Gopal Ponangi will be in the runoff against Jared Elad in June. We found Tammy Meinershagen’s comments about Gopal to be very interesting:
1) He failed to balance the ISD budget
2) He failed to communicate to voters “why” they needed the bond aka $1 billion
3) He is responsible for the failures at FISD, and she questions how he can lead the city better.
4) Tammy stated that the citizens don’t have confidence in FISD leadership.
She only left off his absence at most meetings and major votes, which we posted about previously (obtained in a PIR)
We’re curious if Tammy would say she’s responsible for the failure of the residents not understanding Proposition A and B for the Frisco Center For The Arts? Did she fail to communicate well? Does that mean she’s not equipped to help run our city? At the end of the day, that is what she implied about Gopal, right?
It will be interesting in the runoff to see if Tammy aligns herself with Gopal when she thinks he was an absolute failure on Frisco ISD school board? It might be more interesting to see if Gopal has a change of heart and supports Burt Thakur! It would make sense considering Tammy spoke so ill of John Keating and Angelia Pelham, who are huge Gopal supporters.
Oh, where will the yellow brick road take us in June?
Back in the day, Frisco was known as a dormant suburb, north of Dallas, but today Frisco is a community undergoing vast changes and becoming its very own urban Metroplex. Gone are the rural days when everyone knew their neighbors, and a trip to Stonebriar Mall was the excitement for the week. Today, we are at a crossroads of transformation, and the experience of change has been both loved and hated along the way.
The reason my wife and I moved here was because we loved the sense of community, the schools, and the feeling of being safe. The truth is all of that has changed with the massive development that has taken place in the last 10+ years. Yes, we knew Frisco would develop and we looked forward to that at one time. However, that is when you had a city council who engaged and listened to the residents and decisions were made based on what was best for the community.
Frisco has changed, and to be very honest, it is now filled with dirty politics on all sides. Secret deals are happening, and our city council is misleading us to approve projects that are in their best interest, and they are leading with iron fists. Our priorities have shifted, and our sense of community is disappearing every day. Today is election day, and each of us has a chance to vote for change.
We debated on releasing the tape of Tammy Meinershagen when we received it. In the end, we felt voters have the right to know who they are electing. Meinershagen’s statements against the South Asian community are offensive. Calling both South Asian candidates idiots and other names is disgusting and shows a lack of leadership and integrity. She then goes on to talk about how she is not afraid of bullies, even if they are 300lb firefighters or a black woman. Since when are those who protect and serve bullies? Her reference to a black woman being a bully because they disagree on how to do things would be the same as calling her an angry black woman, which I am pretty sure the black community would find an offensive stereotype. Then she references that the Frisco population is only 1% Asian, so she has no base here, and with a laugh, says that means she is white. Frisco’s lack of an Asian population does not make you white, Ms. Meinershagen, but it is clear that you want to be.
Then she goes on about her opponent saying she is “offended and insulted that he would run for city council.” So, she is offended that a citizen who had every right to run, is running? She pointed out at the Chamber Forum and on this tape how her opponent ran for Congress and lost – well Ms. Meinershagen, John Keating ran for higher office as well. In fact, he left his seat early to run and when he lost he came back and took over another seat during a special election so does that make him incompetent to run?
Ms. Meinershagen continues to talk about other local leaders, Scott Johnson, Jared Patterson, and Shona Sowell. Then she talks about residents who are or have taken a chance to run for office, like Mark Piland, Burt Thakur, Jared Elad, and Gopal Ponangi. While many may be upset, we released these tapes. The bigger question is, WHY ARE YOU NOT UPSET ABOUT WHAT TAMMY MEINERSHAGEN SAID?
Today Jamie Heit posted on her FRWC page that we have some shady behavior by certain candidates this cycle including that of a current candidate running for office. Heit ignores all the shady behavior her best friends have done in the past and finds excuses for that but now she sits upon a hill of moral authority accusing this candidate of secretly recording a conversation, questioning her morals and integrity.
Here is the problem with Heit’s statement: how does she know it was secretly recorded? Who told her that? Who told her that the conversation was with this candidate? There are only 3 ways you would have known the who, when, where and if it was secretly recorded:
1) Ms. Heit you were there, and you participated in the conversation and if that is the case why were you not disgusted then with the comments by Meinershagen? We know you were not there so we know this option is not possible.
2) Tammy Meinershagen would have had to tell you who this conversation was with and that she was unaware of it being recorded. If that happened, it means TAMMY IS ADMITTING TO THE CONVERSATION AND WHAT SHE SAID IN IT?
3) The candidate whom you have accused of doing this would have had to tell you they did it. We are pretty sure that did not happen. It would make no sense to be a whistleblower and then yell from a rooftop “It’s me!”
