Stephen Bentley
- Number and grade of children in your family enrolled at BFA – 1, first grade
- Number of years your family has been at BFA – 2
Biography:
Stephen graduated from West Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Finance. He has worked in the Technology space for multiple industries including Financial Services and Agriculture. Stephen is currently the Head of Engineering for Agribusiness and Animal Health at Telus Agriculture and Consumer Goods. Stephen and his wife Rosie moved to Colorado almost 16 years ago and spend their time volunteering and attending the multiple activities of their 4 children, Luke (8th Grade), Levi (6th Grade), Grace (1st Grade), and Lane (Preschool). They love being involved at BFA and volunteering in the classroom and on field trips. Stephen currently serves as an at-large director on the BFA Board of Directors and as the Board liaison to the STEM Committee.
Number of BFA Board meetings and events have you attended this school year:
- Board meetings: all
- Committee meetings: STEM (3)
- Community events: 2
Describe the ideal relationship between the BFA Board and the BFA community:
The ideal relationship is one where there is trust between the community and the Board. The community has the ability to have their voice heard and the Board is transparent so that the community knows what’s going on with the school. Ultimately, this trust is rooted in the fact that the Board’s number one priority is the safety of the students and staff.
What are the current challenges facing charter school boards?
I believe the biggest challenge facing charter school boards is remaining true to why the charter school was started as an alternative to neighborhood public schools. Not getting caught up in trying to be like those public schools and staying differentiated and focusing truly on educating in the areas of STEAM.
What motivated you to accept a nomination for a seat on the BFA Board?
Over the past year I have been fortunate enough to be a member of the Board and have seen the opportunities and challenges facing our school, staff, and students. I want to continue the work to make BFA the school of choice in our area.
Share any personal aspirations you would like to achieve by serving on the BFA Board, as well as aspirations for the BFA Board itself during your term:
My aspirations for the BFA Board is to be a trusted partner with the community and the school staff. I want the Board to be transparent and prioritize the students’ well being and education.
Describe a moment when you knew BFA was the right school for your family and what you love most about BFA.
It’s difficult to pinpoint just one but from all of the feedback we heard from friends who had children attending and then getting accepted into BFA with one of the children, we quickly saw the quality of education and the commitment to teaching our child. The teachers and curriculum challenged our child from the beginning and continue to do so to this day.