I want to thank the Hays Educators Association/Texas State Teachers Association (HEA/TSTA) group for hosting the school board candidate forum last Thursday. All four candidates did a wonderful job and I applaud them for their willingness to serve. It is a position that requires an inordinate amount of time, dedication, and commitment.
The candidates fielded questions from HEA/TSTA’s president, Esperanza Orosco. They all answered thoughtfully and with an obvious desire to serve the students of Hays CISD.
As I come to the close of my second term and step down, I reflect on the qualities of school board trustees I have known not only in our district, but in districts all over the state of Texas. The finest leaders are those who are eager to learn, fiercely intent on doing the right thing, and committed to the goals and vision of their district. They are open to new ideas, different points of view, and possess unquestionable integrity – not just in what they say, but in what they do.
I believe the candidates that shine most brightly in this election are Bert Bronaugh and Holly Smith Raymond. If re-elected, Bert would begin his second term. The experience he brings to the table is crucial to the effectiveness of a new team. He is a dedicated public servant whose integrity is unquestionable. He is a tireless volunteer in so many areas, but most importantly in areas that involve children, like Boy Scouts of America.
Holly is a highly successful product of Hays CISD. When she graduated from Hays High School in 1996, she was accepted to the top accounting program in the state. Concurrently, she received her Bachelor of Business Administration and Masters of Professional Accountancy.
She and her husband moved back to our community so their children would have the benefit of being educated in such a quality district. Holly serves as treasurer of the Hays Education Foundation and is instrumental in the many ways they acquire the funds used to give innovative grants to our teachers.
I am honored to endorse Bert Bronaugh for District 3 and Holly Smith Raymond for District At-Large. I encourage all those who supported me in the past to consider supporting these fine candidates. Early voting starts April 30!
Patti Wood
President
Hays CISD Board of Trustees
