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Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Aug. 19 – Recognitions, revised Monument Academy contract, Human Resources report

By Harriet Halbig

Above: At the Aug. 19 D38 Board of Education meeting, President Tiffiney Upchurch celebrated Raleigh “Butch” Eversole, retired Palmer Ridge High School band director, for receiving the Colorado Bandmasters Association’s 2024 Hall of Fame award. This award is given to just one Colorado band director each year. Eversole spoke of the people who influenced him and the support he got from students, parents, the board, and building administrators. He said he hoped that there would be continued support for the music program at D38, noting that former students were now leading the program. From left are Upchurch, board member Todd Brown, elementary music teacher Cynthia Eversole, Eversole, board members Kris Norris and Patti Shank, and Superintendent Stacie Datteri. For more information on the Colorado Bandmasters Association and its mission, see https://www.coloradobandmasters.org/. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: At the D38 Board of Education meeting on Aug. 19, Amy Sienkowski, assistant principal at Palmer Ridge High School, recognized the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) for awarding eight grants totaling nearly $12,500 to support eight projects in School District 38. TWLC grants supported swim lessons, vision screening, transitions cooking classes, furniture for counselors, an automated external defibrillator (AED), science materials, and comfort bins. Sienkowski noted that the comfort bins contained age-appropriate books on loss, cushions, fidgets, and weighted blankets to help students process their grief when a tragedy arises. From left are board member Patti Shank, board president Tiffiney Upchurch, TLWC Co-President Kathy Budney, TLWC President-Elect Julie Shook, board member Kris Norris, Sienkowski, and Superintendent Stacie Datteri. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education recognized several individuals and organizations, approved a consolidated contract for Monument Academy, and received a detailed report from the Human Resources Department at its Aug. 19 meeting.

Recognitions

Former Palmer Ridge High School band teacher Raleigh “Butch” Eversole was recognized for receiving the Colorado Bandmasters’ Association 2024 Hall of Fame Award. One individual is so recognized each year.

Lewis-Palmer High School Principal Bridget O’Connor recognized Braeden Turner as the valedictorian for the class of 2024 with a grade point average of 4.545. Turner will attend the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. He was presented with a special medal.

The Tri-Lakes Women’s Club was recognized for its support of the district through its donations. Of note this year is the donation of comfort bins for students experiencing tragedies. These age-appropriate bins include such items as blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, books about grieving, note cards, coloring supplies and other materials.

Monument Academy contract

Assistant Superintendent Amber Whetstine and Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway presented a consolidated contract for the elementary and secondary campuses of Monument Academy. Although the two campuses remain separate legal entities, it was thought to be more convenient to have a contract with a single expiration date in 2029.

Some changes in the contract include information on expulsion of students and education of students with disabilities. The Monument Academy board approved the contract the previous week. The contract was approved unanimously.

Human Resources report

Director of Human Resources Alicia Welch presented a detailed report about her department’s statistics. The PowerPoint may be found on boarddocs, under the Board of Education tab on the district website, lewispalmer.org.

Some highlights are:

  • The primary reason for separation from the district was retirement for licensed employees (primarily teachers). The primary reason for classified employees (clerical, transportation, food service, etc.) was personal or health reasons.
  • The district was successful in recruiting substitute teachers. To be considered active, a substitute must work one or two times per month.
  • The district was successful in recruiting a number of teachers and paraprofessionals for students with special needs.
  • The district has hired three new bus drivers.

Welch emphasized that her goal is to make employees feel valued and welcome. She encourages employees to seek improvement in such areas as moving from paraprofessional to teacher. She said that movement between schools and among categories proves that employees view Lewis-Palmer as a destination district in their careers.

The department also has encouraged departing employees to fill out a survey stating why they are leaving and what they valued in their time at the district.

Welch said that two factors have aided in recruiting. The first is that a district gives credit for up to 16 years of previous experience in determining starting salaries for teachers. The second is that the district pays 1.2 Full Time Equivalent salaries to special education teachers. Spanish, math, and career technology positions are the most difficult to fill. A $2,000 hiring bonus is an additional incentive.

Superintendent update

Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri reported on the first day of school and summer activities in the district.

She rode several school buses on the first day of school and shared lunch with students at Lewis-Palmer High School and Prairie Winds Elementary School.

