WEBVTT METADATA Video-Count: 1 Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=5sXktSOK4lM NOTE MEETING SECTIONS: Part 1 (Video ID: 5sXktSOK4lM): - 00:04:50: Call to Order, Pledge, and Agenda Approval - 00:07:21: Student Board Representative Reports on Accomplishments - 00:11:25: Recognition and Farewell to Student Board Representative - 00:23:50: Swearing In of the New Student Representative - 00:27:48: Recognition of Technology Leader Award Winner - 00:31:29: Outstanding Assistant Elementary School Principal Recognition - 00:33:56: Recognizing the Teachers of the Year - 00:39:14: Recognizing the Educational Support Professionals of the Year - 00:43:36: Recognizing District Retirees and Asthma Friendly School - 00:54:13: Public Comment: CPCD Partnership Appreciation - 00:59:12: Public Comment: Social Worker Contract Renewal Request - 01:02:06: Public Comment: School Counselor Position Elimination - 01:06:06: Approval of Board and Superintendent Consent Agendas - 01:07:48: Legislative Updates: School Finance Act Discussion - 01:14:16: Adjournment of the Board of Education Meeting Part: 1 1 00:04:50.960 --> 00:05:20.000 Good evening everyone. Say good evening back. No, wait a minute. I think for me. Good evening everyone. We want to welcome you to our board of education meeting. Today is May the 2 00:05:20.000 --> 00:05:36.440 14th, 2026. The time right now is 6:00 p.m. and we're going to go on ahead and do our call to order. So at this time, if Mrs. Aramid, if you could please do the roll call. 3 00:05:39.120 --> 00:05:55.759 Yes, ma'am. Miss Fraser >> here. >> Dr. Robinson, >> she will be late. >> Miss Tamayo >> here. >> Mrs. Wills Hill >> here. >> Mr. Williams >> here. >> Miss here. >> Mr. >> Here. Madam President, we have a quorum. 4 00:05:55.759 --> 00:06:33.520 >> Thank you so very much. Uh we are going on to item 1.2. It is the pledge of allegiance and the reading of the mission statement. So if you would join me in doing the plate at this time indivisible >> ask Mr. since this is his last time 5 00:06:33.520 --> 00:06:51.039 joining us on the dis if you would please read the mission statement for us. >> Yeah, of course. Um, graduate college and career students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors to personally succeed and contribute to the common good. 6 00:06:51.039 --> 00:07:05.599 >> Thank you very much. We're moving on to item two. Um, I just need a motion to approve the agenda. Madame President, I move to approve the agenda as stated. >> I motion to approve the agenda stated by 7 00:07:05.599 --> 00:07:21.360 Mr. Williams, second by Miss Frasier. All those in favor? I >> That was good. We have a meeting. They changed the So I have to hit it a little harder, but it's okay. All right. 8 00:07:21.360 --> 00:07:42.639 So, we are going on to item three, communicating with the board. And we have our 3.1 which is report from student board representatives. So at this time it is in your hands. Okay. My report short and sweet today. 9 00:07:42.639 --> 00:07:59.280 Um I think most of Sierra students are trying to get finals over with and get into summer. So there's not too much but achievements. So we did have some people make state for track. We had nine students for the 100, 200, 400, 4x, 100, 10 00:07:59.280 --> 00:08:27.520 4x200, 110 hurdles, unified 100, long jump, and shot putt. And then a senior at Sierra Aspen Mlan won the Sax Foundation scholarship. >> Yeah, there's And then seniors at Sierra High School 11 00:08:27.520 --> 00:08:49.600 were offered a total of over 10 million in potential scholarships. >> And then some new implements we have next year. Sierra will be having a schedule change where our advisory will be changing to seminar and it will no longer be in the beginning of the day 12 00:08:49.600 --> 00:09:06.000 but it will be after our first and fifth periods. And then we are also getting work done on our on our roof this summer. So no more leaks. And then upcoming events, um, like I said, next week we have 9th through 11th, um, grade finals, and then we are 13 00:09:06.000 --> 00:09:23.080 finishing up with AP tests, which have been going on since the beginning of May, and we will be wrapping those up next week. >> And where are you going? >> Um, and Sierra is sending two students and our principal to Boston for an AI conference. 14 00:09:29.920 --> 00:09:45.600 While I do not have like a correct direct report currently right now, but I could definitely say one beautiful thing is that graduation happened this May 12th and I would say the numbers are completely outstanding this year. I mean, principal over here mentioned that 15 00:09:45.600 --> 00:10:05.040 this was the biggest like senior graduating class of 255 students. And I'm pretty sure the graduating class size of the senior class of 2026 was 278. So, I think that's a great round of applause right there. And off the ballpark is one of the most 16 00:10:05.040 --> 00:10:25.120 important things I will have to say is that our scholarship amount for the class of 2026 is something that can just I hope it can get beaten, but this is going to take a while for it to be beaten. And I'm going to say this out because this is the exact number 10,176,682 and and I repeat 10,16,682. 