For Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees · Place 3
Vera Southwell
Round Rock–area parent of 4 · Data science professional · Community volunteer
People First. Thoughtful Leadership. Stronger Schools.
For Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees · Place 3
Round Rock–area parent of 4 · Data science professional · Community volunteer
People First. Thoughtful Leadership. Stronger Schools.
Why I'm running
Education has shaped every chapter of my life. It opened doors I never imagined, challenged me to grow, and gave me the opportunity to build a life in Texas, where I have proudly called home for more than twenty years. As a parent of four children, a data science professional, and an active community volunteer, I believe it's my responsibility to give back to the community that has given my family so much.
I'm running for the Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees because I believe thoughtful leadership, respectful dialogue, and sound decision-making can strengthen our schools. I want every student to have the opportunity to thrive, every teacher to feel supported, and every family to have confidence that district decisions are made with integrity, transparency, and people at the center.
— Vera Southwell
As a trustee
As a trustee, I recognize that no single board member has all the answers. My responsibility is to listen, ask thoughtful questions, study the facts, and work collaboratively to make decisions that serve the long-term interests of our students and community. These principles will guide every vote I cast.
Schools exist to serve people. Every decision affects students, teachers, staff, and families. I believe the Board's responsibility is to keep people at the center of every discussion, listening carefully, treating everyone with respect, and building trust through transparency, fairness, and thoughtful leadership.
Good decisions begin with good questions. Every major decision should be informed by facts, careful analysis, and open discussion. I believe the Board should consider different perspectives, explain the reasoning behind important decisions, and evaluate whether those decisions are achieving the results our students and community deserve.
Great schools depend on thousands of everyday processes — from budgeting and transportation to communication with families and student support. My professional background has taught me that well-designed systems help people do their best work. I will look for opportunities to strengthen the processes that allow teachers to teach, students to learn, and families to stay informed.
Strong communities are built through respectful conversation, even when people disagree. I believe listening is one of the most important responsibilities of a trustee. Different perspectives make better decisions when they are heard with curiosity, respect, and a shared commitment to serving students.
Meet Vera
Vera Southwell is a parent, business professional, and community volunteer who believes education has the power to change lives. She holds two bachelor's degrees from the University of Texas at San Antonio and an MBA from the University of Miami. Her career focuses on helping organizations solve complex problems through research, data analysis, and process improvement.
Vera and her husband are raising four children, and their family has experienced Round Rock ISD through academics, fine arts, and extracurricular activities. She also serves as Treasurer of her Toastmasters club and volunteers with organizations that support music, education, and the community.
Vera is running for the Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees because she believes thoughtful leadership, respectful dialogue, and evidence-based decision-making help schools thrive. She is committed to listening carefully, asking good questions, and working collaboratively to support students, teachers, families, and the long-term success of Round Rock ISD.
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