--------- Good evening. Good evening. Thank you. Hi. Thank you. Um it is right now the time is 6 o'clock p.m. We are going to go on ahead and call to order
our meeting today is May the 19th, 2026. And so with that being said, thank you so much for coming. Um if anyone has public comments, there is a signup sheet in the back of the room. Could please
make sure that you have signed in if you wish to speak. uh we will entertain your comments during public comment. So at this time we're going to go on ahead and have the call to order and the roll call. So um Mrs.
If you could please Miss Frasier >> here, Dr. Robinson >> here. >> Kamayo >> here. >> Mr. Williams, >> Mrs. Wills Hill >> here. >> Mr. Goss >> here. >> Miss Don Juan
>> here. >> Madam President, we have a quorum. >> Thank you so very much. We are moving ahead to item 1.3. Have a special guest soloist. I'm so excited to sing the national anthem and
it is Miss Aspen Mlan. So we will end and do the pledge and the singing of this national anthem. You see the dawn early light.
But so proudly we held at the twilight last gleaming who broad stripes and bright stars
through the paral or the ramp parts we watched were so gallently ly streaming and the rockets red glare.
The bombs bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled
night way or the land of the free and the home of the brave. The Harrison School District 2 mission
statement is to graduate college and career ready students with the knowledge, skills, attitude, and behaviors to personally personally succeed and to contribute to the common good. Thank you. >> Thank you. you did an awesome job. We could listen
to you sing like a whole concert here. So, thank you so much. All right, we are moving ahead to um item 2.1. It is I need a motion to um adopt the agenda, please.
>> Madame President, I move to approve the agenda as stated. >> Second. >> Motion to approve the agenda by as stated by Mr. Williams. Second by Miss Frasier. All those in favor? >> I I have a meeting. All right, moving on to item 3.1. We are showcasing
Sierra High School. That was quiet. Are you guys sure you're here? me try a little harder. Um, so I I said showcasing Sierra High School. We have Mr. Connor Bodwin, principal,
Miss Cynthia Jac, um, Mr. Keith Basilian, Miss Briana Apadaka, Mr. Brian Veio, all the assistant principles. So at this time the floor is yours. >> Hi everyone.
Um we are the proud members of Sierra's peer mediation team. Uh we do a lot of work with conflict resolution and social and emotional learning and we are so thankful to be here. Real quick we're going to introduce ourselves. My name is
Persia Henkins. I'm a junior at Sierra High School. >> My name is Valyriia Sanchez Areola and I'm a junior at Sierra High School. >> My name is Gustav Valdovvenas and I am a senior at Sierra High School.
>> My name is Trinity Sanders and I'm a senior at Sierra High School. My name is Helen Zamora and I'm a junior at Sierra High School along with the student athlete at Sierra. These are our staff demographics. For admin, we have one
personal, one principal, three assisted principles, one athletic director, one dean of students, and one dean of restorative practices. For staff, we have 54 teachers, and 13 pair of professors. For instructional support, we have one instructional coordinator,
one instructional coach, one math interventionist, and one reading interventions. For student support, we have a C. We have four counselors, one college and career counselor, two social workers, one school psychologist, one dropout preventionist, one community
connection liaison, and two SSC specialists. Our 2025 through 2026 enrollment is 868 students. Our free reduced lunch rate is 82.8%. Our minority rate is 84.4%. Our multilingual rate is 15.9%. Our
special education rate is 18.7% and our gifted rate is 4.0%. At Sierra, we have a mission of excellence in every endeavor, which include preAP, AP, CTE, and internships, concurrent enrollment, athletics and activities,
and freshman focus. Next, we will be talking about the academic performance at Sierra High School. for our school performance framework. In 2022, we were rated as priority improvement. But as you can see from the year 2023 to 2025, we have been an improvement and that is because we
became a pre AP school during those years and currently are. Um in 2025, we have made a 6 difference. As you can see, as you can see on the screen, these are our AP pillars which include academic conversations, close observations and analysis,
evidence-based writing, and high order questions. At Sierra High School, we like to celebrate our advanced placement current data. Um, in 2021, you can see we had a total of 112 AP students. But now in
2025, we had 193 students and we had 164 exams in 2021. But now we have 302 exams being taken in 2025. In 2021, we had 15 students score a um three or above on those exams. But in 2025, we had 54 students score three or more. And in
2021, 13.39% of the students that took the exam scored a three or higher. And in 2025, 27.98% of those students scored higher. >> Freshman focus at Sierra. Sierra's definition of on track is if freshman
students end the school year off with one F or less. When compared to the 2022 school year, the freshman who are on track has increased. Um, we also are we also noticed our passing
rates have also increased and our suspensions have went down. Okay, continuing on, we're going to talk about personal development and success. At Sierra, we offer CT pathways to prepare our students to enter into the workforce and continue um their passion.
So, at Sierra, we offer uh 12 pathways um including industry recognized certifications including design and multimedia, theater technology, automotive, and engineering. At Sierra High School, we operate under three types of honor role in order to
give all students the same opportunity. Um, one category we have is stallion honor role and this GPA range is a 3.0 to 3.49. We had 126 of our students recognized for this. We also have Sierra honor roll with the GPA ranging from 3.5
to 3.9 with over 139 students recognized for this. And for principal honor role, this is 4.0 and higher, which is the the highest you can get at Sierra. We had 49 students recognized. Um
um as a member of the principal student advisory council, we work on leadership skills. Um we work on helping students use I notice and I wonder statements. Um we work on analyzing data um for the whole school for students basically as
well and we use logic models as well. So moving forward based on our four AP pillars that we mentioned earlier uh teachers have reported that academic conversation and evidence-based writing is the main struggles in the classroom. So this upcoming school year we want to
focus on mainly that. Um so far planned we have teachers planning discourse opportunities and executing them. Students also uh should take accountable talk academic accountable talk.
One of our school's biggest strengths is our students and community. At our school, students work together, support each other, and stay involved in school activities. Our school creates an environment where students can connect, learn, and grow. Okay. Our school highlights different
parts of our student life like sports, band, clubs, academics, and school events. All of these activities bring students together and help create a strong sense of community. Our mas and school colors represent the pride students and staff have being part of the school.
Sierra High School celebrates strong student athletes and achievements with programs like 90 seconds with the Stallion, highlighting student athletes and school pride. This showcases the experience of student athletes and campus life. We will now show a video of
one of our student athletes, Viven. >> I'm Brian Veio, athletic director at Sierra High School. Today I'm with senior Vivian Valenuela and this is 90 seconds with a stallion. All right. So, softball, swimming, Stuco, taking college classes now.