17 00:10:25.120 --> 00:10:44.000 So that's another round of applause right there. In general, it was just very awesome to be part of the class of 2026 just seeing these outstanding numbers in general because we put in all the effort and we exemplify to the full brightest full 18 00:10:44.000 --> 00:10:59.360 potential and the class of 2026 will keep on doing amazing things especially with our D2 promise. So, >> Aiden, what about the award? >> I speaking of best and brightest, I was labeled I was labeled the Gazette best 19 00:10:59.360 --> 00:11:25.600 and brightest, which selects 20 seniors in the city of Coral Springs very much. Um we um have Mr. Vargas here and principal Vargas here 20 00:11:25.600 --> 00:11:40.000 going to ask you to come up to the podium because we are um on this evening we're recognizing um our student board representative Mr. Agodin Gyos. This is going to be his last evening on the dis and 21 00:11:40.000 --> 00:11:57.079 you can see what quality that he brought to the board on a different level for student board representatives. But before we have our say, we're going to allow you the space, sir, at this time. Please try to 22 00:11:58.560 --> 00:12:12.720 It's okay. >> Test Aiden. I remember two and a half years ago when you were coming in as a sophomore and you were standing right here and and uh um how proud I was. I felt like a proud dad and and as you're 23 00:12:12.720 --> 00:12:29.279 exiting um I feel like a proud dad. And um I told you when you were sitting in my office that um I truly truly believe that someday you're going to be our president of the United States. And I I there is no doubt in my mind that 20 years from now you're gonna call me. I'm 24 00:12:29.279 --> 00:12:56.959 going to be sitting on my porch and got to sit and looking at my mountain and you're going to say, "Pete, I'm the president of the United States." And if nobody told you today that they loved you, I do. So, at this time, um, we're going to allow space for board members. If you 25 00:12:56.959 --> 00:13:15.360 would like to, um, say anything to, um, Mr. Gigos, you have the space to do so at this time. I'll kick it off. There are not many students who come into interviews of student board rep at 26 00:13:15.360 --> 00:13:30.560 the beginning or at the end of the previous year and say, "I'm going to be the student board rep and I'm going to be the validictorian." And then accomplish both goals. This kid has shined at Casby, at the 27 00:13:30.560 --> 00:13:48.600 state. It is hard to It is hard to not see you sitting here and you you shine and I hope you continue to shine and I hope you don't ever dimin your light. 28 00:13:54.399 --> 00:14:09.360 I remember Aiden, we were all up in Denver and he was with a group of students, but I remember we were at the Colorado Association of School Boards and I heard 29 00:14:09.360 --> 00:14:27.519 him speak. I observed him just taking the reigns and leading students not from Harrison but also from Littleton from other school districts. And I came back and I said to Mr. Vargas 30 00:14:27.519 --> 00:14:46.240 I said we have got to get Aiden Gyos as our student board rep. Then we went up to the capital and I had an epiphany. He was standing behind the dis where the speaker of the house 31 00:14:46.240 --> 00:15:03.040 stands and I said he's going to be there. That's his Aiden is going to get into government and he's going to lead this state or this nation or somewhere. So Aiden, I'm 32 00:15:03.040 --> 00:15:24.000 going to miss you tremendously. You have added so much to this board and I thank you and I love you. >> Aiden, um I've only known you since November. Um but I have to say I'm so 33 00:15:24.000 --> 00:15:42.240 impressed and um I understand you have to go but from the time that we have worked together I so admire your passion your continuation of excellence and I look forward to the work and the journey that that you are starting uh here and 34 00:15:42.240 --> 00:15:56.800 it it fills me with such warmth and pride to know that this district that you have been here that you have changed us all and that your work and your passion and your legacy will continue to remain with us 35 00:15:56.800 --> 00:16:19.920 here. So, thank you so much. It has been an honor serving this student representative position with you. Everything you say, every time you speak out board meetings, when you lead, you just do it with such passion. You can just tell that you love what you do and like this is what you're meant to do in life. And I just know that that's 36 00:16:19.920 --> 00:16:41.120 going to take you so far. and I'm so proud of everything you've done and I'm so excited to see the things you accomplish in your future. I think it's this same um Casby event and we met for dinner at the seafood 37 00:16:41.120 --> 00:16:57.440 place and I observed that Aiden really wasn't associating, if you will, with his peers. He seemed to come and find board members and Yeah. And the legislators, too. 38 00:16:57.440 --> 00:17:14.240 He was like laser focused and asked for business cards and I'm like, who is this? But I had no idea who this was, but I now I know, right? And even that same uh I want to say it 39 00:17:14.240 --> 00:17:31.360 was a couple of years ago at the state legislature and I looked up and not only were you behind the dis and the speaker podium but you had the gavl in your hand and I I thought okay this is what we're working with here. I appreciate your 40 00:17:31.360 --> 00:17:49.200 level of excellence. Um, let's just say no one will fill your shoes and that's okay because everyone who steps into this role needs to make their own pathway. But thank you for being the example no matter where we go. He just 41 00:17:49.200 --> 00:18:14.320 always shined and we're just so proud of you and we wish you well and God speed in your next adventure in life. And I know we'll see you again. So, thank you for being you and doing you. So, I get to write a lot of letters of 42 00:18:14.320 --> 00:18:30.880 recommendation for students and probably the easiest I wrote. Um, you have to rate students on their top 5% of the class. He's in the top 0.009%. He is the top of anyone I've met in his position. If you don't know, Aiden helped me co-author a book. That's 43 00:18:30.880 --> 00:18:47.840 unusual for a high school senior. Um, and Aiden is known throughout the state and in a good way. And so when people see him, they see what D2 stands for. And that just makes me so proud. He's also the person I can text and be like, "Hey, is there going to be a walk out today? What's going on? Get the 411." 