James M. Poole Jr

James “Jim” Moreland Poole was a dedicated educator, husband, father, and church trustee. On October 13, 2022, heaven gained a heck of a leader. Jim devoted his life seeing to the education and success of kids and teachers. For some he was a father figure, for some a cheerleader, one who challenged us to be better – then expected even more. His leadership was both admired and sometimes intimidating. He stood his ground and stood for the smaller ones who needed a voice. A hero. He kept all on track then sent students on their way – watching like a proud parent. Born in Alice Texas on April 12, 1939, to James and Nina Poole, Jim was welcomed home by two sisters Julia and Diane. He grew up in Cumberland Oklahoma near Lake Texoma working for his parents at a young age mowing the minnow ponds with the old fashion reel mower, seining for minnows, working the store. He and Nora have known each other most of their lives attending the same elementary school. They were married October 22, 1958. Jim earned his Bachelor’s degree from Southeastern State in Oklahoma, then his Master’s degree from Southern Illinois University. While earning his degree, he moved his growing family to Knowles Oklahoma where he taught Industrial Arts. Jim accepted a superintendency position in Bethune in 1964. He accepted the job intending to stay in the area for a year – at the most two. This quickly became home. Because of his love for the area, his students, staff, and families, he stayed for 58 years. He retired after 35 years in Bethune. That changed with a call from Haxtun School District, where he worked for 6 years after which he stayed retired for two whole days. He then served Idalia School District for 3 years. Jim was involved with CHSAA for most of his years as an educator culminating as President of the Executive Committee. He was inducted into the CHSAA Hall of Fame, Class of 2008. Jim’s renowned skills with finances brought these school districts and CHSAA much financial success. He taught a class, Small School Finance, at the University of Northern Colorado. He was eager to share his successful methods with other administrators, wanting all to be efficient. Jim was always involved in area boards and volunteer work including DDI, BOCES, The Welcome Center, and the United Methodist Church. Jim died on October 13, 2022, from prostate cancer. He spent his final weeks surrounded by his family and close friends. Jim is survived by his beloved wife Nora Poole of almost 64 years; children: David (married to Janet Miller); Janet (married to Bill Cure); Sharon Poole Green; and Kristy (married to Robin Liming); and his sister Diane. He has 14 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. As of today – 3 more on the way. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday October 18, 2022 at the Burlington United Methodist Church 290 13th Street Burlington, Colorado 80807. Memorial contributions can be made to: Bethune Alumni Scholarship 486 CR Q Kirk CO, 80824 Or Burlington United Methodist Church In Care Of Bank of Burlington 410 14th Street Burlington, CO 80807