Over the summer, a number of sports camps were sponsored by the district, a soccer game was held between the Unified Soccer Program at Lewis-Palmer High School and the Switchbacks Unified Team, and orientation programs for incoming ninth-graders and incoming seventh-graders helped familiarize them with their new surroundings.

Datteri said that the district played a major role in the Monument Fourth of July Parade, featuring many sports teams and the board president and herself.

She reported that the new career and innovation center is also in its planning stages.

Datteri also announced the hiring of Ron Sprinz as the new Director of Finance and Purchasing.

Financial planning

Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway reported on the status of the district budget. He said he strives to utilize 98% to 100% of the budget at any given time. At present over 98% is being used.

As a result of the passage of Senate Bill 24-017, the district is receiving its state revenues in a new timeline. The district received $4 million for July this year rather than the previous approximately $3.1 million. The state Senate bill was passed to distribute revenue more evenly over months when tax revenue is not disbursed

In answer to a question, Ridgway said that the current changes in property tax levies will not affect the budget for 2024-25 but may impact the following year.

School enrollment figures for the first day of school reflect an additional 12 students. Ridgway said that the numbers often decline slightly before the official student count on Oct. 1.

Of note is the increase of 106 students at Bear Creek Elementary School. Ridgway said the school can absorb this number but not many more. He also said it is not possible to determine whether this increase is due to nearby developments. On Oct. 1, the addresses of students will become available. Enrollment at Monument Academy increased slightly as a result of its new Home School Academy.

Ridgway said that the previous fiscal year’s budget must be amended slightly due to receipt of insurance funding resulting from the January freeze and a slight increase in funding from the mill levy override. The board unanimously approved the amended budget.

Executive session

The board met in executive session before the regular meeting. During this session, it discussed the subdivision of the central office complex and parameters for valuation of the parcels for future transactions. For further information on this subject, please see https://wp.ocn.me/v24n7d38boe...

The Board of Education of Lewis-Palmer D38 meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of the month at its learning center, 146 N. Jefferson St. in Monument. The next meeting will be on Sept. 16. For further information, please contact vwood@lewispalmer.org.

Above: At the Aug. 19 meeting of the D38 Board of Education, Lewis-Palmer High School Principal Bridget O’Connor introduced Braeden Turner to recognize his academic achievements and present a special valedictorian medal. She noted that the valedictorian process happens after seven of eight semesters. She said that after calculating final grades, Turner’s grade-point average of 4.545 moved him to the number one position by a score of .001. She noted that Turner was also involved in athletics, the Safe-to-Tell program, and student mental wellness advocacy. Turner, who was accompanied by his parents at the board meeting, will attend the University of Massachusetts Amherst and will major in computer science and a minor in food science. From left are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, Del Turner, Turner, Nancy Roberts, O’Connor. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.

Other Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education articles

Monument Academy School Board, July 11 – Board resolution related to Title IX

By Jackie Burhans

Monument Academy (MA) held its regular meeting in July to consider its response to changes in Title IX, to receive an update on finances, set board committee assignments, and hear committee reports.

Board responds to Title IX changes

The July 11 meeting started with a short executive session for legal advice regarding Title IX policy options. Board President Ryan Graham noted that the U.S. Department of Education (ED) had released its final rule changes to Title IX and indicated he had a resolution that was being used in multiple school districts.

The resolution, which can be found in its entirety at bit.ly/ma-title-ix-res, specifies in part that the board believes parents, not schools, have the fundamental responsibility for their children’s education, supports natural law and moral truth, believes the ED’s changes run afoul of federal and state laws, and that Title IX refers to biological sex, which is “an immutable characteristic that cannot be changed, fluid, or altered.” The resolution says that the ED’s unlawful attempt to change the definition would have disastrous emotional and safety impacts to girls and women.

Therefore, the document resolves that “sex” is determined at birth and is an immutable characteristic that cannot be changed, fluid, or altered; commits to protecting female sports and ensuring the safety, privacy, and protection of all students, acknowledging the importance of single-sex facilities.

Finally, the board values and condones the numerous legal challenges to ED’s rule changes to Title IX and commits to making no policy or procedural changes while legal challenges ensue.

Graham moved to approve the resolution; Vice President Lindsay Clinton seconded it, and without discussion, the board passed the resolution unanimously.