Our guess: Ms. Heit, you know about the conversation because Tammy told you, which means she is admitting to her statements. Secretly recorded or not, nothing illegal was done as Texas is a 1-party state. That means Tammy is admitting to her offensive and objectionable conversation. Someone like that should not be a leader in our city, as her statements clearly show she Tammy has no integrity or ethical morality laying out everyone’s personal business to someone.
Then you have Jake Petrus, otherwise known as the “Town Bully” for the cabal. He posted that this was a private conversation, secretly recorded at xxxx home. The only way Jake would know who the other person was or where it was recorded is if TAMMY TOLD HIM! If he is right, that means he talked to Tammy or someone who had talked to Tammy, to know how and when. THAT PROVES THE CONVERSATION IS LEGIT AND THAT TAMMY IS CONFIRMING HER ROLE AND STATEMENTS.
Either way it doesn’t matter if Tammy knew or didn’t know – what matters is Ms. Heit and Jake Petras would not know “the how, when and with who” without Tammy confirming it. That means she knowingly said nasty, hurtful, demeaning, racist things and spread the personal business of those who had trusted her to others in the community like a game of show and tell. Personally, if I were Johnson, Keating or Pelham, I would be glad to know about this. Clearly it shows they cannot trust Tammy, who they thought was a confidant/or a friend.
I don’t think those who considered her a friend would have ever guessed she is spilling the secrets of their lives and private conversations too others. While we are not the greatest fans of Angelia Pelham and John Keating the fact is they have the right to know their fellow city councilwoman was talking trash about them to others in our community. Simply put, this was probably not the first time Tammy allowed her loose lips to talk trash – it was just the first time she got caught.
If Heit or anyone, for that matter, wants to claim that someone who recorded this is not fit to be a leader, then we want to know why Tammy’s statements and behavior which clearly show a lack of integrity, knowledge or ethical morality is not being called out to be a leader in Frisco? She should resign!
In closing, Tammy kept referring to Frisco as “my city, my city, my voters, my budget, …” – this is not her city, it is our city! She seems to have forgotten that on her quest for Broadway or to be on Broadway. We also want to be clear that we will always protect our sources at Frisco Chronicles. We do want to make it very clear; WE DID NOT RECEIVE Pelham’s text or the Meinershagen conversation directly from the candidate Heit and Petras are currently calling out. We received the text from Source A and the recording from Source B, and neither of them was the candidate Heit and Petras are attacking online.
As for Broadway Frisco – Prop A & B we would ask you to consider this before voting:
Today, we hear “Tourism, Tourism, Tourism,” and most recently, how we need to be more like Nashville. The thing is, Nashville has a deep history back in the 1920s. They had a thriving publishing industry, then came the advent of the Grand Ole Opry in 1925. When WSM began broadcasting live performances from the Grand Ole Opry, it positioned them to become “Music City USA.” By 1945, it was one of the most popular radio programs in America and established Nashville as a hub for country music. They made urban renewal a priority and renovated several landmarks, including the Music Hall of Fame and The Sommet Center. Broadway (similar to 5th Street in Austin) became known for bars and a honky tonk music scene. It was the cornerstone for emerging young artists and a short distance trolley ride from the iconic Music Row. Major record labels headquartered themselves in Nashville, and it became a gathering place for the arts, entertainment and music. They did not simply build a 340-million-dollar Broadway, and become Nashville overnight!
What is the problem with Frisco being more like Nashville? We never implemented our identity as we began to grow and develop into a Nashville. Purefoy took us down the road to being Sports City USA! It worked! Now the city council says we must be more like Nashville to compete, or else! With every development, we have heard Mayor Cheney say this would have a HALO Effect on our city, making us the greatest city in America. Now, all of a sudden, if we don’t spend $160 million or $340 million to get FRISCO BROADWAY, we will lose the economic boom to Nashville? The AMC Awards are happening here, not in Nashville, why? It is being held at a great venue. We didn’t have Frisco Broadway to win over the AMC Awards. We are not Nashville! We will never be Nashville! We are Frisco, Texas!
Please vote no to the propositions in order to protect our community and the residents who live here.
When I was a young boy, my favorite thing was riding shotgun in the old truck with my dad through the grapevines on our farm. Harvest time was a marvel. I’d watch the workers move row by row, their hands stained purple, their rhythm steady, their laughter honest. One day, watching it all unfold, I looked at my father and said, “You must be the King Grape.”
He chuckled, looked me square in the eye, and said:
“Boy, no kings live here. Only hard-working hands.”
“But you’re important,” I replied. Dad just shook his head.
“If I teach you anything, it’s this — don’t get too big for your britches. Or you’ll find yourself alone.”
Later, Mom explained the phrase. “Too big for your britches” meant someone full of themselves — bloated with self-importance, an exalted ego, floating above the rest of us like a parade balloon.
