Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Status
Challenger
Background
Frances Ramirez Romero graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Government. Ramirez Romero is currently the Vice Chair of the Cy-Fair ISD Community Leadership Committee. She has also served CFISD as Booster Club President of the Cypress Falls High School Sky Dancers, PTO Board President of Fiest Elementary School, tutor, and CFISD Volunteers in Public Schools Executive Board Member [3]. She formerly worked as a Legislative Aide in the Texas State Senate for 6 years. She then worked for Quantum Political Consulting and later for Houston City Councilwoman Martha Wong. Ramirez Romero also previously taught 5th graders at Horne Elementary. She has served on district-wide committees including the Superintendent’s Parent Leadership Committee, the Districtwide Educational Improvement Council (DEIC), the Calendar Committee, and the Community Leadership Committee (CLC) [1].
Key Issues
Parental Involvement
Ramirez Romero aims to establish improved channels of communication among teachers, parents, and administrators to address concerns, provide support, and foster dialogue. She plans to achieve this through regular on-campus and community-based initiatives that promote collaboration and facilitate two-way communication [1]. She believes that the need for more parental involvement in students’ education is one of the biggest issues Cy-Fair ISD is currently facing [4].
Curriculum
Ramirez Romero recognizes that investing in STEAM education will inspire students to become innovative, adept problem-solvers, and critical thinkers. Additionally, she intends to champion personalized learning approaches to accommodate diverse learning needs [1]. She believes that increases in funding should be directed towards investments in curriculum programs for students [4].
Teachers
Ramirez Romero envisions supporting teachers by expanding early learning centers for the children of CFISD staff and providing Pre-K services to CFISD teachers. She also aims to establish a CFISD Teacher Task Force to tackle critical issues such as compensation, support, workload, and training. Ramirez Romero further intends to implement human resources initiatives, including pay grade adjustments and incentives for teacher recruitment, to address salary compression [1]. She plans on allocating increases in funding towards teacher salaries and hourly staff pay [4].
Miscellaneous
Ramirez Romero’s objectives include improving student achievement and well-being by boosting attendance rates and promoting college and career readiness. Moreover, she plans to advocate for student representation within educational institutions, whether through student advisory councils or student government, to ensure that all voices are heard [1]. She says that the state’s assessment and accountability system must be revised to effectively gauge students’ development and advancement over time, rather than relying solely on a single test.
Endorsements
Cy-Fair TSTA – NEA; Cypress Families for Public Schools; Voice for Public Schools; PTC; Gilbert Sarabia, CFISD Trustee; Debbie Blackshear, CFISD Trustee; Jim Cain, Former Superintendent of Klein ISD; Roy Garcia, Former CFISD Associate Superintendent of School Leadership; Bob Covey, Former CFISD Trustee; Patricia Harless, Former Texas State Representative
Sources
1 All 4 CFISD
2 Facebook
3 LinkedIn
4 Community Impact
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Status
Challenger
Background
Christine Kalmbach is a Licensed Professional Realtor for Keller Williams Platinum Houston [2]. Kalmbach is currently serving CFISD as a Bus Buddy and a Global Volunteer/Mentor in the district. Christine is involved in various organizations such as the Hearthstone Garden Club, New Heart of Texas Ministries, Houston’s First Baptist Church-Cypress. She has previously been a Republican Elections/Precinct Judge and Election Clerk [1].
Key Issues
School Safety
Christine Kalmbach prioritizes the maintaining of a secure learning environment for students, faculty, and visitors in educational settings. She emphasizes the implementation of a range of measures and protocols to address potential risks and threats effectively. Acknowledging the collaborative nature of ensuring school safety, Christine believes we must build trust and foster strong relationships among school authorities, educators, students, parents, law enforcement, and the broader community. Her vision for CFISD is to establish a security standard that prioritizes the well-being of students, teachers, and staff alike [1].
Parent Involvement
Christine Kalmbach believes in fostering open communication, trust, and respect among parents, teachers, community members, and the school board. She plans on emphasizing policies that prioritize educational standards, comprehensive teacher training, and data-driven assessment strategies to improve student outcomes [1].
Teachers
Kalmbach emphasizes that teachers must have the necessary resources to set students for success in order to improve student outcomes [4].