Finance update

Acting Chief Financial Officer Glenn Gustafson reported that D38 had unexpectedly qualified for a state mill levy override matching program, which yielded an additional $30,000 for MA.

Gustafson said he had convinced MA’s auditor not to accrue the cost of seeking the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is supposed to process applications within six months, but it’s taking a long time due to concerns about program fraud. Some entities are suing the IRS due to the delay.

Gustafson said the payroll system he inherited has a mix of pay dates for employees, but he decided to get everyone synced up to the end of the month for payment. He is also moving the pay date to the 26th to align with payments to MA from D38. Some staff will see a double paycheck initially. That will not incur an additional expense but will simply reduce the liability accrual. Gustafson said he had made a lot of fixes and would be communicating and reminding staff of this change.

Committee assignments

The board agreed to add a separate East Campus curriculum committee, similar to the separate School Advisory and Accountability (SAAC) committees, and stand down the Human Resources committee. The board discussed and agreed upon the following committee assignments for board members:

  • Highway 105 – Graham; the project should end in about a month.
  • Curriculum West – Emily Belisle.
  • Curriculum East – Clinton.
  • SAAC West – Matt Ross.
  • SAAC East – Jelinda Dygert.
  • Governance – Karen Hoida, Belisle.
  • Finance – Craig Carle, Graham.
  • Building and Facilities – Hoida, Graham.
  • Resource Development Committee – Carle, Clinton.

Highlights

Board meeting highlights include:

  • Graham reported that curbs and gutters were installed on the new road on the south side of the West Campus and that Executive Director Collin Vinchattle and Principal Kurt Walker would communicate the new plan for the car line.
  • Clinton reported on the SAAC East recommendations, noting that two new questions about summer workbooks were added to the survey, but only 60 responses were received. SAAC East recommended the board continue to think outside the box regarding electives, school spirit, and streamlining communication.
  • Registrar Lena Gross reported on enrollment, including retention numbers, noting that exit interview data was pending. Kindergarten enrollment is slightly down, she said, due to the birth rate and the impact of universal preschool in the state. Gustafson noted the preschool fund would have a loss and should be reviewed for viability during the mid-year budget discussion.
  • Hoida reported that the Governance Committee was working on the library policy and expected to have a draft by the next board meeting.
  • The board unanimously approved removing leggings as approved wear for free dress days.
  • The board unanimously approved minor formatting changes to the staff handbook.
  • After discussion, the board unanimously approved Vinchattle’s request to modify MA’s graduation requirements to provide additional state-approved options for math. He noted that MA would still require students to pass the capstone requirement.
  • The board unanimously approved using $1,000 in board funds to put on a Staff Breakfast on Aug. 6.

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The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month.

The next regular board meeting will be on Thursday, Aug. 8, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. For more information, visit bit.ly/ma-boe.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

Other Monument Academy (MA) articles

Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, June 17 – Board approves budget, discusses real estate options

By Harriet Halbig

The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education held a public hearing before its June 17 regular meeting to offer the public the chance to comment on the proposed budget before the vote.

Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway offered an overview of the budget, explaining that revenue for the district comes from various sources including funds from a 1999 Mill Levy Override (MLO), per pupil operating revenue (PPOR) from the state, cash in the general fund, and funding from local and federal sources such as grants, nutrition services, and special education funding.

The Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR) requires that the district also maintain a 3% separate fund.

Ridgway said he tries to present a balanced budget at the beginning of each year, but changes can be made during the year due to unforeseen events.

He said that due to Senate Bill 2024-017, there is an additional $8.5 million to work with. This funding has been designated to create a center for Career and Technical Education (CTE). The site for this center has been approved for purchase and public forums to collect information on priorities and potential use are planned.

This $8.5 million has been placed in a separate capacity fund along with $2 million available funding for a total of $10.5 million.

For details on this project, please see the June issue of OCN.

Ridgway said it is important to understand the source of all district revenue and presented detailed pie charts to demonstrate this. Please see boarddocs on the lewispalmer.org website under the Board of Education to view these charts.

Ridgway said although there has been a large increase in property taxes this year, that does not translate to a larger amount coming to the district. Instead, it means that the portion of funding provided by local sources is increased while the portion provided by the state decreased.