And when I look at our current Frisco City Council? Let’s just say we’re one helium tank away from liftoff.
The Pelham Pattern
It is time to remind Angelia Pelham where she came from! In our blog In Debt We Trust, we told you back in 1996, she and her husband Dono filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Florida under the name “Just for You Cosmetics.” According to the Orlando Sentinel(April 1, 1996), their reported assets totaled $1,245, while their debts? A staggering $343,466. Major creditors included:
Community First Bank (Jacksonville) – $140,000
Eric Stern (Carrollton, TX) – $35,000
Schroder Center Management (Dallas, TX) – $35,000
A “learning experience,” Angelia later called it in the Dallas Morning News. Fair enough — who hasn’t fallen and gotten back up? Most of the time, you learn your lesson, but the Pelhams the pattern didn’t stop there. Since then, her Frisco HOA has filed multiple liens:
Nov 2006 – $2,088.90
Oct 2011 – $956.80
June 2013 – $1,335.65
July 2020 – $1,233.70
Wells Fargo filed a civil judgment against Dono in 2014–2015 for $10,375. In 2016, a local business owner placed a lien for unpaid landscaping work: $4,039. Then came a Notice of Lis Pendens in 2020 — the county warned the Pelhams that a lawsuit had been filed over delinquent property taxes. That one appears to have been settled in 2022. (Wait, a city councilwoman, not paying property tax?)
Life has changed for the Pelham Power Couple these days. Angelia is draped in designer threads, seen at every gala and brunch in town, flanked by her friends in the gated communities across Frisco like the Stonebriar elite. Her husband’s church is growing, her influence expanding.
None of that is inherently wrong — if you rise and remember the folks who helped you climb. The issue is when you forget those who supported you and start swinging that shiny new status around like a scepter.
The Luncheon Debacle
Then came the text. A whistleblower sent us a screenshot of Councilwoman Pelham sending a text about a luncheon she coordinated for Frisco Lakes residents during Black History Month. A noble cause — supporting Black-owned businesses — and it took place at Earnest B’s, a public restaurant.
Angelia starts the text message with taking credit for coordinating the luncheon and specifically noted it was not a campaign rally. When Angelia arrived, she was surprised to see a candidate running for office there “campaigning” at an event they were not invited to!
First, this was not a private event! Angelia did not rent out Earnest B’s place of business for this luncheon. Other customers were coming and going because it is A PUBLIC BUSINESS! Angelia lives on MARS if she thinks she can tell any customer in a public business how and what they should do!
Angelia continues, if you were there to get some lunch, you should have done so without campaigning with a group that you were not invited to attend.
Second, how did Angelia know the candidate was “campaigning?” Earnest B’s is not a huge restaurant, so what if they were stopping by for lunch and knew someone there and started talking (like we all do across Frisco) and Angelia happened to walk in on it, now she accuses the candidate of campaigning. Even if they were campaigning, it is a PUBLIC BUSINESS that you have no say over. If the restaurant had an issue with someone “campaigning” on their property then they should have said something – not Angelia a patron of the business who is there to SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESSES.
Angelia continues, “Yes, I called Gopal since you decided to HIJACK MY EVENT and make it into a campaign event. Gopal is MY CANDIDATE, so I absolutely felt that he needed to be there since YOU made it a campaign event.”
I can hear my mom now from the window of our house, “Mannaggia Angelia, Mannaggia!” That is our “Damn” as you Americans would say, and used to express utter frustration with someone, something or a situation. Accusing someone of HIJACKING YOUR EVENT? Newsflash, this was not a private facility or shut down for just you and your glorious presence, Ms. Pelham, it is a PUBLIC BUSINESS! Second to accuse someone of that you better have proof and DAMN good proof! Next, you call Gopal “MY CANDIDATE” – do you own him? Is he your property? That is how you made it sound!
Lastly Angelia says, “it is that kind of self-seeking behavior that you display (meaning the candidate) that causes me concern about you on council. I want to be very clear about my thoughts on your actions yesterday”
Angelia – we want to be very clear on our thoughts as well! You come across as an entitled SELF-SEAKING witch who is “TOO BIG FOR HER OWN BRITCHES.” My Event, My Candidate, My Luncheon! What’s next? My Oxygen? How dare you come into a public business and say hi to anyone at my table – this is my table! Take your food and go, peasant!
Queen of the Dias
It’s campaign season, so is it plausible to say the candidate was out and about wearing a vote for me shirt, stopped in to get lunch from a popular Frisco place, happen to know someone at the table and said hello when you walked in. Last year when you were running Angelia, we saw your shirts all over the city on folks and we also know “your people” attempted to attend an event paid for by a private citizen at the country club until they were asked to leave. The difference in the space, it was rented and paid for by a private citizen who had every right to determine who they wanted at their event vs your public space luncheon. Guess it was okay then when they were supporting you.
