What leaders say about Charlie Garza.
In my 35 years in education, Charlie was the most Best administrator I had the privilege of working with, demonstrating exceptional multitasking skills. Charlie embodied five qualities that helped our school earn an Exemplary rating from the Texas Education Agency: Enhancing Instructional Leadership by providing teachers with actionable feedback, supporting curriculum implementation, and promoting continuous professional growth; Streamlining Operational Management by maintaining efficient schedules, securely managing student behavior systems, and responsibly overseeing resources and compliance; Fostering a Positive School Culture by building strong relationships with students, staff, and families while modeling professionalism and accountability; Driving Data-Driven Decisions by using performance metrics and campus data to guide targeted interventions and strategic planning; and Developing Future Leadership by cultivating a proactive assistant who anticipates campus needs and prepares for long-term institutional success.
Robert Bowermaster, Principal, DHE
I strongly urge voters to reelect Carlos “Charlie” Garza to the Texas State Board of Education. Over 20 years of working with him, I have seen a proven leader whose administrative skill, accessibility, and commitment consistently deliver results for students and educators. He does not lead from a distance: he listens to teachers and parents, seeks practical solutions, and shows up for school communities—from supporting students at events to painting caricatures and even buffing floors. When the Texas Legislature failed to fund gifted and talented students, Garza brought the issue before the board and helped secure the resources those students deserved. He encourages teacher innovation, seeks faculty input before major decisions, and builds trust through transparent, hands-on leadership. Garza has the experience, judgment, empathy, and determination to strengthen public education, and he has earned another term on the State Board.
Danny Gamboa, Teacher/Coach
Charlie Garza is a proven servant leader whose integrity, military service, education experience, and commitment to students make him exactly the voice Texas needs on the State Board of Education. A dedicated advocate for underserved students and strong schools, he leads with purpose, fairness, and vision—and he should return to the SBOE.
Lizeth Carroll, Teacher/Human Resources/Compliance Director, ISD
Charlie Garza is exactly the kind of disciplined, principled, and student-focused leader the SBOE needs. His judgment, integrity, TEKS expertise, and proven commitment to students, teachers, and campuses make him a trusted advocate for stronger education outcomes. With his work ethic, vision, and record of impact, he is prepared to serve impactfully from day one.
Amanda Phipps, Teacher/Testing Coordinator, ISD
Carlos “Charlie” Garza is an exceptional educator, bilingual military veteran, and proven advocate for student success. Rooted in a migrant farmworker family, he understands the challenges many first-generation students face and leads with purpose, respect, and results. His expertise in policy, pedagogy, and critical-thinking instruction makes him a powerful asset to students, teachers, campuses, and districts. I strongly recommend Charlie Garza for reelection to the Texas State Board of Education.
William Wooten, Chief Financial Officer, ISD, Lieutenant Commander (LCDR), United States Navy (Ret)
As a U.S. Marine, and Annapolis gradate I believe in leading by example and preparing the next generation to serve with integrity. I strongly recommend Charlie Garza my friend and mentor of 17 years for reelection to the Texas State Board of Education. He imbues the highest ideals of duty, honor, and loyalty and is committed to developing the character and judgment young people need for leadership, citizenship, and public service.
Chris Maldonado, Captain, USMCR