Curriculum
Christine Kalmbach believes that students in the district should have the opportunity to become proficient readers. She plans on prioritizing teacher training, development, and research to facilitate effective reading instruction. By utilizing various assessments, she aims to evaluate students’ reading, vocabulary, and comprehension abilities. Additionally, Christine advocates for a science-based literacy approach to empower students with the fundamental skills needed to excel in all academic subjects [1]. She wants to eliminate culture wars and radical ideologies from classrooms as she says it will indoctrinate students. Kalmbach believes teachers should adhere to curriculum standards that emphasize critical thinking skills instead [4].
Endorsements
Texas State GOP; Texas Latino Conservatives; Harris County GOP; Cy-Fair for Liberty PAC; True Texas Project; Ted Cruz, US Senator; Tom Oliverson, Texas State Representative; Tom Ramsey, County Commissioner; Ted Heap, Harris County Constable; Natalie Blasingame, CFISD School Board Member; Scott Henry, CFISD School Board Member
Sources
1 Christine for CFISD
2 LinkedIn
3 Facebook
4 Community Impact
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Status
Challenger
Background
Gaylon Caldwell has a degree from Texas Southern University in Emergency Management & Homeland Security. Caldwell is a graduate student at the University of Houston pursuing a Master of Public Administration & Public Policy degree [1]. Prior to being employed as an Emergency Management Specialist, Caldwell served as a volunteer firefighter/EMT and 911 telecommunicator [3].
Key Issues
Public Safety
Caldwell plans on enhancing security measures within Houston. As mayor, he will require businesses to apply for crime safety permits, which will fund additional police officers. He also wants to mandate the hiring of armed security or off-duty HPD officers during business hours in apartment complexes and in nuisance locations [2]. In his public safety plan for Houston, Caldwell outlines educating the youth on the dangers of firearms, monitoring parks through the establishment of the Park Police, and focusing on children’s safety [3].
Drugs
Caldwell supports reform regarding mairjuana decriminalization. He advocates for a “Decline-to-Prosecute” policy as an equitable approach for marijuana decriminalization. Through this, he aims to eliminate arrests based on marijuana odor and presence, redirecting law enforcement resources to combat serious crimes. Further, he wants to address the systematic disparities that have stemmed from the War on Drugs [1].
Economy
Gaylon Caldwell hopes to strengthen Houston’s economy by investing in Downtown Houston. He believes that a city’s downtown is a key indicator of social and economic position, and hopes to see Houston’s downtown lined with food, entertainment, and other events [2].
Endorsements
No endorsements could be found.
Sources
1 Facebook
2 Houston Chronicle
3 Houston Voter’s Guide
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Status
Challenger
Background
Sheila Jackson Lee earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from Yale University and her J.D. from the University of Virginia Law School [3]. She then became a member of the Staff Council of the United States House Select Committee on Assassinations through 1977-1978 [1]. She later became an Associate Municipal Court Judge for the City of Houston in 1987-1990 after serving two terms as a member of the Houston City Council through 1990-1994 [3]. Jackson Lee currently serves in the U.S. House from Texas’ 18th Congressional District, and has since 1995 [1]. She serves as Chair of multiple organizations such as the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus Energy Braintrust [2].
Key Issues
Social Programs
Jackson Lee serves as chair of the Congressional Children’s Caucus to address challenges youth face including health care, crime, poverty, and neglect. She would like to expand youth programs to encourage kids to stay and excel in school. The First Focus Campaign for Children has awarded Sheila Jackson Lee as a “Champion for Children” [2].
Law Enforcement
Jackson Lee previously obtained millions of dollars in grant funding for the City of Houston Police Department [2].
Energy
Jackson Lee believes that we must end foreign sources of oil to become energy independent. She would like to work with Houston and the nation’s energy industry to craft an environmentally sound and economically viable energy policy [2].
Endorsements
AIPAC PAC, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, Congressional Black Caucus PAC, Emgage Action, Feminist Majority Political Action Committee, Giffords, Humane Society Legislative Fund, National Education Association, NOW, Newtown Action Alliance, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, Progressive Turnout project, Sierra Club, Texas AFL-CIO, Texas AFT, Texas Medical Association, Texas State Employees Union, Texas State Teachers Association, United Automobile Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America
Sources
1 Ballotpedia
2 Jackson Lee
3 National Archives
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Status
Challenger
Background
Leslie Martone graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture, Recreation, Parks and Tourism Science. Martone was a community development manager for Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union before being elected as the president of the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce [3]. Leslie has served CFISD as an active member of the CPOC committee for Lamkin Elementary, and as a liaison for campus leaders to Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union [1]. Leslie Martone has also served as a trustee and volunteer with the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation [3]. She also founded a program in 2017 with the US Chamber of Commerce called Institute of Organizational Management [2]. Throughout her career, she has served on six boards within the Cy-Fair community [4].
