On the other side is a missive I just received from Dallas Independent School District board member Edwin Flores, in which the longtime District 1 trustee announces that he will not seek another term. I asked Flores why not -- if, maybe, this had something to do with the furor over Joseph Drake's recent suspension. He said no, absolutely not.
"It was a hard decision," he said before taking a long pause. "I've never quit anything in my life." Another pause.
"But these seats aren't forever. I've served seven years, and I am proud of what
we've done. But everything has to come to an end." Flores, who recently received a $10,000 endorsement from the Dallas Regional Chamber's EducateDallas PAC, said he's been contemplating this for a while.
"My wife didn't want me to run to begin with three years ago," he says. "I just need ..." He pauses again. Clearly, the decision was not an easy one. "My kids are older, I need to spend more time with them. You know how many of their events I've been to this year? None."
Flores, of course, will complete his term. But he does not know if he'll endorse Mike Greenberg, the sole candidate so far for District 1, or someone else; the filing deadline, after all, is March 5.
"I am waiting for the field to be filled out, and I am sure as soon as people realize I'm not running..." Now, he laughs. "When the incumbent isn't running, it gets more attention. I am going to wait for the field to fill out. I heard someone else picked up a packet."
Below, his farewell.
It has been an honor to represent you and the citizens of District 1 as your Trustee on the Dallas School Board for almost seven years. We have made significant gains in student achievement and accomplished many of our goals in graduation rates, financial efficiency, curriculum and instruction, and improved facilities. It has also been a great honor to work with so many dedicated parents, administrators, teachers and staff.
However, I want you to know that I will not be seeking re-election. The time has come for me to spend more time with my wife and family. I am certain that the voters of District 1 will select the most qualified candidate who will continue to work closely with our community, fellow trustees and the administration to educate all students for a lifetime of success.
It has been an honor to work with my fellow trustees, true public servants who represent their individual districts with distinction and a focus on students.
Edwin Flores, Ph.D., J.D.
Trustee, District 1
Dallas ISD
