Early voting begins in VISD runoff: Candidates answer questions
With no candidate having the majority of votes in the Nov. 5 election for the unexpired term for Place 3 on the Vernon ISD Board of Trustees, a runoff election between the two candidates, of the original five, receiving the most votes is being conducted. 
Early voting started Monday for the runoff election between Jarrod David and Kyle Echols. Early voting will be held this week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the Forum Room of the Wilbarger Auditorium, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., next Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 9 & 10. Election day for the runoff election is Saturday, Dec. 14.
BACKGROUND/REASONS FOR SEEKING ELECTION
- What motivates you to want to become a board member?
Kyle Echols: I believe we are all born to serve one another, and I have a strong desire to serve my community. With two future Vernon Lions who will be attending Vernon ISD in the coming years, I am eager to support not just them, but every student in our district. I feel called to foster the success of not only my two boys but of all students who walk the halls of VISD.
Jarrod David: To put it simply, I am motivated by my desire to serve. I would like to serve our students, educators, and administration by being a voice for the community. I want to ensure that I am doing all that I can to help pave a path for the future of Vernon ISD.
- How long have you lived in this school district?
Kyle Echols: I have lived in this district my entire life—33 years. I graduated from Vernon High School in 2009. Both of my parents worked for the VISD school district while I was growing up and have since retired. I have deep ties to the Vernon community and school district, which fuels my desire to serve in this position.
Jarrod David: I was raised in Vernon and have lived in the school district for 32 years. I briefly lived in Stephenville, TX, while I completed my Agriculture degree at Tarleton State University. I moved back to Vernon in 2014 and began my farming and ranching career.
EDUCATION ISSUES AND NEEDS
- What are the current challenges facing public education in our state?
Kyle Echols: As a state, we face many of the same challenges as others across the country. One pressing concern is the economic disadvantage affecting both students and teachers. With rising inflation, these struggles are exacerbated. State funding plays a crucial role in addressing many of the hardships our district faces. We have an amazing staff and a dedicated board that have worked hard to create opportunities for our students to help address these challenges. I intend to continue seeking out funding sources to combat this issue and support our community.
Jarrod David: There are various challenges that face public education in Texas, including school safety, teacher retention, and state funding. My hope is that these issues can be improved upon throughout the state, and we can continue to offer high quality education to our students.
- What are 2–3 strengths our district can be proud of?
Kyle Echols: Our district has countless strengths to be proud of, but the dedicated staff leading our students stands at the forefront. VISD staff members spend over seven hours a day with your children, and the administrative team has done an outstanding job selecting well-qualified individuals who will positively influence each student’s life. Another strength is the safety of our students and staff. After speaking with several parents of children currently in the district, I heard nothing but positive feedback about the safety protocols in place to protect our students. We can also take pride in the progress of each student, exemplified by the previous year’s 100% graduation rate. That is truly something to celebrate!
Jarrod David: Our district has a lot to be proud of, including our student engagement, community support, and the quality of education that we provide our students. As a father to two future Vernon Lions, I am excited that my daughters will have the opportunity to attend Vernon ISD and receive support from faculty and administration throughout their education.
- If elected, what would you hope would be key accomplishments of the board during your years of service?
Kyle Echols: “Progress” is the word that comes to mind when I set goals for key accomplishments during the next term—progress toward equipping students with the tools they need to move forward into their next adventures. Our community has assembled a fantastic group of board members currently guiding our district, and I hope to build on this foundation. With your vote, I plan to join this group in the next term to help us adapt and continue making progress together.
Jarrod David: If elected, I will work to assist Vernon ISD in maintaining safety for all students and staff. I would also work to ensure that each student who walks through the doors at VISD feels supported to achieve their goals.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD
- What are the most important characteristics of an effective school board?
Kyle Echols: An effective school board must be able to see the long-term goals. They should have a growth mindset to move forward and adapt as needed. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential for connecting with the community.
Jarrod David: An effective school board is one that works together to achieve a common goal. I also believe that an effective board serves all students and staff to ensure their success while maintaining transparency with the community.
- What are the most important characteristics of an effective school board member?
Kyle Echols: I believe it is important for board members to be honest, authentic, empathetic, and possess strong communication skills. They must demonstrate empathy to listen to and understand the challenges our community may be facing. Additionally, they should embrace inclusive thinking to foster diversity and help overcome obstacles with a forward-thinking approach.
Jarrod David: The most important characteristics of an effective school board member are transparency, leadership, and commitment to serve. It is crucial that board members are open and honest in order to enact effective change. School board members should be advocates for our students and help make decisions that will positively shape our children’s futures.
CURRENT STATE ISSUES
- What should our district be doing to address the challenges of declining/increasing enrollment?
Kyle Echols: The board has done a fantastic job on this subject! We have recently built new facilities, recruited talented teachers, and secured state funds to help move the school district forward. I believe these efforts play a significant role in increasing enrollment and maintaining a strong staff base.
Jarrod David: With the positive changes that VISD has made within the last few years, I believe that we will see increased enrollment and continue to provide high-quality education for all students.
- What do you see as the role of technology in education?
Kyle Echols: Technology is something I believe we need to incorporate more in the classroom. When used correctly, it enhances engagement, fosters collaboration, and creates inclusive learning environments. We must equip our students with the skills they need to succeed in today’s world.
Jarrod David: Technology will continue to play a part in the everyday lives of our students, including in the classroom. I believe technology can play a crucial role in helping our students prepare for their futures. However, I do think that technology should be utilized in a safe and responsible manner.
- What should our school district be doing to ensure the safety of students and staff?
Kyle Echols: In today’s world, this is a very important topic. The current Board and administrative staff have created an effective system that successfully maintains the safety of students and staff members. While speaking with parents of current VISD students, I received very positive feedback regarding our district’s security measures. The safety of students and staff is a high priority, and these policies will continue to be a focus.
Jarrod David: The safety of students, educators, and staff at Vernon ISD must be a top priority. We must continuously review our safety policies to ensure that we are doing everything possible to provide a safe environment for all. It is crucial that we are prepared to address any issues that may arise and keep a line of communication with local law enforcement.
Personal Comment
Kyle Echols: I am honored to be part of such a great group of candidates for this role as VISD School Board Member. As we move forward, I want to reiterate my commitment to our students, teachers, and community. Together, we can create an environment where every child can thrive and succeed. Lion Express, Nothing Less!
Jarrod David: As a proud husband and father with deep roots in our community, I am dedicated to the success of every student at Vernon ISD. I am ready to invest in our district and be a voice for all students, staff, and community members. If elected, I will work tirelessly to help VISD remain a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment where all students can thrive. Thank you for your support!
