Andrew Spain is a candidate for the Poudre School District (PSD) Board of Education in District E. He has 30 years’ experience as a licensed paramedic and works in international healthcare education. He has taught adult and continuing education as well as global issues in the University of Northern Colorado’s political science department. He is a PSD parent.
Episode Summary
Host Nick Armstrong interviews Andrew Spain about his motivations for serving on the PSD Board and how his healthcare and education background inform his approach. Spain emphasizes listening first, elevating student and community input, and using data to guide decisions. Topics include mental health supports, navigating misinformation and AI, inclusive and respectful school culture (including LGBTQIA students, multilingual learners, and students with disabilities), school safety planning, career and technical education (CTE), class size considerations, staffing and burnout, community engagement practices (e.g., listening sessions and coffees), and resource prioritization during tight budgets.
Spain notes recent student walkouts across Colorado over school safety and describes the role of school resource officers and community partners within a broader safety plan. He references appointed service to complete a board term and asks voters to hold him accountable if elected without opposition.
Key Takeaways
- He argues the Board should prioritize two-way communication with students, families, and staff, and aggregate input into practical decisions.
- He proposes a data-driven approach to class size, resource allocation, and program evaluation, tailored to PSD rather than copying other districts.
- He supports expanding CTE pathways where there is community interest, while maintaining programs that already work.
- He states school culture must be respectful and welcoming for all students; anti-bullying efforts should be applied broadly and consistently.
- He sees district roles in monitoring student well-being (mental, physical, nutritional) and acting on trends to support learning.
- He describes school safety as a multi-part plan involving law enforcement, SROs where appropriate, and culture work to reduce bullying.
- He commits to ongoing public engagement (listening sessions, coffees) and to accountability for stated goals.
Notable Quotes (verbatim)
“Each kid needs something to fit what is going to help them become their best version of themselves.”
“We need to make sure we’re keeping up with that, meeting those educational needs, delivering education in creative and new ways.”
“If everyone’s in the in-group, then it’s just the group.”
“Having those kinds of resources is important… building the plans to keep our students as safe as possible in a variety of ways.”
“Keep me accountable… I have to work really hard to earn people’s trust, stay accountable to the things that I’m saying.”
Resources / Links
- Candidate site: https://andrewspainforpsd.com
- Dear Fort Collins YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dearfortcollins
- Dear Fort Collins website: https://dearfortcollins.com/
- Referenced by guest: Team of Rivals (book)
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