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OCN > 2503 > D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, Feb. 11 – Selection of new superintendent, treatment of Grace Best Elementary School, budget process discussed

D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, Feb. 11 – Selection of new superintendent, treatment of Grace Best Elementary School, budget process discussed

By Harriet Halbig

The Lewis-Palmer D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) discussed the process for selecting a new superintendent, actions on the disposition of Grace Best Elementary School, and the budget process during its Feb. 11 meeting.

In her report to the committee, Board of Education liaison Dr. Patti Shank reported the board accepted the resignation of Superintendent Stacie Datteri at its Jan. 21 meeting. The reason stated in her letter was that working relationships had not developed as hoped. The resignation letter and separation agreement can be found in boarddocs accessible through the district’s website, lewispalmer.org, Look under the consent agenda for the Jan. 21 meeting.

Datteri served as superintendent beginning in April 2024. Members of PCAC said they were frustrated that the interview process did not select a more suitable individual, and some commented that the board should have selected one of two internal candidates for the position.

The board has designated Amber Whetstine as the interim superintendent until June 30.

Discussions in the near future will include what members of the board can and cannot discuss regarding the process and timelines for the process including consultations with building leaders, teachers, parents, and community members. The board also needs to consider whether to use the same search firm (which would be without cost), select a new one, or promote the interim superintendent to the permanent position of superintendent.

Shank said that if there were any questions about the process, individuals should contact her or other board members directly.

Grace Best Elementary School report

Shank also reported on progress involving the impact of demolishing Grace Best Elementary School. In deciding to demolish the building, the board considered several options: whether to demolish part of the building (built before 1988), to continue to support the building which would involve continuing to pay for utilities and maintenance, or to demolish the building and reuse or sell the site.

Because repair costs were prohibitive due to the age of the building and water damage and aged heating and other systems, it was decided that demolition would be the most practical option. Later in her report, Shank said that Tri-Lakes Cares has submitted a letter of intent to purchase 3 acres of district land on Beacon Lite Road just south of Bethesda Gardens.

As a consequence of the demolition, new facilities must be found for the Home School Enrichment Academy, the Transitions program, and Silver Key at the Tri-Lakes Senior Center. Because demolition is unlikely before the 2025-26 school year, efforts are underway to solve this issue. Temporary relocation is likely in the interim.

Budget presentation

Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway explained the annual timeline for creating a district budget. Steps in this process include:

  • November—Governor presents his proposed budget.
  • February—A projected student count is prepared based on consultation with staff and principals. Building Accountability Committees are asked to list priorities for spending.
  • March—Scenarios for pay changes are examined, and priorities for capital projects are determined.
  • April—Changes in student participation fees are projected in consultation with PCAC, the Financial Transparency Committee, and other resources.
  • May—A preliminary budget is presented to the board.
  • June—Board adopts complete budget.

Regarding consideration of pay changes, Ridgway said that the increase in per pupil funding is likely to be much smaller next year. The difference between 2023-24 and 2024-25 was over 6%. The difference between 2024-25 and 2025-26 is more likely to be 3%.

Ridgway also commented that the addition of the Career and Innovation Center will require a more conservative approach to budget development.

­Gordon Reichal said PCAC and the Financial Transparency Committee (FTC) have specific roles to advise the district on the budget. PCAC Co-chair Renee Butler said not every school is represented on the FTC, but all schools are represented in PCAC. She said information discussed at meetings needs to be better communicated to staff at buildings.

Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Board President Tiffiney Upchurch said there was a presentation on post-secondary education and the Transitions Program at the committee’s January meeting. The March meeting will feature a presentation from IN! Inclusive Higher Ed. The Aliorum Dei awards nominations to honor people who play a role in the life of special-needs individuals opened on Feb. 14.

The Graduation Requirements Task Force is discussing next steps and is working to get student feedback.

The Arts Education Task Force met virtually in January and is recommending that it be converted from a task force to a permanent committee.

The Gifted and Talented Leadership Committee is focused on discussing ways to meet state requirements, including an annual plan, budget, early access plans, and grant applications. A pilot program on creativity and leadership at Lewis-Palmer Middle School is also underway.

The Staff Collaborative Committee discussed upcoming changes in health insurance plans. The district currently offers four alternative plans. In the coming year they will offer three, with the selection based on staff input. An increase in cost is anticipated but it is not yet known how the increase will be shared between the district and staff. The anticipated increase in state funding for the district is 3%.

The Early Childhood Education Advisory Committee visited the preschool at Lewis-Palmer Elementary, reviewed recent Family Survey results, and discussed ways to elevate the Pre-K program.

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The Parent and Community Advisory Committee meets six times a year, usually on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. The next meeting will be on April 8 at Lewis-Palmer Middle School, 1776 Woodmoor Drive in Monument. For further information, contact tmckee@lewispalmer.org.

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

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