Dear Editor,

If you are voting for RE-1 school board candidates, here are summary profiles; if you use social media, some may have profiles there to view as well.

Party rules limit my ability to recommend some candidates.  As mentioned in an earlier message, Gary Duncan, Jill Peterson and Victoria Edwards have excellent qualifications.

I have met and spoken with all of the candidates, attended a public forum where all candidates answered 10 questions, and have read their responses to questions in the September 25 and October 2 issues of The Mountain-Ear. 

RE-1 School Board: Two-Year Candidates (choose one)

Gary Duncan

After retiring from the U.S. Army, he earned a Master’s degree in Education Administration and pursued a second career in education.  He would have a strong presence at the school and would honor the school’s hierarchy of communication policy.  Although he values collaborative decision-making among the board, he disagrees with the current practice of unified (5-0) decisions.

Jill Peterson

Appointed by the current board in June 2025 to fill a vacant seat on the board.  She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and works as a data and software engineer at the University of Colorado.  She prepares for meetings, has identified areas of improvement for the board (student and teacher retention) and values critical thinking.

RE-1 School Board: Four-Year Candidates (choose two)

Victoria Edwards

A career lawyer focusing on business law which could enhance financial reporting and decision-making.  She has served on the District Accountability Committee, Gilpin County Education Foundation, Gilpin County School District Strategic Design Team.  Would like to evaluate expanding the curriculum to include more electives including trade.

Brady Fowler

Retired from the U.S. Army.  He serves as a Deacon in his church and is involved in local politics.  Served as a District Accountability Board member at his daughter’s school.  He would advocate for more parental involvement in board decisions.  Disagrees that education is solely based on science and progressive reading.

Kirsten Goodlett

Career in education.  Earned a Bachelor’s degree in English and Master’s in School Counseling.  Current board member seeking a second term and a member of the Gilpin School Booster Club.  She supports higher pay for school staff and cites that the State of Colorado is one of the lowest ranked states for educator pay.

Phil Gibbs, Chair

Gilpin County Democratic Party