Raise
Forge
Boost
I am Colonel (retired) Michelle Ruehl, Ph.D.
I’m a teacher, a mom, and a veteran running for the District 11 School Board because I believe our children deserve an education that prepares them to lead—locally and globally. That means academic excellence, clear career pathways, and the resilience to thrive in a complex world.
Right now, only 29% of D-11 students are proficient in math and 38% in reading. That’s not acceptable—for my children or the 23,000 others in our district. But this is not a story of despair. It’s a call to action.
We have passionate teachers, committed families, and hardworking students. And we’re seeing progress—ten underperforming schools have moved off the state “watch list,” and D-11 is gaining national attention. Now is the time to accelerate that momentum with bold, focused leadership.
I’ve spent two decades in service—as a military officer, pilot, educator, nonprofit founder, and White House Fellow. I’ve taught English in countries like Ghana and Afghanistan, where I saw students rise above their circumstances to succeed. Here in Colorado Springs, I know we can do the same—if we commit to three priorities:
- Raise student proficiency
- Forge career pathways
- Boost wellness and safety
Together, we can ensure that every D-11 graduate is ready—for college or career, for community, for life.
Have ideas? Email me @ ruehl4d11@gmail.com
¿Prefiere español? Envíeme un correo electrónico y le responderé en español.
Raise
Academic Proficiency
As a retired Colonel, I can attest U.S. students are falling behind in the world. Our country ranks 26th in math; our future competitiveness and national security depend on raising academic performance—now. We must focus on the basics – reading, writing, math and science – and attract, equip, and mentor excellent teachers so they can deliver high-quality curriculum and instruction.
Goal: 70% math and reading proficiency by 2030
- Increase math and reading “growth percentile” to 70% over five years (growth is how we improve compared to similar schools; we are currently at 50% in ES, but below 50% in MS and HS)
- Attract, equip, and mentor top teachers with focused, high-quality curricula
Forge
Pathways to
Workforce Success
As a teacher in Ghana and Afghanistan, I saw how education gave kids a chance at a brighter future. Here at home, Colorado Springs ranked #5 Best Performing City in 2025, driven by tech and innovation. But too many of these jobs go to out-of-town hires. Without direct career pathways, our students risk being priced out of our hometown. We should expand internships, strengthen connections to local industries, and support programs that best prepare students for their futures.
Goal: Match local economic opportunity with student potential
- Expand internships, apprenticeships, and experiential learning
- Build direct pipelines to local businesses and major employers
It is estimated that 50% of workers will need reskilling by 2026. Let’s make D-11 the district where students graduate job-ready—equipped with digital, technical, and soft skills.
Boost
Wellness & Safety
As a mom, I understand the responsibility that schools have to be good stewards of the trust parents and taxpayers put in our schools. Every aspect of the school environment should support student learning. That means age-appropriate classrooms free from political agendas, healthy food in the cafeteria, clear behavior standards, secure campuses, and a relationship with parents grounded in transparency and respect.
Goal: Increase wellness, safety, and security
- Enhance school safety
- Build healthy learning environments
Service-Driven Leadership
I’m a mom, nonprofit founder, soccer coach, Girl Scout leader, and lifelong educator. I’ve worked in war zones, the White House, and classrooms. Through it all, my focus has remained the same: kids come first.
As a D-11 board member, I will build on our progress to:
● Raise academic achievement
● Forge career paths for every student
● Boost wellness and safety
Let’s elevate our kids—together.
Join the team
Raise ★ Forge ★ Boost
Paid for by Dr. Ruehl for D11
Michelle Ruehl, Registered Agent
Use of military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of Defense.