Regarding student count, Ridgway said that student count numbers have remained stable over the past few years. Although there is a great deal of construction underway in the area, it is too soon to see how many students will move to the area.

Taking all information into account, Ridgway estimates an additional 6.2% in revenue for the coming year. Considering that 80% of the district’s expenditures involve compensation and benefits, this would translate to a potential increase in compensation of an average of 6%.

Ridgway also explained that the MLO passed in 1999 provides $4 million per year which, when adjusted for inflation, now would equal about $2.4 million.

Monument Academy’s board has approved its budget, but the D38 board must also do so as the chartering entity.

There were no public comments.

Recognitions

The board recognized Monument Hill Kiwanis for its Stars of Tomorrow Talent Show, offering performing arts students the opportunity to perform in front of an audience. Third-place winner in the high school division Rowan Vaughn spoke of the value of this experience and performed her award-winning song. She also sang the national anthem at the beginning of the meeting.

Above: After Rowan Vaughn sang her third-place winning piece from the Stars of Tomorrow competition, the board heard a presentation on the Stars of Tomorrow contest from Monument Hill Kiwanian Rich Strom. The competition took place on Sunday, March 17, at Palmer Ridge High School as an opportunity for elementary, middle, and high school students to perform before an audience and judges to receive feedback on their performances. Contestants sang, performed drama pieces, played musical instruments, and did dance and comedy routines. Auditions were held with 58 applicants of which 20 were selected to perform before an audience of 400. From left are D38 board members Todd Brown, Ron Schwarz, Dr. Patti Shank, and Kris Norris, Monument Hill Kiwanian Strom, Acting D38 Superintendent Amber Whetstine, Kiwanis President Scott Ross, Bill Kaelin, Vaughn, and Max Williams. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Kiwanis President Scott Ross thanked the board for their support and partnership and showed a video of the auditions for this year’s contest.

Above: Director of Planning for D38 Melissa Andrews introduced President and Chief Executive Officer Jason DeaBuenno, Director of Healthcare Integrations and Strategy Adrienne Timmons and Tri-Lakes Program Manager Sue Walker, all of Silver Key Senior Services, formerly known as the Silver Alliance, which has had a long partnership with D38. In June 2022 it moved into the Grace Best building, remodeled a wing of the building, and have provided a variety of services for seniors in the area. DeaBuenno thanked the Kiwanis and said he was inspired to consider a talent contest for older adults in the community. He also expressed his thanks to the district for allowing Silver Key to use the Grace Best facility. Silver Key’s commitment is to have a long-term standing in the community. Walker has been part of Tri-Lakes Senior Center for over eight years. She has been in the district since 1995, and her two girls went through the school system, which she called an excellent district. She thanked the maintenance department, the building manager, and Administrative Assistant Vicki Wood for their support. Timmons said her role is to bring resources to the center and has felt well-embraced in the school district. She encouraged the board to stop by the center. From left are board members Ron Schwarz, Dr. Patti Shank, and DeaBuenno, Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine, Walker, D38 board member Todd Brown, Timmons, and board member Kris Norris. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

The board also recognized Silver Key Senior Services for its activities in the district. Silver Key President Jason DiaBueno thanked the district for its partnership and the use of part of Grace Best Education Center for the new area Senior Center. He also introduced other members of the Silver Key administration.

Budget approved

The board approved the 2024-25 budget as presented.

Real estate discussion

Ridgway and Director of Planning, Facilities and Grounds Melissa Andrews presented a map and explanation of a recent surveying of the district’s property between Second Street and Santa Fe Avenue and between Jefferson Street and Adams Street in Monument.

Ridgway explained that the board had requested this action to determine whether there was a way to subdivide the property and sell portions of it for other uses. He said that there is a 2-acre site in the area which could be sold and still allow access to the bus barn area and playing fields. He said that Tri-Lakes Cares has expressed potential interest in this site.

Ridgway said the Town of Monument currently lacks an official planner and therefore any action would probably be delayed up to six months.

In the following board discussion, it was asked whether the surveying efforts could be applied in the future if a decision could not be reached at the meeting.

Ridgway said that the results of the survey would remain valid.

Director Todd Brown said he would prefer to wait until there is a potential buyer before proceeding. He suggested that Ridgway contact Tri-Lakes Cares on the board’s behalf.

