Norma Cavazos is a legal assistant who was appointed to the Harlandale ISD Board of Trustees in 2019. She has served as board president and worked for the Bexar County Family Violence Prevention Program.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
I’m passionate about serving my community and have spent my professional career dedicated to the legal system, as a retired Bexar County Court Coordinator, and now as Legal Assistant in my post-retirement career. I have a deep connection to this district—not just as a resident, but as someone who truly believes in the power of education to transform lives. Both my 22 year-old son, and 20 year-old daughter are proud products of the Harlandale ISD Legacy. My son graduated from UTSA this past May, and opened up a coffee shop in the heart of Harlandale ISD this past September. My daughter is currently a junior at Texas State University, belongs to the university’s Bobcat Belles organization, serves as the organization’s Treasurer, and is pursuing a degree in sports management. From my children’s very first day of school, to them walking the stage at graduation, and now as I continue to stay involved in my community, listening to my friends and neighbors who’s children are students in the district, I have not been a stranger to the challenges and opportunities we face in our district. Three of my favorite quotes are:
- “I raise up my voice — not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard … we cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” ― Malala Yousafzai.
- “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” – Maya Angelou.
- “When you walk into a room let them know you have arrived. Be professional, be firm, be a lady, be kind, but never let them forget you mean business.” Humberto Perez (my dad).
List any previous experience in the community or in the education field, such as participation in parent teacher associations, local boards and commissions or neighborhood associations.
I am an active or past member and/or serve in the following committees/organizations:
- Pan American Women League of San Antonio – Active Member (current voting member)
- Women Unlimited International Active Member (current member);
- Bexar County – Precinct Chair of Precinct 1054 (elected position – currently serving on second term)
- Texas State University Student and Family Affairs – Council Board Member (appointed seat – currently serving)
- Member of Mission San Jose Neighborhood Committee (current member)
- Active Member of Bexar County Democrats (current member)
- Active Member of Texas State Notary Public Association (current member)
- Member of McCollum High School PTA (5 yrs – past member)
- Member of HISD Mariachi Parent Committee (4 yrs – past member)
- Active Member of Girls Scouts of America (9 yrs – past member)
- Active Member of Texas Association for Court Administrators (past member)
- CPERC Member at Rayburn ES, Kingsborough MS & McCollum HS (past member)
- PTA Member and PTA Secretary – Kingsborough Middle School (past member)
- PTA Member and PTA President – Rayburn Elementary (past member)
If elected, you’ll likely be facing a budget deficit and the possibility of funding hamstrung by the state. How would you approach these issues? Where should the district turn to save money if needed?
Addressing a budget deficit requires a balanced approach that prioritizes the needs of students and staff while ensuring fiscal responsibility. Collectively, with my fellow Board members and our Superintendent, I would begin by asking for a thorough audit to identify inefficiencies and areas where resources can be optimized. Collaboration with stakeholders—teachers, parents, and community members—would be key to finding innovative solutions. Rather than immediately resorting to drastic measures like closing campuses or reducing staff, I, with the collaboration of my fellow Board members and Superintendent, would explore alternative cost-saving strategies. For instance, implementing energy-efficient practices, renegotiating vendor contracts, and leveraging technology to streamline administrative processes could yield significant savings. Additionally, seeking grants and partnerships with local businesses might provide supplemental funding. Transparency and communication would guide every decision, ensuring the community understands the rationale behind any actions taken. Ultimately, the goal would be to preserve the quality of education while navigating financial challenges responsibly.
What do you think the district’s biggest challenges are in the coming years, and what should be the board’s top areas of focus?
The district’s biggest challenges will likely revolve around adapting to evolving educational needs while managing financial constraints. Rapid technological advancements and shifting workforce demands mean the Board must prioritize equipping students with skills for the future, such as critical thinking, digital literacy, and adaptability. Another pressing issue is ensuring equity in education. Addressing disparities in resources and opportunities across campuses should be a top focus, as every student deserves access to quality education regardless of their background. Additionally, the Board must tackle teacher retention and recruitment. Supporting educators through competitive salaries, professional development, and fostering a positive work environment is crucial for maintaining a high standard of education. Finally, community engagement should remain a priority. Building strong partnerships with parents, local businesses, and organizations can help the district navigate challenges collaboratively and effectively.
Please list any relevant endorsements in this race.
- Former Bexar County Democratic Chair Monica Ramirez Alcantara
- Sheriff Javier Salazar
- the local chapter of the Texas State Teachers Association
- former Candidate for Bexar County Commissioner for Precinct 1 Amanda Gonzalez
- Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai
Read more
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