Matt Parker
Incumbent Candidate for Canyon ISD Board of Trustees, Place 5
Parker/Photo by CISD
Question: What is your age?
Answer: 51
Q: What is your educational background?
A: Bachelor of Science in Education-Baylor University; Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy - Southwest Texas State University; Master of Business Administration - Amberton University
Q: What is your occupation?
A: Physical Therapist and Vice President
Q: If you are a business owner, please list the business or businesses that you own.
A: n/a
Q: Please list any civic boards or commissions (non-profit, government, union, political, etc.) on which you have served as a board member or equivalent.
A: Children's Miracle Network 2013-2016; Chair, Amarillo Heart Walk 2016,2018; Panhandle Workforce Development Board, 2019-present; Canyon ISD Trustee 2020-present.
Q: If your campaign has any online campaign resources where voters can learn more about you, such as social media accounts or a website, please list them below.
A: n/a
Q: Why did you decide to run for this office in 2021?
A: My desire to pursue a position on the CISD board is driven by my desire to support others in attaining a good foundation of education and lifelong learning. Many people helped and encouraged me in my educational pursuits and I want to use my experiences to give to others.
Q: If elected, what will be your top three priorities in office?
A: 1. Promote, support and enforce district accountability for student outcomes measures.
2. Encourage and support early reading skills development.
3. Advancement and development of programs that promote college, career and military readiness for students.
Q: In what cases would you support efforts to raise property taxes? Please explain.
A: Given the Canyon ISD's consistent demonstration of effective budget and tax rate management, the consistent growth in the district and the unemployment rate compared to the rest of the state it is difficult for me to envision a situation in which it would be necessary to raise property tax rates in the foreseeable future.
Q: What is an issue you believe has gone overlooked in your race and how will you address it if elected?
A: I will promote and support continued variety in the Canyon ISD's college, career and military readiness initiatives so our graduating students can be prepared to advance into their adult lives with foundational skills for lifelong success.
Q: Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
A: I believe my educational background, professional experience and community volunteerism have equipped me to be a strong candidate for the Canyon ISD board. With experience in budgeting, capital management, personnel development and stewarding non-profit finances I believe I can be of service to the District and the Canyon and Amarillo communities.