Currently, our great city of Frisco is facing a lot of pressure from “outside forces” relating to the Anthony / Metcalf case. Everywhere you turn, from social media posts to the news stations (nationwide), they are talking about this case. We have a Civil Rights Group meeting with our Police Department, demanding fair justice and asking our Board of Trustees not to expel Anthony when he has one month left in his senior year.
Recently, we saw a post by Councilman, John Keating where he said he recently endorsed a Frisco ISD Trustee candidate, believing we shared a vision for academic excellence, transparency and parental empowerment. He went on to say he was made aware of several social media posts the candidate made in the past which contradict those values.” Then he closes with in light of these revelations, I am withdrawing my endorsement for this candidate.
At first, we were confused because Mr. Keating, who has Whistleblower blocked from his Official Councilman page (breaking the law), never saw a post of his “original endorsement.” We started digging around and realized he had endorsed Stuart Shulman for Frisco ISD BOT Place 3. We looked through Shulman’s page and didn’t see much that concerned us, which left us more confused. Then we saw in several different Facebook groups, screenshots of posts from his page that had been shared, and now we understood.
The first photo is of Shulman with a Beto For Texas sign. No big deal vote for who you want as that is your constitutional right! However, Keating claims to be a Republican and he donates to several Republicans and for him to OPENLY ENDORSE a democrat is a BIG Problem because he will lose his claim to be a Republican (to his Republican friends). He can quietly endorse a democrat and then play stupid but not someone openly posting their political view. As we said to each his own, we are a house divided and it is Shulman’s constitutional right to vote for whoever he wants, and we respect our differences.
Then we saw the BLM – Black Lives Matter Post! Here is a man who wants to run for our Board of Trustee’s openly supporting a racially divisive group. Everyone has a feeling or opinion on BLM and to act as if it is not controversial would-be understatement. We just had a horrible thing happen here in our district and if Shulman was on the Board of Trustee’s would he be shouting Black Lives Matter? He should be shouting ALL OUR KIDS LIVES MATTERS! Would that make an impact on his decisions? Honestly, I don’t want to find out!
This is not Frisco! Frisco is a blended community and that is honestly what makes us great. We may not all agree politically – that’s okay! We may not all operate the same – that’s okay! However, divisive rhetoric based on race or the color of one’s skin tone is simply unacceptable from a Leader in this city. Our children need real leaders right now! Our school district has real LIFE AND DEATH issues happening. Our children deserve to be safe and know that all their lives matter (red, yellow, brown, black, white and blue). The last thing we need is someone on our Board of Trustees who supports any type of race-driven organization or racially divisive groups. Just NOT ACCEPTABLE!
The question we have after this tragic event and after all the folks saying we are not a racially divided community – why didn’t the rest of them pull their endorsements? That’s right, Shulman is endorsed by a lot of our folks in our community and no one else pulled their endorsements. It begs the question do the following folks support a man who openly supports a racially divisive group to be on our schoolboard? Do they think this is the kind of leader we need today facing the adversity we are facing? If yes, then you should question THEIR JUDGEMENT!
Are we surprised Mayor Jeff Cheney endorsed him? No, he already took a knee in solidarity!
What about the rest? At a time when we should be unified for ALL THE CHILDREN IN OUR DISTRICT – do these so-called leaders support this? The two other candidates (Suresh and Renee) that have been campaigning with him – silent! Angelia Pelham – silent! Rene Archambault – Silent! The list goes on! If these leaders sit in silence at this time, after what has happened then in our opinion, they do support him and what he stands for. They are advocating for him to be on the Board of Trustee’s. Is that what you want for your child? Is that what we want for all the children in the district? I hope not!
So here we are, perched on the edge of civic glory or total chaos, depending on which Facebook group you follow. Early voting begins tomorrow, and I encourage you to participate. Not just because it matters (which it does), but because if you don’t vote, someone with worse judgment than you will.
