Benny Kinsey
From Ballotpedia
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Benny Kinsey ran for election to the Klein Independent School District to represent Position 4 in Texas. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Kinsey completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Benny Kinsey was born in Waco, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army from 1985 to 2010. Kinsey earned a high school diploma from University High School, an associate degree from Barton County Community College in 1999, a bachelor's degree from Park University in 2004, and a graduate degree from the University of Arkansas at Grantham in 2007. His career experience includes working in human resources as a training program manager. Kinsey previously worked for General Motors, Chrysler, IBM, and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.[1]
As of 2024, Kinsey was affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- Veteran of Foreign Wars Life Member
- American Legion Life Member
- Project Management Institute
- Society of Human Resource Management
- Houston Livestock and Rodeo Life Member
Elections
2024
See also: Klein Independent School District, Texas, elections (2024)
General election
General election for Klein Independent School District, Position 4
Denise Morrison defeated incumbent Dustin Creager and Benny Kinsey in the general election for Klein Independent School District, Position 4 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Denise Morrison (Nonpartisan)  | 44.2 | 33,484 |
| Dustin Creager (Nonpartisan) | 40.9 | 30,987 | ||
 | Benny Kinsey (Nonpartisan) | 14.8 | 11,230 | |
| Total votes: 75,701 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
To view Kinsey's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Kinsey in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Benny Kinsey completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Kinsey's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Hello, I’m Benny Kinsey, and I am running for Position #4 on the Klein ISD Board of Trustees. With a strong commitment to education, leadership, and community service, I am eager to help guide the future of our schools to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. My candidacy is based on core principles of student well-being, teacher support, and community involvement.
My Background I am the father of four adult children, stepfather to two, and godfather to three, all of whom have reinforced my belief in the importance of education. With 25 years of service in the U.S. Army, I retired as a Command Sergeant Major, having developed strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. These experiences have shaped me into a leader who knows how to manage large teams, make decisions under pressure, and prioritize the well-being of those I serve.
I am also pursuing my Executive MBA at Texas A&M University, focusing on leadership, management, and strategy. My education, combined with my professional experience, equips me with the tools necessary to lead Klein ISD with a balanced approach, keeping both fiscal responsibility and the well-being of students and staff at the forefront.
Additionally, I serve as the President of the HOA Board of Directors for Inway Oaks Estates, where I work diligently to maintain transparency, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility.- Transparency and Accountability: I believe that trust is built through transparency. I will work to foster open communication between the school board, parents, educators, and the community. We need to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and have a voice in the decisions that affect our schools. As a board member, I will prioritize making information accessible and involving the community in meaningful ways.
- Safety and Security: Ensuring that our schools are safe is my top priority. Every parent should have peace of mind when their child goes to school, knowing they are entering a secure environment. I will work to strengthen security protocols and expand mental health and wellness resources to ensure we are prepared to prevent and address any potential threats. We must protect both physical safety and the emotional well-being of our students.
- Supporting Teachers and Auxiliary Staff: Our teachers and staff are the backbone of Klein ISD. I will advocate for competitive pay and professional development opportunities that allow our educators to grow and succeed. Additionally, I will work to ensure that auxiliary staff—such as custodial, cafeteria, and transportation workers—are supported and recognized for their contributions to our schools.
Supporting At-Risk Students: Our most vulnerable students need the most support, and I am committed to creating programs that provide at-risk students with the guidance, resources, and mentorship they need to succeed. Whether through additional tutoring, counseling, or career planning services, I will work to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
I deeply admire Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez, a fellow Texan and Medal of Honor recipient. His bravery, resilience, and selflessness during the Vietnam War are qualities I strive to emulate in my own life. Despite being gravely injured, Benavidez saved the lives of at least eight soldiers during a six-hour battle, refusing to give up even when his body was failing him. His courage under fire and unwavering commitment to his comrades are examples of true leadership and sacrifice. I look up to him because he represents the best of what service and dedication mean, not just in the military, but in life. His story reminds me that when things get tough, the only way forward is to keep fighting for what’s right.
