Armando Rodriguez (Canutillo Independent School District)
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Armando Rodriguez (also known as Mando) is an at-large member of the Canutillo Independent School District in Texas. He assumed office on November 17, 2020. His current term ends in 2028.
Rodriguez ran for re-election for an at-large seat of the Canutillo Independent School District in Texas. He won in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Rodriguez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Armando Rodriguez was born in El Paso, Texas. He earned a high school diploma from Canutillo High School and a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at El Paso in 2008. His career experience includes working in business development.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Canutillo Independent School District, Texas, elections (2024)
General election
General election for Canutillo Independent School District, At-large (4 seats)
The following candidates ran in the general election for Canutillo Independent School District, At-large on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Armando Rodriguez (Nonpartisan)  | 14.0 | 4,043 |
| ✔ | Lilia Maldonado (Nonpartisan) | 13.4 | 3,857 | |
| ✔ | Carolina Ortega (Nonpartisan) | 12.3 | 3,559 | |
| ✔ |  | Blanca Ortiz Trout (Nonpartisan) (Unofficially withdrew) | 9.9 | 2,859 |
| Sergio Martinez (Nonpartisan) | 9.9 | 2,843 | ||
| Laure Searls (Nonpartisan) | 9.6 | 2,771 | ||
 | Jimmy Loftis (Nonpartisan) | 8.6 | 2,465 | |
 | Jesus Salgado-Ramos (Nonpartisan) | 8.2 | 2,352 | |
 | David Fintell (Nonpartisan) | 7.9 | 2,285 | |
| Bobby Simental (Nonpartisan) | 6.2 | 1,792 | ||
| Total votes: 28,826 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Rodriguez in this election.
2020
See also: Canutillo Independent School District, Texas, elections (2020)
General election
General election for Canutillo Independent School District, At-large (4 seats)
The following candidates ran in the general election for Canutillo Independent School District, At-large on November 3, 2020.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Patricia Mendoza (Nonpartisan) | 17.8 | 5,195 | |
| ✔ | Sergio Coronado (Nonpartisan) | 15.7 | 4,598 | |
| ✔ | | Armando Rodriguez (Nonpartisan) | 14.5 | 4,247 |
| ✔ | | Blanca Ortiz Trout (Nonpartisan) | 12.9 | 3,766 |
| Annette Brigham (Nonpartisan) | 12.2 | 3,566 | ||
| Alfonso Flores Jr. (Nonpartisan) | 10.4 | 3,053 | ||
| Amber Whitley (Nonpartisan) | 9.5 | 2,768 | ||
| Raymond Medlock (Nonpartisan) | 6.9 | 2,027 | ||
| Total votes: 29,220 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Armando Rodriguez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Rodriguez's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I have deep experience in curriculum development, budgeting, and policy. As a Canutillo ISD Board Trustee, I helped the district earn an A rating and the title of Best Small School District in Texas.
I've also held national leadership roles, focusing on strategic planning and improving student outcomes.
- The district faces budget challenges without support from the Texas Legislature, despite a $33 billion surplus and calls to increase school funding. Rising costs from inflation, unfunded mandates, and the end of federal funds add pressure. Without action, staff cuts may be needed as 90% of the budget goes to salaries.
- To implement the $387 million bond successfully, the Board must allow staff and the bond manager to oversee the projects without micromanagement. The Canutillo Bond Advisory Committee (CBAC) will provide oversight and ensure transparency. Regular updates, public communication via the website, and community engagement through meetings will maintain transparency and ensure smooth execution, delivering the needed facilities for students and the community.
- The district’s top challenges are funding, marketing, and growth. To address funding, I’d work with local leaders to advocate for state funding and explore alternative revenue. For marketing, I’d support a campaign showcasing Canutillo ISD's achievements and engage families to boost enrollment. For growth, I’d ensure careful planning of new facilities, aligning with enrollment trends. Collaborating with all stakeholders is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring the district’s success.
I'm passionate about public education policy because I believe every student should have access to high-quality education that enables them to reach their fullest potential, regardless of their background. Ensuring equitable resources, support for teachers, and inclusive curricula are essential for fostering an environment where all students can succeed. I also care deeply about policies that address economic inequality and healthcare access, as these areas are closely connected to educational success and overall well-being.
I look up to my mom, who just passed last August. She still inspires me to this day. Her strength, resilience, and unconditional love have shaped who I am, and I strive to carry forward the lessons she taught me. Her example of hard work and selflessness is something I always try to follow, and I hope to honor her memory in everything I do.
I'd recommend the film 'Selma' because it powerfully portrays the fight for civil rights and social justice, which are core to my political philosophy. It highlights the importance of grassroots activism, leadership, and the ongoing struggle for equality—values I believe are central to building a fair and just society.