Ridgway said the work thus far was intended to create a marketable parcel ready to act on. He wished to isolate Grace Best in the process due its service as the location of the Home School Enrichment Academy and to isolate the playing fields as they are maintained by the town.

He also said he did not want to combine the current enterprise center with Grace Best.

Ridgway agreed that he will contact Tri-Lakes Cares regarding its interest.

Palmer Ridge High School turf fields approved

Ridgway reported that the board has received a proposal from donors to fund the purchase of artificial turf for the football, baseball, track, and softball fields at Palmer Ridge High School.

These fields have posed a problem due to drainage issues causing muddy conditions. This has robbed teams of their practice time and prevented them from hosting games.

As owner of the property, the board must approve such action.

The board passed a resolution to accept the donation of funds for the purchase of turf.

The board approved a calendar of meeting dates for the 2024-25 school year. The meetings in January and February will be held on Tuesdays due to federal holidays on the third Monday.

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The Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education meets on the third Monday of the month at its learning center, 146 Jefferson St. in Monument. The board does not meet in July. The next meeting will be at 6 p.m. on Aug. 19.

Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethlbig@ocn.me.

Other Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education articles

Monument Academy School Board, June 13 – Board members sworn in, budget re-adopted

By Jackie Burhans

Monument Academy (MA) held its regular meeting in June to swear in board members and assign board positions, re-adopt the 2024-25 budget, approve the purchase of its East Campus modulars, and update policies.

Board members sworn in, positions assigned

Board President Ryan Graham swore in returning board member Lindsay Clinton and incoming board member Jelinda Dygert. Clinton’s second term and Dygert’s initial term begin on July 1. The board discussed, nominated, and confirmed members for the following positions:

  • President Ryan Graham
  • Vice President Lindsay Clinton
  • Treasurer Craig Carle
  • Secretary Jelina Dygert
Above: At the June board meeting, President Ryan Graham (not pictured) swore in returning board member Lindsay Clinton and incoming board member Jelinda Dygert, whose terms begin July 1. Clinton retains her position as board vice president, and Dygert will be the board secretary. Pictured are Clinton, left, and Dygert. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

2024-25 budget re-adopted

Acting Chief Financial Officer Glenn Gustafson requested that the board re-adopt the 2024-25 budget. This was not an amendment, he said, but a replacement for the budget they adopted last month. He said he had the final information on staffing for the Home School Enrichment program and wanted to appropriate the money to buy out the modular units. Finally, given that MA has adopted new health benefits he wanted to put the Health Reimbursement Agreement money into the right account. Although he had already posted the budget and submitted it to D38, he let Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway know there would be changes.

Graham made the three standard budget motions for appropriating funds, inter-fund borrowing, and using beginning balances, which the board unanimously approved.

Modular purchase

Gustafson noted that MA had entered into a lease agreement rather than a lease-purchase agreement for four modular units. The units are essential, he said, and are combined to make four classrooms. The lease conditions are not favorable, Gustafson noted, saying that the rental cost of $52,000 per year was significant and could increase annually and there was no option to buy. The space will always be used, he said, even after the expansion of the campus. After negotiations, he came to an agreement with the vendor to purchase the modular units for $175,000, which would take three years to pay off.

Graham said that when the lease was approved in 2022, it was supposed to be short-term while they refinanced to do the buildout, but that had not happened. Though he understands it’s a lot of money, even when MA breaks ground it would take 12-18 months to complete construction.

Gustafson said his goal was to cut a check in the first week of July so that MA would have no lease payments in FY24-25. The board unanimously approved the purchase of modulars.

Major Gifts and Corporate Sponsorships program

Executive Director Collin Vinchattle said he received a lot of feedback that the MA community would like to expand facilities, high school programs, and electives. He and Gustafson are working with the administration on a five-year capital improvement plan. He said that bond refinancing would not be able to cover all projects.

Vinchattle requested the board consider a donation coordinator position to focus on large gifts to MA. This person would reach out to donors, keep legacy donations moving forward, and possibly run a capital campaign. He noted that MA could consider different compensation structures from a percentage to a base salary plus percentage and the position could be evaluated semi-annually. He said things to consider include the initial cost, role clarification, definition of a major gift, and end goals.

