Public education in Mansfield has long been a cornerstone of our community. It is not only a source of pride, but a driver of local prosperity—contributing to strong property values, supporting small businesses, and fostering the kind of educated workforce that will sustain us into the future. As we select who should help lead our schools forward, we must consider not only what candidates say, but what they actually do.
Incumbent school board trustee Keziah Farrar recently endorsed State Representative David Cook. She stated:
"David Cook has fought for the funding and resources our public schools need and I trust him to continue to be a champion for our kids, teachers, parents, and retirees. If you support public schools, vote David Cook.”
"If you support public schools, vote David Cook."
This endorsement stands in direct contradiction to Representative Cook’s legislative record. Most notably, he co-authored and voted for SB2—legislation that shifts $1 billion of taxpayer funding away from public schools and into private school vouchers. The bill passed, with Rep. Cook playing an instrumental role in its success.
Despite holding a leadership position within Mansfield ISD and having a clear view of the threat this policy posed to public education, Farrar chose not to speak out. She offered no public resistance. Instead, she endorsed David Cook in her official capacity as the president of our school board—a politician who actively contributed to one of the most significant statewide efforts to redirect public funds away from our classrooms.
Words of support are easy, but it is action and inaction that ultimately define leadership. Endorsing a candidate behind the defunding of public schools is not consistent with a genuine commitment to the future of Mansfield ISD.
We deserve better. We must elect leaders who not only claim to support public education, but who demonstrate that support with courage and action.
Vote for those who stand up for Mansfield ISD when it matters. Vote Ana Horn for Place 4.
Early Voting: Tuesday, April 22 – Tuesday, April 29
Election Day: Saturday, May 3
Learn more about Ana’s priorities at Ana4MISD.com.