One recommendation would be "The Servant: A Simple Story About the True Essence of Leadership" by James C. Hunter. This book emphasizes servant leadership, which aligns with the principle that leaders should serve their constituents and work for the collective good.
Integrity and transparency are fundamental. An elected official should be honest, open, and operate with a sense of accountability to the people they serve. Empathy is also critical; understanding the diverse needs of the community and being able to relate to different perspectives is key to effective governance. Finally, dedication to service—the desire to improve the lives of constituents—is essential for any public servant.
I believe integrity, leadership, and empathy are three key qualities that I possess, and they would make me a successful officeholder. My time in the U.S. Army taught me to lead by example, stay true to my values, and always consider the needs of the people I serve. I also believe in listening, which is critical to understanding different perspectives and making informed decisions.
The core responsibilities of a school board member include ensuring fiscal responsibility for district budgets, supporting student achievement, and promoting teacher and staff well-being. Additionally, the board should help set clear policies that support the district's educational goals and engage with the community to foster collaboration.
I’d like to leave a legacy of service and positive impact. Whether it’s in my work supporting Veterans, my career in education, or my potential service on the Klein ISD Board, I hope to be remembered as someone who genuinely cared about people and made a meaningful difference in their lives. I want to be known as someone who worked hard to improve our community and gave others the tools they needed to succeed.
The first historical event that truly impacted me was the Challenger shuttle explosion in 1986. I was around 16 years old at the time, and I remember watching it live on TV. The tragedy shook the nation, especially because it involved the first civilian, a teacher, Christa McAuliffe, set to go into space. It was a stark reminder of both the risks of exploration and the resilience of the human spirit. That event underscored the importance of learning from failures and striving to improve, no matter the setbacks.
My first job was at a local country-style restaurant in Waco, Texas, when I was 15 years old. I worked as a busboy, cleaning tables, washing dishes, taking out the trash and stocking the freezer and storeroom. I had that job for about a year, and it taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, and connecting with the community.
One of my favorite book series is "The Wheel of Time" by Robert Jordan. It’s an epic tale that spans multiple books and covers themes like leadership, duty, and the battle between good and evil, which resonate deeply with me. The series explores the complexity of characters who must rise to challenges far beyond their expectations—much like real life. I appreciate how the story emphasizes the importance of teamwork, sacrifice, and how even the smallest actions can have a ripple effect. It’s a series that speaks to the importance of perseverance and doing what’s necessary, even when the path is uncertain or difficult—qualities I value and try to live by.
If I had to compare myself to a fictional character that might resonate with you, I'd say I’m a lot like Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. Like Atticus, I believe in integrity, fairness, and doing what’s right, especially when it comes to standing up for the well-being of children. He led with a calm, steady hand, and always put justice and equality at the forefront, even when the decisions were tough.
For me, this means making the right choices for the students, teachers, and families in Klein ISD, and being that voice of reason and empathy when it matters most. Just like Atticus did for his community, I’m here to lead with compassion and wisdom, making sure everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
For me, this means making the right choices for the students, teachers, and families in Klein ISD, and being that voice of reason and empathy when it matters most. Just like Atticus did for his community, I’m here to lead with compassion and wisdom, making sure everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
"Bennie and the Jets" by Elton John, of course! It’s a classic that never fails to get stuck in my head. Between the catchy piano riff and Elton John’s unmistakable voice, it’s hard not to hum along. Plus, having a name like Benny, it feels like it’s my unofficial theme song!
A personal struggle I’ve faced is adjusting to life after the military. After 25 years of service, transitioning into civilian life was a challenge, particularly when it came to finding a new purpose and path. But through this journey, I’ve found great fulfillment in helping others, especially Veterans, navigate their own transitions and succeed in their post-military careers.
