111. Run for Your School Board with Judith Cruz, Former Board President, Houston Independent School District

Thinking of running for school board?

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Judith Cruz, Former Board President, Houston Independent School District. Judith has over twenty-five years of experience as an educator, non-profit leader, and volunteer in public schools.

Judith shares her path to school board leadership—and what it really takes to serve well.

• Know your why – Serving on a school board is a powerful way to create change, but it’s not easy. It’s unpaid, political, and full of competing priorities. Judith reminds us that while advancing student outcomes is essential, sometimes the most urgent fight is preventing students from falling further behind.

• Be ready to work across differences – Even among seemingly aligned colleagues, interpersonal dynamics and politics can derail progress. Judith shares how she built trust and found common ground—internally within the board and externally with the broader community.

• Don’t compromise your values – The toughest moments came when Judith had to vote against the wishes of those who helped her get elected. Her advice: stay grounded in your values and make decisions based on what’s best for all kids—not just the loudest voices.

• Go grassroots or go home – To win her campaign, Judith knocked on 3,500 doors in six months, seven days a week. Her message: people matter. Conversations matter. That’s how trust—and leadership—is built.

• Do your homework – Before running, Judith suggests attending civic and board meetings, asking questions, and learning how the system really works. Because once you’re in, the work is real—and it’s relentless.

Thank you, Judith, for sharing your inspirational and powerful journey.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-111-run-for-your-school-board-with-judith-cruz