Denver Families Action  Candidate Endorsement Criteria

What We Look for in School Board Leaders

Denver Families Action endorses candidates who are committed to building a more equitable, student-centered public school system in Denver. Our endorsement process is rooted in community values and designed to identify leaders who are prepared to govern with integrity, listen to those most impacted by education policy, and take bold action for students.

To earn our endorsement, candidates must demonstrate strength across the following areas:

Mission & Values Alignment

Candidates must align with DFA’s commitment to educational equity and access to high-quality public school options.

Student Success Focus

Emphasis on high academic outcomes, transparency, student well-being, and mental health support for both students and educators

Community Engagement

Proven ability to engage DPS families, educators and community members, lead community-centered initiatives, and maintain ongoing collaboration with DFA.

Policy Platform Alignment

A clear, community-aligned vision for DPS that supports quality across all school governance models and addresses top concerns like academics, safety, and mental health.

Education Experience & Knowledge

Demonstrated experience in public education or advocacy, with a strong understanding of school systems and family engagement.

Community Support

Positive feedback from families, educators and community leaders involved in the endorsement process.

Campaign Viability

A compelling reason to run and the strategies, tools and support to run a strong campaign

Leadership & Ethics

Ethical, collaborative leadership with a solid grasp of school board responsibilities and a history of integrity.

2025 Endorsement Panel

The following community members provided valuable time, expertise, and valuable perspectives in evaluating and interviewing 2025 school board candidates. 48% of panelists are parents, 46% educators and 24% are DPS alumni.

Alezandro Ruvalcaba
Aliyah Williams
Aliza Cruz Moore
Amelia Federico
Ana Gonzales
Anabell Hernández
Antonia Salais Alvarado
Boni Flores Sanchez
Cara Eng
Charles Ferrer
Christine Alonzo
Cristal Barajas Mares
Daniella Gutierrez
Donna Kukucka
Elizabeth Gutierrez
Elizabeth Shalda
Gabriela Martínez
Gavin Triplett
Hannah Vanderhorst
Idalia Rocha
Larry Blackshear
Lindsey Foss
Manda Troutman
Maria Palmarin
Mateo Vela
Nicholas Kukucka
Nikia Parker
Noemi Martinez
Paulina Venzor
Rico Gomez
Sara Bobak
Sara Peters
Sarah Almy
Shaneequa Wilson
Shuniti Taddese
Tinsley Ore
Veronica Booz

Denver Families Action Candidate Endorsement Criteria

What We Look for in School Board Leaders