Key Issues
Budget
Martone intends to maintain fiscal discipline and monitor crucial financial indicators, such as preserving a low tax rate, ensuring strong bond ratings, maintaining a healthy fund balance, and minimizing general administrative expenses. Moreover, she aims to prioritize professional development opportunities, technological advancements, classroom resources, and the safety of schools. To enhance the district’s funding prospects and bolster its resources, Martone also plans to explore potential partnerships with local businesses and organizations [1]. She also believes that the funding formula used by school districts is outdated and must be revised to fund public education. Further, she believes that the allotment from the state for funding operational expenses, such as teacher salaries, is inadequate [4].
School Safety
To tackle behavioral issues, Martone aims to improve school safety through a comprehensive review of existing protocols, student codes of conduct, and state regulations. Additionally, she plans to collaborate with parents and families to share resources and create a nurturing environment that prioritizes mental well-being. With a focus on student security and data protection, Martone also seeks to reassess the efficacy of current internet firewalls and invest in robust cybersecurity strategies. Furthermore, to emphasize the educational environment, she aims to increase the presence of drug counselors and programs [1].
Teachers
Martone plans on assisting teachers by expanding early learning centers for children of CFISD personnel and offering Pre-K programs to CFISD teachers. Martone further wants to establish a CFISD Teacher Task Force to address important concerns including pay, support, workload, and training. She also wants to develop HR initiatives like pay grade realignment and recruitment referral incentives for educators to address wage compression [1].
Endorsements
Cy-Fair TSTA – NEA; Cypress Families for Public Schools; Voice for Public Schools; PTC; Gilbert Sarabia, CFISD Trustee; Debbie Blackshear, CFISD Trustee; Jim Cain, Former Superintendent of Klein ISD; Roy Garcia, Former CFISD Associate Superintendent of School Leadership; Bob Covey, Former CFISD Trustee; Patricia Harless, Former Texas State Representative
Sources
1 All 4 CFISD
2 Facebook
3 LinkedIn
4 Community Impact
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Background
Hellyar earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Houston. He previously worked as field director for former Texas Representative Carol Alvarado and for the Annise Parker mayoral campaign. He also served as district director for the Fort Bend Democratic Party. He is the owner of Hellyar Group and currently works there [4] .
Key Issues
Housing
Hellyar believes that a small availability of housing in Houston has driven up prices and forced residents into the suburbs. He’d like to combat this by promoting the renovation and development of housing, updating the permitting system, and lifting parking mandates deemed unnecessary [1].
Transportation
Hellyar advocates for investing in filling potholes and resurfacing roads to make Houston streets cleaner and safer [1].
Community
Hellyar would like to create a better community environment by encouraging reliable garbage pickups, ensuring a constant flow of clean water, and increasing investments in public spaces [1].
Public Safety
Hellyar would like to invest in flood prevention infrastructure to ensure a natural disaster like Hurricane Harvey won’t devastate Houston again. Specifically, he’d like to improve drainage and water retention infrastructure [1].
Endorsements
Annise Parker, former mayor; Chris Brown, city controller; Sallie Alcorn, councilmember; Robert Gallegos, councilmember; Abbie Kamin, councilmember; Amy Peck, councilmember; Anne Clutterbuck, former councilmember; Ellen Cohen, former mayor; Sue Lovell, former councilmember; Reagan Flowers, Houston community college trustee; Ana Hernandez, state representative; Christian Manuel, state representative; Chase Untermeyer, former ambassador; American Council of Engineering Companies, Bay Area Democratic Movement, BOMA BAC PAC, Houston Chronicle, Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, Houston Region Business Coalition, Greater Houston Builders Association, Grow Our City, HOPE AFSCME Local 123, Houston Apartment Association, Houston Police Officers’ Union, LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, Seafarers’ International Union [1]
Sources
1 Nick Hellyar
2 Victory Fund
3 Facebook
4 Linkedin
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Status
Challenger
Background
Joaquin Martinez graduated from University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science [3]. Martinez has worked as the Director of Community Affairs for the City of Houston for over 9 years. During this time, he worked as an assistant to Council Member Robert Gallegos. Furthermore, Martinez has been involved in many organizations throughout the city. For example, he currently serves as a board member for the Arte Publico Press and the Tejano Center for Community Concerns [1][2].
