Pastor Randy Davis for CISD-Place 4

There has been a lot of discussion about the removal of the Bible from Canyon ISD school libraries. The administration made this decision based on an interpretation of Texas House Bill 900, also known as the READER Act (Restricting Explicit and Adult-
Designated Educational Resources), which was passed by the 88th Texas Legislature and became effective on September 1, 2023. The purpose of this bill is to remove sexually explicit materials from schools, a goal I fully support.

I was appointed to the CISD board in May 2024. After retiring from full-time ministry in 2022, I felt called to get involved in my local school district. I’ve been concerned for some time about cultural shifts in our nation and want to promote Christian values in our local schools. With over 38 years as a Southern Baptist pastor, I currently serve as the part-time pastor of New Hope Fellowship at River Road.

I first learned of the administration’s decision to remove the Bible at the December 9, 2024, board meeting. I disagreed with the interpretation that led to its removal. Following a re-evaluation and clarification from Rep. Jared Patterson, who sponsored HB 900, the administration promptly returned the Bibles to the libraries by December 19.

As both a pastor and a school board member, I understand why people have asked for my thoughts on this issue. I am grateful that the Bible is back in our school libraries. Beyond its spiritual significance, the Bible has played a foundational role in our nation’s history, and students should have access to it. I have spent decades defending the inerrancy of Scripture, and I encourage students and parents to make the Bible a daily part of their lives. Personally, I listen to the Bible every morning when I run and every evening when I walk my dog around City View Park. I hope other parents will encourage their children to do the same.

There are strong opinions in our community about the school board’s role in ensuring timely removal of inappropriate materials, as well as the recent handling of the Bible issue. I respect my fellow board members, but I can only speak for myself. I take my role as a trustee seriously and will always approach my work with honesty, diligence, and prayer. There is much to learn, and I am committed to doing my homework and making careful, thoughtful decisions. The students in our community deserve that.

James 1:19-20 reminds us, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” That is the mindset I will carry forward.

I am seeking a four-year term on May 3, and I would be honored to have your prayers and support.

Randy Davis
RandyDavisForCISD.com

CANYON, TX – Dr. Randy Davis, a local pastor, longtime community leader, educator, and advocate for Christian values in education, has officially announced his campaign to keep his position on the Canyon ISD Board of Trustees, Place 4. Davis was appointed to the board in 2024 to fill the seat of Bill Jenkins and is now seeking to continue serving the students, families, and educators of Canyon ISD.

“Serving on the Canyon ISD Board of Trustees has been an honor, and I’m ready to keep working to ensure our schools remain a place where students are safe, teachers are supported, and strong values guide every decision,” Davis said.

Davis brings decades of leadership experience to the board. A native of Amarillo, Davis attended Caprock High School, Amarillo College, and Wayland Baptist University before earning three degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. For over 30 years, he served as the Lead Pastor of Lifeway Fellowship Church in Amarillo and now works part-time as the pastor of New Hope Fellowship Church in River Road.

In addition to his extensive pastoral and educational experience, Davis is a proud husband of 46 years, a grandfather to two Randall High School students (one a graduate and one currently a junior), and a trusted voice in the Canyon ISD community.

Davis’s campaign focuses on key priorities, including:
◼ Providing a safe and supportive environment for students, teachers, and staff.
◼ Promoting Christian values in district policies and practices.
◼Maintaining high academic standards to prepare students for college, the workforce, and the military.
◼ Supporting competitive salaries for teachers and staff to attract and retain top talent.
◼ Protecting the district from divisive ideologies like CRT and DEI.
◼ Ensuring fairness in school policies, including athletics and restroom usage.
Keeping Canyon ISD classrooms and libraries aligned with high moral and educational standards.

“As someone who’s spent decades listening, leading, and building relationships, I know that successful schools are built on trust, accountability, and shared values,” Davis said. “I’m committed to preserving what makes our district great while preparing our students for a bright future.”

Davis invites the Canyon ISD community to join him in keeping his steady leadership on the board. “Our schools are the foundation of our community, and I am ready to continue serving with faith, fairness, and focus,” he said.

For more information about Randy Davis’s campaign, visit www.RandyDavisForCISD.com