The Colorado Coalition of Cyberschool Families Celebrates the life of founding board member, Lori Marks Cooney.

Lori Marks Cooney

By Tillie Elvrum

"A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove... but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child."

Several years ago, Lori Cooney gave me a coffee mug with this famous Forest E. Witcraft quote emblazoned on it. This was Lori's way -- always thinking about children and encouraging her fellow advocates. Lori was my friend, partner in advocacy, and co-founder of the Colorado Coalition of Cyberschool Families. Lori passed away on March 7, 2023.

Lori dedicated her life's work to education and making a difference in the lives of children. She was a professional educator, school choice parent, and a pioneering advocate for online learning. Her work impacted the lives of countless students and their families across the country.

Lori was fearless, and her tenacity served her well during challenging times. Whether raising her children as a single mother, delivering testimony during a legislative hearing, or facing cancer, she always met the moment with strength and determination.

She was a gifted educator and served in various roles over the years, most recently as an advisor for online students. Whether it was guiding a family through the enrollment process or advising the Cooking or Chess Club, Lori loved the one-on-one moments she had with students and their families.

Lori's advocacy was born out of her love for her children. Her family benefited from school choice, and she was an incredible learning coach to her three children, Sean, Shannon, and Ashlyn. Lori poured all her love into their educational experience and believed every parent should have access to the best schools that fit their students.

Lori was incredibly organized and detail-oriented -- skills that served her well as she co-founded the Colorado Coalition of Cyberschool Families in 2004 and the National Coalition for Public School Options in 2008. Even after her tenure at both organizations, she provided mentorship and historical perspective to the board members and parent advocates that followed her.

Most importantly, Lori had an incredible capacity to love and a warrior-like spirit. She fought hard for her family, friends, and children everywhere. Even during her long battle with cancer, she fought gracefully and determinedly and still wanted updates on legislative battles or to understand policy better. Once an advocate, always an advocate.

Lori was a passionate champion for students and their educational opportunities, she inspired many, and we owe her a debt of gratitude. While we mourn our great loss, I hope we will turn our grief into action and continue the good work she started. Thank you, dear Lori, for showing us the way -- you were important to us and made a difference in the lives of so many children.