Dear Friends,
My name is Bruce Cole. I’m a husband, father, grandfather, veteran, 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
After nearly 20 years in the classroom, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to teaching. I will advocate for time-tested, effective curriculum and instruction so that every student and teacher is set up for success.
Character & Respect
In every part of our district, from the classroom to the boardroom, we must respect teachers as professionals, respect parents as the authority in their child’s life, and respect students as scholars – setting high standards and helping students rise to meet them.
Budget & Infrastructure
As a former non-profit executive and business owner, I understand how crucial it is that D11’s half-a-billion dollar, taxpayer funded budget is allocated with wisdom and integrity. Every dollar we spend should be able to answer the question, “how does this improve student success?”
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, served in the US Army Reserves, been a college instructor, a nonprofit executive, and most recently, 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
