Stevens, age 43, has been a high school teacher for more than a decade and is also a licensed minister. The Helotes resident has a doctorate in education and curriculum from Northcentral University. This is his second bid for a seat on the SBOE, after running unsuccessfully in District 1 in 2022.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
My name is Michael Stevens, though my family and friends call me Travis. I grew up in a military family and fell in love with San Antonio when my parents were stationed at Fort Sam Houston. After graduating from high school, I returned to San Antonio to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio. During my college years, I met and married my wife of 20 years, and together, we are raising three amazing boys in the beautiful city of Helotes.
In addition to being a public school educator, I am the President of the Board for the One in Five Foundation for Kids, a national nonprofit dedicated to ending violence in schools. As board president, I work closely with other board members, foundation program directors, and community members to implement and operate anti-bullying and nonviolence initiatives in schools across the nation. Through my efforts, I strive to create safer and more supportive learning environments for all children.
Describe your educational background and professional experience.
For the past 14 years, I have worked in the Texas education system as a teacher, instructional coach, and campus administrator at both secondary and adult education levels. My experience spans public, charter, and private schools, including three years teaching at a charter school and one year as an administrator at a private institution. Currently, I serve as an Academic Dean with San Antonio ISD.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English, a Master’s degree in Education and Teacher Leadership, and a Doctorate in Education/Curriculum and Instruction. Additionally, I am a certified Texas teacher.
The State Board of Education has the power to approve or veto charter applications. Do you think Texas should expand, limit or maintain the current number of charter schools?
The question of whether Texas should expand, limit, or maintain the current number of charter schools is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves considering various perspectives, including educational quality, access, equity, and resource allocation.
I believe Texas should expand the current number of charters, with the condition that charter schools are held to the same high TEA standards as their public school counterparts. All Texas students deserve a quality education, so it is vital for the SBOE to ensure that all students have access to high-quality education, regardless of the type of school they attend.
My opinion to expand the number of Texas charter schools is based on the fact that charters provide valuable alternatives to traditional public schools, especially in underperforming districts. Charter schools can offer innovative teaching methods, specialized curricula, and a more personalized learning environment. By expanding the number of charter schools, Texas could potentially increase educational opportunities for students who may not thrive in a conventional classroom setting. Additionally, competition from charter schools can sometimes drive improvements in public schools as they strive to retain students.
Expanding charters, while maintaining rigorous standards, could encourage educational innovation and provide diverse learning environments, ultimately benefiting all students.
The SBOE has taken differing approaches to the concept of school vouchers over the years, including taking the action to drop its opposition to vouchers last year. What is your position on the use of public dollars for private or home school education?
My position on the use of public dollars for private or home school education is nuanced. I believe that every child deserves access to a high-quality education that meets their individual learning needs. Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) could be a valuable tool in achieving this goal, particularly for families in underperforming school districts or those with unique educational requirements. However, it is crucial for lawmakers to implement ESAs in a way that does not undermine public school funding. This can be achieved by including rigorous accountability measures for participating private and home schools and ensuring that public schools are adequately funded and supported. While school vouchers can offer beneficial educational choices, their implementation must be carefully managed to maintain a robust and equitable public education system.
Why are you seeking this office and why did you decide to be a candidate in the political party you chose?
I am seeking the office of the SBOE for several compelling reasons. First, I aim to advocate for teachers and students. As a current public school educator, I have firsthand experience with the challenges and needs within Texas education. Serving on the SBOE would allow me to advocate for policies that directly benefit teachers and students, ensuring that state-level decisions are informed by someone who works in the classroom every day.
Secondly, I am committed to improving educational standards. With my education and experience, I possess a unique perspective on what works and what does not work in the classroom. I am equipped with relevant insights on how to develop and implement educational standards that are engaging, inclusive, and effective, better preparing students for future success.
Lastly, I want to serve as a voice for educators. Teachers are often underrepresented in education policymaking bodies. As a member of the SBOE, I could provide a much-needed voice for educators, ensuring that their insights and concerns are heard and addressed in the decision-making process.
Regarding my choice of political party, I chose to run as a Republican because that party aligns closely with my personal values as a conservative.
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