44 00:18:47.840 --> 00:19:04.240 And he'll talk to people. He doesn't care. And people tell him what's going on so we can address it. He's also the person I can text and say, "Hey, this bill is coming up. Tell me what it's going to do to students." And he'll go testify. He's testified at city council. He's testified at the education committee and the house and senate. He 45 00:19:04.240 --> 00:19:20.880 is just out there for the kids. And I couldn't go to Casby this year, but Aiden apparently spoke and said some things because I got he didn't introduce where he was from. And I got texts from multiple superintendents saying he has to be a D2 kid. He has to be a Duke kid. From what he's saying, he has to be one 46 00:19:20.880 --> 00:19:36.240 of yours. And then he ended with where he's from. Aiden just exhibits what we are about in D2. And what I love most about you, you're brilliant, your intellect, your drive. You applied for every scholarship as you should, but you care about other people more than you care about yourself. You care about them 47 00:19:36.240 --> 00:19:52.080 having food security. You care about them being safe when they go to school. And that matters. And what I love is you're going to go to Denver, go to school, that's fine, but you're going to come back and make a difference in your community. And we need you. We've always needed you. And I love you for that. And 48 00:19:52.080 --> 00:20:19.200 thank your family for allowing us to get to know you and for having the time with you. Well, do you want to say something? >> I don't know. I should speak out speech. I'm just kidding. Well, it's been amazing. I mean, my 12 49 00:20:19.200 --> 00:20:37.280 years in D2, I moved from D2 a couple times, but I immediately came back to D2 because I realized this is my permanent home. This is a second family here in the board. I just can go to anybody here and always ask them for anything because they're in full support because we are a 50 00:20:37.280 --> 00:20:52.960 family together who will pay it forward no matter what. We are strong. We're always D2 proud here. I'm just extremely extremely incredibly just yeah three agit right there. I just have to say I'm just 51 00:20:52.960 --> 00:21:08.559 so happy to be here and me exemplifying my leadership is that D2 was able to make me the leader who I wanted to be and in the future it's not a goodbye but it is a see you later because the most beautiful thing about this is that every 52 00:21:08.559 --> 00:21:25.440 single person in this room is also a leader too and I'm willing to see that in you because I care so much about everybody in this room and I'm willing to make sure my empathy becomes my number one priority. when I become a leader in the government in the future. So, thank you all for being here and thank you for the board for always being 53 00:21:25.440 --> 00:21:48.720 there for me whenever I need it and I'm always willing to pay it forward. So, contact me at any time because it's just a see you later. So, we are going to take some pictures. It is the first of many pictures that we'll be taking. So, don't be like, "Are 54 00:21:48.720 --> 00:23:50.960 they getting up again?" Yes, we are. There's a lot of pictures. Okay. So, let's join you on the front. Changing of the guard. We're ate 3.2. It is the seating of the new student board representative, Miss Lauren 55 00:23:50.960 --> 00:25:13.840 Cordova. We are going to swear you in if you will join me right here. after me. I >> commit to representing the voices >> commit to representing the voices >> and perspectives >> and perspectives 56 00:25:13.840 --> 00:25:29.840 >> of all students in D2 >> of all students in D2 >> and do solemnly swear >> and do solemnly swear >> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> perform all duties >> perform all duties >> of a student board representative >> of a student board representative 57 00:25:29.840 --> 00:25:49.760 >> as stated by board policy governance >> as stated as board policy of governance Culture exhibit to E. >> Culture exhibit to E. Congratulations. >> Thank you so much. >> No, 58 00:25:49.760 --> 00:26:48.640 you're coming up here. of those you were wondering how we got to today. Um we do have a very structured process for selection of board representatives. They would be rising um juniors. So at the towards the 59 00:26:48.640 --> 00:27:03.679 end of their sophomore year and we do go through a recommendation process through their principles and staff at their schools. Um we do do interviews with them to let them know the expectations 60 00:27:03.679 --> 00:27:20.559 and the roles and then um we do after the interviews is when we selected the board. Um and so this year um we want to welcome Miss Amy or Miss Lauren Cordova, not Amy, Lauren Cordova. So 61 00:27:20.559 --> 00:27:48.480 congratulations to you. >> Um did you have family here? Did you have family here? >> Oh no. >> Okay. >> Just Brandon. Just Brandon. >> Okay. >> Well, we're your family. 