Austin Independent School District voters in District 6 will elect a new Board of Trustees representative, as incumbent Andrew Gonzales is not seeking reelection. Three candidates—Sarah Dille, Alex San Martin, and Marie Lebron—are vying for the seat, which covers a diverse geographic area including campuses like Akins and Crockett high schools and the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders.
Three Candidates Competing for the District 6 Seat
The race features candidates with distinct backgrounds in education, policy, and advocacy as they prepare for a term defined by potential state intervention and district-wide challenges.
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Sarah Dille, 48, brings over 25 years of experience in education to the race. A former teacher at Crockett High School and current clinical assistant professor for the UTeach-Liberal Arts Program at the University of Texas at Austin, Dille emphasizes her perspective as both an educator and an AISD parent. She entered the race specifically due to the “looming possibility” of a Texas Education Agency takeover, which she argues is creating significant stress across the district.
Alex San Martin, 50, has a professional background in both classroom settings and public policy. Having worked as a substitute teacher and teacher’s assistant in Houston ISD during its state takeover, San Martin says he experienced firsthand the disruption such transitions cause for students. His resume includes time spent working in the Texas House and Senate, as well as service on the Houston Independent Police Oversight Board. He states his priorities include improving student outcomes, retaining teachers, and strengthening financial oversight.
Marie Lebron, 40, is a longtime parent and special education advocate. She decided to run after noticing the district’s communication gaps, specifically citing the closure of Paredes Middle School earlier this year. Lebron argues that the district needs stronger accountability regarding student achievement, literacy, and the allocation of resources between central administration and local campuses.
District 6 Boundaries and Voter Impact
District 6 represents a portion of South Austin, encompassing several school communities. The seat covers:
- High Schools: Akins and Crockett
- Elementary Schools: Cunningham and Joslin
The incoming trustee will be tasked with representing these families during a period of declining enrollment and ongoing friction with state-level policies regarding school funding and private education vouchers.
Questions Regarding the Future of Austin ISD
How will the candidates approach a potential Texas Education Agency takeover?
All three candidates have identified the possibility of state intervention as a major concern. Dille plans to act as a bridge for community concerns if a board of managers is appointed, while San Martin says he would use “every lawful avenue” to advocate for the community while working with state appointees. Lebron intends to prioritize demonstrating school progress to avoid intervention, though she would negotiate on district values like library access if a board of managers were installed.
What are the primary challenges facing the next trustee?
Beyond the threat of state intervention, the candidates point to a need for rebuilding public trust, addressing enrollment declines, and improving literacy outcomes. Each candidate has emphasized the need for transparency in how district leaders communicate with parents and staff, particularly regarding school closures and resource distribution.
When is the election for the Board of Trustees?
Voters in the district will see the candidates listed in the following ballot order: Sarah Dille, Alex San Martin, and Marie Lebron.
Worth a look