Q & A with DSISD Board Candidate Thaddeus Thortenberry

Why did you decide to run for school board?

I’ve been active in a variety of programs promoting learning for years.  I’m particularly interested in programs for girls in Engineering. My hope is to leverage some of the momentum of science in the Austin Area and create appealing programs. I think I'll be helpful in building a successful District that creates a strong academic start for our children.

What qualifiers in your background do you believe make you the best candidate?

I'm certain that I'm not the typical candidate for the School Board. I've had a lot of professional technology experience which I hope to leverage in this position. In these days of distance and online learning, I hope to have the opportunity to offer innovative ideas to give our school system first-rate capabilities. Additionally, I hope to provide value with an outsider's viewpoint.

What are your priorities beginning in May if elected?

Gather information from teachers, parents, and staff; create a long-term strategy, and ensure all resource requirements are met. I think all school systems have a lot of work to transition to a post-COVID system. While long-term programs are important, it is critical to get our students back to a balanced system of learning.

Do you have any students in the district? Please also tell me about your family.

My wife and I have a daughter now turning 5 and looking to start school next year.

How long have you lived in or been a part of the Dripping Springs community?

We moved to Dripping Springs nearly 9 years ago. I grew up in Oak Ridge, TN and have lived in several places including Munich and Seattle.

What other local organizations are you involved in or volunteer at?

I continue to be involved in several organizations in Oak Ridge and Seattle, but this is the first local organization I’ve reached out for – and it’s overdue!

How do you feel about the way DSISD has handled the pandemic, i.e. protocols, restrictions, closed campuses, virtual meetings?

The pandemic has been exceedingly difficult on all school systems. Dripping Springs has maintained comparatively low numbers and seem successful with complex contact tracing. It is imperative to not reduce our diligence in the next months.

What are your thoughts on transparency within school boards and decision-making, and do you believe DSISD has been transparent enough? Why or why not?

The Dripping Springs ISD reporting of financials, budgets, and minutes seems proper and effective. While appropriate confidentiality is an obvious requirement, the Board of Trustees’ transparency is fundamental for success.

Is there anything else you'd like to include that you were not asked?

I think I'll be helpful in building a successful District that creates a strong academic start for our children. There will obviously be many areas I'll need to learn, and I am committed to this process. The prospect of what we can accomplish together is exciting and I'm very much looking forward to all the possibilities.