Meet Amanda Ford | Community organizer and educator in Harrison School District 2

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Ford and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by my community. I’ve been involved in community organizing and local politics for years, and I’ve seen how powerful we are when we come together. I worked on a grassroots, people-powered state house campaign that helped flip a competitive district—an experience that showed me the real, tangible change that collective action can bring.

Now, working at a middle school in a community-oriented district, I continue to be inspired every day. Our school is supported by an incredible network of community partners who provide everything from mentorship and extracurricular programs to food support and wellness services. I see how the community consistently steps in to fill the gaps, making sure no student slips through the cracks or gets left behind. That shared commitment to equity, opportunity, and care is what fuels my passion and purpose

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was just recently hired as a special education teacher in Harrison School District 2! Before, I worked as a special education paraprofessional in the distrcit, gaining valuable hands-on experience supporting students and deepening my passion for this work.

I was born and raised in Colorado Springs and attended UCCS on a different career path, but my time there reshaped my future in the best way. While at UCCS, I worked with the Office of Inclusive Services, mentoring college students with disabilities. That experience showed me the power of inclusive education and planted the first seeds of what would become my career.

Alongside that, I was involved in local community organizing, politics, and nonprofit work. I worked with Colorado Health Network, teaching young people about sexual health, and helped with local school board elections—including in D11—as well as with candidates advocating for strong, equity-focused public education. These experiences helped me realize that while I loved policy and advocacy, I craved the direct, daily impact that comes with being in the classroom.

Now, as I begin my journey as a special education teacher and complete my alternative teaching licensure, I’m excited for the challenges and rewards ahead. I’m most proud of the relationships I will build with students and the role I will play in helping them feel seen, supported, and capable.

It hasn’t always been easy, but the community I’ve built—through UCCS, local organizing, and my school—has carried me through. One big lesson I’ve learned is that meaningful change happens when you stay rooted in your values and lean on your community. I want the world to know that I’m passionate about education, equity, and building systems that lift people up—and I’m proud to be doing that every day in the classroom and beyond.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This is my place. I practically grew up here—I was in the teen program for eight years and still go back every summer to work. It’s not just the animals (though feeding the giraffes never gets old); it’s the memories, the views, the people. It’s where I fell in love with nature, leadership, and my community. First stop, no question.

Mackenzie’s Chophouse
This was my first job, and it’s still my favorite lunch spot in the city. If we’re lucky enough to go on a Friday, we’re ordering the fried shrimp and sipping iced tea out on the patio. It’s classic, cozy, and has that just-right local charm. I always feel at home here.

Goat Patch Brewery
Laid-back, friendly, and full of locals—this is my go-to for grabbing a drink and hanging out. Whether there’s trivia, a food truck, or just a quiet evening, Goat Patch always feels like the perfect vibe. I recommend it to everyone, and I’d bring you there in a heartbeat.

Manitou Penny Arcade
Total throwback energy, and I love it. I’ve been going here since I was a kid, and it’s still just as fun. We’ll bring a pocket full of quarters, play vintage pinball and skee-ball, and probably laugh until we cry. It’s the kind of place that reminds you not to take life too seriously.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my lovely neighbor Jane Wallace, an incredible community organizer who has played a huge role in helping both me and my wonderful fiancé Zachary find our place in local organizing and politics. As a former schoolteacher, Jane has also been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration to me in my journey as a teacher and educator.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-ford-107b0523a