Oh, how the mighty Queen of the Dias, Angelia Pelham sees herself today. Gone are the bankruptcy days, today she can cast stones, throw accusations anywhere and everywhere, send demeaning and rude texts to other candidates, and then expect “healing sessions” to fix it when it’s all over. How did that work out with the Fire Department?
Newsflash: You’re not the queen of Earnest B’s. Or Frisco, for that matter. Now it appears Pelham is more concerned with control than compassion. More interested in ownership than stewardship. More inclined to protect her own than to empower others.
Mannaggia Angelia!
Well, Mannaggia, Angelia.
Don’t forget the vineyard. Don’t forget the struggle. And don’t mistake a city council seat for a throne.
Because when you get too big for your britches — Frisco Whistleblower knows how to hem you back down to size.
With local election season in full swing, we examine recent claims about Gopal Ponaji (aka Ponangi) and his ties to the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF). When we initially heard these accusations, we thought they were farfetched. As we started to investigate, we found out it is something voters should be aware of and have a general pause of concern or questions about. Our goal: to lay out the facts and context so readers can judge for themselves.
Ponangi’s Links to GHHF
Public records and event reports indicate Ponangi has been associated with GHHF for years. For example, a 2016 Dallas news article on a GHHF-sponsored event explicitly names “Gopal Ponangi, [an] active volunteer who served as Master of Ceremony for the evening”. This gathering was organized by GHHF founder Dr. V.V. Prakasarao Velagapudi. Moreover, internal GHHF documents list Gopal Ponangi among the group’s “core group” members. Ponangi’s name appears alongside Velagapudi’s and other GHHF officers, suggesting he held an ongoing role. We have found no official record of Ponangi renouncing or distancing himself from GHHF over the years.
These references show Ponangi’s involvement goes beyond the current campaign. They do not prove wrongdoing, but they do confirm he has been publicly connected to GHHF activities. Whether this connection should concern voters depends on GHHF’s character and aims – which is why we now turn to that broader context.
Hindutva Ideology and the RSS
Understanding GHHF requires knowing about Hindutva and the ideology that motivates it. Hindutva (literally “Hindu-ness”) is a political-cultural movement formulated in the 1920s that promotes Hindu cultural dominance in India. According to Wikipedia, it “encompasses the cultural justification of Hindu nationalism and the belief in establishing Hindu hegemony within India”.
What does that mean in practice, Hindutva thinkers argue India is fundamentally a Hindu nation. This worldview is closely associated with India’s RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) and the ruling BJP party.
Scholars note that Hindutva goes beyond religious devotion and often rejects India’s secular ideals. According to media and researchers, GHHF explicitly supports this Hindutva vision. Bridge Initiative (a Georgetown University research group) reports that GHHF “supports Hindu nationalist ideology and regularly publishes discriminatory, inflammatory, and intolerant content about Islam and Christianity.” In fact, the organization has even “raised funds to aid the demolition of churches in India and supports the mission of making India a Hindu-only nation.” Bridge further notes that GHHF leaders have advocated India declaring itself a Hindu state.
By contrast, GHHF’s own website frames its mission more benignly. It states the group exists “to protect, preserve, promote, and maintain Hindu culture, Hindu temples”. GiveFreely.com (a nonprofit data site) similarly summarizes GHHF’s focus on temple preservation, but critics point out that these activities overlap with Hindutva goals. The Christian Post notes GHHF “advocates an ideology known as Hindutva, or extremist Hindu supremacism, which holds that India belongs solely to Hindus”. In short, Hindutva is not merely cultural pride – it’s a doctrine that often paints religious minorities as outsiders. That background helps explain why GHHF’s statements and events have become controversial.
The 2022 Frisco Fundraiser Controversy
In November 2022, GHHF held a gala fundraiser in Frisco that drew national attention. Reports revealed the event flyer listed items like “Demolition of Illegal Churches in Tirupati” (a major Hindu pilgrimage site) and “ghar wapsi” (efforts to reconvert Muslims/Christians to Hinduism) as part of the GHHF agenda. These revelations alarmed many local Indian-American Christians and Muslims.
Community members did not remain silent. After learning of the flyer, concerned citizens staged protests in Frisco. By early December, local groups organized formal opposition.
Key Points from the Fundraiser:
The GHHF event was hosted at a Dallas-area venue on Nov 27, 2022. Its public agenda (as shown on Eventbrite) included Hindutva objectives: “Ghar Wapsi – reconversion of Muslims and Christians back to Hinduism” and “Demolition of Illegal Churches in Tirupati”
News reports emphasized these items. The Dallas Morning News wrote: “The dinner’s agenda items included… demolition of ‘illegal’ churches in India and the conversion of Indian Christians and Muslims to Hinduism.” (Both reports cited the actual flyer as evidence.)