What's been your favorite part about being a D2 student in Sierra High School? >> Um, just the opportunities that Sierra gives me with taking college classes and being a part of the Pike Speak um program. >> So, who's the funniest teammate that you ever played with? Um, this one was really hard for me, but I'd say my
former teammate Jessica because like we just like clicked and our humor was there like together. So like the more we were together, the more funnier it got. >> You two are quite a pair. >> Yes. >> So go to Chipotle, Quudoba, or Illegal Pets?
>> Um, I'd say Chipotle because I feel like it's just better than Kudoba and I've never tried illegal pets. >> Oh, got options. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So I know you're super close with your family. You got a great family. Who's the best athlete in the group? >> I was going to go with me, but um I'd
say my little brother Ben because he's still a kid and he's still learning, but he's just out there going and playing every single sport right now. Just doing his thing. >> And they're your biggest supporters, too. I know. >> All right. So, if there was a movie made about you, who would you want to play you in the movie? Um, I was gonna go
with Adam Sandler with a wig because he just like represents like he has a lot of humor and I feel like he would do really good playing me. >> I think he could capture you pretty well. >> Sierra High School has also reached a major milestone with the 85.2% 2%
graduation rate setting a new record. >> This reflects the collective impact of student I mean of staff commitment and student commitment too. >> I got the easy part. >> I have a question for your students who talk. Yes. >> Um, who's your favorite administrator
and why? >> And you don't have to pick him. >> Personally, I really like Miss Jack. I feel like she gives me so much support. All like it's never changed. Every
school year there's always the same amount of support and I feel like it shows that she really cares about me. I mean, I get uh me personally, I'd say Miss Ellis because we quite pulled together. >> For me personally, it's Mr. Bail and
he's been there when I've been down and he's helped me do a lot for my postsecary education as well. Well, for me personally, honestly, I don't have a favorite. And that's honestly only because it depends on the day. Depending on what I'm going through, there's always a staff member
that can accommodate to my feelings, my emotions, or even the event. I personally don't also have a favorite because I've had uh multiple interactions with all administrator and you know I've had different moments with them so I can't really compare one
another or have a favorite with them. >> I don't have a favorite but it's okay. I love all them. Um, my favorite would be either Mr. K or Mr. Veio just because Mr. K helped me a lot with um, she's one of the reasons I'm in pure mediation and Mr. Veio, he
just, you know, I talk sports with him. So, you know, uh, Aspen Aspen. Uhhuh. Come on up. >> Yes. Um, I think that my favorite admin has to be Mr. Baldwin. He offers me a lot of opportunities
within our district. He's always connecting me with different opportunities. Even when I first started at Sierra, he was always an admin within the building. That was always very hype and always someone to talk to. So, >> next question, please. I had um one question and um you know
there's a connection there. She knew what to say because that was my baby. >> We'll take it. >> But um looking at your focus, which I love that you narrowed it, you you and your staff, you have those two, but the
evidence-based writing um how how are teachers working with that challenge with AI? >> Yeah. No, that's that's great. Uh the foundation that we're going to be working with next year starts it actually came from the district. Miss Laugher has been really leading this push uh called the writing revolution.
Um and the beauty of the writing revolution is that it breaks it down by all four of our core pillars. Um being a former English teacher myself, um in days past it was always kind of the English teachers teach literacy, right? Math handles math and and we know that's
not true. It has to be uh an all hands-on deck uh process. So first and foremost we feel we have a really good foundation um where it'll be uh every department has specific things that they're focusing on. Uh the English department for one month will have a
focus and then they kind of lay that foundation but then they can expect to see it in science, social studies and math. So I think that first and foremost is is the most important. But with AI specifically um and our district I think has been really ahead of this curve is embracing it right. We we know that
studies are coming out. Any any individual that is going into the workforce needs to know how to use this technology. Um that is rapidly changing week by week. It almost sounds like uh so what we've said is you have to embrace it and and not try to shun it, right? We know when we tell kids
absolutely not line in the sand. That's only going to make them want to use it more. So so we've worked with teachers of first and foremost how can it help save you time uh with your planning, with your grading, um with things like that. uh and how do we use it as a tool for students um to to check work to to
to balance writing and things like that. So, we've really taken an approach as a district to embrace AI um and figure out where does it work best for students and teachers. >> I'll just say um thank you for the presentation students because clearly
you did all the work. Um Mr. Bodin owes you lunch tomorrow so just order whatever you need because you got him out of presenting. But I love the pride that's here. Just the school pride is evident when you walk the halls. It's evident when you watch you on the court, when you watch you in the band. It's
just the pride is through and through. Um my own son went to Sierra, so I'm a stallion mom. Um no, Harrison is not as happy about that. So I can share it when you're here, but Harrison doesn't like that. Um but I just I'm so thankful that you're out
there representing our community and changing the mentality of what people think of Sierra High School. So thank you. >> Um I just wanted to say thank you so much for bringing so much light. Um our I know as a board our hearts are with um
Sierra High School during this time and uh may all that light shine um and guide um our path forward and especially in remembrance of those that we miss. So thank you so much for bringing so much light and joy and that is the stallion
spirit. So thank you so much Um, I had a question about the CTE pathways. So, I know like some students who like didn't know about them or like found out about them too late to be a part of them. So, is there like a way we're advertising that to freshmen to get them in it like right away?
>> That is a beautiful, beautiful question, Miss Don Juan. Um, so CTE is a is a big shift that we're making in our school. Uh, in large part because of Dr. Paige. Uh, Dr. Paige, it's something that has been in the district, but Dr. Paige brings a specific CTE knowledge that he was doing up in Denver. Um, so as we've
built out these pathways, we call them different levels of classes, right? Level one is that intro level, then you go up to a level two, a level three. A lot of times in that level three is when they're going to take those industry recognized certification tests. Um, so the first thing is we had to plan out those pathways, right? what were the
classes we were going to offer. Um, a shift that I actually made with my counselors this year is every year our counselors around this time a couple weeks ago go to all of our uh middle schools and they get students to enroll in the classes. Um, and a shift that I made because we have eight periods,
right? We're on a block schedule. Four of those are going to be core classes, so kids have four electives. Uh, a shift that I felt was important for exposure is every eighth grader signs up for a CTE pathway. Uh, so it's a intentional shift that happened where it's not just
here's a million electives, pick whichever ones. They get to pick their electives, but we're saying here are 13 pathways that can lead to preparing you for the real world or just preparing you for college or or military. It's just rigorous content with transferable skills. And so we ensure that our eighth
graders are signing up for at least one of those pathways. They can sign up to more if for more if they're interested in more, but they all sign up for at least one. Thank you so very much for your contribution on this evening as it is because they really did the work, right?