Graham asked Vinchattle and Gustafson to explore this and bring back a proposal. He expressed appreciation for Operations Manager Jake Dicus and all he has done over the years and appreciates that these two roles would work collaboratively. Vinchattle said he would touch base with each board member to gather their input.

Highlights

Board meeting highlights include:

Above: At the June 13 MA School Board meeting, board member Craig Carle spotlighted outgoing interim Executive Director Kim McClelland. McClelland, who also serves as executive director of the New Summit Charter Academy, has served since the departure of Merlin Holmes. Carle thanked her for her steady leadership, saying she had left a legacy at Monument Academy. Board Vice President Lindsay Clinton joined Carle to present a certificate and gift to McClelland. From left are Clinton, McClelland, and Carle. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
  • Carle and the entire board recognized outgoing interim Executive Director Kim McClelland. Carle presented McClelland with a certificate and gift. McClelland thanked the board for the opportunity to serve in her own backyard.
  • Vinchattle reported on the excitement of the first graduation from Monument Academy’s East Campus, which included 21 high school students. He noted that it was a beautiful day on the school’s front lawn, with speeches by Graham and valedictorian Scott Kohlhase.
  • Vinchattle reported that the secondary school administrative team was in place with Angela Duca as principal and Jessie Davis as assistant principal.
  • The board approved changes to Policy 1500B Executive Director to update the position title, noting it would not be renumbering the policy. It also approved Policy 1500C Chief Financial Officer, removing the information on procurement, which has been moved to a separate policy.
  • Finance Director Laura Polen presented the April financials, highlighting three streams of revenue that are still outstanding. She reviewed expenses and revenues highlighting the general fund, bond repayment funds for each campus, and the student activity fund.
  • Graham confirmed that construction on Highway 105 and around the West Campus should be completed by the time school starts in August. However, construction on Highway 105 itself will continue.
  • The board unanimously approved a resolution to change the authorized signatures for its ColoTrust account to add Polen. It also approved signature authorizations for its Integrity Bank accounts to add Polen and Business Manager Diane Smith.
  • The board unanimously approved a contract with Gustafson as interim CFO for fiscal year 24-25.
  • The board unanimously approved a contract with the Monument Police Department for school resource officers with a small price increase and other changes to reflect the makeup of each campus.
  • Vinchattle asked to delay the vote on the MA/D38 contract until the July board meeting to give him more time to review the contract since he was new in his position. The board agreed to wait for the vote.
  • The board voted unanimously to approve a contract with All Copiers, its current company, upon the recommendation of Dicus based on the negotiated cost per copy and the relationship established with the company.
  • The MA board will hold a retreat on July 12 at 9 a.m. in the Platinum Group conference room.

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The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. The next regular board meeting will be on Thursday, July 11, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. For more information, visit bit.ly/ma-boe.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

Other Monument Academy articles

Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, May 20 – Board approves purchase of property for use in Career and Technical Education programs

By Harriet Halbig

The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education discussed and approved a contract to purchase a structure at 1200 Synthes Avenue in Monument and the adjoining unimproved lot to create a facility for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming. This concept has been under discussion for over a year.

Currently a small structure near Grace Best Education Center is being used for this purpose.

As proposed, the existing concrete warehouse structure will be reconfigured for this new use. Because there is sufficient electrical capability and compressors are present, the primary design changes will be largely architectural. It was also determined that a second interior level could be added later if needed. The adjoining lot could be used for parking or future expansion.

The purchase includes the requirement of professional inspection of the property and the hiring of architectural and contracting consultants.

At its special meeting on May 24, the board discussed ways to include the community in making decisions about the property. There will be a meeting on June 20 to encourage community members to participate in a task force regarding the project. At that time a survey will be created to be circulated to the community.

In discussing the source of funding for the project, Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway reported that as a result of the passage of Senate Bill 24-017, the district has acquired the one-time use of $8.3 million in additional revenue. In addition, there is more than $2 million in a fund deriving from cash in lieu of land from developers.

It was estimated that if the district were to build a new structure it would delay implementation by three to four years.

Because the $8.3 million is a one-time revenue, it could not be used for salary increases as it would not be sustainable. This decision also makes it unnecessary to approach the community for a mill levy override or bond funding for the project. It is therefore hoped that the facility could be in use as soon as the 2025-26 school year.

