland ISD builds partnership with our local workforce by:

• Engaging with the chamber of commerce,
• Partnering with organizations like the Northern Brazoria Education Alliance (NBCEA) which supports Turner High School and the robust Career Tech programs hosted there,
• Building opportunities for business owners to engage with the district like United for Kids.

I think that participation in events which allow the business community and district to dialogue with one another is key in ensuring that district programs meet local needs.

Question 11: Pearland ISD is a major employer in the community. As a Trustee, how can you ensure Pearland ISD attracts and retains quality educators and staff?

Candidate Answer: After reviewing board meetings and documents, it appears that Pearland ISD is doing well in this area in comparison to their peers. For example, in the recent TAPR, the years of experience of Pearland ISD students greater than 6 years equaled 74.4% of our teaching staff, in comparison to just over 63% of the state, and our turnover rate was 17.2% in comparison to the state average of 21.4%.

Nonetheless, Pearland ISD can continue to attract and retain quality educators and staff by providing an environment which demonstrates that they are valued and appreciated, providing a positive work culture, competitive pay, competitive benefits and a good work/life balance. Unfortunately, I do not think that these tools are within the complete control of the school board as many factors contribute to competitive pay, benefits, and work/life balance. This includes the freeze on the current basic allotment per student issued by the state legislature, unfunded mandates, and requirements issued by TEA. However, whenever it is within the board’s control, positive movement should be focused in these areas.

Each candidate also gets 300 words to provide a bio.

Terrence is driven by a commitment to help individuals unlock their full potential. He finds inspiration in the words of his favorite author John Maxwell, who once said, "People change when they hurt enough that they have to. Learn enough that they want to. Receive enough that they are able to."

Terrence's dedication to nurturing personal growth takes various forms. As the lead pastor and founder of Growing Faith Fellowship, he provides spiritual guidance and support to those seeking more out of life. He also serves as the Area Director for CarePortal, a nonprofit organization that employs cutting-edge care-sharing technology to connect vulnerable children and families with churches ready to lend a helping hand.

His active involvement in the community serving youth as a RISE Mentor and committee member with YoungLife Pearland, demonstrates his passion for youth. His role as a board member for Demand Disruption highlights his commitment to combating sex trafficking by addressing the root causes.

An enthusiastic reader, Terrence enjoys literature on leadership, relationships, and personal finance. In his leisure time, he enjoys cherishing moments with friends and family, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through fitness, and embarking on adventures through travel.

Terrence is happily married to his Pearland high school sweetheart, Cindi since October 2000. They are partners of their training and consulting firm, OnGrowing Business Solutions, LLC.

They recently became foster parents of one son, with plans to adopt. He proudly represents his alma mater, Fisk University in Nashville, TN.