Appointed to the Board of Education in 2002, James served through 2003 before being elected to his first full term in 2019. His family's connection to the Kersey area spans four generations, all with ties to the Platte Valley School District. James and his wife have two daughters who graduated from Platte Valley and eight grandchildren, two of whom currently attend district schools. Dedicated to serving his community, James considers board service both an honor and a privilege. His greatest joy comes from spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren.

 

Since joining the Board of Education in March 2018, Robin has brought both her agricultural background and financial expertise to her service. A third-generation dairy farmer, Platte Valley High School Class of 1989 graduate, and accounting degree holder, she has strong ties to the community. Robin and her husband are proud parents of two Platte Valley graduates, a daughter and a son. Their family remains actively engaged in 4-H and values the opportunity to work side-by-side on their family farm.

 

Mary has served on the Board of Education since June 2018. A resident of Kersey and native of Northeastern Colorado, she and her husband, Nathan, are raising their family in the Platte Valley community. They have four children, including a son who graduated from Platte Valley and three daughters who are currently enrolled in district schools. In 2015, Mary reinstated Girl Scouts Troop 75923, driven by her desire to positively influence the lives of children. She takes great pride in leading the troop and helping girls develop into exceptional leaders for the future.

 

Luke has served on the Board of Education since November 2021. Born and raised in Weld County, he and his family have strong roots in the Platte Valley community, with three children currently attending Platte Valley schools. Luke is passionate about Jesus, his family, his country, and agriculture. During his time on the board, he has been a dedicated advocate for public education, working to expand opportunities for students and strengthen community support for the district’s future. His leadership has helped advance important initiatives focused on educational excellence, campus improvements, and providing safe, high-quality learning environments for all students.

 

Kris Bauer has served on the Platte Valley School District RE-7 Board of Education with a strong commitment to giving back to the community. As both a parent and community member, Kris understands the important role our schools play in preparing students for success and strengthening the future of the community. With more than 25 years of experience in technology and business, Kris brings a collaborative, solution-focused approach to board service. Kris considers it an honor to work alongside dedicated educators, families, and fellow board members to support opportunities that help every student reach their full potential.

Platte Valley Board Member, Luke Gardner, has earned the McGuffey Award from the Colorado Association of School Boards. This award honors board members who bring committed and passionate service to their board work. Luke's commitment to serve the community and public education have been at the forefront of his time on the Board of Education which started back in November of 2021. During his time on the Board, Luke has worked to ensure Platte Valley continues to focus on education and opportunities for all students. His leadership and understanding of K-12 education has grown leaps and bounds over the years. Luke has been instrumental in helping garner community support and understanding for a November election initiative that will have a mill levy override increase and extension along with a bond that would be used to reshape the Platte Valley campus to include a new middle school, central office, athletic fields and green spaces, and provide for increased school security. Luke's leadership has helped Platte Valley continue its mission to Pursue Excellence for All: For Every Student, Every Day.

Hear Mr. Gardner's thoughts on receiving the 2024 CASB McGuffey Award