>> Yes. >> Okay. All right. >> You know, I have nothing but love for you, right? Okay. So, uh this time we're going to um we have some presentations so we can have >> I'm so sorry, Miss Wilshill. I
completely forgot. There is one more thing that we did want to talk about school. If I could have just one more moment. We actually have a special event that is happening in the next couple of days. Could I get everybody to stand, please? Let's all stand. Let's stretch
those legs. Seventh inning stretch. We have a birthday coming up for the great and powerful Dr. Burhansel and of course Miss Rachel Offer as well. So, I'm going to lead us in in in the best choir that I can do. I'm going to count down from three. Let's give a good happy birthday. Let's get the the whole song. Let's sing
for Dr. Bhanzel. Let's go. Three, two, one. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Dr. Bhanza and
Rachel Offer. Happy birthday to you. Thank you, Miss Wilhel. I'm now done. >> Okay. So, Mr. Bodwin, you are really in the doghouse now. So student participants, Valyriia
Sanchez, Areola, Trinity Sanders, Amelia Hamilton, Sydney Cruz, Mobly, Zion Nicholson, Helen Zamora, Persia Henkins, Gustavo Valdinas, and Aspen Mlan. Please come up. We're going to take a picture with you and we have something for you.
And you can bring your admin and the the parents. And if you have any parents here, you can come up. Turn the scope. Thank you very much. Um, we are now to item 4.1. It is student recognition and
we've had some outstanding things that have occurred this school year. First of all, we're going to um recognize Harrison High state wrestler Staca Clemens. Are you here, Staca? Well, come on up.
Come on up, Staca. So Staca qualified for state. Tell us about your experience. And she's a animal on the mat in a nice way. >> Okay. Um my experience to state was
really good. Um I had all 6,000 of my coaches there. Um, I had one of my teammates and I feel like it was really good like team bonding because we don't get a lot of team bonding on the wrestling team. So, I was
kind of like, okay, this is fun, you know, and it was only like the girl athletes, all the boys got to stay home. So, it was like really nice. Wasn't so stinky. Um, I feel like going to state my sophomore
year kind of set me up for the rest of my um, high school career. I feel like um, my experience only like propelled me to continue and to do better. Um, I think my experience was just really
good to be honest. >> How did you get interested in wrestling? >> Okay. So, it all kind of sprung from boxing. I used I boxed for a while and then I stopped for my freshman year just for a little bit. Um, looking to go back as
soon as possible. Sophomore year now. Promise I'm going back. But, um, wrestling really kind of came off that. Um, I was like, "Oh, this would be a really great way to stay conditioned and whatnot." And I actually
had an uncle that was wrestling, too. So, um, well, wrestled on a war, but, um, I feel like it really sprung off that. It kind of started as, oh, I'm just going to do this to get better at this, you know, stay conditioned. And then I joined and I met Coach Mason and
I met my team and I was like, oh, oh, man, this is not just going to be for conditioning anymore. I kind of realized I found another another another thing I was good at. So, um, another thing to
put under my belt in life and I decided, you know, I I actually really like this. I actually really like the hands-on contact more than other sports I've done. So, getting interested in that was for one, Coach Mason and Coach McDonald
coming to hunt me down in the hallways. Um, and really just the push from my peers being like, "No, why not? and no one else joins it, so why don't why don't you try it out? So, I did and I kind of
just fell in love it from in love with it from then on. Thank you. >> Yeah. Is her coach here? >> No, my coach is not here at this moment. >> So, those of you who don't know, um, and we're going to celebrate some Sierra wrestlers, too. Wrestling can be a very
lonely sport, especially when you didn't start as a four-year-old, cuz most people start wrestling very, very early. So to jump in late as a female wrestler. Wow. >> Yes. >> So we're so proud of all of our wrestlers we're going to honor tonight. But so proud of you, Staca. >> Thank you.
>> Uh don't go anywhere, Station. We're going to take a picture with you. Yeah. >> Bear with us audience. We have a lot of pictures to take. Okay. Okay. Now, Sierra State wrestlers, Donnie Herrera,
Brendan Lee, and Jessica Rao. Come on down. >> Mr. Deloy, you can come down too. >> How you guys doing? >> Doing well. Tell us about your experience. >> Uh, I'd say this year, this year was, uh, really, really good for me actually.
Uh, I learned a lot about myself. I learned a lot about, you know, wrestling. I can carry it on to later in my life. Um, you know, if it wasn't for Coach Delo, Coach Roscom, I wouldn't be where I am today. So, thank you guys. >> Um, my experience was really good. I
really enjoyed the season and getting close with everyone on the team. And I appreciate uh Delo and Ros a lot for pushing me through all the practices and like making me feel more
appreciated. >> Yeah, that's it. I just want to say the biggest thing I get is like I've had both of these now for four years because it's my fourth year coaching and you see them as a freshman in that statement that we start
first year it's too it seems like it's too late and even Donniey's not here but they all had losing records their freshman year and then their sophomore year you start to see the light and then by junior senior year you start seeing them. So that's a to see that growth out of them each year. That's really
important. And and then something that we said over here that's really great is the one thing wrestling has over I think all sports and I coach three of them. So I know a lot about the sports but I think we form a family more than anything because we have to spend six days a week
7 o'clock 8:00 9:00 leave at 4:00 in the morning. So we're that's all we do. It's for that that three months. It's just we become I think we become as coaches their fam or their parents and then they just start to make little brothers and sisters out of everybody. And so it's
really cool to see them grow as freshman all the way up to seniors. >> Okay, we're taking pictures again. All right. I know you've been waiting. Sierra girls basketball team. Aspen Mlan, Deja Burns, Stacia Calhoun
Pope, Amaya Burl, Saul Moy White, Tammani or Timone Livingston is Havlla Gonzalez and Raiden Muster the manager and the coach if you're here.
Okay, come on up. Who missed two names? >> I missed two names. >> You can tell who the names are. Epic. >> Oh, uh, seniors Nicholson and freshman Keani Nobles.
>> Okay, that's all. Well, tell us about the season and the impact. >> Um, this season was uh challenging cuz uh we started off with two returning starters. Um, we brought in um
two I remember here. We brought in a senior transfer who's not here right now, Trey. And then we brought in a freshman Bella in the back um who played um every game
for varsity. So um incorporating the old and the new. Uh took some time to build some chemistry. Um we had some ups and some downs. Um felt like there's some games we should have won, but we fought hard. Uh was able to make it to
the uh playoffs. Got the bid in for the playoffs. um had to travel out to Glennwood Springs. Um first time for me going out west for a playoff game. Um we lost in double overtime unfortunately. Um but
the girls fought hard, played hard to the end of end of the whistle. So very proud of them. Um, can I elaborate some more? Just a couple special things. Uh, our two seniors, Zion and Deja, were selected to
play in the, uh, all league all league all-star game tomorrow night, uh, down in PBLO. Um, Deja also was invited to play this Sunday up in Denver for another All-Star game, which is the CCGS All-Star game,
which you remember your daughter played in, right? Um, so it's that's a very special. It's nothing but for seniors on Sunday. So, that's a special one for that one. And then one more thing uh about Young Deja. Okay, I know it's a team sport, but I
want to give a little individual recognition. Um, she played three years of high school basketball and finished her career fourth all time in the state in block shots. All right. She's only the fifth lady to record over
400 blocks in her career. So, I just want to pass that on. >> So, she's a force in the lane. and I wouldn't want to drive on her. Um, but I did hear a rumor that your principal was up at the playoff game and acting a fool on the sideline. Was that true?