The district heard a presentation by Tatiana Bailey, executive director of the nonprofit Data-Driven Economic Strategies, regarding the present and future workforce. Bailey listed the most-needed skills in the workforce and which of these were well adapted to high schools, such as various computer software. This information could help inform planning for the new facility.

Programming in the building would include carpentry, technical skills, and business management. Students would be able to create and manage small businesses independently to do such things as manufacture T-shirts, trophies, and other items. Other programs will be offered that would result in certification in various areas.

Many other districts in the state offer comparable programs.

Generally, students would spend half of their day at this site and the remainder at Lewis-Palmer or Palmer Ridge High School.

Non-academic fees for 2024-25 approved

Ridgway explained a list of non-academic fees for the upcoming schoolyear. These include fees for athletic, art, and music programs as well as transportation.

Ridgway explained that in creating the budget, all students contribute a certain amount to such fees as food service or transportation whether or not they use the service. Those who use the transportation service will be charged $265 per year or $50 for a punch-card entitling the holder to 20 rides.

To view the entire list of fees, please see the district website lewispalmer.org, go to boarddocs under the Board of Education tab and select the meeting date of May 20.

Approval of preliminary 2024-25 budget

Ridgway explained that the board is required to approve a budget for the upcoming school year by June 30.

He said he is working toward a budgeting process based on the individual student. This year, he is heading toward budgeting on a school-by-school basis. This spring, he circulated a form to all schools asking their funding priorities. The effort was not entirely successful as members of building advisory committees felt that principals should determine priorities. It is hoped that next year the concept will be more acceptable.

One point made by Ridgway in explaining the general source of revenue is that, although individuals are paying more in property taxes this year, the additional funds will not go to local schools. Instead it will reduce the amount the state contributes to funding.

He continues to estimate that the increase in funding will be about 6% for the coming year.

To view the details of the budget, please refer to boarddocs as explained above.

Staff and student recognitions

The board heard a presentation from the Bearbotics robotics team about how it is configured. The program is growing, and a student representative said that the team could use more space for its practices and manufacturing of robots. He said that of the 11 graduating seniors, 10 have chosen to major in engineering, demonstrating the value of the program,

Above: At the May 20 D38 Board of Education meeting, student representatives and coaches from the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and FIRST Robotics Challenge (FRC) team displayed their robot and spoke about program activities. The team, which works out of the Grace Best Education Facility, explained the program and its space constraints and thanked the board for its support. Bearbotics is an experiential learning program for STEM-focused students. Students build complex robots using the latest design and fabrication tools and compete with them. The FTC program helps students develop core robotics skills quickly for students in grades 9-10. FRC offers maximum challenge and skill building, especially for engineering and related fields. For more information on Bearbotics, see https://bearbotics4068. monumentalimpact.org/. For more information on the FIRST Robotics organization, see: https://www.firstinspires.org/. From left: Board President Tiffiney Upchurch, retiring coach Mike Hinkle, Alex Epstein, Aaron Weeks, Vaughn Slivka, Mikayla Middleton, head coach Matt Middleton, Daniel Bloomfield, and assistant coach Eric VanDenHoek. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Sixth-grade science teacher Val DeLello of Bear Creek Elementary School reported on the participation of nine of her students in the recent Pikes Peak Regional Science and Engineering Fair. DeLello received an award in Teaching Excellence in Elementary Education. This is a state award from the Colorado Association of Science Teachers.

Above: Bear Creek Elementary School Principal Donnell Potter introduced sixth-grade science teacher Val DeLello for special recognition. DeLello was recently honored as the recipient of the 2023-24 AVS Teaching Award for Excellence in Elementary Science Education. This state award, sponsored by the Colorado Association of Science Teachers organization, is awarded annually to a community-nominated teacher who demonstrates exemplary science teaching talents and accomplishments. DeLello, STEM committee chair, organizes the STEM night and the school science fair. She noted nine sixth-grade students participated in the spring Pikes Peak Regional Science and Engineering Fair at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS). She expressed her amazement at the students’ dedication and hard work and thanked the parents who supported them. Three of the students were able to attend the meeting. From left are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, Ben Bloomfield, Aiden Light, Justin Beasley, Potter, and DeLello. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine recognized Lewis-Palmer High School tutors Larry Bryant, Dave Cantwell, Ton Koehler, and Tony Saglembeni for their many hours of service.

