About Colleen
A neighbor who shows up.
Colleen Berquist has called the White Bear Lake District home for over 13 years. As a parent and community member, she's seen firsthand what our schools do well — and where they need a stronger voice.
My Story
I moved to the White Bear Lake District because of the community — the kind of place where neighbors know each other's names and people genuinely invest in one another. When my kids started school here, I fell in love with the district's potential.
Like so many families in this community, my life revolves around our kids. As a working parent with two children heavily involved in sports and activities, I know what it means to juggle schedules, cheer from the bleachers, and still show up for everything that matters. My husband and I also own a small family business here in White Bear Lake — so I understand firsthand the value of hard work, accountability, and making every dollar count.
Over the years I've volunteered in classrooms and advocated for programs that help every child succeed — not just the ones who are easy to reach.
Now I'm ready to take that commitment to the next level. I'm running for school board because I believe our students deserve a board member who listens, asks hard questions, and puts kids before politics.
Why I'm Ready
Small business owner
Running a business means managing budgets, making hard decisions, and being accountable for results — exactly what our school board needs.
Parent of school-aged kids
My children attend White Bear Lake schools every day. I have a direct, personal stake in getting this right.
Advocate for safe schools
Every child deserves to feel safe walking through the school door. I'll push for practical safety measures that protect students without disrupting learning.
Champion for transparency
Families deserve honest, clear communication from their school board — no spin, no surprises. I'll make sure our community always knows what's happening and why.
"Our schools are only as strong as the community behind them."
What Drives Me
I believe every child — regardless of zip code, background, or ability — deserves a world-class education. I believe parents and teachers should be partners, not adversaries. And I believe a school board should be transparent, accountable, and focused on outcomes, not optics.