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Tracy Scott Miller
Tracy Scott Miller was a member of the Lewisville Independent School District in Texas, representing Place 7. Miller assumed office in 2014. Miller left office on May 15, 2023.
Miller won re-election to the Lewisville Independent School District to represent Place 7 in Texas outright after the general election on May 2, 2020, was canceled.
Miller participated in Ballotpedia's 2017 school board candidate survey. Click here to read his responses. He also participated in a candidate forum on March 21, 2017. Click here to view a video of the forum.
Biography
Miller's work experience includes serving as a client partner for a business transformation company. He earned a bachelor's degree in computer information science from Judson University, with studies at Dallas Theological Seminary and the Yale School of Management. He has been a member of the Highland Village Rotary Club, Marcus High School PTSA, Lewisville Area Republican Club, and the Flower Mound Area Republican Club.[1]
Elections
2020
See also: Lewisville Independent School District, Texas, elections (2020)
General election
The general election was canceled. Tracy Scott Miller (Nonpartisan) won without appearing on the ballot.
2017
Two of the seven seats on the Lewisville Independent School District board of trustees in Texas were up for general election on May 6, 2017. In her bid for re-election to Place 6, incumbent Kristi Hassett defeated challengers Jon Hanna, Eric Parker, and Peter Rabner. Place 7 incumbent Tracy Scott Miller defeated challengers Shari Chambers and Sandra Weinstein. A third challenger, Colleen Shaw, originally filed in the Place 7 race, but she formally withdrew her candidacy on April 19, 2017, citing personal reasons. While she no longer campaigned for the position, Shaw's name still appeared on the ballot.[2][3][4]
Results
| Lewisville Independent School District, Place 7 General Election, 3-year term, 2017 |
||
|---|---|---|
| Candidate | Vote % | Votes |
 Tracy Scott Miller Incumbent |
54.35% | 6,491 |
| Sandra Weinstein | 20.97% | 2,505 |
| Shari Chambers | 14.94% | 1,784 |
| Colleen Shaw | 9.74% | 1,163 |
| Total Votes | 11,943 | |
| Source: Denton County Elections, "Cumulative Report–Official: Denton County–2017 May General and Special Elections," accessed June 6, 2017 | ||
Funding
Miller reported $7,955.00 in contributions and $4,855.27 in expenditures to the Lewisville Independent School District, which left his campaign with $3,099.73 on hand as of April 28, 2017.[5]
Endorsements
Miller was endorsed by the Greater Lewisville Association of Realtors (GLAR).[6]
2014
Tracy Scott Miller ran against incumbent Carol Kyer on May 10, 2014, for the Place 7 seat.
Results
| Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nonpartisan | Tracy Scott Miller |
57.2% | 2,421 | |
| Nonpartisan | Carol Kyer Incumbent | 42.8% | 1,813 | |
| Total Votes | 4,234 | |||
| Source: Denton County Board of Elections, "Official Election Results," accessed May 12, 2014 | ||||
Funding
Miller did not file a campaign finance report with the Texas Ethics Commission.[7]
Endorsements
Miller did not receive an endorsement in this election.
Campaign themes
2020
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Tracy Scott Miller did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.
2017
Ballotpedia survey responses
Tracy Scott Miller participated in Ballotpedia's 2017 survey of school board candidates.[8] In response to the question "What do you hope to achieve if elected to the school board?" the candidate stated on April 14, 2017:
| “ | To continue partnering with parents, staff, community and state leaders to fulfill my role under the constitution. I will continue to be truthful, transparent, seek creative solutions and build relationships with the board and staff to solve complex problems while maintaining our award winning financial transparency and accountability. I have and always will share my due diligence, explain my votes and continue to be informed by my faith and adhere to fiscal and social conservative values.[9][10] | ” |
Ranking the issues
The candidate was asked to rank the following issues based on how they should be prioritized by the school board, with 1 being the most important and 7 being the least important. Each ranking could only be used once.
