Why am I Running?

A smiling family of three at Mount Blue Sky, holding a sign with the date 11/20, outdoors with rocks and other people in the background.

I am running because I know what Colorado has been and I have a vision for what it can become. My wife, my daughters, my colleagues, and my students and their families are why I have decided to step up and run. They all deserve a welcoming and safe Colorado where they can dream ambitiously.

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Growing Up In Colorado

I have watched the state that I grew up in loose the safety net that made my life today possible. I played on city sports teams, participated in arts programming from SCFD and local taxes and attended public schools from kinder to a masters in culture linguistic diverse education. I owe so much of my success to fellow Coloradans from those that babysat me and drove me to practice to my own mother who taught me the value of hardwork and never giving up.

A smiling man holding a yellow sign at a conference. The sign reads: '1stand with JESPA because... Every professional deserves Respect AND dignity!!!' and includes the name Alex Rykhmann, organization Apple to EA, and the hashtag #jeffcodobetter. The background shows other attendees and conference tables in a large, well-lit room.

Teaching

Teaching is such a monumental part of my story. I have sat alongside my students and learned Spanish while they learn English. I have also fought for teachers and school funding. I have hid in classroom corners with student in active shooter drills, cried when students have died from suicide and watched as my students who are new to the United States have become increasingly afraid to come to school. I also send my three year old daughter to public schools because I deeply believe in their importance to not only her education but our community.

Two young men wearing white t-shirts with handwritten notes stand in front of a beige wall with a sign that reads 'The Wheel'.

Three teenagers standing together inside a classroom with colorful posters and decorations on the wall behind them.

Connections

I have painted houses in this state, sold everything from furniture to car parts and worked through work study programs while attending school to get to where I am today. I've mentored other first generation students while I was finishing my degree and I've listened to countless families share their experiences. I deeply respect the working people who live in district 21. It would be an honor to represent their voice.

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Close-up of a man with dark hair, a beard, wearing a headset, in an office setting.

A man in graduation cap and gown sitting in front of a computer monitor with a woman on the screen.

Support

I know what it's like to fill out paperwork for Medicaid, SNAP benefits, and dropping out of college because I couldn't afford it. I've had my paychecks garnished because I couldn't pay my student loans. I've had to work through repairing my credit so I could return to school. It doesn't have to be that difficult to get an education and be able to pay your bills. It shouldn't be! I believe Coloradans can have the support they need when they need it the most.

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Two smiling people taking a selfie outdoors, with a crowd and bright sunlight in the background.

Four people sitting at a long table on a stage, with drinks and microphones in front of them, under a dark curtain background and an American flag.

Action

I am ready to jump in and create deep down lasting change for Coloradans. I have spent hours visiting our capital, pulling out my iPad to explain policy to our senators. I have knocked on your doors when I believe something is important. I believe that our elections should be open and accessible to working people who are connected and have a pulse on the community. I am someone who is not a career politician, I am running because I am passionate and care. I am a proud member of a union and grateful that I have a negotiated agreement that affords me leave to serve in public office.