January is School Board Recognition Month
January is School Board Recognition Month, and we want to spotlight our Board of Trustees and all the great work they do. This year the theme for the month is “Leadership for Tomorrow’s Texas.”
Today we’re spotlighting Larry Mike. The Air Force veteran is the newest member of the Board of Trustees.
What are you most excited about for the district in 2025?
I am most excited about the strides Arlington ISD is making to enhance student achievement through the collaboration of a unified school board and a superintendent committed to improving our district. While we are still developing our strategic plan, we are ensuring it is guided by the input of our community, students, teachers and other stakeholders. Our goals and priorities are shaped by this feedback, reflecting our schools’ role as a true representation of the community. We have also worked diligently to address the budget deficit, always prioritizing the needs of our students. Together, with this shared focus and commitment, we are striving to make Arlington ISD the best district in Texas.
What do you think sets the Arlington ISD apart from other school districts?
What sets Arlington ISD apart from other school districts is the incredible diversity of our community. Each school serves as a unique microcosm, and our community members hold strong allegiances to their schools, reflecting a deep sense of pride and investment in both the schools and the students who attend them. Additionally, our unified school board is a key differentiator. Despite coming from diverse political backgrounds, we set aside politics to focus solely on what matters most – the success and well-being of our students. This combination of community pride and collaborative leadership truly sets Arlington ISD apart from other districts.
What do you think of the upcoming legislative session?
My thoughts on the upcoming legislative session are mixed, with significant concerns for our children and community. I am particularly worried that the school voucher issue could harm public schools, diverting funds away from education and instead benefiting vendors. Texas currently ranks 29th in education, and the constantly shifting standards for standardized testing make it challenging to accurately evaluate where our children stand academically. If legislators believe the system isn’t working, their first focus should not be on schools but on examining the Texas Education Agency and its policies.
The theme for this Board Appreciation Month is “Leadership for Tomorrow’s Texas.” How vital a role does a board play in the success of a school district?
The board plays a critical role in the success of a school district by establishing its strategic vision and ensuring that schools operate efficiently and in the best interest of students. A unified board is essential, as it provides the leadership and guidance needed to align district goals with student success. Ultimately, school boards bear the responsibility for the overall performance of a district. In Arlington, our current board is a unified team dedicated to providing our children with the tools and opportunities they need to excel and reach their full potential, embodying the theme of “Leadership for Tomorrow’s Texas.”
Do you have a favorite place to eat out in Arlington?
I’m a foodie at heart – I love exploring different cuisines because I believe food nourishes not just the body but the soul. That said, I try to be mindful not to eat like I have free healthcare! My favorite spot in Arlington reflects my love for the food I grew up with. Being half Korean, my go-to place is Bon KBBQ for Korean barbecue. Just a heads-up: you’ll definitely leave smelling like KBBQ, but the all-you-can-eat experience is worth it and always leaves me happily full.