62 00:27:48.480 --> 00:28:05.760 >> Another time we will catch you for a picture. How's that? All right. So, we are moving on to item 3.4. It is recognition of the 2026 Dan May technology leader award winner. We have 63 00:28:05.760 --> 00:28:32.880 Mr. Dave Jarbo. Sorry. David Jarbo, director of instructional technology and steam for Harrison School District 2, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Kallet Dan Mays Technology Leadership Award. 64 00:28:32.880 --> 00:28:47.840 This honor recognizes his visionary leadership and commitment to educational technology in Colorado. Mr. Jarbo has been deeply involved in Kallet serving on the board including presidentelect 2023 2024 65 00:28:47.840 --> 00:29:04.080 president 2024 2025 and currently as past president 2025 20226. He has been a board member since 2020 and has offered support to for educators with his innovative tools and 66 00:29:04.080 --> 00:29:21.840 strategies. So, um, in recognition of this, we're going to present this to you from, uh, Case, Colorado Association of School Board Executives. It is the 2026 Dan Mays Technology Leader Award presented to 67 00:29:21.840 --> 00:29:37.360 David Jarbo Harrison School District 2 director of instructional technology and esteem honoring honoring your visionary leadership, steadfast commitment to educational excellence and profound impact on the students, educators and 68 00:29:37.360 --> 00:31:20.840 communities you serve. Congratulations. Yes, sir. 3.5. Now we have recognition of the 2026 Colorado Outstanding Assistant Elementary School Principal of the Year, Miss Renee Dah. 69 00:31:29.200 --> 00:31:44.880 Mr. Renee Doll. She was selected for this award by the Colorado Association of Elementary School Principles, a department of the Colorado Association of School Executives. This annual award recognizes elementary assistant principles who demonstrate exceptional 70 00:31:44.880 --> 00:32:02.080 commitment to student success, instructional excellence, and school improvement. Miss has been with M Elementary since 2020, first serving as an interventionist. I think I heard someone clapping back there 71 00:32:02.080 --> 00:32:17.760 on what this recognition means to her. She says the small everyday actions matter. The conversations, the planning, the problem solving, the advocating, and knowing that they make a difference for our students and community means more to 72 00:32:17.760 --> 00:33:50.519 me than any title ever could. Congratulations to you. And we're taking a picture. Item 3.6. Now we are in recognition of teachers of the year. Well, this you can give them a hand too. 73 00:33:56.320 --> 00:34:13.520 Tonight, we are proud to recognize the exceptional educators selected as teachers of the year from each of our schools across Harrison School District 2. These individuals represent the very best of our profession. Educators who inspire curiosity, build strong 74 00:34:13.520 --> 00:34:29.800 relationships, and go above and beyond to support the success of every student they serve. At this time, we invite all of our teachers of the year to come forward as we recognize each one of them. and the schools they represent. 75 00:34:34.079 --> 00:35:15.440 I'm brickal Kimberly chrom pickall I'm sorry Gersonen Megan Russio A Monterey Victoria Claio Oak Creek Justin Megan Peterson Stratton Meadows Brooke 76 00:35:15.440 --> 00:35:33.040 Babcock Turman Kristen Walker Christina Walker Wildflower Hannah Ferris Carmel Zeb Vargas Mountain Vista Shannon Fitzgerald Sand Creek Crystal Everingham Saurin Eagles Khloe Sutton AOA Bren 77 00:35:33.040 --> 00:35:48.880 Arenda Sebastian Fox Meadow Becky Whistle Panorama Crystal Anelme Harrison Joselyn Garcia Figareroa and Sierra Rachel Sherat CRA Natalia Brenton 78 00:35:48.880 --> 00:36:09.240 for middle school and Lacy Rexroth for high school. Congratulations to all of them. And the uh and the teacher of the year for Harrison School District 2 was is Zeb Vargas. 79 00:38:41.280 --> 00:38:58.240 I did want to read one more thing. And while each of these educators is truly outstanding, the one that was selected again was Mr. Zeb Vargas from Carmel Community School as the D2 teacher of the year. For 13 years, Mr. Vargas has taught and inspired students to take on 80 00:38:58.240 --> 00:39:14.480 challenges in reading, math, and science. His colleagues say he has been a helpful teammate. Students say they've grown because of his dedication. And DT leadership believes he is one of the best teachers around. Again, congratulations and thank you for the 81 00:39:14.480 --> 00:39:47.599 impact you make every day. Next, we are recognition of educational support professionals of the year. Tonight we are proud to recognize the outstanding education support professionals from across Harrison School District 2 who have been selected 82 00:39:47.599 --> 00:40:04.160 by their schools. Our ESPs play an essential role in the success of our students and staff. Whether in the classroom, in the front office, or in support roles across our district, their dedication, care, and consistency help 83 00:40:04.160 --> 00:40:20.960 create the environments where students can learn and thrive every day. At this time, you have already made your way up here, so I don't have to say anything. So, um, at this time, Miss Norma, if you could read their names. 