Amanda Clair files to run for RISD school board
The race for Richardson ISD’s at large seat on the school board is heating up, with Amanda Clair filing to run in District 7. Clair, the mother of 3, is an active volunteer at Spring Creek Elementary, where her children attend. She’s an educational consultant and former teacher in Dallas ISD.
“I have decided to run for the school board because I adore the Richardson community and school district,” Clair shared on social media. “I am encouraged by RISD’s deep commitment to meet the needs of all students and families and I hope to build on that commitment. I believe that my experience in education and background in leadership will allow me to partner with current trustees and RISD leadership to continue the momentum started by those before me.”
Clair began her career in education at Pinkston High School, teaching English as a Second Language and coaching the school softball team. She wrote district curriculum to support implementation of new textbook adoptions before becoming a district administrator. She now consults for TNTP, formerly The New Teacher Project, coaching district and school leaders to eliminate academic inequalities.
“My background as a district level administrator required me to advocate at both the individual (school) and district level,” says Clair. “I will utilize this skill to listen to the needs of the many communities my position would support while also working with board members to find a consensus for the district. I will work intentionally with leaders and families within the LH community to ensure their voices are heard and represented in my service to the district.”
Clair served on RISD’s racial equity committee and co-chaired the sub-committee for language inequity and family engagement. She believes her experiences as parent, volunteer, educator and administrator have prepared her for the task.
“I learned the demands our teachers face within the classroom and understand how decisions from central office can influence their instruction. As a district administrator, I learned the multiple factors that are required in determining initiatives and priorities for the entire district. As a parent, I, like all of our families, understand how the decisions made by the district impact us.”
Also running in District 7 are Chris Poteet, a resident of Lake Highlands, and Steve Mitchell, a current member of the Richardson City Council. Jean Bono and Kim Caston announced they will retire from the board in 2021.
The deadline for filing as a candidate is Feb. 12. Election Day is May 1.
