Two first-time candidates, John Holley and Bill Pilcher, are running for the Place 3 seat in the Allen ISD school board. Both men have experience that would serve the school board well, but we recommend Holley for his deeper understanding of the district and his community ties.
Holley began working as a teacher in Allen ISD in 2003 and retired last year. He has a sturdy civic record. He participated in several Allen ISD initiatives and has also served in the Allen Senior Recreation Center Committee, the Allen Public Art Committee and the Allen Parks and Recreation Board, where he volunteered for 12 years. Holley said on his campaign website that he became involved in that board so students could advise him on new playgrounds for the city.
Holley declined an interview with us because of a scheduling conflict. According to his campaign website, he was traveling out of the country at the time. In answering our Voter Guide, he cited declining enrollment and the district’s budget as top issues and indicated he has a nuanced view on school closings.
Regarding teacher performance, Holley wrote that pay shouldn’t be tied to evaluations, a stance that we disagree with and that he should reconsider.
Pilcher is an Allen ISD parent and retired Air Force officer with public school experience. According to his LinkedIn page, he is the chief information officer of International Leadership of Texas Charter Schools, and he worked in the Dallas ISD project management office between 2015 and 2017. He has volunteered with the Knights of Columbus.
Pilcher did not fill out our Voter Guide or respond to interview requests. He offered superficial answers during a recent candidate forum hosted by Allen civic groups.
Holley shows a stronger grasp of the district’s opportunities and challenges. He’s the better choice.
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