84 00:40:20.960 --> 00:40:35.040 >> Yes. From Bricker Elementary, Emma Clark. From Centennial, Christian Sierra from Gyerson, Justennena Miranda. from Monterey, Jamie Fernandez, 85 00:40:35.040 --> 00:40:51.520 Oak Creek, Taylor Beichchum, Otto, uh, Alexis Townsen, Stratton Meadows, Brandy Frink, Turman, Alicia Ghoul, Wildflower, Brandon Branch, Carmemell Day, Tuck, Mountain 86 00:40:51.520 --> 00:41:07.920 Vista, Kirstston Highfield, Sand Creek, Melissa Sales, Soaring Eagles, Christa Spans, uh, Fox Meadow, Alicia Hill, Panorama, Michaela Udder, uh, and Harrison High School, Brinkley 87 00:41:07.920 --> 00:41:40.079 Melo, and Sierra High School, Nichelli Goautier Delgado. >> And the and the Harrison School District 2 ESP of the year is Alexis Tanzent. Hey, Alexis, don't leave, but we're 88 00:41:40.079 --> 00:43:31.000 going to take a picture. It is an honor to recognize Alexis Townson from Otto Elementary School as the Harrison School District 2 ESP of the year. Congratulations and thank you for the impact you make every day. 89 00:43:36.960 --> 00:44:03.680 It is a night of recognitions. Next, we are going to recognize our retirees. Tonight, we are honored to recognize the dedicated individuals across Harrison School District 2 who are retiring this year. Each of these staff members has 90 00:44:03.680 --> 00:44:20.960 made a lasting impact on our students, our schools, and our community. Their work, whether in classrooms or in support roles, has helped shape the experiences and opportunities we provide every day. Collectively, they represent years of service, commitment, and care 91 00:44:20.960 --> 00:44:35.920 that cannot be measured in numbers alone. the relationships they've built and lives they've influenced will continue to be felt long after today. So on behalf of the board of education and the entire D2 community, we offer 92 00:44:35.920 --> 00:44:56.560 sincere thanks and wish each of our retirees all the best in the next chapter ahead. As we as I call out your name, please come and join us on the dis. Florina Aila, 93 00:44:56.560 --> 00:45:16.480 Spila Branch, Cassandra Ganet, James Hansen, Sherry Harris, Mary Harriet, Karen Hy, 94 00:45:16.480 --> 00:45:36.160 Sandy Hulcom, Gregory Hooks, Brian McRoberts, Ingred Morris, Linda Oatman, Ivonne Okra, Padilla, 95 00:45:36.160 --> 00:45:53.359 Ivonne Farra, Kathy Pennington, Katherine Richie, Rap, Anna Snap, Regina Stein, Charles Stevens, Teresa Thomas, 96 00:45:53.359 --> 00:46:59.200 Corina Vincent, Ivonne Ward. Congratulations and thank you all for your years of service with Harrison School District 2. And just a little bit, >> you all have retiree badges that will 97 00:46:59.200 --> 00:49:54.880 get you into any of the sporting events for uh around the district >> and they're good for the rest of your life. I promised it was a night of recognition. So, I have one more. We are proud to recognize San Creek 98 00:49:54.880 --> 00:50:21.359 International School for earning gold level recognition as a Colorado asthma friendly school for the 2025 2026 school year. This honor reflects a strong commitment to student health and safe learning 99 00:50:21.359 --> 00:50:36.720 environments, ensuring that students with asthma are supported as they can be present, engaged, and successful in school. We'd like to specifically acknowledge school nurse Aaron McGriel whose leadership made this recognition 100 00:50:36.720 --> 00:50:57.760 possible along with the staff and school community who support this work every day. Yeah, you can give him a hand. This recognition is especially meaningful as we observe asthma awareness month in May. Congratulations to San Creek International School on 101 00:50:57.760 --> 00:51:22.960 this outstanding achievements. Uh, don't go anywhere yet. Hold on. >> Yeah, let's just hold on one second. just can't just we're going to take a picture with the board and Miss Sherban if you would please 102 00:51:22.960 --> 00:54:13.680 come up because you're over the nurses. This That might all be around. >> That one was the most clear one though. All right. Someone could uh close that other door. 103 00:54:13.680 --> 00:54:36.079 Can >> you get that door? Thank you. We are now at uh item four, communicating with the board. 4.1 is public comment. Members of the public who desire to address the board on any topic related 104 00:54:36.079 --> 00:54:53.680 to board work are welcome to do so at this time. Speakers must limit their remarks to not more than three minutes and appoint a spokesperson if the concern is a group concern. Personal attacks will not be allowed. 105 00:54:53.680 --> 00:55:09.839 Focus on an individual by name and or position within the district will end a speaker's comment time period. The board will not respond to any public comment in substance. We will review the 106 00:55:09.839 --> 00:55:26.640 information presented and provide responses as needed at a later time. So at this time we have um our first speaker um and that is um Dr. Stacy Dary 107 00:55:26.640 --> 00:55:44.520 sorry she is from the CPCD partnership. So at this time the floor is yours. Thank you. Uh, Miss Norma will give you the time of three minutes. So, uh, whenever she tells you to begin, the floor is yours. 