>> No. No. No. >> No. Okay. >> He was He was on the sideline cheering. >> Okay. >> Cheering. Correct, ladies. >> Nice cover. Nice cover. >> Correct. Parents, the parents of drove, right? They're all here.
>> T's the shooter. T's the shooter. Locked in. We're locked in before it came out. Should have patented it. >> Okay. Just any of your the players, the seniors, please, please come say
something. >> Hi. >> Hey. >> Um, I just like to say over the four years that I've been playing basketball, I really grew as a family. I feel like over time, I mean, we start out all kind of nervous like am I going to fit in with the team? And I feel like over time with team bonding and kind of building
those relationships, it's really become that family. And thanks to all my coaches, you know, through the changes and the challenges that, you know, upcoming and all the lessons that they've taught me. >> Uh, I'd say as a as a transfer, I transferred yes last year during my
junior year. Um, and I'd say my my favorite my favorite thing was the fact that I built a family. Um, I didn't play basketball for a year and a half and then I came to Sierra and I got right back into it and it I I feel like I developed a lot of personal skills and
also basketball skills. So, >> all right. Good. Good evening. So, she's a senior. she was afraid to come up and say something. Um, reason I got up is cuz this is my third daughter to play for Sierra. Uh, I was grateful
enough with this senior class that's graduating to be part of the coaching staff. So, just to watch all of them grow and to give coach Joe a big hand for taking us on because we're a challenging family. So, I am thankful for everything we went through.
This has a unique coaching situation too if you're not aware board. Um, one of the coaches is a former player alumni and a current teacher, Miss Barnes. And another coach is our current assistant director of human resources,
Aisha. So, all in the family. Me too. >> We are so proud of you. >> So, we're going to take a picture now. Mr. Bonewin. Mr. Veio. >> He's not trying to listen.
>> Is that Mr. Veio? Like he's like, >> "Is that Mr. Veio? Thank you so very much. All right, so that was student recognitions. We're going to item 4.2,
um, which is a special recognition. The Harrison School District 2 Board of Education extends its sincere appreciation to Katherine Richie Rap for her dedicated service to our
district during her nearly three years with D2 and through her broader career serving D11 and the El Paso County Public Defenders office. Katherine was brought has brought both deep expertise and a steady thoughtful presence to her
work. As our in-house legal counsel, Katherine has been an invaluable partner to the board, superintendent, district departments, and our schools. She has skillfully navigated complex legal
matters ranging from student and staff issues to special education and our favorite Kora requests. Always with professionalism and sound judgment. Just as importantly, she has built strong trusting relationships across the
organization grounded in her approachable and easygoing demeanor. Katherine's contributions have strengthened our district in meaningful and lasting ways. While we will miss her greatly, we are grateful for the impact she has made and the solid foundation
she leaves behind. We wish her all the best in this next chapter and thank her for helping move D2 forward. You know, it just >> Thank you very much. I appreciate that. I don't have many words.
>> I say something. >> Okay, I'll say something. >> Well, you're an attorney. >> Well, so I was sitting in the lobby trying to finish a Cora request. uh for a gentleman who may be talking
tonight. And um I got a text from my husband saying, "Hey." And I texted back, "Hi." He said, "Turn around." Oh, what are you doing here? We came in the boardroom and then I thought, "Wait a second. You were invited here." Well, I
I just want to say thank you so much to each and every one of you. Um it's been such a pleasure working here. and oh it's only been three years but gosh I appreciate you taking a chance on me. We didn't have a in-house legal counsel and
uh you let me start and now the person coming in to take over for me is going to do a standup job continuing growing the office. So thank you so much. It has been all my pleasure.
That's all that's all I got. Uh do any board members have any words before we go and take a picture? >> I do. >> Um as many of you know, Katherine and I
go back a long long way. Uh we started in another school district. So, it has been my pleasure and honor to have her serve D2
because I knew she'd do a great job and I'm so proud of you. I'm sorry to see you go, but I love you. I also um appreciate you, Katherine, just the way you present the legal
information to us and all the legislation and even when it's tough, your smile, you just you will be missed. I will sincerely miss you and I just thank you for all that you've done and your impact these last three years and
um you know this new journey. Enjoy it. Just enjoy it. I appreciate you, Richie Rap. We, uh, we were partnered up. We were school buddies for a year and that and that was always fun. So, uh, and thank you for keeping me out of trouble, too. So, she
was my she's been my my babysitter at times. Sometimes I get a little rowdy and they have to assign somebody to me, but it's good. It's good. It's been fun. Richie Rap, I'm going miss you. >> You, too. >> Yeah. Katherine or as we lovingly call
you Richie Rap or that's what I prefer because sounds like the hardest legal council name in the history. Um I know we haven't gotten to know each other because I started in this last couple months of you being here but I can already tell you that I will miss you. I
enjoyed that one meeting we did have where we talked about legislation. Um but I can your your brightness, your enthusiasm, your optimism. um keeping things real. Um that's the way I see Richie Rap finishing out before moving
on to this next chapter. So, thank you so much, Katherine, for all your hard work and from everything that the board members have said. You have been an incredible asset to this team. So, thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> So, the board might not know, but and you might wouldn't think this, but the
biggest jokester on our executive team is Katherine. Um, so we will miss the jokester, the one that brings just smiles in a time of crisis. She just helps us all kind of norm back to calm and enjoy the experience. And, you know,
some of the things we handle are not easy, but she always just navigates it with ease and never makes you nervous. And, you know, she's accurate. We started a legal counsel position with her and we didn't really know exactly how that would develop. And so, you know, she'd say, "Do you want me to do
this?" "Yes, I do." "Sure." what else we should do. So, she's just been so flexible and so changing the role to what we need in D2 and created an opportunity as she retires and enjoys the rest of her life to bring on someone into that role, which is huge to be able to leave it better than you found it.
