In this episode, Transform Education (TEN) Now Executive Director Nicholas Hernández discusses with hosts Alexis Menocal Harrigan and Alan Gottlieb the records of Denver school board candidates (and incumbents) Xóchitl Gaytán (southwest Denver District 2), Scott Esserman (central Denver Distict 3), and Michelle Quattlebaum (northeast Denver District 4).
These three incumbents are running for reelection. We would have preferred to interview them, as we have most other candidates. They have served during one of the more tumultuous times in Denver Public Schools board history. They have been in the middle of multiple controversies, and they owe voters explanations for their actions and votes.
But all three refused to come on the podcast, or to attend TEN community forums. Gaytán said Boardhawk does not align with her values. Quattlebaum declined without giving a reason, and Esserman has said Boardhawk has a nonproductive agenda.
In declining to attend the TEN forums, Quatlebaum and Esserman put out a statement saying that “TEN’s Action Fund has already weighed in on this election by endorsing a number of candidates. That decision alone raises questions about whether a forum hosted by the same organization can provide a level playing field for all candidates.”
It is our view that ducking potentially difficult or even hostile environments serves neither candidates nor the public well. It also raises questions about the three incumbents’ ability to defend their records, and their interest in being accountable to Denver’s voters.
Listen to this no-holds-barred conversation to get a more complete picture.
