Denver School Board Candidates Share Their Visions Ahead of Election

With less than a week until the election on **November 4, 2024**, candidates for the Denver Public Schools (DPS) Board of Education have articulated their visions for the future of education in the district. Each candidate was given the opportunity to present their key messages directly to voters, laying out their priorities and qualifications.

Amy Klein Molk is vying for the at-large seat on the board and emphasizes her unique endorsements from the Denver Classroom Teachers Association, the Colorado Education Association, and the American Federation of Teachers. She has spent over two decades advocating for education, stating, “I believe that education is the last great equalizer, but that promise is slipping away.” Klein Molk calls for stronger neighborhood schools, fair pay for teachers, and a focus on safety and future preparedness for students. She criticized the current administration’s approach, claiming it prioritizes privatization over community investment.

In a similar vein, Alex Magaña, who also seeks an at-large position, brings 25 years of experience within the DPS system, including roles as a teacher and principal. Magaña highlights the challenges faced by families and schools, advocating for safe, welcoming environments and equitable funding for education. He stresses that all students deserve support and that teachers should receive compensation reflective of their value.

The candidates also include Mariana del Hierro, who is running for District 2. She aims to address the achievement gap impacting Latinx students in her district, noting that 22 of 25 elementary schools in District 2 are below 40% proficiency in math and reading. Del Hierro pledges to improve educational outcomes and increase community transparency.

Xóchitl Gaytán, a candidate with deep ties to the Latino community in Southwest Denver, underscores her commitment to equity and inclusion. As a former school board president, she has navigated significant budgets while prioritizing student-centered governance. Gaytán plans to continue advocating for marginalized communities, particularly immigrant and LGBTQ students.

In District 3, Caron Blanke calls for a renewed focus on students, emphasizing the need for small class sizes and better teacher support. She believes that community relationships should guide decision-making in schools. Meanwhile, Scott Esserman, also running in District 3, cites his experience as a career educator and current board member, vowing to continue the push for equity and opportunity across the district.

Another candidate in District 3, Dr. DJ Torres, positions himself as a representative of the community, prioritizing educators and classroom support over external funding interests. Torres, a DPS parent and special educator, advocates for a return to classroom-centric policies.

In District 4, candidates include Jeremy Harris and Monica Hunter. Harris, a small business owner and PTA communications chair, aims to create an equitable educational environment while addressing pressing issues like school safety. Hunter, a classroom teacher, focuses on closing achievement gaps and redirecting resources to support teachers directly.

Timiya Jackson, also running for District 4, brings extensive experience in student support and intervention. She seeks to enhance transparency and accountability within DPS, emphasizing that every student deserves a high-quality education.

Incumbent Michelle Quattlebaum seeks re-election in District 4, highlighting achievements in raising wages for staff and expanding mental health resources. She emphasizes a community-rooted approach, aiming to prioritize students’ needs in decision-making processes.

As the election date approaches, candidates are rallying support and urging voters to consider their visions for the future of Denver Public Schools. The outcome will significantly impact the direction of education in the district, shaping the experiences of students and educators alike.