And so, executive team owes you a lot, a lot, a lot. Um, she said she'll still come back and water my plants every Friday, so we still got her on the hook for that. Oh wow. So this is honestly it's it's sad to say that for you to go, but at
the same time it's also very great, especially from the conversations we had onto the car way home from all the way in city council. It was just very great to honestly see outside of like work how amazing of a person that you are. You seem like you're an amazing mom too from
everything that I was hearing. So, I just really do appreciate you just everything you have done for D2 and especially being along my journey as a student board representative. >> Thank you, Aiden. >> Even as a student who has a little bit of a different viewpoint from the adults, I just want to say that I can
tell you've had such a big impact on the district and I just want you to know that the work you've done is so valuable and just know that you will be so missed and I wish you the best on this next journey of your life. >> Thank you very much. I look forward to seeing what you two do.
Well, there's really not much left to say other than we wish you well and we just want you to live long and be happy. That's the main thing. But thank you is the biggest word to say from the bottom
of our hearts. Thank you for everything that you've done for us. You're not being replaced. No one can replace a Richie rap. We get one of those per lifetime. We're glad it was you. Thank you for sharing
your wife with us. So, with that being said, we have something for you. So, we're going to take a picture. And Mr. Richie Rap, you should be in the husband. I mean, in the picture, too. All right,
we are now at item 4.3, which is public comment. Uh, members of the public who desire to address the board on any topic related 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. Focus on an individual by name and or position with 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 information presented and provide responses as needed at a later time. So at this time, first of all, we have Brance Bojeron
from Harrison High School. Um, Miss Norma will give you the time limit on that, so she'll let you know when to speak. And you have three minutes. Thank you. Awesome. Good evening uh district board and
district uh student representatives. I am Brance Spersron and I am here um with a document I'm pretty sure I gave to you guys. This the purpose of this document that I also have in front of me is to provide observations and assist in the
re realization of the importance of reinforced political education within uh the school system especially within this district and our schools. Um and I just want to draw attention to the educational deficit in terms of our system of government our country is
established upon further discussing the importance of political classes in a nation that heavily relies on these understandings to function in its intended purposes. Um how I see it the education across this
nation is failing politically. Many students find themselves unable to uh give give me like what they know about the amendments of our nation. I try to see
if anyone knew at least 10, but majority cannot recall more than three of the amendments. Um, I do recognize that this district and many other districts do employ other classes that kind of help with that civics education. However, we
do it super early on in uh students educational lifespan which is a problem because these students are unable to recall this information later on and will end up forgetting it. So I am in
interest of getting a political education class uh towards like junior and senior classes especially so that students will be able to acknowledge and retain any um any lessons anything about
their nation and in terms of the politics their nation runs on so that they may be able to enter the political world without any issues and can protect themselves. elves uh legally. I have uh
given certain sources, one of which is political engagement and civic education. Um William A. Galston says that political knowledge as a public good essential is essential for democratic function.
Politics is not just about the uh sides we choose but the solutions we provide to the affairs of the people. And then over on the second page is another source educa educating the uh generation
uh Gen Z. Many lack the evaluative skill uh skills needed to filter hoaxes, propaganda and low quality information which is troublesome for most students because many students especially in our generation are very susceptible to um
these pro these uh issues. >> You have 30 seconds. 30 seconds. Okay. Um, another source points out schools uh lacking structure political education programs um that help avoid
controversial issu issues or avoiding um that just make it hard to uh get into political discussions. Um other than that, student opinions do favor this and they wish to make that change within uh Harrison School
District. petitions are provided. >> Your time is up. Thank you. >> Thank you so much for sharing. >> Yes, thank you. >> Information. We appreciate your time. Right. Next, we have Kevin Hughes on behalf of Driver's Ed.
Again, limit your time to three minutes. and Miss Norma will give you start time. >> Great. Thank you. >> Great. Uh, good evening members of the board. My name is Kevin Hughes and I'm the owner of American Driving Academy. We are Colorado's largest driving
school, headquartered right here in Colorado Springs with over 15 locations across the Front Range, helping more than 4,000 students each month work toward earning their driver's license. We've been deeply connected to this community for a long time. My mom,
Melanie, who is here with me tonight, started American Driving Academy in 1999. For many years, we taught directly out of Sierra High School. And since then, we've continued serving students in this district for over two decades. In fact, next Monday, we're starting our spring
break 30-hour class. And it already includes many students from this district. We've worked with thousands of District 2 families. And one of our most senior instructors, Keith, who is also here with me tonight, lives in this district and has been teaching local students full-time for more than 15
years. Because of that long-standing relationship, I was surprised to see that the district and both high schools are currently promoting Drive Safe Driving School for driver's education. Drive Safe's closest location to this community is in Castle Rock, which is a
significant distance for families here. Meanwhile, we have an office just minutes from your high schools in your district. Even more concerning is the pricing. The district website lists DriveSafe's 30hour online course at $65.
For comparison, we offer that same course to the public for $39.85 and for partner schools 29.85. And our online course is the highest rated in Colorado built with professionally filmed videos right here
on the streets in Colorado Springs. So, as it stands today, families in this district are being directed to a provider that is both farther away and significantly more expensive, while a long-standing local provider is not being represented. And when a district
partners with a local driving school, families gain access to much more than just an online course. Also, in-person classes, driving lessons, and drive testing within their own community. I want to be clear, this isn't about being salesy. It's about making sure families
are aware of a local, accessible, and more complete option that has been serving this community since 1999. We've shown up for this district for decades, teaching in your schools, working with your students. >> Seconds. >> Thank you. Attending events and
continuing to invest in this community. With the upcoming 2027 law changes requiring driver's education for all students under the age of 18, the visibility of a trusted local provider will matter even more. At a minimum, families should be able to see and
consider a local option like ours alongside any others being promoted. I'll be following up with the district after this meeting to connect with the appropriate person so you can help guide me on the right process to ensure families are aware of local options. Uh
thank you all for your time. >> Thank you so much for sharing and your information will be reviewed. >> Mr. Hughes, do you have a card or something that we can follow up with you? You can give it to Miss Laugher right there just so we can follow up at the right.