These concrete facts – printed and posted online – were the spark for the backlash. Event organizers declined to publicly comment on these agenda items, and no evidence has appeared that the church demolition was ever actually funded. But the documentation of the flyer itself is clear. In response, faith leaders began sounding the alarm.
December 2022: Frisco City Hall Protests
On Dec. 6, 2022, dozens of residents packed a Frisco City Council meeting to air their concerns about GHHF. Local pastors and activists spoke out, warning that what they saw as extremist Hindutva aims had crossed into Frisco.
Local faith leaders and Indian-American residents gathered outside Frisco City Hall to condemn GHHF’s agenda. The Christian Post reported that “several pastors and other Christian leaders joined members of the local Indian Christian community to call for lawmakers to take a closer look at the activities of GHHF.” Independent journalist Pieter Friedrich, contributor to Christian news outlets, addressed the Council directly. He said, “Just last week, right here in Frisco, Texas, we had an American nonprofit organization fundraising to support the demolition of churches in India…Friedrich urged the city to speak out: “I urge the Frisco City Council to have the courage to proclaim that the GHHF’s hateful agenda has no place in Frisco…or in America.”
Of course, GHHF and its supporters dispute this narrative. They argued at the City Council meeting (via emails to local media) that “we have not raised funds to demolish churches” and that the matter involved legal questions of Indian church permits, not GHHF incitement. While GHHF has not been accused of any illegal act in the U.S., but the documented language of its flyer – and its promotion of ghar wapsi – had already concerned many.
Given these divergent accounts, it’s important for readers to weigh the information critically. Voters should look at the actual references.
Key Issues at a Glance:
Gopal Ponaji/Ponangi is explicitly identified as a GHHF volunteer and organizer in official materials.
GHHF professes a mission of temple preservation, but critics document that it endorses Hindutva goals like church demolition and religious conversion.
The leaked fundraiser flyer for Nov 2022 listed “Demolition of Illegal Churches in Tirupati” and “Ghar Wapsi (reconversion)” among its agenda items. This fact was confirmed by multiple news reports.
Bridge Initiative and others urge caution: “The group has raised funds to aid the demolition of Churches in India”
Conclusion: Do Your Research Before Voting
The facts above show that Ponangi has long-standing ties to GHHF and that GHHF has an explicitly Hindutva agenda. Whether one finds that alarming is a matter of judgment. We have provided documentation from multiple sources so readers can decide for themselves: every key claim comes with a link at the end of our blog. Frisco voters should carefully review these materials. In this race, as in all elections, misinformation can spread easily. We urge you to check out our verified sources. FriscoChronicles will continue to follow this story. We hope readers with the published record: examine it, question it, and then cast your vote with confidence.
Occupation and Background: Information Technology and Real Estate Entrepreneur
Prior to running, how have you been involved in the community?
Prior to running for the Frisco ISD Board of Trustees, my involvement in the community has been extensive and deeply rooted in a desire to serve. For five years, I served as an HOA Director in Richwoods, demonstrating my commitment to local volunteerism and community well-being. Currently, as Chair of the Tamil Nadu Foundation, Dallas chapter, I’ve led efforts to raise over 2 million to fund education for special needs and impoverished children, showcasing my leadership and dedication to educational causes. Beyond these roles, I am passionate about giving back and actively dedicate my time, energy, and resources to support vital organizations such as the Frisco Pantry, homeless shelters, and numerous other deserving nonprofits within our community. This diverse range of experiences reflects my long-standing commitment to service and my understanding of the needs of our community, including the importance of education and support for families.
What experience or skills do you have that will make you a great board member?
My experience provides a unique and valuable skill set for serving on the Frisco ISD Board of Trustees.
• First, my long-term commitment as a crossing guard at Richwoods – Vandeventer Middle School isn’t just volunteer work; it’s a direct connection to our students and families. I’ve seen firsthand the daily realities, the challenges, and the joys of our students, and I understand the concerns of parents in our neighborhoods. This on-the ground perspective is invaluable for making informed decisions that prioritize student well-being and safety.
• Second, my leadership experience as a former HOA director and chair of a non-profit has equipped me with critical governance and management skills. I understand how to build consensus, manage budgets responsibly (a crucial skill for a district like ours), and ensure transparency and accountability in decision-making. These are essential for effective board leadership.
• Third, I possess a strong grasp of education policy and governance. I’m passionate about ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for every student in Frisco ISD, regardless of their background. I’m committed to data-driven decision-making and advocating for policies that support student achievement.
