Meet the candidates
Lesley Guilmart, Radele Walker and Terrance Edmond are competing for the Position 5 seat, currently held by Natalie Blasingame. Rather than running as the Position 5 incumbent, Blasingame will seek election to a different position on the board. The elected Position 5 trustee will serve a four-year term.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Lesley Guilmart
Experience:
High school English teacher, instructional coach, school administrator, nonprofit leader, consultant, mom
Occupation:
Education consultant, Strategic Staffing
Candidate Website:
https://www.lesleyforcfisd.com
Contact Information:
lesley@lesleyforcfisd.com
Why are you running for the CFISD board of trustees, and what makes you the best candidate?
As a former CFISD educator, mom of two CFISD students and wife of a CFISD teacher, I am deeply committed to our schools. I have over 20 years of experience in public education. I know how to get results for students on a tight budget and a ticking clock.
Given mixed feelings about the TEA's rating system, how do you think district success should be measured? What makes a successful district?
A successful school district has a stellar graduation rate and an excellent record of preparing students for the post-secondary path that is right for them, be it workforce, military or college. There should also be accountability for student achievement, safety and staff satisfaction.
What are the biggest issues CFISD is facing, and how would you address them?
CFISD's budget deficit requires trustees to make careful, strategic funding decisions. It also requires energetic advocacy in Austin. Otherwise student safety and success are negatively impacted. Currently, the CFISD board majority is distracted by infighting and politicized agendas. As trustee, I will focus on what matters most.
How will you take community feedback into account when making decisions?
CFISD already has strong systems for gathering community input—surveys, committees, board meetings and more. I will pay close attention to the feedback that comes through these channels, and I will look for ways to make community engagement even more accessible. Furthermore, I will strive to provide transparency.
If you could change one district policy, what would it be and why?
Instead of changing one specific policy, I would like to see a more respectful approach to our smart, hardworking CFISD staff. Let's trust the highly trained professionals who educate our children. Let's get back to cultivating a joyful, welcoming culture of high expectations for staff and students.
Radele Walker
Experience:
Retired CFISD administrator, educator for 23 years, community business owner
Occupation:
Retired educator, co-owner of a Cypress business established in 1983
Candidate Website:
https://radeleforcfisd.com
Contact Information:
radele@radeleforcfisd.com
Why are you running for the CFISD board of trustees, and what makes you the best candidate?
I provide strong leadership with 23 years of experience in the district and as a business co-owner. My background, teamwork abilities and deep understanding of our operations allow me to support academic success, effective governance and thoughtful decision-making for a unified, high-performing school board.
Given mixed feelings about the TEA's rating system, how do you think district success should be measured? What makes a successful district?
Prioritize reading comprehension and build safe, disciplined classrooms where teachers, staff and students support effective learning. Develop systems to prepare every graduate for college, career-ready jobs through CTE, or military service, ensuring all graduates are ready for life’s next steps.
What are the biggest issues CFISD is facing, and how would you address them?
CFISD faces a significant budget deficit, teacher retention problems, and urgent safety and discipline needs. Fiscal responsibility is critical, and tax dollars must be monitored closely. Creating respectful environments and focusing on behavioral accountability are crucial for supporting staff, securing facilities and enhancing student outcomes.
How will you take community feedback into account when making decisions?
The board serves the community, not just the district. Community feedback is crucial in shaping schools and setting priorities, ensuring schools reflect community needs and values. The board's role is to represent and carry out the community’s vision for education, focusing on what benefits students and families most.
If you could change one district policy, what would it be and why?
CFISD needs stronger policies that reduce classroom distractions, address safety concerns and fully align with HB 6. This includes stricter enforcement of device bans, clear consequences for disruptive behavior, increased use of secure storage like locked phone pouches, and enhanced staff guidance to maintain a safe and focused learning environment.
Terrance Edmond
Experience:
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
Occupation:
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
Why are you running for the CFISD board of trustees, and what makes you the best candidate?
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
Given mixed feelings about the TEA's rating system, how do you think district success should be measured? What makes a successful district?
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
What are the biggest issues CFISD is facing, and how would you address them?
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
How will you take community feedback into account when making decisions?
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
If you could change one district policy, what would it be and why?
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.
