Because candidates Jim Vaszauskas and Tem Todd Tonorer are running unopposed for Mansfield City Council places 7 and 6, the city removed them from the ballot. However, the school board election is still in play, as Dr. Benita Reed is running unopposed, while incumbent board member Courtney Lackey Wilson faces challenger Michelle Gooch in the May 2 general election. Early voting is currently being held from April 20-28.
This comes in light of last year’s general election, which saw incumbent Mayor Evans securing his second term against challenger Julie Short. Mansfield voters also selected Todd Simmons to place 5 in a runoff election in June last year.
Each candidate in this upcoming election received the same questions and has been given an equal opportunity to share his or her platform. Candidates were all given multiple days to respond.
Questionnaire for board place 7
Outline your three main goals in office.
Gooch: My three main goals center around supporting students, supporting educators, and strengthening trust in our community.
First, I want every student to feel prepared for what comes next—whether that’s college, a career, or a trade. Mansfield ISD is already doing strong work in areas like career certifications and dual credit programs, and I want to continue building on those opportunities.
Second, I want to support and retain great teachers and staff. A strong school system depends on the people in the classrooms and on campuses every day. That includes advocating for resources, listening to their experiences, and ensuring they feel valued and supported.
Third, I want to help strengthen communication and trust between the district and the community. When families, students, and educators feel heard and informed, we make better decisions.
Wilson: Candidate did not respond for comment.
Q: Describe your history of working in the district and community.
Gooch: My work as a leadership coach has given me the opportunity to work with a wide range of people—including educators, administrators, and community leaders—which has helped me understand how different perspectives shape decision-making.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that people can look at the same situation and experience it very differently. Students, teachers, and parents each bring valid perspectives, and good leadership takes the time to listen before making decisions.
The more opportunity I have to be in the classroom, the more I see how much teachers and staff care about students—not just academically, but personally. I have so much respect for the challenges teachers face and the importance of supporting them well.
Overall, my experience has taught me to ask good questions, listen carefully, and make thoughtful, balanced decisions.
Wilson: Candidate did not respond for comment.
Describe your history of working in the district and community.
Gooch: I have been actively involved in the Mansfield community for over a decade through leadership development, professional training, and community engagement.
My work focuses on helping individuals and teams grow in areas like communication, leadership, and collaboration. Through that work, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with educators, local organizations, and community groups, which has given me a broad view of the district’s strengths and needs.
I’ve also participated in community events, leadership programs, and conversations that bring people together to support students and families. Those experiences have strengthened my commitment to serving our community.
Wilson: Candidate did not respond for comment.
Readers are invited to respond to this pull to give candidates a clear message on what the community wants.
