Back in 2006, I ran for the state legislature in Maryland.???? It's hard to explain how much I learned about issues, my district, people's hopes and concerns, and so much more.???? There really is no substitute for knocking on 10,000 doors and speaking at crowded bull roasts, humid fish fries, and testy candidate forums.???? I'm a much better person for having done it, but????????have no doubt????????it was grueling work???????and losing is no fun.???? More than ever before, I have genuine respect for anyone who puts him/herself through this because they want to make the world a better place.
So the news that Mike Johnston is running to fill an open seat in Colorado's state senate brought a smile to my face.???? Mike runs a high-performing school in Mapleton, CO.???? He helped found New Leaders for New Schools and served as a top education advisor to President Obama's campaign.
A couple days after the 2008 election, Mike and I did a lunch panel at the annual conference of the Colorado League of Charter Schools on the future of education policy during the Obama administration.???? Mike was sharp, thoughtful, and extremely articulate.???? The discussion was a true pleasure because of his general smarts but also because we realized that, despite representing different parties, we agreed on much more than we disagreed.
I was encouraged that someone of Mike's abilities and views was on the inside of the Obama team, and I hoped that they would take Mike with them to DC.???? I was disappointed when I learned that he was staying in Colorado, but maybe this is the right opportunity for him.
One of the most gratifying parts of my campaign was how many Democrats supported me, financially and otherwise????????despite our disagreements in other areas????????because they believed in me personally and respected my work and positions on education issues.???? Just like that panel discussion, more evidence that many of these issues cut across party lines.
Though I'm a proud Republican, I wish Mike the very best of luck.
Hopefully, in the months and years to come, other education reformers will consider throwing their hats into the ring.???? If you decide to take the plunge, give me a call.???? I'll tell you all about bull roasts.
Image from????The Rotary Club of Catonsville