Thomas Ratliff

 

Thomas Ratliff, Republican candidate for the Texas State Board of Education, today announced several key endorsements in Collin County. State Representative Brian McCall, Cara Mendelsohn, Cindy Rose, Kelly Waterman, Danny Kin, Dinah Miller, Libby Goldman, Dr. Lara Ashmore, Ph.D., Carol Cooper Korenman, Angela Miner, Michele Carey-Dave', Susie Learmont, KT Handley, Jamie Hanna, Erica Johnson, and Dr. Jenny Preston, former superintendent of Allen Independent School District.

Mr. Ratliff said of the endorsements, "When I announced my candidacy I stressed the importance of the State Board of Education working more closely with parents, educators and the Texas Legislature. Today's announcement shows my commitment to do just that. I am honored to have the support of these folks who share my concern for our school kids."

Representative McCall added, "In the years I have known Thomas, he has always been an honest, ethical and respected professional that understands the legislative process. I have no doubt that he will help restore the relationship between the Texas Legislature and the State Board of Education for the benefit of our public school children."

Cara Mendelsohn, Cindy Rose, Danny Kin, Dinah Miller, Libby Goldman, Dr. Lara Ashmore, Ph.D., Carol Cooper Korenman, Angela Miner, Michele Carey-Dave', Susie Learmont, Kelly Waterman, KT Handley, Jamie Hanna, and Erica Johnson are all current or former leaders of their local PTAs and are active in their local schools all shared the same thoughts about Mr. Ratliff. "How refreshing to have a State Board of Education candidate actually reach out to parents and community leaders and have a focus on student success.  Thomas Ratliff gets it!  Parents are tired of seeing the State Board of Education locked in political and ideological battles when there are significant academic challenges being ignored."

Dr. Jenny Preston, who is also serving as the treasurer for Mr. Ratliff's campaign, said, "As a former superintendent, I understand the need for local educators to have a healthy relationship with the State Board of Education. We have to work together to meet the changing needs of our students. When the SBOE ignores local educators, it only hurts our schools and students. Thomas looks to repair the broken relationship between the SBOE and our local educators. I'm behind him all the way."

Mr. Ratliff wants to make it clear that the PTA does not endorse candidates, however, the PTA parents listed in this announcement are endorsing him as concerned and involved parents who also serve their schools by working through the PTA and other school-related organizations.