Bonham -- In an effort to give voters in Bonham ISD an opportunity to learn more about the candidates in the upcoming school board election, North Texas e-News will publish statements from all school board candidates who wish to do so.
Three candidates -- Jason Walker, Jason Fox and Jeremy Lucas -- are vying for Place 4. In this article, candidates will be listed in the same order in which their names will appear on the ballot.
Jason Walker for Bonham ISD School Board Place 4
I am running for Bonham’s School Board because I believe that public education is closely tied to the vitality of our community. Investing in our children now, means a vibrant future for Bonham and the surrounding communities. In order to provide every child with the education they deserve, the Bonham School Board must have a clear vision, create opportunities to support that vision, and be accountable to the public. We must also advocate for our students at every opportunity and be active participants so that we can make the right decision when called upon.
I have been a resident of the Ravenna community most of my life. My wife, Ashley and I have one child, Colton, who attends Finely-Oates Elementary. After my wife graduated from Texas State University, we decided to move back to Bonham where Colton will become a 4th generation BISD graduate. Having attended Bonham ISD, I fully understand and appreciate the strengths, opportunities, and possibilities of Bonham ISD along with the challenges we face.
My education from Bonham ISD afforded me the opportunity to attend Southeastern Oklahoma State University where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Since graduating I have worked in the Risk Management Field for several industry leading companies across the United States. I currently represent Amerisure Insurance Companies as a Risk Management Consultant. The position allows me to work with corporate and small town companies throughout the country. The job requires me to analyze data, review customer operations and management controls, then collaborate with them to develop a cost effective solution within their company’s budget. I continue to further my education through continuing education programs and professional seminars, including speaking and training engagements with customers throughout the southwest with an emphasis on “best” Risk Management practices.
I look forward to having conversations with you about your priorities, desires, wishes, and challenges we face at Bonham ISD. I’ll remain open to discussing your concerns and thoughts if elected. I have attended the majority of the board meetings for the last several years to further my understanding of the operations, budgets constraints, and educational platforms of the school district. This includes advocating for programs that have been overlooked and not afforded the opportunity to succeed. I will continue to research the issues effecting the students of Bonham ISD locally and state wide in the educational system as I make informed decisions that effect out students. I would appreciate the opportunity to serve as a Bonham ISD board member and appreciate your vote and support. Feel free to call me at 903-449-6968 with any concerns or question you may have.
Jason Fox for BISD School Board Place 4
Who is Jason Fox?
My name is Jason Fox and I am seeking the position of Bonham ISD Board of Trustee Place 4 on the May 7, 2016 ballot. I am a lifelong resident of Fannin County and have lived in Bonham the majority of that time. The youngest of two children, I am the son of Jimmy and Robbie Fox, of Bonham. I graduated from Bonham High School in 1993 and from Texas A&M University-Commerce in 1998 with a Bachelor's Degree in History and English. For eight years, I taught English at Bonham High School. My career has taken me to Bells High School where I currently teach freshman English. Many people around Bonham know me from the years I spent working for Hickory Barbecue in downtown Bonham. I began working for the Blevins family when I was a freshman at BHS, and I currently work part-time there on the weekends. In addition, I serve on the City of Bonham Planning and Zoning Commission, to which I was appointed in 2014. My wife of 16 years, Alisha Andrew Fox, is a kindergarten teacher at Finley-Oates Elementary in Bonham. I have two children: Chandler is 13 and an 8th grader at L.H. Rather Junior High, and Ashlyn is 11 and a 5th grader at Bells Elementary.
Students Come First
When people ask me why I am running for school board, my answer is simple: I want to do what is best for the students of Bonham ISD. I have no hidden agendas or vendettas and believe that honesty and transparency are the best strategies for conducting myself as a board member. Much like teachers exist for presenting engaging lessons to our students, the board exists to oversee the interests of students first; then teachers, administration, and taxpayers. The board must put the well-being and education of our children first and foremost! The board cannot allow individual personalities and agendas to dictate their actions.
If elected, I want to see pride return to our schools. How do we regain that pride? We regain it by refocusing our priorities on creating the best conditions possible for the education of our children. Along with parenting, school experiences, both educational and social, are the most important parts of building character and creating solid, successful citizens.
Faculty and Staff
Our district must maintain a well-educated and competent administration and faculty. We must also offer the best possible atmosphere and support for the lifeblood of education: the teachers. Without a solid, positive atmosphere, we will continue to see a large turnover of teachers each year. Working as a team, we can overcome our obstacles and retain our great teachers for the long term. Retention is a major factor for creating a successful educational experience.
Facilities, Security, and Safety
In addition to a quality education, we must offer our students the safest and best maintained facilities possible. Our children must feel and be safe at all times. Safety does not come from well-constructed buildings alone; it also comes from strict guidelines for security and staff preparedness. In this day, nothing can be taken for granted when it comes to the safety of our children. We must be proactive in this endeavor!
Vote!
I am asking each of you to do what you feel is right for the district. Regardless of what you vote, please exercise your right as a citizen of this great country and get out and vote! I appreciate your consideration and look forward to the opportunity of serving this great community and school district. Vote Jason Fox, Place 4 Bonham ISD Board of Trustees May 7 (early voting begins April 25-May 3).
(903)227-4807
Jeremy Lucas for Bonham ISD School Board Place 4
My name is Jeremy Lucas I am running for BISD school board place 4. I believe our school system is one of the greatest assets in our community.
The best learning environment for students, best working environment for faculty, and the most enjoyable experience for everyone involved with the utmost consideration to and for the community are my reasons for running for this position.
I will represent the community to the best of my ability to ensure the school system as a whole continues to move forward in a positive way.
Jeremy Lucas
903-227-8859