Johnathon Cruz the principal at McNair Middle School. He previously served as an assistant principal at Southwest Legacy High School and taught social studies.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
I was born and raised in District 4 and I’m a proud product of the community I call home. I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from UTSA. With over a decade of experience as a public school educator, including the past four years as a dedicated middle school principal, I have been a passionate advocate for education and investing in our youth. As a committed community volunteer and fierce supporter of public schools, I have dedicated myself to building a stronger future for District 4 and its residents.
List any previous experience in government or participation on local boards, commissions, or neighborhood associations.
I previously served on the Southwest Community Association and also ran for the Southwest ISD School Board in 2014, losing a close race by 41 votes. Losing a close race when you know you were in it for the right reasons reaffirms my commitment to service, strengthens my connection to the community, and ensures I continue making a meaningful impact.
In the city’s 2024-2025 budget survey, residents ranked homelessness, streets, housing and animal care services among their top concerns for the city to address. Which issues do you consider a top concern for District 4 and how would you work to address them in your first 100 days?
District 4’s top concerns align with those of the city—homelessness, infrastructure, housing, and animal care services, in addition to public safety and economic development. In my first 100 days, I would prioritize:
Homelessness — Advocate for increased funding for supportive housing and expand partnerships with local nonprofits to provide mental health services and job training. I’d also push for more emergency shelter options.
Streets & Infrastructure — Launch a targeted road repair initiative, prioritizing potholes and damaged sidewalks. Work with city departments to expedite delayed street improvement projects.
Affordable Housing — Fast-track zoning reforms that encourage mixed-income developments and streamline the permitting process for affordable housing projects.
Animal Care Services — Increase funding for animal shelters, improve spay/neuter programs, and enhance community education on responsible pet ownership.
Public Safety — Strengthen community policing efforts, enhance neighborhood watch programs, and ensure that our emergency services are well-equipped to respond to incidents quickly
Economic Development — Promote local businesses, attract new industries, and support workforce development initiatives to create more job opportunities in District 4.
I’d hold town halls to ensure residents’ concerns are heard and acted upon swiftly. My goal is to create tangible progress in these key areas within the first 100 days.
In a crowded field of council candidates, what differentiates you from the others?
What sets me apart is that I am homegrown—born, raised, and deeply invested in District 4. I understand the unique challenges and strengths of our community because I’ve lived them firsthand.
Unlike other candidates, I bring a lifetime of local insight combined with real action. My experience as a public school principal has prepared me to navigate city government, invest in our youth and deliver real solutions. I don’t just talk about change—I’ve been actively working to improve our district long before running for office.
I will lead with accountability, accessibility, and action, ensuring residents’ voices are heard and their concerns addressed. My deep community ties, combined with my experience as a public servant, make me uniquely equipped to fight for District 4’s needs. This isn’t just where I live—it’s home, and I will work tirelessly to make it better for all.
If elected, how do you plan to solicit input and feedback from residents in your district?
If elected, I will ensure that resident voices drive decision-making by creating multiple accessible channels for input and feedback. I will host regular town halls, neighborhood meetings, and virtual forums to engage directly with the community.
I’ll also establish a District 4 Advisory Council and Youth Council (students from Dist.4 ISD’s) made up of diverse community members to provide ongoing input on key issues. Residents will have direct access to me through weekly office hours, surveys, and an open-door policy, ensuring concerns are heard and addressed in real time.
Additionally, I will leverage social media, email newsletters, and a dedicated district website to keep residents informed and gather feedback on upcoming policies.
Transparency and communication will be at the core of my leadership. I won’t just represent District 4—I will collaborate with its residents to create solutions that truly reflect our community’s needs.
Read more about Johnathon Cruz
District 4 race pits experienced staffer against those who say Southwest Side is being left behind