The most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, empathy, and commitment. Integrity ensures they act honestly and keep their promises to serve the public's best interests. Empathy allows them to truly understand the needs and concerns of their constituents, ensuring they make decisions with compassion and fairness. Most importantly, their commitment should be unwavering—dedicated to working tirelessly for the well-being of all, even when faced with challenges or unpopular decisions. An elected official with heart will put the community first, acting with a deep sense of responsibility and purpose.
I believe that compassion and love are the two qualities that would make me a successful officeholder. Compassion allows me to truly understand the needs and struggles of others, helping me make decisions that prioritize the well-being of my community. Love motivates me to serve selflessly, with a genuine desire to make a positive impact. These qualities drive my commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and building a better future for everyone.
The core responsibilities for someone elected to this office are to represent the needs and voices of the community, make informed and fair decisions that promote the well-being of all constituents, and ensure transparency and accountability in governance. They must prioritize creating and supporting policies that address key issues like education, healthcare, and economic opportunity, while also working collaboratively with others to find solutions. Additionally, it's crucial for them to remain accessible and responsive, building trust by consistently engaging with the people they serve.
I would like to leave a legacy of changing the trajectory of many students' lives by empowering them to build capacity for future generations. By creating opportunities, ensuring access to quality education, and fostering a love for learning, I hope to inspire students to reach their fullest potential. My goal is to impact not just individual students, but also to create a ripple effect that strengthens communities and paves the way for future generations to thrive and succeed.
The first historical event I remember is when my mom moved us to Puerto Rico when I was a kid. We ended up coming back because of a hurricane, which was the event that really stands out in my memory.
My first real job was at Taco Bell when I was in high school, and I worked there for about six months. It was a great first experience that taught me the value of hard work, time management, and working as part of a team.
My favorite book is The War Against All Puerto Ricans. It really grounded me and made me realize that the struggle for justice and equality is ongoing. The book’s powerful message reminds me that we can't stay silent in the face of oppression, and it motivates me to continue advocating for change.
If I could be any fictional character, I’d want to be Miguel from Coco. He’s passionate about music and family, and he embarks on an incredible journey to discover his heritage. Miguel's bravery and determination to follow his dreams while honoring his ancestors resonate with me deeply. Plus, the vibrant world of Coco beautifully showcases Hispanic culture, making it even more special!
Tití Me Preguntó" also brings back cultural memories for me, especially growing up with my titi. The song resonates not just because of its catchy beat, but because it reminds me of family, heritage, and the experiences that shaped my upbringing. It's a mix of nostalgia and pride for where I come from.
Something that has been a struggle in my life is dealing with bigots and right-wing nationalists who harbor malice and intolerance. It’s challenging to face individuals whose views are rooted in hatred and division, especially when those views undermine the dignity and rights of others. However, I strive to respond with resilience, empathy, and a commitment to equality and justice, believing that love and understanding can help break down these barriers. It's a constant battle, but one that strengthens my resolve to stand up for what’s right.
In my view, the primary job of a school board member is to advocate for the best interests of students by ensuring they have access to a high-quality education. This means setting policies that promote academic success, equity, and safety for all students. A school board member must also support teachers and staff, allocate resources effectively, and engage with the community to understand their needs and concerns. Ultimately, their role is to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
Canutillo ISD Voters.
I would support the diverse needs of my district by prioritizing equity and inclusion in all decision-making. For students, this means ensuring access to quality education, addressing learning gaps, and providing resources for those with special needs. For faculty and staff, I would advocate for competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment. I would also work to foster strong partnerships with the community, actively listening to their concerns and collaborating on solutions that meet the unique needs of all groups. My goal is to create an educational system where everyone feels valued and supported.
I will build relationships with the broader community by actively engaging with diverse groups and maintaining open lines of communication. This includes attending local events, hosting forums, and creating opportunities for direct feedback. I would specifically target parent-teacher associations, student organizations, local businesses, and civic groups to ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes. I’d also work closely with faith-based organizations, non-profits, and advocacy groups that serve underrepresented communities. By fostering these partnerships, I can ensure that the needs of all stakeholders are considered and that we are working together to strengthen our schools.
Good teaching is characterized by a deep understanding of the subject matter, effective communication skills, and the ability to engage and inspire students. It involves creating a positive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. I will measure effective teaching through a combination of student performance assessments, feedback from students and parents, and peer observations. To support advanced teaching approaches, I will advocate for ongoing professional development opportunities that expose teachers to innovative practices and research-based strategies. Additionally, I will promote collaboration among educators to share best practices and encourage experimentation in the classroom, ensuring that all teachers have the resources they need to succeed.
I would like to expand the curriculum in several key areas, including advanced technical training and apprenticeships, to better prepare students for the workforce. Offering hands-on learning opportunities in fields like coding, engineering, and healthcare can provide valuable skills and real-world experience. Additionally, I see a need for more emphasis on social-emotional learning, mental health awareness, and financial literacy to equip students with essential life skills. I would also advocate for innovative programming that includes project-based learning and partnerships with local businesses to create mentorship and internship opportunities. By diversifying our curriculum, we can ensure students are not only academically prepared but also ready to thrive in their future careers and lives.