108 00:55:46.880 --> 00:56:02.240 All right. Thank you. Good evening. My name is Dr. Stacy Die and I am the chief executive officer at CPCD, giving children a head start. I'm joined tonight by CPCD senior director of family resources, Miss Donna Garcia, as 109 00:56:02.240 --> 00:56:17.440 well as our director of development, Miss Stephanie Samara. CPCD serves as El Paso County's local Head Start Provider, and we are proud to have more than 30 classrooms right here in District 2. I 110 00:56:17.440 --> 00:56:32.160 know CPCD stands for Community Partnership for Child Development. And while every word in our name matters, I'd like to place special emphasis tonight on the word partnership. Because the truth is, we cannot do this 111 00:56:32.160 --> 00:56:50.400 work alone. Our program's success is rooted in our relationships with the communities that we serve. Relationships that are strengthened by incredible partners like District 2. For nearly 40 years, your support has allowed CPCD to 112 00:56:50.400 --> 00:57:07.440 reach children and families during one of the most important stages of their lives. CPCD provides highquality early childhood services at no cost for the most at risk children in our community. And through our partnership, District 2 113 00:57:07.440 --> 00:57:22.640 provides classroom space for CPCD programs, helping create welcoming spaces where young learners can grow and explore and begin their educational journey. Currently, CPCD serves more than 500 114 00:57:22.640 --> 00:57:40.240 students each day across District 2. And while this may seem like just a simple figure, it truly represents something far more significant. It represents children discovering the joy of learning for the very first time. It represents families connecting to critical 115 00:57:40.240 --> 00:57:57.040 resources and it represents a stronger future for our entire community. Through our partnership with district 2, CPCD helps spark curiosity, nurture creativity, and inspire a lifelong love of learning in the children that we 116 00:57:57.040 --> 00:58:14.079 serve. Additionally, CPCD walks alongside parents and caregivers, empowering them to embrace their role as their child's first and foremost important teacher. Together, these programs create a transformation that strengthens families and makes our 117 00:58:14.079 --> 00:58:31.280 community stronger. >> When schools and organizations work together the way that CPCD and District 2 do, the impact extends far beyond the classroom. And I just want to thank you for the partnership that you've provided to CPCD to make this happen for so many 118 00:58:31.280 --> 00:58:47.440 years for so many children. Thank you. And I want to leave with this with you tonight. It is just a certificate of our appreciation just something small but just because we tr we truly value the partnership we have with all of you. So thank you. >> Perfect. 119 00:58:47.440 --> 00:59:12.720 >> Thank you. Thank you so very much. Thank you. Thank you so very much. We appreciate you. Um, next we have Heather Fannon. Um, the topic is contract renewal. So, 120 00:59:12.720 --> 00:59:29.760 at this time, if you would come to the podium to speak again, you have three minutes. And so if you could um wait for Miss Ramid to give you the start then you can go from there. Thank you. 121 00:59:29.760 --> 00:59:52.240 >> You may begin. >> Thank you. >> All right. Uh my name is Heather Fannon and I serve as a school social worker at Carmel Community School. I am here tonight to respectfully request your reconsideration of the recommendation of 122 00:59:52.240 --> 01:00:07.839 the non-renewal of my contract and to focus on my deep commitment to our students success. My practice is entirely driven by a desire to see uh students thrive. Sorry, I'm a little anxious. Um 123 01:00:07.839 --> 01:00:24.480 throughout this school year, my work has demonstrated consistent effectiveness across all professional standards, despite significant staffing shortages, navigating um a reduction from four full-time social emotional IEP service providers to just myself since October. 124 01:00:24.480 --> 01:00:41.280 Um, I have shown up every single day dedicated to delivering every single IEP service minute, managing crisis support uh with those students and maintaining total compliance for our building. My absolute priority is helping students succeed. Under my care, students have 125 01:00:41.280 --> 01:00:58.240 made meaningful, measurable progress toward their social emotional goals. I have watched them achieve a credible breakthroughs in emotional regulation, coping skills, self- advocacy. In fact, due to structured evidence-based interventions and the progress tracking si systems um that I've implemented, 126 01:00:58.240 --> 01:01:14.640 multiple students have success successfully met their goals and even exited services entirely to ensure our students receive the absolute best care. I am deeply committed to my own personal growth. I've completed over 130 hours of professional development to elevate my 127 01:01:14.640 --> 01:01:30.240 practice. I care deeply about our district, our families, and above all the children who rely on us for stability, connection, and emotional support. When you consider the full scope of my work, the documented student growth, my close collaboration with families, and my 128 01:01:30.240 --> 01:01:45.040 unwavering commitment to student outcomes, I respectfully believe a non-renewal recommendation does not reflect my true impact. My goal is simply to continue serving our students with integrity, professionalism, and care. I respectfully ask the board to consider 129 01:01:45.040 --> 01:02:06.880 this complete body of evidence and allow me to renew my contract for the 2026 2027 school year so I can continue helping our students succeed. Thank you guys for your time. >> Thank you so much. >> Next we have Courtney Williams 130 01:02:06.880 --> 01:02:22.720 and Kaylee Cox. I wanted to see if you're speaking on the same thing and if so we just need