Dana Van De Walker

Dana Van De Walker earned a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in political science from Illinois State University, as well as a doctorate in education from Sam Houston State University. Her career experience includes teaching English as a second language in South Korea, serving as an assistant professor and administrator at Daegu University, and coordinating student exchange programs at Sam Houston State University and Lone Star College.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

When I first thought about running for office, my primary interest was simply seeing more Democrats on the ballot in my very red area (Montgomery County). Since taking the plunge into the world of running for office (my first time!), however, I have begun to see that I am uniquely qualified for the TX State Board of Education, bringing nearly 20 years of experience to the position along with progressive values and a passion for student success. I have worked in all levels of education, from elementary to postsecondary, and having worked both as a teacher and an administrator. These days, I work at Lone Star College overseeing a large student program. I originally hail from Illinois, spent eight years living and working in Korea, and have now made a home in Texas. I’m excited to take on the responsibility of fighting for Texas youth on the State Board of Education.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Upholding the essential Constitutional value of separation of church and state: I believe that religion has no place in our public schools and will fight to remove the Ten Commandments and any religiously-influenced curriculum, while also advocating for the rights of students to individually practice their religion. Moreover, I support a robust, science-informed curriculum, comprehensive sex education, all-gender restrooms, and the ability of LGBTQIA+ students to use their chosen name and pronouns, regardless of parental approval (or notification). I am also fiercely opposed to book bans.Equitable access to education for all Texans, regardless of immigration status: This goal has several components, but most importantly to me, it includes allowing undocumented (or DACAmented) Texas residents to again qualify for in-state tuition at Texas colleges and universities. Also, I believe that ICE officials should not be allowed on any K-12 or college campus, nor should they be able to target parents or guardians dropping off or picking up students at school.Opposition to school vouchers: Numerous studies have shown that school vouchers take money away from the neediest school districts and disproportionately impact students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Instead, we need to prioritize investing in public schools, including incentivizing teachers to stay.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I have experience in curriculum design, teacher training, and much more, but my personal passion is student engagement and success. I think that our students in Texas should not just meet and exceed expected educational outcomes, but should also have the opportunity to personally develop their critical thinking skills and character. One of my main interests is student preparedness for college, career, and military and I'm excited to work on this area of public policy as a member of the State Board of Education. I look forward to raising our English and math scores, but also to giving students increased career and technical options before high school graduation.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Secular Houston (I have also applied for 11-12 other endorsements and I am waiting to hear back about those)