A Vision for Montrose County Schools
Putting Students First. Backed by Experience. Driven by Action.
My Goals for Our School District
Allow Our Students to Thrive Academically
Effectively Communicate with Parents
Help Our Educators Feel Supported
As a longtime Montrose resident, nurse, and proud parent of three, I’m running for re-election to the Montrose County School Board because I believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and that starts with strong, accountable public schools. My roots on the Western Slope run deep, and I bring both personal and professional dedication to the work ahead.
With our kids’ futures on the line, we can’t afford to settle for “good enough.” I’m focused on results that matter: student safety, academic achievement, transparent communication, and teacher support.
What do we want for our children’s education in Montrose County?
I am Neisha Balleck for District A. I grew up on the Western Slope in Craig, CO and went to school to pursue my nursing career in the Denver Metro area for about 18 years. My husband, three children and I moved back to the Western Slope to Montrose about 6 years ago. I feel fully a part of this amazing community and want it to be the very best place to live, which includes focusing on quality education. I am action and solution driven, so you can be confident that our childrens’ success is my main focus.
I want to build a solid foundation for our students. Our children’s success is our future. What happens to these kids happens to all of us. This is why we need to make sure our school board is focused on the right issues. I will work hard and honestly to ensure our students are flourishing, teachers are well supported to deliver a high quality education, and that parents have clear and concise communication from the school board. Our students are counting on us to bring them the best and that is what I plan to do. Let’s come together, Montrose County Community, to see this happen! I am asking for your vote support.
Every student deserves a safe, supportive school environment where they can grow and succeed. Yet current CMAS results tell us we have work to do. In 2025, in Montrose County, only 24% of elementary students are proficient in math and only 37.7% of elementary students are proficient in reading. Our district continues to fall below in critical areas like literacy and numeracy.
As your board member, I’ve consistently supported targeted academic interventions, early identification of learning barriers, and equitable access to resources. If re-elected, I will continue to push for data-driven solutions that help every child build the core skills they need to succeed, whether that means college, a career, or a different path. We won’t just close achievement gaps; we’ll set the bar for excellence on the Western Slope.
Safe, Thriving Students Start with a Strong Academic Foundation
Transparency and Trust with Parents
Parents deserve a seat at the table and timely, clear communication from schools. That’s why I support tools like TalkingPoints, a multilingual platform enabling real-time, two-way translated communication between families and educators. This innovation breaks down barriers for non-English-speaking parents and busy working families.
But communication can’t stop with technology. I’m committed to keeping lines open with honest updates, accessible meetings, and real opportunities for feedback. Whether it’s a compliment or a concern, you deserve to be heard and I will keep listening. Together, we can make Montrose County a model for family engagement in public education.
Support and Respect for Our Teachers
Our 340+ full-time classroom teachers/support staff are the backbone of Montrose RE-1J. When we invest in them, our students thrive. I’ve advocated for financial accountability, professional development, and resources that directly support teaching and learning. Colorado faces a critical teacher shortage, and retaining great educators means giving them the respect, tools, and voice they deserve.
If re-elected, I will continue working to ensure our educators feel valued—because their success is our students’ success.
Let’s Build the Future Together
The 2025 school board elections are an opportunity to choose leadership that’s rooted in community, grounded in data, and focused on what works for kids. I bring experience, passion, and a record of action and I’m ready to keep fighting for better outcomes in every Montrose County classroom.
If you share this vision, I invite you to stand with me.
Contact me to volunteer and join our grassroots campaign or share your thoughts—your voice matters.
Together, let’s make Montrose County the gold standard for Western Slope education.
Contact Me
Where Will I Be?
Upcoming Events
Montrose Women’s Republican Committee | Friday, September 19, 12:00 pm | Hampton Inn 1980 N. Townsend Ave.
UVEA School Board Candidate Forum | Thursday, October 2, 6-8 pm | Holiday Inn Express 1391 S. Townsend Ave.
Chipeta Room | Tuesday, October 7, 6:30 pm | Ute Museum 17253 Chipeta Rd.
The Forum | Wednesday, October 8, 9-10 am | Montrose CMU Campus, Cascade Hall (S.W. corner of 3rd and Cascade)
League of Women Voters | Thursday, October 9, 6-7:30 pm | Montrose City Council Chambers 107 S. Cascade Ave.
Gallery
Things we've done in the Montrose Community
Frequently asked questions
What’s the first change I’ll prioritize if re-elected?
Continuing to raise reading and math proficiency by expanding early intervention programs and ensuring teachers have what they need to succeed. Because when we get the basics right, everything else gets better.
What’s the first change I’ll prioritize if re-elected?
Continuing to raise reading and math proficiency by expanding early intervention programs and ensuring teachers have what they need to succeed. Because when we get the basics right, everything else gets better.
What’s the first change I’ll prioritize if re-elected?
Continuing to raise reading and math proficiency by expanding early intervention programs and ensuring teachers have what they need to succeed. Because when we get the basics right, everything else gets better.