>> Thank you. >> We are moving on to item five, communicating with the board. 5.1 is student board rep report. We have Mr. Aiden Gyos and Miss Marissa Don Juan. >> Okay, I'm sorry you guys are probably
sick of hearing from Sierra. you had a big old presentation from them. Okay, starting with celebrations, we have Elijah Smith. If you guys aren't familiar with him, here's he is a Sierra alumni. He is in the UFC and he is slowly climbing the ranks of UFC. He
actually just recently won another fight and um this past wrestling season, he actually trained with our wrestling team. Um another celebration is Deja Burns. I know Coach Joe mentioned it earlier when she was here, but she made first team all league. She is participating in the Colorado coaches of girls sports basketball all-star game
and she's also on the CSML North All-Star team. And then Zion Nicholson, which he also mentioned, made second team all league and she will be part of the CSML North All-Star team. And then Jamari Hampton Robinson from our boys basketball team made second team all
league. And then our AP government class um took a trip to the capital and they got to have a meeting with the Senate. And then Miss Jay, she had students working with the city on city planning. So, it was a group of students and there was people from the city that came in and presented like their plan and the
students got to give their input on that. Um, for concerns, there's only one. So, we did get off-campus lunch taken away for the rest of the year. And students were really upset about that. Obviously, they love to walk to McDonald's or go to the gas station and so they're upset that they can't do that
anymore. And then for events, we have SAT and PSAT testing on April 15th, 16th, and 17th. For this, we have community partners that come in to like help welcome the kids in. The past couple years that I've been at Sierra, Mr. Bowden is always outside the front
door with a microphone and a speaker and he's singing to the kids and he's welcomed them in. So, he helps like create a really positive testing environment to get good vibes going before they have to sit down and take a multi-hour test. We have CMAS science testing the second week of April which
is for juniors. Um there's also a CTE Space Foundation event coming up at the Zulman Center. So this is where students get to meet astronauts and like talk to them. And then for sports events, we have girls soccer games at home versus Mesa Ridge on March 30th and Widfield at
April 7th on April 7th. I encourage you guys to come out to those. And then we also have a girls tennis match versus PBLO South at Sierra on April 2nd. And yeah, that is it. Well, I don't have as much and that's very impressive already, but I do have
some stuff from Harrison High School. Um, for some recent arts part uh part partnership is with a band visit. Actually on March 13, 2026, a guest conductor Michelle from Nicole Coral Springs Fellow Harmonic led a rehearsal with the Harrison band and the impact
was definitely with professional instructions and enhanced performance opportunities for music students. One of the another thing is I recently received an email is that for students spec specifically seniors, a lot of them are actually getting an NCAA information
night on what's it called? March 30th, 2026 from 5 to 6:00 pm at the Zman Center. And it's going to be for student athletes and families. And it's b pretty much is going to be guidance on NCAA eligibility and steps to begin as early as freshman year. For our spring of
sports events for baseball, we have boys varsity March. Well, that's right. Pass. Hello. Um, we for soccer, girls varsity, we have March 24th, 2026 for away versus Elizabeth High School. Well, other than that, that's pretty much just the main updates at Harrison High School
currently at the moment. >> Thank you for that report. You both did an excellent job of presenting this evening. We are to uh item 6.1. It is resolution for the month of the military child 2026. Uh Mr. Williams, if you don't mind,
could you please read this resolution? Madame President, Harrison School District number two resolution, appreciation of purple star families, military families, students of military families. Whereas the month of April 2026 has been designated nationally as a
as the month of the military child to underscore the important role military children play in the armed forces community. And whereas the children of military parents experience a lifestyle filled with frequent transitions and challenges that many of their peers
outside the military community community do not face. And whereas many military children endure extended separations from one or both parents due to deployments, training, and other military obligations. Sometimes service
members member parents are killed in the line of duty which presents far greater stressors to children and families. And whereas attending multiple schools can create difficulties with curriculum variations, academic continuity, and extracurricular opportunities. And
whereas on average, military children relocate six to nine times before graduating high school, often adapting to new schools, friends, and environments. And whereas despite these challenges, military children develop strong adaptability, independence, and a
sense of duty to their families and country. Whereas Harrison School District 2 provides supports to children of service members as they transition between schools to address their distinct needs and prepare them to graduate as well-rounded citizens. And
whereas the physical, social, and emotional well-being of children in military families is essential to their success and has a direct impact on the resiliency of military families serving our country. And whereas it is both fitting and proper that special
recognition be given to ensuring military children feel safe and supported in our schools and communities so that their parents can focus on the challenges and missions they face in the line of duty. Now therefore, be it resolved that the board of education on
Harris of Harrison School District number two hereby proclaims the month of April 2026 to be the month of appreciation for purple star families, military families, students of military families in Harrison School District 2. In witness whereof, we have unto set our
hands, and cause the official seal of Harrison School District number two to be here unto a fixed this 19th day of March, 2026. Thank you very much. That is, I think, one of the more important resolutions that we've put into place, and I can see
how meaningful it is to military veterans. ism watching um Elizabeth Cavdo almost in tears. So um we really value the contributions of our military and
understand have great understanding of what it means for the children. So anyway, thank you for the opportunity to provide. We are moving on to um item seven which is the board consent agenda.
7.1 approval of minutes combined board work session and board meeting February 5th 2026. 7.2 2 OE10 communicating with the public monitoring report 3192025
7.3 OE9 communicating with the board indicator report 3192025 and approval of the 2026 2027 board calendar item 7.5 I just need a recommended motion please.
>> Madame President I move to approve the board consent agenda. Second >> motion by Mr. Williams to approve the board consent agenda. Um second by Dr. Pam Robinson. All those
in favor? I is approved. Item eight, superintendent consent agenda. Item 8.1, March Personnel and Comparison Report.
I just need a recommended motion to approve the board consent agenda. >> Madame President, I move to approve the superintendent consent agenda. >> Second. >> Motion to approve the board consent agenda by Mr. Williams, second by Miss
Frasier. All those in favor? I approved. Going on to item nine, it is monitoring board performance. We have item 9.1 which is the annual work plan.
uh on the 31st when uh students return from spring break on that Tuesday, uh they you all will be interviewing the student board candidates uh at Harrison High School on the morning of the 31st.
Also, um, April 11th, a couple of people asked about the ECO gayla and, um, if anyone is interested in going, please let me know so that I can purchase your tickets. That's all I've got.
I would like to um add a board retreat for April if we could uh decide on which Friday everyone schedule would accommodate. districts closed um the 24th.
>> Yes. >> Yes. Yeah. is the 17th good for everyone else. Okay. So, we'll do the 17th at 3 and we'll get you uh the details >> and the purpose
>> uh board ret I'll get you the purpose of that. >> Okay. >> Yeah. you need any staff to be present or to be presenting or sharing anything, just let us know. Thank you. All right, moving on to item 9.2
is uh legislative updates. state still has no money and the budget forecast just came out this afternoon and it's not cute. It's very bad. Um but we have been very active testifying. So Katherine testified on a bill for um Senator Exum about housing and that
passed through. Dr. Paige testified on a bill about um they wanted to do automatic enrollment into advanced placement classes. We testified against it um because it's targeting kids to put into classes just because of some score versus that's their will and that's what they want to do. Um it's really a
sightbased decision. We already offer those classes to all kids who are interested and so it seems like it's coming out of a Doug Coast school and so it seems like they need to just fix some of their internal processes because they can already do that in their system. Um, I testified on a bill to create a task
force to allow superintendent to sit on any rule making for CDE so we could give input into the rules and decisions being made. That did not pass and it is not a fan of CDE of course. Um, it will come back up next year. And then I also
testified on a bill to shorten the length of state testing. um we need testing and we need accountability, but to have instructions shut down for a whole month effectively, that's what April looks like, um it doesn't get our bang for our buck and we could be using
those days and minutes to actually instruct versus continue to assess. So, that did pass out and it will go to the full committee in two weeks. Um continuing to watch school finance, that's the major thing of what they're going to do with it. Of course, the legislators and the governor who just
got out of the negative factor don't want the negative factor to come back. So, they are really um trying to do anything to not have that come back, including cutting grants, cutting homeschool funding, cutting anything possible. Um superintendents and CFOs
had said just let the negative factor come back so you can just be honest of what's really happening instead of trying to cover things. Mice, do you and Gus have anything to share? >> Gus. Gus knows all the information because he has to go to all the meetings.
