Leander ISD voters have spoken. Preliminary results released by Travis and Williamson counties show that newcomer Chitra Nedun leads the three‑candidate race for Place 2 with 23,168 votes (35.9%). Her closest rivals, Perla Muñoz Hopkins and Meg Dean, earned 20,690 votes (32.1%) and 20,684 votes (32.0%) respectively.
On Place 7, former city councilman Jason Embry won a decisive victory over incumbent Paul Gauthier, tallying 40,012 votes (65.7%) to Gauthier’s 20,934 (34.3%). Embry’s strong showing reflects broad community support for his platform of parental involvement, fiscal responsibility, and a focus on academic excellence.
Uncontested seats and voter turnout
Two board seats were uncontested. Serenity Coats ran unopposed for Place 1 after her opponent, Gerald Prater, passed away in September 2026, leaving the race without a challenger. Coats received 43,038 votes, or 67.8% of the total, while the deceased candidate’s name remained on the ballot per Texas Election Code. Place 6 incumbent Laura Marques also secured a second term without opposition.
All numbers are unofficial pending canvass, but the early totals give a clear picture of the board’s new composition. Voter participation in the school‑district race was robust, underscoring the community’s commitment to shaping local education policy.
What the new trustees say
During the candidate Q&A sessions, Nedun emphasized the importance of strengthening family‑centered learning environments and protecting parental rights in curriculum decisions. She highlighted her experience as a parent and small‑business owner, promising to bring a fresh perspective to the board.
Embry, a longtime resident and former city official, pledged to prioritize transparent budgeting, support for teachers, and safe school facilities. He noted that his campaign was driven by families who want a high‑quality education that aligns with community values.
Implications for Leander families
The newly elected trustees will join incumbent members in setting policy for the district’s 80,000 students. With a mix of seasoned officials and newcomers, the board is positioned to address pressing issues such as school safety, curriculum transparency, and responsible fiscal management—areas that matter deeply to parents and faith‑based families in the area.
Community members are encouraged to stay engaged as the board finalizes its agenda for the upcoming school year. Upcoming board meetings will be streamed live on the district’s website, offering families the opportunity to voice concerns and support initiatives that reflect their values.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