one representative. >> Um yes just different point of views but I can do that. 131 01:02:22.720 --> 01:02:43.599 >> Wait for Miss Ramiday please. >> Um good evening members of the board of education. My name is Courtney Williams. I'm a school counselor for Carmel. I'm speaking on the possible elimination of my position with the student health professional grant. From my understanding, it's the only position 132 01:02:43.599 --> 01:03:00.720 being cut from under the grant. I understand the difficult financial decisions districts are facing and I know grant funded positions can sometimes feel temporary on paper, but I'm asking you to look beyond the funding source and look at the actual student need that exists in our building 133 01:03:00.720 --> 01:03:19.520 every single day. This year alone, I document hundreds of student contracts ranging from contacts ranging from restorative conversations and social emotional support to crisis response, family concerns, attendance concerns, peer conflict mediation, 134 01:03:19.520 --> 01:03:36.480 safety concerns, advocacy, emergency interventions. And to be honest, those logs still do not fully capture the reality of this job. Many students stop me in the hallway before school, after school, during lunch, or between classes because they 135 01:03:36.480 --> 01:03:55.440 trust me. They come when they are overwhelmed, anxious, angry, struggling at home, dealing with conflict, or simply needing one safe adult to help them regulate and return to class ready to learn. In middle school, relationships are 136 01:03:55.440 --> 01:04:10.240 everything. Consistency and report. Students Consistency and report matter. Students do not open up overnight. Trust is built over months through daily interactions, check-ins, crisis support, SEO lessons, and being a steady adult presence. That is why ending this 137 01:04:10.240 --> 01:04:28.240 position and possibly with a temporary substitute while our elementary counselor is also out on paternity leave would create a major gap in support. Counseling is not just supervision or scheduling. Effective counseling depends on relationships, familiarity, and 138 01:04:28.240 --> 01:04:43.839 trust. Beyond direct counseling support, I also coordinate and lead our eighth grade web leaders. They organize school events. I teach SEO lessons, assist with risk assessments, threat assessments, support behavior interventions, and collaborate 139 01:04:43.839 --> 01:04:59.520 with staff and families to improve student outcomes. This work directly impacts school climate, student safety, attendance, emotional regulations, and academic success. There's also another important reality. The volume of student need already requires two middle school 140 01:04:59.520 --> 01:05:16.559 counselors. The other counselor in our building has experienced similar case load demands and frequency of student meetings. Eliminate eliminating one position does not eliminate student need. It simply shifts an unmanageable amount of crisis response and emotional support onto one person. 141 01:05:16.559 --> 01:05:34.720 Counselors often counselors are often the prevention before the crisis. I respectfully ask the board to view this position not as an extra but as an essential support system for students who rely on consistency, connection, and access to mental health and emotional support every single day. 142 01:05:34.720 --> 01:06:06.559 >> The grant may have started the position, but the need for the position did not end. >> Thank you so much. We are moving on to um item five. It is the board consent agenda. Um 5.1 is approval of minutes work 143 01:06:06.559 --> 01:06:23.760 session April 2nd, 2026 and board meeting April 16, 2026. Um all minutes are in draft until approved by the board of education. Um 5.2 OE2 superintendent emergency 144 01:06:23.760 --> 01:06:40.319 succession indicator report. Um that is May 14th 2026 and then OE13 facilities indicator report May 14th 2026. I just need a recommended motion 145 01:06:40.319 --> 01:06:56.480 please. Madame President, I move to approve the board consent agenda items as stated. >> Second. >> Motion to approve the board consent um agenda items as stated by Mr. Williams, second by Dr. Pam Robinson. All those in 146 01:06:56.480 --> 01:07:10.720 favor? >> I It's approved. Item six, it is the superintendent consent agenda. May 2025 personnel report and comparison 147 01:07:10.720 --> 01:07:27.359 report. I think that might be 26. Um 2025 and 2026 month-to-month comparison report dated 526. And I just need a recommended motion, please. Madame President, I move to approve the super superintendent consent 148 01:07:27.359 --> 01:07:48.640 agenda item as stated. Motion to approve the superintendent consent agenda items as stated by Mr. Williams, second by Dr. Pam Robinson. All those in favor? I >> approved. We are going to item seven, monitoring board performance. It is 7.1, 149 01:07:48.640 --> 01:08:04.480 the annual work plan. Do we have any changes or additions? >> No ma'am, just what you have there. >> Thank you. We're moving on to 7.2. It is 150 01:08:04.480 --> 01:08:20.480 legislative updates at this time. So, Miss Ar will come up with Gus and share the financial ones. That's the major one. Session ended last night. Um, and Miss Thompson, our legal counsel, will give you a thorough update by the end of the month of what's 151 01:08:20.480 --> 01:08:34.799 happened this legislative session. But, Mrice wants to share the financial stuff so we know where we stand. Good evening, um, Madame President, members of the board. Yes, the