>> Good evening um board members. I just want to give a couple of numbers out to you that just came out today. Two different numbers uh came out from the joint budget committee. One is that the deficit is at 1.4 billion, which is worse than we expected, and the other
one is 1 billion. I never thought I'd say I'm hoping that the deficit is 1 billion instead of 1.4, but uh those are the two numbers that the legislature is going to have to grapple with. Um, there is not an appetite to the, as I've
explained before, the two biggest buckets in the Colorado state budget are K12 and Medicaid. And right now, um, the legislators don't have an appetite to touch Medicaid. So, that means that yes, K12 is probably going to take the brunt
of this hit. And like Dr. Hansel just explained, we'd prefer um from a financial perspective that they bring back the negative factor so that it's transparent and they can clearly say how much they're taking away from schools. For us, um since the negative all the
negative factors, um I think I forwarded that to you. It equates to about $137 million that have been taken away from our district um when they had that implemented. So, um, if they continue, if they bring it back, it it's going to mean millions of dollars. So, I just
wanted to put some numbers to what Dr. Burhansel just said. Guess the only happy part was to watch Gus walk. All right. Thank you so very much, Dr. Henzel and Mrs. Ara. We're going on to
item 9.3 which is board updates. So at this time it's open to any board member who wishes to share. I spent some time at Deerfield this week with some of our students from Mount Vista. Um they had a a group session and we we played a little volleyball. They
didn't know that I was an international volleyball champion and I got picked last. I got picked last and it's crazy to me, but you know, my my t my I got picked last and I'm like, whoa, wait a minute. You guys don't know. I got to
show you. So, it was fun. It was fun. Um, one of our community members, um, Shaquan, um, uh, it was some of her students, uh, from her group. Uh, she brings some of her students to her facility, uh, just off of, uh, uh,
Academy and Airport. Yes, mentally ill. Yep, that's their that's their facility over there. It was pretty good. It was fun. It was fun to hang out with the kids. I got a little tan, too, so we were out there in the sun. It was one of those hot days.
So, I was able to get interviewed um at um San Creek. Um I know it was just the cutest thing. It was the TAP students and I and it was just so wonderful to
meet with them and to even be requested to come back. So, that was just what was so special. And I've just been visiting tons of sports and community events and talking to parents. And I was talking to
a I went to the last middle school uh Carmel Panorama game yesterday. And in talking to principal um Kelly, she was sharing with me how the aunt of our student that we lost um she has she
mentioned that having years of experience here in D2 because of children and family, but this incident is just how D2 truly is a family. And so that really touched my heart too with the outpour of leadership and making
sure they're okay. So, we're just we're we're I mean, as always, there's a bump or two in the road, but boy are we smoothing them out. So, we're just having a great time in the community and at all the activities. Um I just want to Aiden and I were in
the same room a couple of weeks ago um for the Southeast Strong plan. um the city planner uh Paige Salisbury and um the city planning department came and presented both to Sierra High School and also to Harrison High School. Um I had the ability to join Harrison High School
um with a bunch of really incredibly bright students talking about the future of um this area of the southeast where we call home um and discussing some of the measures within the southeast strong plan. I know Dr. Bhanzel you are were part of the original committee for that.
It has been 5 years in the making and um it was such an honor to hear such incredible feedback from students about the Saudi strong plan and um and I think the possibilities that exist within there. So um again just want to give a
shout out to our wonderful high school student leads here, but um it's just a really important piece of legislation that we hope gets passed in front of city council. Hi. Um, several of us had the opportunity to
review the guidelines for serving as a student board rep on our school board at Harrison High School. Um, I also had an opportunity to visit Fox Meadow Middle
School and I'd like to stress that the school is is in need of partnerships and the principal and staff. Um anything if you all know any uh organization or
entity that wishes to partner at Fox Meadow, please contact the principal. Um we also attended the Latino community lunchon which at that time they in
excuse me they recognized uh women uh Hispanic women and had a very good speaker. Um, also on Friday, the D2 STEM challenge competition at Carmel was
outstanding. Outstanding. Those children those children from several elementary schools in our district uh and K8 schools too uh in our district. What was
so amazing is the girls how if their motorized vehicle or their house didn't function properly, they took charge and they said, "No,
let's go over here and fix it." And it was just so amazing to see those kids. And this year we were outside so it was really really good. So I I really enjoy that. And then to top it off, Sierra High School had their community culture
night. And I have never had such spicy food in my life. Oh my. It some of it was so spicy it was. I know smoke was coming out of my ears. So, but yeah, it was hot. The
salsa was hot. The Thai soup was hot. And it, you know, being a board member is not always easy. So, anyway, >> yeah, it was a wonderful time. >> Yes. Yeah. Well, yeah. So, anyway, thank
you. It was a wonderful month of activities and I really appreciate it uh having the opportunity to visit our schools. Well, there's not much left for me to report on other than um I had an
opportunity to sit in on the um CASBY legislative resolutions and advocacy committee. Um they have those every sec two Fridays a month or something.
Yeah. Yes. that um JJ also sits as a district representative for CASBY for our region, but it was really just a great opportunity to learn about what bills
are currently um in committee or being pushed through during this legislative session. So it's just continuing on from the work where all of us are had the opportunity to go to Washington DC and be on that national platform but just to
be a little bit more engaged on the local level. So we are a busy board with good things. So thank you everyone. We are so happy to be at item number 10.