Key Issues
Public Safety
Martinez would like to partner with local law enforcement to provide necessary tools and resources in order to enhance public safety [1].
Housing
Martinez would like to develop a deliberate strategy for constructing more senior, multi-family, and single-family housing throughout the City of Houston [1].
Education
Martinez would also like to endorse local Houston schools and collaborate with colleges and universities to create opportunities for a robust workforce in District I [1].
Environment
Martinez pledges to encourage the transition toward a zero-emissions port while involving refineries and labor force as cooperative partners in cleaner, more efficient operations [1].
Endorsements
Dave Martin, Mayor Pro-Tem; Martha Castex-Tatum, Vice Mayor Pro-Tem; Robert Gallegos, Council Member; Abbie Kamin, Council Member; Tiffany Thomas, Council Member; Sallie Alcorn, Council Member; David Robinson, Council Member; Sylvai Garcia, Congresswoman; National Latino Police Officers Association; Adrian Garcia, Commissioner; Lesley Briones, Commissioner; Ed Gonzalez, Sheriff; Greater Houston Builders Association; Houston Contractors Association; Houston Fire Department Chief Officers Association; Houston Black American Democrats; Afro-American Police Officers League; Houston Professional Firefighters Association; Houston Police Retired Officers Association; Asian American Democrats of Texas; Houston Chronicle [1][4]
Sources
1 Martinez for Houston
2 Tejano Center
3 LinkedIn
4 Twitter
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Background
Willie Davis served in the US Army during the Vietnam War, and after returning home, became a pastor. He founded the MacGregor Palm Community Baptist Church in Houston and has been the senior pastor there for around 30 years [1]. In politics, he previously ran for City Council position in 2019. During his candidacy, he strongly advocated against the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance [4]. He is the former President of the Minister’s Advisory Board to the Mayor and former Vice President at the Metropolitan Minister’s Alliance [1]. Davis serves as the chaplain at the Harris County Republican Party [3].
Key Issues
Crime
Davis supports stricter law enforcement and judges that keep tighter sentences on violent offenders. Davis believes that higher criminal activity will lead to people leaving the city of Houston, which is why addressing crime is one of his top priorities [2].
Infrastructure
Davis supports increasing funding to repair streets and other public infrastructure [4].
Endorsements
Houston Business Connections Newspaper
Sources
1 Willie Davis for City Council
2 Fox 26 Houston
3 Harris County Republican Party
4 Houston Style Magazine
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Background
Flynn Vilaseca earned her BA in Sports Management and Communications from the University of Michigan in 2004 and her master’s degree in Social-Organizational Psychology from Columbia University in 2013 [1, 2, 4]. She started her career as a teacher in the Houston Independent School District (HISD) as a bilingual pre-kindergarten teacher [1, 2]. In 2017, she was elected to the HISD Board of Education. She has also served on the Mexican American School Board Association and the Houston Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Board for Annise Parker and Sylvester Turner [1, 3, 4]. Currently, Vilaseca works as a Performance Infrastructure Executive for Johnson Controls, Inc., where she examines critical infrastructure [1, 3].
Key Issues
Budget
Flynn Vilaseca advocates for more consideration of community input in the city budgeting and spending process. She believes that taxpayer dollars are being wasted and wants to implement more cost efficient strategies [1].
Health Care
Flynn Vilaseca advocates for increased access to health care [1].
Endorsements
Houston Professional Firefighters Association; National Latino Peace Officers Association; Houston Fire Department Chief Officers Association; Plumbers Local Union 68; Bangladeshi American Business Association; Asian American Democrats of Texas; Rise AAPI; Latinas United; Latino Texas PAC; Latino Victory Project; Harris County Tejano Democrats; Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate; Oak Forest Area Democrats; Greater Heights Democratic Club; Houston 80-20 Asian-American PAC; Pipefitters Local Union 211; Sylvia Garcia, Congresswoman; Adrian Garcia, Commissioner; Lesley Briones, Commissioner; Lina Hidalgo, County Judge; Mary Ann Perez, State Representative; Gene Wu, State Representative; Armando Walle, State Representative; Christina Morales, State Representative
Sources
1 Holly For Houston
2 Ballotpedia
3 Off the Kuff
4 LinkedIn
Key Facts
Party
N/A; nonpartisan election
Background
No information could be found for this candidate.
Key Issues
Endorsements
N/A
Sources
N/A