the major news in for the legislative session was the school 152 01:08:34.799 --> 01:08:54.239 finance act, Senate Bill 26, um-23, uh, ended up being more positive than we had initially hoped. Um, that came from much of the advocacy and work. Um last week um it was proposed that um uh that 153 01:08:54.239 --> 01:09:10.880 cuts be made based on the cost of living um of which El Paso County would have taken 73% of the cut and of that those cuts uh Harrison District 2 would have taken the most significant cut um equaling close to a million dollars. So 154 01:09:10.880 --> 01:09:26.880 thanks to the advocacy of our superintendent who is also um case president um quickly um quickly putting together um opposition to this the delayed that implementing that for at 155 01:09:26.880 --> 01:09:41.600 least a year. So that will be further debated um but we were able to dodge a bullet for lack of a better term. Um, statewide per pupil funding is set at $12,325 for the 2627 156 01:09:41.600 --> 01:09:58.800 school year, which is about $438 more per student in the current than this year. That is significant to us because the new funding formula that was created under House Bill 1448 moves us to a 30% implementation with now 157 01:09:58.800 --> 01:10:15.199 three-year averaging. We were at four-year averaging this year. We'll go to three-year averaging. As you know, this is what one was one of the major concerns that we advocated that we not go to one-year numbers. So, it will be at um three-year averaging for next 158 01:10:15.199 --> 01:10:31.600 year. This is not material uh to our budget in the sense that um our projected numbers still stand firm thanks to the work that was done um in the middle of the night last week. So, thank God. Um and so uh we move forward 159 01:10:31.600 --> 01:10:48.960 um as we had initially budgeted. We our numbers while not great will remain the same and won't get worse. Um and the the late surprises from the legisl legislature was that um uh that they 160 01:10:48.960 --> 01:11:04.400 will continue to delay this and discuss it next year. They will also uh continue to discuss the SOT tax. that is the tax that uh taxpayers pay on license plates um and other items uh which is in 161 01:11:04.400 --> 01:11:22.159 addition to the amount that they fund us per pupil and they're looking to cut that next year as well. So just quick update on where we were the big news this week was on the school finance act. >> I'll just add so last week 162 01:11:22.159 --> 01:11:39.840 um they were going to cut us a lot. Um Corey happened to be on vacation. I was in another district doing work. So Dr. Paige stepped up and helped navigate and get the numbers and share with the lobbyists. And so I just want to say this is the power of a team and everyone being willing to do what they needed to. 163 01:11:39.840 --> 01:11:56.400 Cory's on the east coast and I'm calling her midnight like got get up and tell me what the numbers are so Paige can give them to them. And with that voice they want to hear from Harrison because what they don't want to do is hurt one of the most impoverished districts. and what that was going to do. And then I would 164 01:11:56.400 --> 01:12:13.280 be remiss if I didn't let you know CDE ran the wrong numbers twice and so that delayed it for two days of what the numbers were going to be. CDE has now sent an email that they're going to do better basically and make sure they check their numbers. But in the middle of the end of the session is not the time to be running the wrong numbers. 165 01:12:13.280 --> 01:12:29.360 And this is why we want the school finance act to be in January, not May, because then we rush to get something through. And so, um, it's better than we would have projected, but it just means next year is going to be a bigger fight because the money is going to have to come from somewhere and the state budget 166 01:12:29.360 --> 01:12:45.120 is not good. So, um, we live to see another day. We had already done our budget and had plans of what we were going to do. So, our schools will be good. Other districts are kind of scrambling now because they waited for the session to end. Um, but we continue to be very very vocal and they continue 167 01:12:45.120 --> 01:13:00.880 to know that they need to check on us because we will be vocal and so that's a good place to be and that they want to see what the impact for D2 is because we do serve such a diverse population. >> My final statement is just to thank once again thank the board for your resolute 168 01:13:00.880 --> 01:13:18.640 support of our finance team. um uh thank our superintendent for her work uh in the middle of the night and um because yes, we're not scrambling. We know what our budget's going to be next year and we know um based on many of the the 169 01:13:18.640 --> 01:13:50.960 decisions you guys have made and supported us. Um I want to thank you getting all excited. I thought you were coming up here, but you're not. Before we leave, 170 01:13:50.960 --> 01:14:16.719 it is Dr. Paige's birthday. Well, we want to wish you a happy birthday, sir. Thank you for all the things that you've done for us. Yes. All right. So, we are now at item eight to adjourn. And I just need a recommended 171 01:14:16.719 --> 01:14:35.520 motion, please. >> Madame President, with no further business, I move to adjourn the board of education meeting. Second >> motion to adjourn the May 14th board meeting by Mr. Williams, second by Dr. 172 01:14:35.520 --> 01:14:43.080 Pam Robinson. All those in favor? I. This meeting is adjourned.