Hi, I’m Chris Colohan and I’m running for the Palo Alto Unified School District Board.
I am a software engineer and engineering manager with a Ph.D. in computer science. I became a stay-at-home dad when our youngest started kindergarten. My spouse, Lea, is a Gunn alum and our 2 kids attend Greene and Duveneck.
I am deeply connected and committed to our School District and our community. I have served as a substitute teacher in every school in our district; as President, EVP, and as Treasurer of the PTA; and as a representative of Palo Alto Partners in Education (PiE).
I know our school district very well. I’ve seen the many ways where it works well, and seen where it can improve. I’m ready to serve on our school board.
What is my background?
I was a student for many years – after getting a PhD in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon, I would joke that I “finished grade 25” (due to spending that many years in school). I then worked for 10 years at Google as an engineer and engineering manager, working on the software which keeps Google running.
When my kids entered kindergarten, I became a stay-at-home dad, a YouTuber, and started volunteering with the PTA. I served on the Duveneck PTA board for seven years, and Greene for one year. I dress up as Duvy the Dragon for special events. I’ve served as Treasurer, EVP, and then PTA President during the Covid pandemic. I’ve volunteered as a PiE representative. (One thing I did was create a fundraising video for PiE.)
I’ve worked as a substitute teacher in Palo Alto for over two years, covering math, science and music classes from grades 1-12. I have taught in all twelve elementary schools, all three middle schools, and Gunn and Paly. I know the school district very well. I have experienced it from the perspective of a parent, a substitute teacher, and an active volunteer. I’ve seen the many ways where it works well, and seen where it can improve.
Why do I want this job?
I am passionate about helping others. I love education – both teaching and learning. I care deeply about our public school system, and I want to see it continue to improve. A well-functioning school board is vital to a strong school district, and I believe that my background and skills will help keep our board running well.
Why should you elect me?
I have extensive experience managing high performing teams in industry, overseeing large budgets, working in classrooms as a substitute teacher, and serving as a PTA leader. I've spent a lot of time understanding parents’ needs and helping connect them with resources. I will take the time to listen to you, to understand how the district is working (or not working), and to help make our amazing schools become even better.
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