– The Frisco Chronicles Your Friendly Neighborhood Overthinker
Occupation and Background: Financial Advisor – I own my own Wealth Management Firm
Why are you running for Frisco City Council?
I’m running for Frisco City Council because I think we need to start serving the residents of Frisco more effectively, instead of serving the developers and Frisco elite. We need to slow down the density and address the traffic issues, as well as focus on public safety. I also want to focus more on fiscal responsibility and transparency and less on vanity projects such as the PAC and Universal.
Community and Development
What are your top three priorities for Frisco’s growth and development?
Slow down density/halt building apartment complexes; Focus on responsible, community friendly development on the east side; Address traffic in a meaningful way
How do you plan to balance economic growth with maintaining community character?
I’d like to focus more on smaller projects for the community and not so many mega projects. And, I’d like to focus on attracting more small businesses to Frisco.
What is your stance on residential and commercial zoning changes?
Not sure I understand the context of the question
How will you ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with growth?
I think we need to slow down the growth and let the infrastructure catch up. Future projects should have a plan for infrastructure built in at the beginning. And, it must be adhered to.
Density continues to be a hot discussion for Frisco Residents. Cheney even did a video on Density seven years ago when running for Mayor. He said in that video that the resident’s ultimate concerns was the concept of density and what the ultimate build out population number should be.
At build out the city’s comprehensive plan allows a maximum capacity of up to 350 thousand residents (building with maximum density). He then said in his campaign video that is not what people move to Frisco for, and he believed to maintain quality of life the population target goal should be around 280,000. He continued, we need to build out with world-class level developments with more open space, less multi-family all over the city and an overall less dense environment. In the last two years Cheney has changed his tune and said, “Density is a political dog whistle used at election time for political mailers.”
What is stance on Density?
Density is a real issue for Frisco citizens. Many have cited this as a reason for leaving. And, it’s creating quality of life issues for everyone. The only way to address it is to slow down the growth and determine what the right population number is for Frisco. 350k residents seems too high.
Fiscal Responsibility and Budgeting
What would be your approach to managing the city’s budget while ensuring essential services are maintained?
First, make sure that essential services are covered. We need to take care of our fire and police departments as well as other city services. Beyond that, all expenditures need to be thoroughly and reasonably evaluated to determine if they are necessary.
Do you believe Frisco’s current property tax rates are sustainable? Would you support any changes including cuts, increases or adjustments to the current property tax rates? Why or why not?
No. Residents can’t afford their property taxes based on the appreciation of their valuations. Even when the city and Frisco ISD lowers the tax rate, residents still don’t see it as their tax bill gets higher every year. I would be for reducing the rate but that isn’t enough.
What are your funding priorities for public safety, education, and infrastructure?
Public safety should be fully funded including additional police officers to handle the increased issues that will come with Universal (traffic, crime). See my previous comments about infrastructure.
How would you plan to handle Frisco’s increasing debt and financial obligations?
The debt can be handled by not taking on any more of it. The addiction to debt/bonds needs to stop to ensure the financial health of the city for years to come. TIRZ money can be used to pay debt obligations.
In December of 2021, the Mayor, Jeff Cheeney had to vote in a rare tie breaker vote in regard to an employee Health Clinic operated by Premise Health. At the time city staff shared the results of a survey which collected responses from 684 of 1,239 city employees. Out of those 684, a total of 89.75% said they were likely or somewhat likely” to use the clinic for urgent care needs. Only 64.7% said they were likely to “somewhat use” the clinic as their primary care provider.
Estimated expenses in the clinic’s first year total over $1.44 million, according to the proposed five-year budget. Those expenses include salaries, insurance, management/implementation fees and equipment purchases. The clinic’s fifth-year budget is listed at more than $1.31 million. It was projected that the clinic will operate at a loss in its first three years. The estimated cost for the first five years was $6.28 million. At the time there was a concern about how many years it could take to break even on the investment and how many employees would use the option.
