Dear Neighbors,

I am writing to tell you of my decision to run for re-election to the Denver School Board in November 2009.

My Mom and Dad were both public school teachers.  They taught me early the importance of a quality public education system.  My husband Stephen and I are products of public schools and both our children attended Denver Public Schools. I believe public education is a fundamental cornerstone of our democracy.

It may seem like a cliché to say ALL our kids deserve the opportunity to have a first class education, but I do believe this, and work towards this goal every day. I would like to share with you some of the many exciting things I have worked on during my term on the Board:

·         Establishment of Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy, an arts

integrated K-12 program;

·         Expansion of Early Childhood Education, including the first ECE center in DPS;

·         Development of a School Performance Framework that reduces our reliance on CSAP’s as the only measure of progress (this was a primary goal of mine when I ran last time);

·         Passage of the largest school bond in Colorado history to ensure our kids are in safe schools with tools that prepare them for the jobs of the 21^st century.    

Over the next 4 years I will continue to work to:

·         Replicate our most successful and innovative schools;

·         Secure excellent educational opportunities for ALL families both in their neighborhoods and within our choice options;

·         Ensure that an open/transparent public process is followed by your Board;

·         Help create a district-wide vision for the education of our children.

While Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, was Superintendent of Chicago’s Public Schools, a major part of his reform involved keeping school buildings open 10 to 12 hours a day, 6 and 7 days a week.  Chicago was able to provide support and instructional services to families, as well as a safe, fun, learning environment. We can follow this model in Denver.  We have the commitment of government, businesses, and non-profits to make ours schools community centers once again.

I am so excited by the opportunity to serve the citizens of Denver for another term.  Those of you who have contacted me with your concerns over the last 4 years know that I respond promptly.  I will continue to put the interests of our children first.

Unfortunately, school board campaigns are escalating in cost.  In 2007, one district campaign spent over $100,000!   I am asking for your early support in my race.  It is difficult for me to ask my friends for help in this tumultuous economy.   I promise to do my best to work with my colleagues to make sure we provide the best education for our children.

Sincerely,

Jeannie Kaplan

P.S.     I cannot thank you enough for your support. 

Together we can make a difference.

Please send mail checks to
Kaplan for Kids
818 Marion St.
Denver, CO. 80218

Online donation coming soon.