• Finally, I’m a dedicated servant leader. I believe the role of a board member is to listen, collaborate, and advocate for the best interests of our students, parents, and community. My previous experience running for this board demonstrates my commitment to Frisco ISD, and I’m eager to bring that same dedication and work ethic to the position.
What are the 3 most critical issues facing the district today?
1. Declining Student Enrollment and Funding challenges
2. Past 3 years FISD is running a deficit budget – Accuracy in Financial Forecasting and Enhanced Transparency
3. Campus Safety and Security—Disciplinary issues, cyberbullying, Vaping and Drugs, Fentanyl
How do you plan to address these issues?
Declining Student Enrollment and Funding challenges:
I believe Frisco ISD stands at a critical juncture, demanding a proactive and visionary approach to ensure our long-term success. The declining enrollment trends we’re witnessing, and the resulting closures in neighboring districts, serve as a stark reminder of the urgency of the challenges before us. We must act now to secure Frisco ISD’s future.
My priorities would be to:
Develop a comprehensive long-term vision: We need a clear plan for the next 5, 10, and 15 years, outlining how Frisco ISD will evolve in terms of enrollment, program offerings, and facility standards. This vision must be data-driven, reflecting a deep understanding of enrollment trends and demographic shifts.
Address declining enrollment head-on: This requires a multi-faceted approach. First, we must conduct thorough data analysis to identify the root causes of the decline. Second, we must engage in open and transparent communication with our community, ensuring that parents and residents are informed and involved in the solutions. Third, we must innovate our programs to attract and retain students, offering specialized courses and pathways that meet their diverse needs and interests.
Champion strategic program investments: I propose investing in program enhancements and expanding specialized courses to make Frisco ISD a destination district.
Establish a magnet school: I am particularly excited about the potential of converting a high school into a magnet school focused on high-demand fields such as STEM or the arts. This strategic investment would not only attract students from across the region, boosting enrollment, but also position Frisco ISD as a leader in innovative education and enhance the overall appeal of our community. This initiative must be driven by community input and a rigorous market analysis to ensure its success and relevance.
Advocate for adequate state funding: We must also be strong advocates at the state level to ensure Frisco ISD receives the funding necessary to support our long-term vision and maintain the high quality of education our students deserve. By embracing this comprehensive strategy, we can ensure that Frisco ISD not only weathers the current challenges but emerges stronger and more vibrant, ready to serve the needs of our students and community for generations to come.”
Past 3 years FISD is running a deficit budget – Accuracy in Financial Forecasting and Enhanced Transparency
From my perspective, addressing the issue of the past three years of deficit budgeting, the need for accuracy in financial forecasting, and enhanced transparency would be a top priority: The fact that Frisco ISD has been operating under a deficit budget for the past three years is a serious concern that demands immediate and comprehensive attention. As a board member, ensuring the fiscal health and stability of our district would be a paramount responsibility.
My approach to this critical issue would be multi-pronged:
Demanding Accuracy in Financial Forecasting: We must implement rigorous and data driven forecasting methods to ensure a clear and reliable understanding of our financial outlook. This involves a thorough analysis of enrollment trends, revenue projections, and expenditure forecasts. We need to move beyond reactive budgeting and develop proactive strategies based on accurate predictions.
Prioritizing Enhanced Transparency: The community has a right to understand how their tax dollars are being spent. I will advocate for greater transparency in our financial reporting, making budget information readily accessible and easily understandable to the public. This includes clear explanations of budget assumptions, potential risks, and detailed breakdowns of expenditures. Open communication fosters trust and allows for meaningful community input.
Comprehensive Budget Review: We need to conduct a thorough review of the current budget to identify areas of inefficiency, potential cost savings, and opportunities to realign resources with our strategic priorities and the needs of our students. This review should involve input from administrators, teachers, and the community.
Long-Term Financial Planning: Addressing the deficit is not just about the immediate fiscal year; it requires a long-term financial plan that aligns with our five, ten, and fifteen-year vision for the district. This plan must consider potential enrollment fluctuations, future program needs, and facility requirements.
Exploring Revenue Opportunities (without burdening taxpayers unnecessarily): While being mindful of the tax burden on our community, we must also explore all potential avenues for responsible revenue generation, including maximizing state funding, seeking grants, and strategically leveraging district assets.
Accountability and Oversight: The board has a crucial role in providing strong oversight of the district’s finances. I am committed to holding the administration accountable for responsible financial management and ensuring that budget decisions are made in the best interests of our students and the community.
Addressing the deficit budget and ensuring accurate financial forecasting and enhanced transparency are not just about balancing the books; they are about safeguarding the quality of education we provide to our students and maintaining the trust of our community in Frisco ISD’s leadership.”
Campus Safety and Security—Disciplinary issues, cyberbullying, Vaping and Drugs, Fentanyl
I believe a safe and secure learning environment is the bedrock of a successful education. We must address the serious issues of disciplinary problems, cyberbullying, and the alarming rise of vaping and drug use, including fentanyl, with a firm and proactive approach.
