Board Member Michael Cole

Elected: November 2013
Term Began: January 2014
Term Expires: December 31, 2025

A believer in the possibility of infinite possibilities, Columbus City School Board Member Michael Cole brings nearly 20 years of experience in public affairs, television/radio, and education advocacy.

As your Board member, he successfully led the District’s first major community listening tour entitled, “Moving Forward, Dreaming Big 2020.” He has also worked with the Board to improve student achievement and access to life-changing opportunities.

After beginning his career in news writing and photo journalism, Mr. Cole would transition into policy and politics as a public affairs consultant and political strategist to notable congressional, statewide and municipal campaigns.

From 2004 to 2008, he also produced and hosted a public affairs talk radio program on Columbus’ AM1580 WVKO entitled, “What’s What with Mike Cole.”

Mr. Cole has made numerous appearances on national and local news programs including, “The Gretchen Carlson Show,” on Fox National News and was a regular panelist on WOSU’s “Columbus on the Record.”

Today, he has taken his talents to the areas of equity in education, information technology, and workforce as an administrator.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts from The Ohio State University and a master's degree from Seton Hall University. He and his wife Lee of 21 years are the loving parents of a graduate and current student of Columbus City Schools.

Phone: 614-604-8871

Email: mcole@columbus.k12.oh.us

* All biographic information has been provided by the individual Board members.