Dear Friends,
My name is Bruce Cole. I’m a husband, father, grandfather, and a retiring business teacher after 18 years in the classroom with District 11. Today, I’m excited to announce my candidacy for the D11 School Board of Education.
I’m running because I care deeply about our students and their future. I want to ensure that every child in our district receives the highest quality education possible. But right now, there are real obstacles in the way—and I believe we must work together to remove them.
In 2024, only 38% of D11 students were proficient in English-Language Arts, and just 29% were proficient in math. If a student scored that low in my classroom, it would be considered a failing grade. And for a school district, those numbers represent a system that is failing.
Our students and families deserve better. Our teachers deserve better. Our taxpayers deserve better.
I love D11. It’s where I spent nearly two decades teaching and mentoring young people through programs like DECA and Future Business Leaders of America. I’ve also served behind the scenes—on the DAC Budget Sub-Committee and the district benefits committee—always advocating for smart, student-focused investments. With my combined experience in education and business, I’m ready to continue serving our community by helping guide D11 forward.
My Priorities
Academic Achievement
We need to get back to the basics. Proven, high-quality instruction isn’t mysterious—it just requires commitment and focus. I will advocate for time-tested, effective curriculum and teaching practices so that every child is set up for academic success. Parents should feel confident that their child is entering a safe, rigorous, and encouraging learning environment every day.
Strong Character
On my first day of teaching in 2007, a student said to me after a classroom fight, “Don’t worry Mr. Cole, this is normal.” It never seemed normal to me—and it shouldn’t be. We must restore values like respect, honesty, hard work, and transparency in our classrooms. We must respect teachers as professionals, empower parents, and set high standards for our students—helping them rise to meet them.
Budget & Infrastructure
As a teacher at Doherty, I saw firsthand how the community rallied when Jenkins Middle School closed. Now, as we plan long-term fixes for Jenkins and a major renovation of Palmer High School, we must ensure these projects are built to last—and built with learning at the center of every decision. Every dollar should answer a simple question: How does this help students learn? My background in business will help D11 manage these major projects with both vision and fiscal responsibility.
About Me
I come from a blue-collar family devoted to church and community. I was the first in my family to graduate college, earning a Business Administration degree from Regis University. I’ve worked as a pastor, a college instructor, a nonprofit executive, and most recently as a high school business teacher in D11. My wife Marcia, a retired elementary music teacher, and I have four children and ten grandchildren—including two proud Doherty graduates. When I’m not teaching or volunteering, you’ll find me camping, boating, gardening, or nervously cheering on the Denver Broncos.
Now, as I retire from the classroom, I feel one more call to serve—this time on the D11 School Board of Education. I hope to bring my experience, values, and dedication to help ensure every child in our district receives the excellent education they deserve.
Thank you for your support,
Bruce Cole
Candidate, District 11 School Board of Education