The primary job is to support the success of students while ensuring that the district runs efficiently. This involves creating policies that foster student achievement, maintaining a safe and inclusive environment, and providing oversight for fiscal management. It’s also crucial to work collaboratively with educators, administrators, and the community.
My constituents are all residents of the Klein ISD, including parents, students, teachers, staff, and community members. I also represent local businesses and any group or individual invested in the success of our schools and students.
I would advocate for equitable access to resources for all students, recognizing that different students may need different levels of support. For faculty and staff, I’d focus on professional development, competitive salaries, and strong benefits, ensuring they feel valued and equipped to succeed. Cultural competency training and mental health services would also be priorities to support diversity.
I would actively engage with local businesses, civic organizations, faith-based groups, and parent-teacher associations to ensure open communication. Regular town halls, community forums, and social media engagement would help me stay connected with stakeholders. I’d focus on developing partnerships that can contribute to the schools, whether through mentorship programs or financial support.
Good teaching is student-centered, engaging, and adaptive to the diverse learning needs of students. It involves critical thinking, creativity, and active learning. To measure this, I’d look at a combination of student performance, teacher evaluations, and student feedback. Supporting advanced approaches means investing in professional development and resources that allow teachers to experiment with new methodologies, like project-based learning or technology integration.
I see a strong need for expanding technical training and apprenticeships. These programs can offer valuable career paths for students who may not pursue traditional college degrees. I would also advocate for expanding STEM programs, financial literacy courses, and civics education to ensure students are well-prepared for life after high school.
I would advocate for fair and sufficient state funding while ensuring that local tax dollars are used effectively. Grant programs and partnerships with local businesses can bring in additional funding, and we must also explore public-private partnerships to enhance the district’s resources. Fiscal transparency and making sure funds go directly to support students and teachers will be central to my strategy.
My safety policies are driven by the principles of proactivity, preparedness, and inclusivity. Schools must have comprehensive safety plans, adequate security measures, and well-trained staff. At the same time, it’s critical to foster a positive school culture where students feel included and supported, which can reduce instances of violence and bullying.
I would advocate for increased mental health resources at every school, including access to counselors, therapists, and wellness programs. Mental health training for staff and teachers is critical, and we need to ensure students and faculty have the space and support to address their mental health needs in a confidential and supportive way.
Running for a school board seat against two other candidates feels a lot like group work in school.
You end up doing all the hard work, and they still get a grade!
You end up doing all the hard work, and they still get a grade!
I’d like to review policies surrounding teacher pay, mental health services, and student discipline. Additionally, I’d focus on improving equity in resource distribution across schools and enhancing technical and vocational education options to prepare students for diverse career paths.
Sophia Cai and Priscilla Daly
My ideal learning environment is safe, inclusive, and engaging. It should support both academic excellence and emotional well-being. Classrooms should have low student-to-teacher ratios, modern technology, and support services like tutoring, counseling, and extracurricular opportunities. Students should feel empowered and supported to pursue both academic and personal growth.
While the district made commendable efforts to navigate the unprecedented situation, we should continue to learn from it. In the future, I would prioritize clear communication, flexible learning options, and a stronger focus on mental health support. Having contingency plans in place for future emergencies is crucial to minimizing disruption to students' education.
Regular town hall meetings, parent surveys, and an open-door policy are key strategies. I would also work with school leaders to ensure that parents feel welcome at school events, in decision-making processes, and that they are informed about key developments in the district.
I’d focus on making Klein ISD a destination district by offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a strong sense of community. I would promote our district at job fairs, through university partnerships, and by showcasing the district’s success stories. Streamlining the recruitment process and providing clear paths for advancement would also be essential.
Financial transparency is non-negotiable. It builds trust between the board and the community. Every dollar spent must be justified, and I believe in keeping the public fully informed about how funds are used. Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency; as a board member, I would ensure that district leadership is held responsible for results and actions, and that processes are clear and documented.
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.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Klein Independent School District, Position 4 |
Personal |
Footnotes
