My Story

A Lifetime of Believing in Public Education

Jen Cole has proudly called Hermosa Beach home since 2002. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues know her for her infectious laugh, generous spirit, endless curiosity, and her determination to not only do the right thing, but to make sure it gets done.

​

Education has always been at the heart of Jen's life.

​

She was born and raised in Utqiagvik, Alaska, where her parents dedicated their careers to public education. Her mother taught fifth grade, while her father served as both principal and regional superintendent. From an early age, Jen learned that strong schools do far more than educate children—they strengthen neighborhoods, shape a community's culture, and create opportunities for generations to come.

​

That belief has guided every step of her career.

​

After earning her bachelor's degree from the University of San Francisco, Jen spent a decade at the internationally renowned advertising agency Wieden+Kennedy, leading global marketing initiatives for brands including Nike, Coca-Cola, and Microsoft. While there, she also helped develop pro bono campaigns for the American Indian College Fund, work that deepened her commitment to making a meaningful impact through public service.

​

Following five years in Amsterdam, where she earned her master's degree from the University of Amsterdam, Jen made the decision to leave the corporate world and dedicate her career to education.  While earning a second master's degree in education from Loyola Marymount University, she joined Teach For America, beginning a journey that would take her into classrooms, schools, universities, and ultimately educational leadership.

​

Jen began as a classroom teacher before becoming a Title I Coordinator in Compton Unified School District, where she helped strengthen instruction, managed state and federal funding, and partnered with families to support student success. She later became the Founding Principal of Frederick Douglass Academy Elementary School, building a new public school from the ground up, developing systems, hiring staff, managing budgets, and working closely with families to create a thriving learning community.

​

Believing that great schools begin with great leaders, Jen went on to spend six years teaching educational leadership as an Adjunct Professor, Cohort Leader, and Leadership Coach at Cal State Dominguez Hills. She later recruited and coached exceptional educators and school leaders for organizations including Teach For America, Bright Star Schools, Valor Public Schools, and the Inner City Education Foundation, helping strengthen schools across California.​​

​

Beyond the Board Room

Jen's commitment to education extends far beyond School Board meetings.  She currently serves on the Board of Bright Star Schools. Over the years, she has volunteered in South Bay schools through Access Books, Hands-On Art, coached youth volleyball & soccer, supported PTA programs, mentored future educators, and remained actively involved in organizations that help students and families thrive.

​

When she's not visiting classrooms or attending community events, you'll likely find Jen playing pickleball, walking her dog through Valley Park, cheering on local student-athletes, reading with her book club, or enjoying conversations with neighbors about the future of Hermosa Beach.

​

Why I Continue to Serve

Serving on the Hermosa Beach School Board has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

 

Every decision I make begins with one simple question:

"Is this what's best for students?"

​

I believe every child deserves to feel safe, challenged, supported, and inspired at school.

​

I believe every family deserves confidence that their neighborhood public school provides an exceptional education.

​

And I believe every resident deserves thoughtful stewardship of the community's investment in its schools.

​

Strong schools strengthen communities.

They prepare children for the future.

They bring neighbors together.

They protect property values.

They create opportunities.

And they help make Hermosa Beach the extraordinary place we all love to call home.

​

It has been an honor to serve this community since 2017, and I remain committed to ensuring that Hermosa Beach City School District continues to be a place where every student can thrive.

​

​