At the five-year mark if the clinic is still not breaking even would you support closing the Employee Wellness Clinic or continue to operate at a loss?
Yes, I would support closing the clinic if it’s not at break even.
Should the city be in the business or running an Athletic Center, Performing Arts Center, or any other type of business model that mirrors a commercial business which has annual operational costs paid for by tax dollars?
No
Transparency and Accountability
How will you ensure transparency in your decision-making process and open communication between the city council and residents?
I will explain my decisions on key votes so that the community understands my reasoning. I will also make myself available to meet with residents by hosting regular town halls and I will also listen when community members speak at city council meetings and read their emails.
Currently only the city council meeting is aired live, however many residents believe they should have access to live meetings for the different boards and commissions as well as well as the published minutes of the meetings should be more detailed as to what was discussed.
Do you support more increased public access to city council meetings, boards and commission meetings?
Yes
What steps would you take to improve access to meetings, meeting minutes and public records?
I would see what other cities do and replicate the good ideas in Frisco by submitting a proposal for change.
What is your definition of conflict of interest?
A conflict of interest is when someone could potentially benefit from actions or decisions made in an official capacity.
Do you support implementing a stricter ethics policy that puts a check on the influence of money in local politics which would require council members to recuse themselves from votes that could benefit donors who contributed more than $1000 or $2500.00 to a political campaign?
Yes
Do you believe active members of the city council should be on the front lines advocating as “private citizens” for Propositions on the ballot during local elections?
No
Community Services and Quality of Life
What are your plans for enhancing public parks and recreation on Frisco’s East Side of the DNT?
If Brinkmann Ranch is to be entirely sold, I would work to ensure that some of the land be allocated for public use. The city could require the developers who purchase the land to fund the project/s. That is probably the best location. I would like to see some of the land kept for the cows to graze as that is part of Frisco’s history.
How do you plan to address traffic congestion across Frisco?
Work to ensure the traffic signals work more effectively. Remove concrete medians where the left turn lane traffic spills into the center lane regularly (at DNT and Eldorado for example).
Do you think Frisco has a public transportation need? No
How will you engage with and listen to diverse voices of the community?
See question 1 in the previous section
Public Safety
What measures will you take to ensure Frisco’s Police and Fire Department remain well-funded?
I will ask the departments what they need, validate that by looking at other city models and then advocating for funding.
For years the Frisco Firefighters Association has taken to the citizens input pulpit asking for more staffing (specifically going from a 3 Man Truck to a 4 Man Truck). Turnover has been high recently with Firefighters taking retirement and then going to work for other cities who are more supportive of their First Responders.
Do you support increased staffing and moving to a 4 Person Truck? Yes
What will you do to start repairing the relationship with our first responders to stop the turnover, so they stay here in Frisco, and we don’t lose that much needed experience and wisdom.
I will meet with the fire fighters regularly and listen to their concerns. I will also ensure that retention is improved by implementing a target and holding the city manager and fire chief responsible for achieving it. I would start with a 2% decrease in turnover and go from there.
As Frisco continues to grow, do you believe Frisco’s current policies on crime prevention and emergency response are sufficient? Why or why not?
I don’t think we are staffed appropriately for Universal and need to evaluate what is needed before situations escalate. The recent stabbing of a Frisco ISD student shows that this is not the same city it was a few years ago. We need to staff for the situations we encounter today.
Would you support removing Animal Services “out” from under Public Safety and turning it into its own department?
Yes
Residents have been advocating for an animal shelter (instead of the partnership with Collin County) and the city keeps stalling, saying they are open to one with a public-private partnership. Do you believe Frisco should have its own Animal Shelter and Education Center? Do you believe it is a city service, or should it be a public-private partnership?
Yes, and yes it Is a city service?
Closing Statements
Is there anything you would like us to know about you that we have not asked?