| Education policy |
|---|
 |
Click here to learn more about education policy in Texas. |
| Education on the ballot |
| Issue importance ranking | |
|---|---|
| Candidate's ranking | Issue |
| Expanding school choice options | |
| Improving relations with teachers | |
| Expanding arts education | |
| Balancing or maintaining the district's budget | |
| Improving post-secondary readiness | |
| Closing the achievement gap | |
| Improving education for special needs students | |
| “ | While the request is to rank these, it's essentially that they all get priority as they are all part of a complex, yet important fabric that is required to provide a Fair and Appropriate Public Education and prepare students for a strong future which includes flexibilty and choice in providing for themselves and their families as they grow beyond K-12.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (April 14, 2017) | ||
Positions on the issues
The candidate was asked to answer eight questions from Ballotpedia regarding significant issues in education and the school district. The questions are highlighted in blue and followed by the candidate's responses. Some questions provided multiple choices, which are noted after those questions. The candidate was also provided space to elaborate on their answers to the multiple choice questions.
| Should new charter schools be approved in your district? (Not all school boards are empowered to approve charter schools. In those cases, the candidate was directed to answer the question as if the school board were able to do so.) |
|---|
| No. While I don't object, district provides outstanding educational options for ALL types of learners so there is no material value. In fact, until Charters are required to take all students and education on a level playing field with public funds, I believe they have yet to the benefit of "choice." |
| Which statement best describes the ideal relationship between the state government and the school board? The state should always defer to school board decisions, defer to school board decisions in most cases, be involved in the district routinely or only intervene in severe cases of misconduct or mismanagement. |
| The state should only intervene in severe cases of misconduct or mismanagement. I'm support local control. In Texas there are some benefits provided by the legislature and agency but they need to be limited misconduct and allow us to do our job under Article 7, Section 3 of the constitution. |
| Are standardized tests an accurate metric of student achievement? |
| No. No explanation required. |
| How should the district handle underperforming teachers? Terminate their contract before any damage is done to students, offer additional training options, put them on a probationary period while they seek to improve or set up a mentorship program for the underperforming teacher with a more experienced teacher in the district? |
| Set up a mentorship program for the underperforming teacher with a more experienced teacher in the district. |
| Should teachers receive merit pay? |
| No. At this time, given the way the state evaluates schools and districts, using a flawed accountability system, we don't have a good way of measuring how we wouldn't ascribe "merit." |
| Should the state give money to private schools through a voucher system or scholarship program? |
| No. That is a violation of Article 7 of the costitution of the state of Texas and is a means to "defund" public education and under Section 1 of Article 7, that is the sole responsibility of the legislature in then"provision" and a "system of efficient free PUBLIC schools" as written in the first sentence. |
| How should expulsion be used in the district? |
| It's not an option for us unless a student is out in jail or until they return from rehab or jail. As such it doesn't apply. |
| What's the most important factor for success in the classroom: student-teacher ratio, the curriculum, teachers, parent involvement or school administration? |
| Teachers |
The Dallas Morning News survey
Miller participated in the following survey conducted by The Dallas Morning News. The questions provided by The Dallas Morning News appear bolded, and Miller's responses follow below.
Why are you running for this office, and why should voters choose you over your opponent(s)?
| “ | I've been a resident of Highland Village, Flower Mound and Double Oak for 23 years. This is where we’ve raised our family and have enjoyed living for over two decades. I’m invested in the community, and this is our home. I’m a known commodity to the community and to our district.
I have well-codified history of voting as a fiscal conservative. I believe my approach to communicating, advocacy and accessibility are unique. I believe in explaining to the public the process I go through to cast my vote. In addition, having raised my family here, I understand LISD and know what we need to protect. I’ve been here with you, working together to better our community and schools. I also have worked to improve relationships with local businesses and legislators. I believe that my global business experience benefits the board in making decisions and solving problems.[10] |
” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
If elected, what two issues would you give the most attention and resources?
| “ | I will continue my quest to close the achievement gap by continuing to expand programs that help the growing number of students in LISD with unique needs.
