Cody Ostenson (he/him) is a former DPS teacher, community engagement specialist, and lifelong public education advocate. As the Director of External Affairs for Denver Families, Cody works to connect the grassroots organizing and leadership development work to policy advocacy that prioritizes educational equity, holistic student success, and authentic community engagement. He also leads partnerships with elected officials, community leaders, and community organizations.
Cody moved to Denver in 2014 to teach middle school literacy. His time in the classroom, as well as his community engagement at DPS and in nonprofit advocacy, informs his deep commitment to ensuring an excellent public education for all Denver students. He was schooled in the organizing philosophy “Nothing about us without us.”