A political writer and teacher with more than 30 years of experience, Leilani Barnett holds a Bachelor’s degree with a double major in Journalism and English; an MA in Educational Leadership; and an MA in Literature. She's now in the last phase of completing a Ph.D. in Education.

In fact, it is her commitment to education that first motivated Barnett to run for the Texas House of Representatives. “Without fully-funded public schools, we turn off the lights on the bright future of our children," she explains.

Pictured: Leilani with grandaughter at graduation and "Great-Mommy" (Leilani's mother)