As part of our commitment to keeping Frisco residents informed and engaged, we sent a candidate questionnaire to all the individuals running for the Frisco ISD Board of Trustees using the contact information provided on their website. We appreciate those who took the time to respond and provide thoughtful responses. Unfortunately, Renee Sample and Ange Yao also running for Place 2, chose not to reply.
Occupation and Background: Self Employed, Former Financial Advisor
Prior to running, how have you been involved in the community?
I have been involved in multiple ISD committees including being one of the first people chosen for the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. I was one of 8 parents chosen to present to teachers, admin and paraprofessionals for the first ever Behavior Symposium on what it’s likie being a parent of a special needs child. I was also on the Parent Panel that evaluated Standards based grading. Additionally I was on the District Advisory Council and was part of the Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum sub-committee. I also sit on the board for The Frisco Bowl, Leadership Council for The National Small Business Association and have been President of multiple networking groups.
What experience or skills do you have that will make you a great board member?
I think I excel at asking questions in a unique way that garner answers the average person wouldn’t get. Because of my financial background, business mindset and strategic approach, I think I can help foster relationships, handle challenging situations and stand firm in the face of adversity. My decades of experience in the corporate world and as a small business owner have helped me gain knowledge in human capital, changing financial markets, sales, management, training, marketing and branding. Education is a business and it needs to be treated as such. Gone are the days of running districts as if they have a blank check coming from the community. We need people like me who will take a business centered approach and reinstitute a culture of hospitality back into our ISD. Besides being a business, education is a service and we need to remember our clients are our students and our teachers.
What are the 3 most critical issues facing the district today?
This is a fascinating question because as I was preparing for my run back in December I was focused on what my top three issues should be and I boldly put them on my street signs. It’s as if I was clairvoyant with Fiscal Responsibility, School Safety and District Transparency. But we can’t stop there. The level of rigor of our curriculum is declining along with our enrollment. We have teachers in AP classes that don’t know the curriculum and the students are forced to learn on their own. This was just confirmed at the South Asian Business Alliance yesterday, 4/19/21, by a student in the audience when I brought it up!
How do you plan to address these issues?
🔹 Fiscal Responsibility
Our community deserves a school district that treats every dollar like it matters — because it does. As a former financial adviser and small business owner, I know how to manage budgets and make smart, sustainable decisions. On the board, I’ll:
Push for clear, detailed, line-item budgets the public can easily understand.
Hold district leadership accountable for overspending and inefficiencies.
Prioritize classroom funding over bloated administrative costs.
Have a teacher centered budget
🔹 School Safety
Parents should never have to wonder if their kids are safe at school — period. I will work to ensure our safety policies are strong, consistent, and transparent. That means:
Conducting regular reviews of safety protocols across all campuses.
Working with law enforcement and safety experts to implement best practices, not just checklists. I have a great relationship with our current Frisco police chief
Ensuring mental health resources are available and accessible for students in crisis.
Listening to teachers, students, and parents about what safety really means on the ground.
🔹 District Transparency
You can’t have trust without transparency. I’ll fight to make Frisco ISD more open, honest, and responsive by:
Requiring timely public communication from the board and superintendent — especially in emergencies.
Demanding that decisions (like school closures, rezoning, or leadership hires) are made with community input, not behind closed doors.
Supporting regular Q&A sessions and open forums with board members. I think doing 2-3 of these town halls per year will increase community engagement and trust.
Publishing clear explanations of board votes and policy changes so families know what’s really happening.
Do you support ESA’s and Senate Bill 2?
No I do not. They come with too many strings and is not truly the educational freedom that people are looking for.
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 fully support a forensic audit of Frisco ISD.
Transparency and accountability are at the heart of effective leadership — and right now, many in our community are losing trust in how our district manages its finances. A forensic audit isn’t just about identifying fraud or mismanagement; it’s about restoring public confidence, increasing fiscal responsibility, and ensuring our tax dollars are truly serving our students.
