Joseph's Vision for School District 11
A Vision for Honesty, Transparency, and Revitalization in District 11
For far too long, Colorado Springs School District 11 has faced ongoing challenges by ignoring the voices of educators, students, and community members on the issues that truly matter. This disconnect has hindered the progress and growth our schools and community deserve.
Joseph is running for the School Board to change that. With a clear focus on honesty, transparency, and revitalization, Joseph is committed to fostering a district that listens, collaborates, and takes meaningful action.
Below are the key issues Joseph will prioritize as a school board member, along with the proactive steps he will take to create real, lasting change in our schools. Together, we can build a District 11 that values every student, supports every educator and engages every community voice.
Transparency and Accountability in District 11
School District 11 has faced challenges maintaining honesty and transparency with its students, staff, and the broader community. The people of District 11 deserve clear and accessible information about how their taxpayer dollars are being allocated and utilized.
Joseph is committed to fostering trust as a School Board Member by ensuring that funding decisions are transparent and communicated effectively. Joseph will advocate for the community to understand where funding is requested and ensure it is spent as promised. By holding the Board accountable for responsible and ethical financial practices, Joseph will work to rebuild confidence in the district's stewardship of public resources and prioritize the needs of students, staff, and the community.
Prioritizing the Maintenance of Existing Schools
District 11 has been pursuing the opening of new schools across the district, often under the guise of the Innovation Act. While this effort seeks to expand opportunities, many existing schools are facing significant issues, such as cracked walls and failing air and heating systems. These challenges directly impact the learning environment and the safety of our students and staff.
As a School Board Member, Joseph will prioritize addressing the needs of our current schools before committing resources to new projects. Joseph is dedicated to ensuring that funding is allocated to repair and maintain existing facilities, creating safe, functional, and welcoming spaces for students and staff. By focusing on responsible budgeting and equitable distribution of resources, Joseph will work to strengthen the foundation of District 11 before pursuing further expansion.
Supporting and Respecting District 11 Educators
District 11 has fallen short of respecting and addressing the needs of its educators and staff. These dedicated professionals are the backbone of our district, shaping the future of our students and community. They deserve not only fair compensation for their work but also the respect and dignity that reflects their critical role in our schools.
As a School Board Member, Joseph is committed to working alongside educators and staff to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met. Joseph will prioritize creating opportunities for educators to speak openly about classroom issues and work collaboratively to provide meaningful support and guidance. By championing fair treatment, equitable pay, and a supportive work environment, Joseph will help ensure that District 11 educators have the tools and respect they need to thrive and succeed.
Rebuilding Enrollment Through Modernized Education
District 11 faces a significant challenge as enrollment in the district is decreasing in large numbers. For years, the district claimed rising enrollment and strong interest in its schools; however, enrollment numbers later revealed declining enrollment and reduced student engagement. This trend highlights a critical need to reassess and revitalize the education we provide.
As a School Board Director, Joseph is dedicated to rebuilding trust and enrollment by modernizing the district’s curriculum to meet the demands of both the current and future economy. Joseph will work to evaluate successful programs in surrounding school districts and implement proven strategies that prepare students for a competitive, ever-evolving workforce. By prioritizing innovation and tailoring education to meet the needs of every student, Joseph will ensure that District 11 becomes a destination of choice for families seeking high-quality education and meaningful opportunities for their children.
Ending Politicization in District 11
The current District 11 Board of Education has repeatedly allowed personal political opinions to influence decisions at the dais, diverting focus from the needs of our students, staff, and schools. This trend undermines the primary mission of education: to empower individuals with knowledge and critical thinking skills to form their own opinions.
As a School Board Member, Joseph is committed to ending the politicization of our district. Joseph will focus on building an inclusive, equitable education system that serves every person, regardless of their age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, or political affiliation. By centering the work of the board on educational excellence and removing partisan distractions, Joseph will ensure that the district remains a space where all students can thrive and grow. Education is about fostering independent thought—not advancing personal agendas—and Joseph will steadfastly uphold this principle.
Addressing Mental Health in District 11
Mental health challenges are a growing crisis in our community. In 2023, El Paso County had the highest suicide rate in the state, and Colorado ranked highest in the nation—making El Paso County the epicenter of this national crisis. Mental health is a real and pressing issue in our schools, and our students deserve access to the support and resources necessary to navigate these hardships.
As a School Board Member, Joseph is committed to prioritizing mental health in District 11. Joseph will advocate for allocating funds to hire and retain mental health professionals who can provide the guidance and support students need. He will push for the effective use of the voter-approved 2018 Mill Levy Override to ensure mental health services are funded appropriately and sustainably. By investing in these critical resources, Joseph will work to create a safer, more supportive environment where every student has access to the help they need to succeed and thrive.