Prioritizing Order and Discipline: Maintaining a structured and disciplined environment is crucial for both safety and academic achievement. We must have clear, consistently enforced disciplinary policies that hold students accountable for their actions and promote respect for authority. This includes zero-tolerance policies for violence, drug use, and serious behavioral infractions.
Strengthening Physical Security: The physical safety of our students and staff is paramount. We must ensure that our campuses are secure, with appropriate measures in place to prevent unauthorized access and respond to potential threats. This may include increased security personnel, surveillance systems, and controlled access points.
Parental Rights and Involvement: Parents have a fundamental right to know what is happening in their children’s schools and to be involved in decisions that affect their safety. We must ensure transparent communication with parents regarding safety concerns and disciplinary issues, and actively seek their input on safety policies.
Combating Cyberbullying and Digital Threats: Cyberbullying is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences. We must implement strong policies to prevent and address cyberbullying, educate students on responsible digital citizenship, and work closely with law enforcement to address online threats.
Addressing Drug and Vaping Issues: The rise of vaping and drug use, especially the dangers of fentanyl, demands a firm and uncompromising response. We must implement robust prevention programs, educate students on the risks, and work with law enforcement to address drug-related activity on and around our campuses.
School Resource Officers and Law Enforcement Partnerships: Strong partnerships with law enforcement, including the presence of school resource officers, are essential for ensuring campus safety. We must ensure that our schools have clear protocols for communication and collaboration with law enforcement in the event of an emergency.
Mental Health Support with a Focus on Personal Responsibility: While acknowledging the importance of mental health support, we must also emphasize personal responsibility and accountability. We should focus on programs that promote resilience, character development, and healthy coping mechanisms, in addition to providing access to counseling and mental health services. By prioritizing order, discipline, parental rights, and strong partnerships with law enforcement, we can create a safe and secure learning environment where our students can thrive.
Do you support ESA’s and Senate Bill 2?
I will champion our public schools. I have concerns about ESAs and SB 2, particularly regarding the potential diversion of funds from our district and the need for rigorous accountability measures. My commitment is to ensure our public schools remain strong, well-funded, and accessible to all students in our community. Our local tax dollars must stay locally to support district initiatives, while also advocating for adequate state funding to supplement our local efforts.
It is crucial to maintain the financial health and integrity of the Frisco ISD community. Parents believe the need for transparency and accountability is at an all-time high in the district. Would you support a official Forensic Audit of the district’s finances by an independent 3rd party?
Yes, I absolutely believe it is crucial to maintain the financial health and integrity of Frisco ISD, and I agree wholeheartedly that parents’ demand for transparency and accountability is at an all-time high – and for good reason. Given the concerns I’ve heard from parents and the community, and considering the importance of public trust in how our tax dollars are managed, I would strongly support an official forensic audit of the district’s finances by an independent third party.
Do you believe the current districts’ disciplinary procedures are acceptable or do you believe we need to update our procedures for discipline and safety?
No. The current districts’ disciplinary procedures are not acceptable. The recent incidents are deeply troubling, and I understand the heightened anxiety among parents across Frisco ISD. I believe our primary responsibility is to ensure a safe and secure learning environment. This demands a robust approach, prioritizing strong physical security measures, close collaboration with law enforcement, and clear, consistently enforced disciplinary policies that hold students accountable. We must also emphasize parental rights and involvement, ensuring open communication and seeking their input on safety protocols. While acknowledging the importance of mental health, we should also focus on programs promoting personal responsibility and character development. I strongly advocate for school resource officers, and their positive impact on campus safety. We must act decisively to prevent violence, address threats, and ensure our schools remain focused on education, not fear. I am committed to working tirelessly to restore and maintain a safe learning environment for every child in Frisco ISD.
What do you believe needs to happen with Staley Middle School and how should this have been handled?
I firmly believe that extending the operation of Staley Middle School until the 2025-2026 school year is the most responsible path forward. This approach prioritizes the well being of Staley’s students and staff by minimizing the disruption to their education and careers, allowing for a more stable and supportive environment during a period of transition. Furthermore, it demonstrates a genuine respect for the Staley community’s voice and their desire for a more gradual adjustment.
Do you have knowledge of Roberts’ Rules and Board Meeting Decorum?
Yes, I understand the importance of Roberts’ Rules of Order and proper Board Meeting Decorum. I recognize that Roberts’ Rules are designed to ensure fairness, efficiency, and the orderly conduct of business. They provide a framework for motions, debates, and voting, ensuring that all voices are heard and that decisions are made in a transparent and democratic manner. I understand the importance of adhering to an agenda, respecting time limits, and conducting discussions in a civil and professional manner. My goal is to contribute to a board that operates effectively and transparently, building trust with the community and ensuring that our decisions are made in the best interests of our students.