I will help to ensure that LISD is a district that attracts the best staff, which includes being financially responsible with our Maintenance and Operations monies and assuring reasonable spending in our future bond programs to provide flexible and safe learning environments for our students and educators.[10] |
” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
For incumbent trustees: What have you learned from your board service that you believe makes you more effective?
| “ | Being a trustee has reinforced my belief that serving the district is a noble cause. Educators do amazing things and I believe that my role of supporting them has made a difference for our students. It is essential that a trustee be able work with the entire board, staff, community leaders, and families. Public education and educators have significant external pressures coming from the legislature and elsewhere. We must all work together as a board, district and community to seek what is best for the students of LISD while remaining fiscally accountable to the taxpayers of LISD.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
As you look around the country, what innovative ideas would you recommend for improving classroom performance?
| “ | From what I have seen at national conferences, we are leading and not following in many areas. However, there are always tweaks that we can make. Our biggest issue is rolling out and evaluating initiatives fast enough. We have implemented some new programs, and we are on the right track to measure each student as on grade level, or to show six months of progress. I believe we have great buy-in by our educators and leaders for these initiatives. However, I will always review new programs around the country to make sure we are implementing best practices.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
Given the current funding structure, how does your district meet the academic needs of its low-income students? Are you willing to ask voters to approve a tax increase to create or expand these programs?
| “ | I believe we can continue to address the district's needs without asking voters for a tax increase for ongoing Maintenance & Operations. LISD is in a partnership with the community, parents/guardians and the district. We are doing well fiscally and I don’t believe we need to rethink our approach. The district must continue to be fiscally responsible.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
Many districts are exploring creative ways to save money or shift costs to parents and students. What creative measures would you favor or oppose and why?
| “ | I do not believe that cost-shifting to parents is necessary for LISD. We appreciate the support of our PTAs and Booster Clubs for our schools and activities. LISD has a strong fund balance and our financial integrity and transparency are excellent. The district does not charge participation fees to students; in LISD no student is precluded from participation because of money.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
The state has adopted an A through F accountability system for district and campuses. Do you favor or oppose this system and why?
| “ | I oppose the A-F system.
An accountability system should focus on measuring students' growth as they are progressing towards high school and graduation. The current A-F system does not focus enough on student growth or community-based accountability. A single standardized test is an inadequate way to measure student learning. When students demonstrate their learning through a variety of methods, it is not acceptable for an accountability system to focus on only one methodology to quantify student learning. Our school district and board continue to advocate against measures that do not adequately capture the learning that takes place in our classrooms every day, and that does not recognize our students' progress.[10] |
” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
How would you assess the district’s efforts to improve graduation rates and increase the number of students prepared for college? What further improvements would you advocate?
| “ | Our district recognizes that not all students will attend college and may choose other options. LISD has two career centers that allow students to explore specialized courses such as architecture, cosmetology and various medical options. We are expanding our AVID program to encourage students to prepare for and consider college who previously may not have. We are offering more blended classes, online classes and night classes to give students every opportunity to continue their education while working or meeting other responsibilities. We have a Night High School and Focus on the Future programs that support this, as well.
We also recognize that a student's home life impacts learning. As such, we are working with community organizations such as PediPlace to address specific needs. If a child is hungry, tired, scared, sick or just not at school, we are unable to help them on their path to graduation. As such, we are growing our community partnerships so that we can more effectively help our students.[10] |
” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
What schools in your district have been particularly effective in getting every child up to grade level in reading and math?
| “ | The increase in district graduation rates would not be possible without all of our schools working to ensure students are on track for reading and math success. High school graduation requires significant numbers of reading and math credits. Our overall average ACT and SAT scores, as well as those for English Language Arts and Math, are above the average scores for Texas and our region. Also, more students are earning certifications in our CTE courses, which depend on reading and math skills. Over the last three years, we have intensified our focus on reading at the primary grade levels; we know that a foundation for reading success must be established in the early grades. All of our elementary schools are doing a great job of monitoring student progress.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
How would you assess your district’s current school choice efforts, and what changes are needed?
