District 3
Ellen Angeles (Democrat)
- Bio: Former teacher, parent with a child in public school. Holds degrees from Kent State, Western Colorado, and Colorado Mesa University.
- Key Issues: Mental health, unequal access to quality education, cyberbullying, and school safety. Angeles plans to advocate for mental health funding, fair school resources, improved technology access, and stronger anti-bullying laws.
- Philosophy: Believes in well-funded public education that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and diversity. Emphasizes strong teacher support and the importance of public education for democracy.
Sherri Wright (Republican)
- Did not respond to the questionnaire.
District 4
Krista Holtzmann (Democrat)
- Bio: Former member of the Douglas County School Board and has served on the Rocky Mountain School of Expeditionary Learning Board. Holds degrees in human development and law.
- Key Issues: Chronic absenteeism, teacher shortages, and mental health challenges. Holtzmann aims to strengthen student connections, advocate for teacher recruitment, and support mental health initiatives.
- Philosophy: Believes public education is a community’s most important responsibility, preparing students for the workforce and supporting democracy. She stresses the need to support teachers and collaborate with families to help every student succeed.
Kristi “KBB” Burton Brown (Republican)
- Did not respond to the questionnaire.
District 8
Yazmin Navarro (Republican)
- Bio: Holds degrees in English and public administration. Has experience working with at-risk youth and serving as an ELL coordinator. Raised by immigrant parents and fluent in English and Spanish.
- Key Issues: Achievement gaps, mental health, and access to quality education. Navarro advocates for higher academic standards, expanded school choice, and increased mental health resources.
- Philosophy: Navarro supports an educational environment free of indoctrination and political bias, focusing on student success and global competitiveness.
Rhonda Solis (Democrat, Incumbent)
- Bio: Incumbent with 30 years of experience in community outreach and management. Served on several boards, including the Greeley/Evans District 6 School Board.
- Key Issues: Recovery from COVID impacts, including attendance, mental health, and academic catch-up. Solis emphasizes the need for fully funded districts to address these challenges.
- Amendment 80: Opposes Amendment 80, which concerns school choice, arguing that it could harm rural districts by diverting taxpayer money to private schools.
- Philosophy: Believes in a high-quality education for all students, regardless of their location. She values community collaboration to create opportunities for students and appreciates all school staff and volunteers.
These candidates highlight differing views on education policy, with Democrats focusing on mental health, equity, and public school funding, while Republicans emphasize academic standards, school choice, and empowering teachers.