Above: Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine called on Lewis-Palmer High School (LPHS) Dean of Students Stacy Roshek, and math teacher Molly Ketchell to facilitate special recognition of several community members who have served as math tutors at LPHS during the 2023-24 school year. Roshek said that a study hall teacher had reached out to Monument Math Tutors to see if they could collaborate. They engaged and began providing math tutoring for Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. The community members—Larry Bryant, Dave Cantwell, Mary Koehler, Tom Koehler, and Tony Saglembeni—dedicated over 400 hours to LPHS students. They achieved measurable results, improving scores by 8% to 50%, improving student engagement, and stretching the capacity of high achievers. From left are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine, Koehler, Ketchell, Cantwell, Bryant, Saglembeni, and Roshek. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

D38 Secondary Program Coordinator Jessica McAllister was one of five national recipients of the You Science Innovative Educator Award. She was recognized for her entrepreneurial leadership and forward-thinking approach to integrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) with academic programs. McAllister led in the renovation of an existing building featuring carpentry classes and rallied community support to create space for student-run businesses.

Above: Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine introduced Jessica McAllister, D38 Secondary Programs coordinator, for special recognition and congratulations for winning the YouScience Innovative Educator Award. This award celebrates educators implementing innovative approaches to empower the next generation of professionals through academic and career exploration. In its press release, YouScience noted McAllister’s 23 years working in education and her spearheading innovative practices to support students in finding their passions and preparing for future careers. Under her leadership, encompassing three district-operated secondary schools, the district has embraced innovative programs to elevate career and college readiness, work-based learning opportunities, and community partnerships. From left are board President Upchurch, McAllister, and Whetstine. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: Outgoing chairperson Holly Rollins presented the annual D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) update to the Board of Education. Rollins said that the PCAC encourages community engagement, gives input into the board’s strategic plan priorities, shares information, and seeks feedback on district offerings. PCAC focused primarily on its advisory functions this past year, with each meeting focusing on a strategic priority at a different school across the district. PCAC had representation from the school board, administration, parents, staff, and community members. Rollins announced Renee Butler as the new PCAC chair for the 2024-25 school year, with Kirsten Zook as co-chair. Zook presented a year-end report on behalf of the Financial Transparency Committee (FTC), a subcommittee of the PCAC. Zook said the FTC’s goal was to solicit input on the budget from individual schools, to better understand revenue sources, analyze areas of strategic importance, and foster buy-in and understanding of budgets with staff, parents, and the community. Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine and board President Tiffiney Upchurch presented flowers to Rollins, thanking her for her two-year tenure as PCAC chair. From left: Whetstine, Rollins, Upchurch. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Parent and Community Advisory Committee annual report

Outgoing co-chair Holly Rollins reported on the activities of the Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) in the past year.

Rollins said that she strove to emphasize the advisory capacity of the group by having interactive meetings which encouraged maximum participation by members.

Goals of the committee are to maximize community engagement, provide input on implementation of the board’s strategic plan, and seek feedback about schools and programs.

The group has several subcommittees including the Financial Transparency Committee, the Staff Collaboration Committee, the Special Education Advisory Committee, the Gifted Education Leadership Team, the Wellness Committee and the Calendar task force. Each of these reports at each PCAC meeting.

Primary activities of the committee in the past year included monitoring school performance, developing the Portrait of a Graduate and Portrait of an Educator, developing the Consent Task Force, participating in the formation of the D38 Foundation, analyzing results of a survey, and monitoring CTE initiatives.

In the coming year, the committee will further encourage parent involvement in committee activities, continue to include Monument Academy in meetings, and participate in reviewing the application for a new charter school in the district, the World Compass Academy Charter.

Human Resources update

Director of Human Resources Alicia Welch reported on activities in her department, including new hires, vacancies, and internal transfers.

Welch said that hiring is going much better than it did the past year with a turnover of about 8%. She said she endeavors to provide good customer service to all employees by responding promptly to any concerns and added the use of the exit interview to determine the reasons why employees leave the district and how conditions can be improved.

For details, please see boarddocs for the May 20 meeting in the lewispalmer.org website under Board of Education.

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The Lewis-Palmer D 38 Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of each month in its learning center at 146 Jefferson St., Monument. The next meeting will be on June 17.

Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.

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