As a former financial adviser, I understand the difference between a routine audit and a forensic audit. A forensic audit digs deeper — it’s a detailed, investigative look at how money is being spent, how contracts are awarded, and whether financial practices align with district policies and ethical standards. It’s not about politics or pointing fingers — it’s about getting answers and setting a higher standard moving forward.
I believe a forensic audit should:
Identify wasteful or questionable spending
Ensure procurement and contracting processes are fair, legal, and transparent
Provide clarity on large expenditures that have raised public concerns
Give taxpayers and families the transparency they deserve
This isn’t a criticism of every employee or administrator in FISD. It’s about making sure the system is clean, efficient, and trustworthy — and if it isn’t, then we fix it.
A district with a $900M+ annual budget should welcome this level of scrutiny — not fear it. If elected, I will be a voice at the table pushing to make a forensic audit happen and to ensure its findings are made public in full.
Because at the end of the day, it’s your money, and you deserve to know exactly how it’s being used.
Do you believe the current districts’ disciplinary procedures are acceptable or do you believe we need to update our procedures for discipline and safety?
Yes, I absolutely believe our behavior policies need to be updated.
As a parent and a community member, I’ve seen and heard far too many stories of disruptive behavior, violence, and a lack of accountability in our schools. Our current policies are inconsistent, outdated, and in some cases, ineffective — and that’s putting both students and teachers at risk.
We need behavior policies that:
Are clear, consistent, and enforced across all campuses
Support teachers and administrators in maintaining safe, respectful learning environments
Include real consequences for serious misconduct — not just vague warnings or delayed action
Provide pathways for intervention and support, especially for students dealing with trauma or mental health challenges
Protect the learning experience for students who come to school ready to grow and succeed
Updating our discipline policies isn’t about being overly punitive — it’s about setting high expectations, enforcing boundaries, and creating a school culture rooted in respect, safety, and responsibility.
I believe in restoring order, protecting students and staff, and giving schools the tools they need to act decisively. Our educators deserve better. Our families deserve better. And most of all — our students deserve schools where they can learn without fear or chaos.
If elected, I will push for a comprehensive review and overhaul of the current behavior code — with input from teachers, parents, students, and law enforcement where appropriate. It’s time for a reset.
What do you believe needs to happen with Staley Middle School and how should this be handled?
Staley Middle School should have been repaired or rebuilt seven years ago, just as the district promised. Instead, teachers, staff, and students have been forced to endure unacceptable conditions — mold, leaking ceilings so bad it rains inside when it rains outside, and lead-contaminated water from outdated pipes. This is not just a facilities issue — it’s a failure of leadership, planning, and basic human decency.
No school in Frisco — or anywhere — should ever fall into this kind of disrepair. That this situation was allowed to continue for years is beyond comprehension, and those responsible for delaying action must be held accountable.
But this is not just about Staley. It’s about how we make decisions in this district. We’re told the school may close due to low enrollment, but that’s only part of the story. I believe a deeper dive is needed — one that looks beyond the numbers and into the real-world impacts:
How many students actually walk to Staley?
How will closures affect transportation, safety, and family logistics?
What role is declining district trust playing in enrollment drops?
Why are families choosing to leave Frisco ISD — and what are we doing about it?
Until the district is willing to ask hard questions and listen to the community, we’ll be stuck in this cycle — and Staley won’t be the last school on the chopping block.
We need long-term vision, not short-term fixes. We need leadership that prioritizes student health, staff safety, and honest dialogue with families. And we need to rebuild trust, starting with the way we treat the people and places at the heart of our school system.
Do you have knowledge of Roberts’ Rules and Board Meeting Decorum?
Yes. During my tenure on the board for the Long Beach Jaycees, we used Robert’s Rules of Parliamentary Procedure at every meeting. Plus I have the book.
What efforts or changes could be made to increase decisive leadership and improve community trust during board meetings?
Strengthening Leadership and Rebuilding Trust Starts at the Board Table
Frisco ISD families deserve leadership that listens, acts, and communicates clearly. Right now, many community members feel shut out of the process — their voices are limited, their questions go unanswered, and meetings often feel performative rather than productive.