To ensure schools are properly funded, I would advocate for a multi-faceted approach. First, I would work to strengthen relationships with local government officials to secure increased funding from state and federal sources. This includes actively seeking grants and partnerships with community organizations and businesses. Additionally, I would prioritize transparent budgeting processes that demonstrate the effective use of funds, building trust with stakeholders and the community. Engaging parents and community members in advocacy efforts can also amplify our voice when it comes to budget allocations. Finally, I would support initiatives that promote equitable funding across all schools to ensure every student has access to the resources they need for a quality education.
My policies for safety in schools are driven by principles of prevention, inclusivity, and community engagement. First, I believe in proactive measures, such as implementing comprehensive safety protocols, regular training for staff, and mental health support systems to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Inclusivity is crucial; I advocate for creating a positive school climate where all students feel respected and valued, reducing the likelihood of bullying and violence. Lastly, community engagement is essential; I would work closely with parents, local law enforcement, and mental health professionals to ensure that safety policies reflect the needs and concerns of the community. By prioritizing these principles, we can create a safe and supportive environment for all students.
I would support the mental health needs of students, faculty, and staff by prioritizing access to comprehensive mental health resources. This includes hiring more school counselors and mental health professionals to provide direct support and create a safe space for open conversations about mental health. I would advocate for implementing social-emotional learning programs in the curriculum to help students develop coping strategies and resilience. Additionally, I would promote training for faculty and staff to recognize signs of mental health issues and respond effectively. Creating an inclusive culture that encourages self-care, stress management workshops, and wellness programs would further ensure that everyone in the school community feels supported and valued.
One of my favorite jokes is about Pepito and the Catholic Church. It goes like this: Pepito was at a rosary, and during the prayer, a rat ran through the room and knocked over a candle, accidentally starting a fire. The whole church ended up in chaos, and when they asked what caused it, someone said, “It was the rat at the rosary!” It’s a funny play on words and always gets a laugh!
I would like to review and potentially change existing district policies related to equitable resource allocation to ensure that all schools have access to the necessary funding, materials, and support staff. Additionally, I would advocate for implementing policies that promote mental health awareness and resources, including increased access to counselors and mental health programs. I would also support the establishment of more flexible learning options, such as hybrid models, to accommodate diverse student needs. Lastly, I believe we should implement policies that enhance family engagement, ensuring parents and guardians are actively involved in their children’s education and decision-making processes.
My ideal learning environment for students is one that is inclusive, engaging, and supportive. It would feature flexible classroom spaces that promote collaboration and creativity, allowing students to work together and learn from one another. The curriculum would be diverse and culturally relevant, encouraging critical thinking and real-world application. Access to technology and resources would be readily available, fostering innovation and personalized learning. Additionally, a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning would ensure that students feel safe, respected, and empowered to express themselves. Overall, it would be a nurturing space where every student can thrive and reach their fullest potential.
I believe our school district faced significant challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, and while many efforts were made to adapt, there were areas for improvement. Overall, the transition to remote learning was swift, but I feel we could have done more to support students and families who lacked access to technology and reliable internet. In the future, I would prioritize establishing a robust plan for remote learning that includes better resources and training for both teachers and students. Additionally, I would advocate for more consistent communication with families regarding health guidelines, safety protocols, and available support services. Overall, fostering a collaborative approach that involves input from educators, parents, and students will be key to navigating any future challenges.
I will build a strong relationship with parents in the district by creating multiple channels for communication and engagement. This includes organizing regular town hall meetings, parent workshops, and informational sessions to discuss educational policies and initiatives. I would also establish a dedicated platform for parents to voice their concerns, ask questions, and provide feedback. Additionally, I plan to collaborate with parent-teacher associations to involve parents in decision-making processes. By being approachable and actively listening to their needs, I aim to create a partnership that empowers parents and strengthens our school community.
My preferred strategies for recruiting faculty, staff, and administration focus on inclusivity and community engagement. I would prioritize creating clear, appealing job descriptions that highlight our district's commitment to diversity and support. Partnering with local universities and colleges for job fairs and internships can help attract new talent. Additionally, I would leverage social media and community networks to reach potential candidates. Lastly, fostering a supportive workplace culture that emphasizes professional development and mentorship will not only attract but also retain high-quality educators and staff.
I believe financial transparency and government accountability are essential to maintaining public trust and a healthy democracy. Elected officials must be open about how public funds are used and ensure that decision-making processes are transparent. Additionally, we need comprehensive campaign finance reform to limit the influence of money in politics. This would help ensure that elected officials are truly serving the people, not special interests or wealthy donors, making the political process more fair and accessible for all.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
2020
Armando Rodriguez did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Canutillo Independent School District, At-large |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 9, 2024