What efforts or changes could be made to increase decisive leadership and improve community trust during board meetings?
To truly foster decisive leadership and restore the trust of our Frisco ISD community, we must implement significant changes to our board meeting procedures. I believe that increasing decisiveness necessitates clear, detailed agendas, but critically, we must empower every trustee to place their items on the agenda, ensuring a wider range of perspectives are heard and addressed. We need focused deliberations, grounded in data-driven presentations, and the use of defined decision-making frameworks for complex issues. Strategic planning sessions and transparent articulation of decision rationales will further enhance our ability to lead effectively. Equally important is rebuilding community trust. To achieve this, I propose we make public comment the very first agenda item at every board meeting. This will signal that we prioritize the voices of our residents. Furthermore, every resident should be granted a minimum of three minutes to address the board on any issue, regardless of the meeting’s agenda. This open forum will demonstrate our commitment to listening and responding to the concerns of our community. We must also enhance public participation through various means, ensure complete transparency in information and decision-making, and actively listen to and acknowledge community concerns. Regular community forums, clear communication of board actions, and unwavering accountability will be essential in building bridges. Above all, we must demonstrate respect among board members, even in disagreement, to cultivate a productive and trustworthy environment. By implementing these measures, Frisco ISD can cultivate a board that leads decisively, operates with complete openness, and earns the confidence of our entire community.
Lastly, anything you want voters to know about you!
I want Frisco ISD voters to know I’m committed to upholding the core values of fiscal responsibility, parental rights, and academic excellence. My years of community service have instilled in me a deep respect for the responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and I will advocate for transparent and accountable financial practices. I believe parents are the primary stakeholders in their children’s education, and I will champion policies that empower them to make informed choices. My focus will be on ensuring our schools provide a rigorous, values-driven education that prepares students for success. I believe in maintaining a safe and disciplined learning environment, where teachers can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning. I will advocate for strong partnerships with law enforcement, and for policies that ensure the physical and mental well-being of our students and staff. I’m committed to restoring trust in our school board by prioritizing transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of resources. I will work to ensure that our schools focus on core academic subjects, and that our curriculum reflects the values of our community. I am dedicated to serving Frisco ISD with integrity and unwavering commitment to the principles that make our district strong.
Well, well. The Frisco ISD Superintendent has finally broken his silence. After being called out by Frisco Chronicles for their district’s lack of leadership during this recent tragedy, Dr. Mike Waldrip has released a statement. Not a press conference. Not a town hall. A carefully worded, non-emotionally packaged letter.
Some might say it’s heartfelt. Others—especially those who’ve been watching this district duck accountability like it’s an Olympic sport—might call it something else: too little, too late. Let’s be clear, bullets hit an elementary school and no response. Then rocked with another tragic event that left one student dead, and another charged with Murder, that has left our schools and community shaken to the core. The students, the staff, and the community deserved an immediate, transparent, and unflinching response from district leadership that would lead us through this difficult time. What we got instead was silence—and then, finally, a statement that reads more like a press release drafted in the PR department’s “Cover Your Assets” war room.
Let’s break down Waldrip’s response, starting with “two deeply concerning incidents.” Concerning Incidents? Are you kidding? Then you say you are “reminded that challenges often bring out the best in us, revealing our collective strength, resilience and compassion.” Your response revealed a lot – too little, too late! Where was that courage when parents were begging for answers after these events unfolded? Where was that resilience when students returned to school with more trauma than guidance, more rumors than facts, and more fear than support?
This letter expresses gratitude for emergency responders, and rightly so. But that’s not the leadership vacuum we’ve been calling out. That’s not the black hole of communication from the people paid—handsomely, I might add—to protect, inform, and lead this district through the worst of times. Instead, we got radio silence, save for the whisper campaigns and online confusion the district now blames on “fake social media profiles” and “fraudulent fundraising.”
When leadership abdicates its duty to communicate with clarity and conviction, it creates the perfect breeding ground for confusion. Leadership isn’t just about showing up when your asking residents to vote yes to propositions—it’s about showing up immediately, honestly, and with a clear plan of action. Instead, Frisco ISD waited. And waited. And waited.
Now, we’re being told to stand united. That’s fine. But unity starts with trust, and trust is built on transparency. Not platitudes. Not PR. And certainly not finger-wagging at a public left in the dark. Parents aren’t asking for perfection. We’re asking for truth and for our leadership to lead. If you wait until the storm passes to address the community, you’re not leading. You’re hiding in the bunker, hoping the wind blows over before anyone notices the silence.
So, Dr. Waldrip, thank you for your words. Now we ask—where were they when we needed them most?
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