To increase decisive leadership and rebuild trust, I believe we need to make immediate and meaningful changes, including:
🔹 Expand Public Speaking Time: Parents and community members shouldn’t feel rushed when voicing concerns. I will advocate for longer and more flexible speaking times during board meetings to ensure every voice is heard — not hurried.
🔹 Introduce a “Student Corner”: At each board meeting, a rotating group of students should be given the chance to speak about their experiences, achievements, and concerns. If we’re making decisions about them, they deserve a seat at the table.
🔹 Hold Regular Community Town Halls (2–3 times/year): The board should proactively engage with families, educators, and students outside of formal meetings. Scheduled town halls would create a space for real dialogue, listening sessions, and collaborative problem-solving.
🔹 Mandate Superintendent Communication Policy: The Superintendent should not have the option to go silent during times of crisis or confusion. The board must implement a clear policy that defines when, how, and how quickly the Superintendent communicates with the public. This must be tied to their performance goals — because transparency is not optional.
If elected, I will push for a culture of respect, responsiveness, and results. No more confusion. No more closed doors. Just honest leadership that brings the community in, not pushes it out.
Lastly, anything you want voters to know about you!
I love this district with all my heart. It’s given so much to my family, and I believe in what Frisco ISD can be at its best. But I also know that not every family has had the same experience — and that pains me deeply. No parent should feel unheard. No student should feel unsafe. No teacher should feel unsupported. That’s why I’m running.
I’m not here for a title or a spotlight. I’m here because I believe in service, and because I want every child — in every corner of this district — to have the opportunity to thrive. I want to elevate students, support families, and help make decisions that restore trust and strengthen our schools.
This is about doing what’s right, not what’s easy. I’m ready to show up, listen, lead, and stand up for what matters most — our kids.
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.
Meet Dr. Amit Kalra who is running for Frisco ISD Board of Trustees Place 1. We appreciate Dr. Kalra for submitting his responses to our candidate questions. We have published his answers as submitted to us.
Prior to running, how have you been involved in the community?
In Frisco ISD I have been a part of the District Advisory Council, Capital Projects committee, Library Reconsideration Committee Review Pool, Bond Exploration committee and the Leadership Board Academy
In Frisco City, I have completed the City Hall 101 Program and have been a part of the Frisco Cricket League captains and volunteer committee.
I have served in the HOA of my community and developed a newsletter for the community.
I have been organizing community events and cultural meets, all at-cost to provide the best experience at minimal cost to the attendees and not drawing any profit from it for 8 years now.
I have been volunteering in every community I have lived in for the past 25 years.
What experience or skills do you have that will make you a great board member?
By volunteering in different committees, I have learned about the different departments, operations, personnel and the idea exchange platform through the workshops. Recently we had a workshop attended by the candidates and BOT. The results of that workshop for planning the 2025-26 school year was shared with the District Advisory Council, I was a part of that too- other candidates were not. I am the only candidate in my race who will be ready to take on the role from Day one and save the district time and resources for training. I am also aware of what are the direct and indirect needs of the district at the moment.
I am a parent of Frisco ISD 6th grader who has been to three different elementary schools in Frisco ISD.
I am a physical therapist who has worked with children with special needs.
I am a healthcare professional and we don’t have one on the school board.
What are the 3 most critical issues facing the district today?
Deficit budget, decreasing enrollment and school safety are the three most critical issues being faced by the district today.
How do you plan to address these issues?
school safety through increased teacher empowerment and ability to escalate issues to take control of the situation instead of delayed response from procedural timings.
Decreasing enrollment by addressing the needs of the community and improving the and making more accurate assumptions in budget calculations. This will prevent overestimation of enrollment numbers.
Deficit budget through restructuring of departments as necessary and prevent the execution of “all or none” law currently in place for replacement of equipment and furniture. Analyze the increased spending on the healthcare services and the counsellor services ( it encompasses a whole lot more than just school counselors).