| “ | We lead in this area. We have an open transfer policy for students and parents if a campus has open capacity and the student meets certain criteria. At McAuliffe Elementary, for example, currently about 30% of the students are transfers. LISD has two career centers that accept students from all across the district, and a new career center is included in the proposed bond package. As we continue to offer specialized programs such as dual language or The Colony's Collegiate Academy, there will be more opportunities for students to transfer to programs tailored to their needs and abilities.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
How would you assess your superintendent’s performance?
| “ | Outstanding. Dr. Rogers is a great leader, loves people and kids, manages from the heart, and ensures that we make prudent decisions for all concerned. He is very engaged with campuses, as well as the business and faith-based communities; he works to build consensus to do what is right for our students, families, educators, and taxpayers.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
Where do you stand on the importance of early-childhood education? Would you support increasing class-size ratios at other grade levels in order to introduce or expand pre-K?
| “ | Early-childhood education has a demonstrated track record, especially with disadvantaged students and English language learners. I don't believe we must increase class-size ratios at other grade levels in order to expand pre-K. We currently offer pre-K programs at Lilly Jackson (all pre-K) as well as at least 15 elementary campuses. This is a program that LISD has expanded significantly over the past few years.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
What resources are lacking in schools in your district? How could the district deliver services in the most cost-effective manner?
| “ | When the district becomes aware of specific needs at campuses, we strive to address them. Some can be met easily; others such as major capital improvements require bond funds. The district is always looking for ways to increase efficiency of its operations. In the last year, as a Board of Trustees we have refinanced bonds to save over $58 million. A refinancing discussed at last month's board meeting could save around $10 million in interest costs, for example.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
In what ways can your district’s communications with parents be improved? Likewise, how can parental involvement in your district improve?
| “ | We fundamentally believe that education is a partnership between the ISD and community. Streamlining the sources that parents must go to for communication about their child’s progress and classroom resources is an ongoing focus for improvement. Providing more resources for parents to help their children with their learning is also a continued area for improvement and growth. We are improving LISD's website to make it easier to navigate and have added a Community Dashboard. Also, providing more opportunities for community members of all ages to mentor and support students in our schools is vital for our district.[10] | ” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2017)[11] | ||
2014
Miller answered the following about his campaign in a Q&A with The Cross Timbers Gazette:
| “ |
Why should you be elected? |
” |
| —Tracy Scott Miller (2014)[1] | ||
See also
2020 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 The Cross Timbers Gazette, "Meet The Candidates: Lewisville ISD," accessed April 29, 2014
- ↑ Lewisville Independent School District, "School Board Election - May 6, 2017," accessed February 20, 2017
- ↑ The Lewisville Texan Journal, "Shaw unofficially withdraws from race for school board," April 20, 2017
- ↑ Denton County Elections, "2017 May General and Special Elections: Unofficial Results," accessed May 6, 2017
- ↑ Lewisville Independent School District, "Election Information - May 6, 2017," accessed May 3, 2017
- ↑ The Cross Timbers Gazette, "Realtor group endorses local candidates," March 24, 2017
- ↑ Texas Ethics Commission, "Campaign Finance Reports," accessed April 29, 2014
- ↑ Note: The candidate's answers have been reproduced here verbatim without edits or corrections by Ballotpedia.
- ↑ Ballotpedia School Board Candidate Survey, 2017, "Tracy Scott Miller's responses," April 14, 2017
- ↑ 10.00 10.01 10.02 10.03 10.04 10.05 10.06 10.07 10.08 10.09 10.10 10.11 10.12 10.13 10.14 10.15 10.16 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
- ↑ 11.00 11.01 11.02 11.03 11.04 11.05 11.06 11.07 11.08 11.09 11.10 11.11 11.12 11.13 The Dallas Morning News, "Voter Guide: Lewisville ISD, Place 7," accessed May 3, 2017
