School board members today face mounting pressures: calls for book bans, debates over social studies content, declining enrollment, reduced funding, charter school competition, and the growing need for students’ mental health. Add to this the ongoing concerns regarding accountability and the use of standardized testing, outside political monetary influence, and the stakes for public education have never been higher.
Join us for a panel of local and state school board leaders as they share how they work to support students, educators, and families while navigating these urgent challenges. This candid conversation will explore both the obstacles and the opportunities shaping the future of public schools.
DR. KARLA ESSER
Elected to the State Board of Education in 2020, Dr. Esser represents Colorado’s 7th Congressional District. With over 35 years as a teacher, administrator, and professor, she has dedicated her career to supporting historically underserved students and strengthening classroom instruction.
RHONDA SOLIS
A longtime advocate for educational equity, Rhonda has served on the Colorado State Board of Education, the Greeley-Evans District 6 Board of Education, and now on the boards of Aims College and Advocates for Public Education Policy. She co-founded the Latino Coalition of Weld County.
XOCHITL "SOCHI" GAYTÁN
A Denver Public Schools parent, real estate professional, and community leader, Sochi brings deep experience as a neighborhood advocate and former president of the Harvey Park Community Organization. Her focus as a Denver school board member is ensuring equitable, high-quality schools for every family.
LUCY MOLINA
A community organizer in Commerce City, Lucy was appointed to the Adams 14 School Board in 2022. She is a passionate advocate for environmental justice and equitable opportunities, and the proud parent of two Adams City High School students.
If you believe in strong schools, thriving communities, and a fair future for every student, this conversation matters.
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Hear directly from school board leaders navigating today’s toughest debates, gain clarity on what’s at stake, and discover how we can collectively advocate for equity, transparency, and real support for public education. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.