The new challenge that got created today is the passing of HB3. Maintaining student enrollment is a challenge the new board will face.
Do you support ESA’s and Senate Bill 2?
I do not support ESA, but it got passed today.
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?
The Board of Trustees oversee the performance review of two personnel’s- The Superintendant and the internal auditor. We are currently rated top amongst the top financial review benchmarks in place. The financial reports are available online. I would, however, like more details about the line items since they encompass a lot of sub items under those few words. If the need arises for an Independent 3rd party audit the board has the power to vote on it, but then approval of that third independent third party may also get questioned by some sections of the society. It’s also an added cost when implemented. There needs to be substantial evidence to demonstrate some wrong doing to make these changes. I believe in transparency and accountable finances.
Do you believe the current districts’ disciplinary procedures are acceptable or do you believe we need to update our procedures for discipline and safety?
I think there is a scope for continuous improvement in the districts disciplinary procedures with a lot more common sense application in place. It’s too rigid and too structured that limits the perpetrators for getting punished for provocation. Teachers also feel limited in their ability to act, handle and respond to a situation and the events that occur post situation.
Our procedures need to enhance towards AI related image morphing and visual generation that may mislead a student, teacher, staff or parent in to believing its accuracy. Cell phone presence reduction, free time screen usage reduction, and reduction of barriers to reporting and increased usage of StopIt app will help to further address these issues.
What do you believe needs to happen with Staley Middle School and how should this have been handled?
As a capital projects committee member I was anticipating meeting to discuss Plan B and Plan C for Staley after the Bond failure but were disbanded. I disagree with this course is action. Any discussion about closure should have been a recommendation from this committee first. Communication was inadequate from Nov to Mar between the district and the Staley parents/ administration. When half the staff is moved out then why are discussions being placed now? It’s more painful to see these thousand paper cuts. At this point it’s been pushed to the point of closure as the only option which will be announced after the elections. It will close whether it’s for repairs or permanent closure.
Capital projects committee should have decided on the next steps. The demographer should have been changed. The communication to the board about the impact and financial implications of every aspect of Staley closure/ delayed closure/ and continued operation should have been shared at a meeting at Staley itself with the board and Staley community present.
Do you have knowledge of Roberts’ Rules and Board Meeting Decorum?
Yes. This is the big highlight after the last board meeting where the rules were reduced to words in a book. These rules were also shared as a part of our HOA board.
What efforts or changes could be made to increase decisive leadership and improve community trust during board meetings?
Being present for the workshops and discussions prior to the meeting.
Asking the hard unpleasant questions behind the scene to make a clear understanding of the situation and its implications.
Understanding the leadership role and the influence of emotions Vs facts/logic.
Accuracy in the meeting order items and staying on course with the meeting items.
Elect leaders who will stand up and take a stand instead of pleasantry panderers.
Lastly, anything you want voters to know about you!
My child attends middle school in Frisco ISD and every decision I will make will have an impact for the next 6 years. With school voucher program passing we need a leader that understands the role and will help to quickly adapt to the changes. I have a Presidential Voluntary Service Award. As a healthcare worker I took a stand against the Covid-19 vaccine because I didn’t find the research convincing. This impacted me and my family directly. I operate and make decisions based on facts, evidence, research, and critical analysis. All my friends know that I am keen follower of rules and regulations. I took the time out away from my family to learn about the role before I filled out my application.
I am here to serve because it’s important to have the right leadership for decision making.
We hope to write about it all soon. Most of the content in question - was from 3rd Party comments…
Shining a light in the dark here to just get this out of the way and moved past—who started the…
Bunch of Nepotism, buddy system promotion. If you ain’t white you ain’t right
Speaking of transparency...what's the deal with the court ruling recently? Have you publicly said who is coming after you (Heit?).…
Big flash light will soon be shining all over you Mr.FC ... Enjoy what's left of your anonymity.