Does anyone have anything additional before we close out? So, with that being said, we are at 10.1 and I just need a recommended motion, please. >> Madam President, with no further business, I move to adjourn the board of
education board meeting. >> Second. >> Motion to adjourn by Mr. Williams. Second by Mr. Deio. All those in favor? I. >> We are now adjourned. Thank you. >> Safe travels for spring break. If anyone
is fortunate enough to be Part: 2
Just like I had said, you all just did it. Anyway, >> so good evening. >> Good evening. >> I heard from this side, you know how to respond. This side, not as much. So,
we're going to try one more time. Good evening. All right. I love it. The time right now is 5:59 p.m. I'm one minute ahead, but that's okay. Um, we're going to go on ahead get started. Today is April the
16th, 2026 Board of Education regular meeting. So, we're going to call to order right now. Um, calling to order the April 16th Harrison uh, District 2 Board of Education meeting to order. Um again, if
there's any members who would desire to address the board on any topic, there is a signup sheet in the back of the room table going to be related to board, but you must sign in before 6:30 p.m. So, with
that being said, I'm going to turn it on to or turn it over to um if you could please uh start with the role. >> Ma'am, uh Miss Frasier >> here, >> Dr. Robinson >> here.
>> Here, Miss Hill >> here. >> Williams >> here. >> Miss uh Don Juan >> here. >> Mos have a quum. >> Thank you so very much.
So, um, we're going to item 1.3. It is a pledge of allegiance and reading of the mission statement that'll be led by students from San Creek International, Santana Humphre, Basley Martinez, Sarah, Nathan Vargas, and Kenzo
Williams. Leave them at this time. I pledge aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. You all did an outstanding job. We're very excited that our uh for this evening and we're going to have the
reading of the mission statement. The mission of D2 is to graduate college and career ready students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behavior to personally succeed and contribute to the common good. Thank you. Let's give them a hand. They
did an excellent job on this creek. Just one minute while they adopt the agenda and then we'll be ready for your cheer. Okay, we know you're excited. You can just stay right there. We're moving on to item 2.1. It is uh I just need a
motion to adopt the agenda, please. >> Madam President, I move to approve the agenda as stated. >> Second. >> Motion to approve the agenda stated by Mr. Williams, second by Miss Frasier. All those in favor? I >> I.
>> We now have a board meeting. Now we're going to showcasing schools. Tonight it is San Creek International. Uh Miss Amy Nun, principal Amy Dobar and Dober and Doug Larkley
is assistant. I have my checks and balance listed. Um so students participating is Orian Goddard, Xander Palopolis, Meredith, Cadence Pool, and Brooklyn Shazar. It is in your hands.
You know what you got to do? You know you got to do okay. Okay. Do two do Good evening. >> Good evening.
>> So, as you can see, we went with the basketball theme tonight with the cheer and our uniforms, but I just wanted to say thank you to the board. Um, very proud to be the principal at San Creek and um just the amazing families that came tonight, the staff that showed up
and you'll be hearing from all 18 of our students that we brought tonight. And so I won't waste any of of their time. I'll let them go ahead and get started. And I have Ailen up first. Thank you for supporting San Creek International School and believing in
our yetis. At San Creek, we work hard every day to grow in math and ELA while also being kind and caring leaders. We are proud of our school and grateful for the opportunities you help make possible for us. At San Creek, we have an amazing team
that supports our students every single day. We have 24 classroom teachers along with special education teachers, CLLDE teachers, interventionists, and electives teachers who help us grow in every subject. We also have counselors, social workers, and behavior specialists
who support our learning and well-being. Behind the scenes, our office staff, kitchen team, custodians, coaches, and administrators all work together to make sure our school runs smoothly and feel safe, welcoming, and ready for learning. It truly takes a whole team to help our yeti succeed.
At at San Creek, we are proud to serve 539 students, 370 in elementary school and 169 in middle school. Our school our school community is diverse with students from many different cultural and racial backgrounds and that
diversity makes us stronger. These numbers show that San Creek that S Creek is a place where all students belong, are supported and are given the opportunities to succeed. Next, we'd like to share Oh, I got you. Oh, Next, we'd like to share how
students are supported at Sand Creek. It takes a whole team including our administrators, teachers, support staff, community partners, and families to help us succeed. Each group plays an important role in making sure students feel safe, challenged, and care for
every day. At our school, our teachers work hard every day to help us grow and achieve. They have high expectations for our learning and believe we can all be successful. They plan each day to keep us engaged, challenged, and actively involved in our learning.
We are proud to share that San Creek is a performance school, which means our students are growing and achieving at high levels. In 2025, all of our ELA assessments and all of our math assessments met ex or exceeded district
expectations for growth. Even more exciting, several grade levels, including fifth, sixth, and eighth grade in both ELA and math exceeded to set expectations for growth along with our K through 5 multilingual learners on
access. I'm Lauren. In 2025, our CAMASS results showed strong achievements across our school. All six are our ELA grades leveled scored at or above our district average. Four out of six math grade levels scored at or above the district average and both our science grade
levels did too. These results are that San Creek students are learning at high levels and competing strongly across our district. Our teachers use assessment data to determine our academic areas of strength and what we need to work on in reading
and math. Some students receive intervention to help reach grade level benchmarks and other students receive enrichment to help extend their learning and skills. At San Creek, we learn how to be principled students and great people by
showing our learner profile attributes. Sometimes we no like being caring, responsible, and brave. Sometimes we even get special rewards like being principal for an hour. When we make good choices at our we when we make good
choices and try our best, amazing things can happen at our school. At Sand Creek, we bring our school and families together through fun events like trunk or treat, family nights, career nights, and dances. These events help our Yeti family stay strong,
connected, and supported by our community. At San Creek, students can join many fun clubs and activities. We offer sports, music, steam, student leadership, and academic support opportunities. These activities
help our yetis try new things, build skills, and have fun together. I'm proud to be on the cheerleading team school. We have five big goals to help us learn and grow. As a IB school, we learn about the world
and how to be open-minded citizens. Bye. This year we are focusing on writing, math, and showing what we know. We try our best every day and are proud to be Yetis. Ciao.
Our middle school has expanded student choice in a big way. We now offer over 30 electives across design, arts, PE, and health, and Spanish. Students can choose classes to match their interests and strengths. These classes help us discover what we're passionate about and
build real world skills that prepare us for high school and future careers. At our school, electives aren't just extra classes, they're opportunities. Our middle school council works hard to make our school a better place. They celebrate students showing great Yeti
behavior, plan fun spirit weeks, and listen to students wants and concerns to help create a strong school community. They also teach about mental health and help fifth graders get ready for middle school. And I'm guessing that's it from us. No
questions are coming. Okay. Weren't they amazing? Yeah, >> Miss Nun, I am so proud of the Sand Creek International Yetis. You have a wonderful leadership team here. They did
an outstanding job. You all are so confident. Confident. So, you're our future leaders. Thank you. I'll just share that every time I'm at San Creek, I'm impressed with the
students. Um, they'll tell me how it is, if I want the truth. They are the best feedback for our nutrition department. They have a lot of feelings on the different lunches we serve. Um, we go to San Creek and they let us know how it is and if we're up to snuff, then they'll let us know. But, um, San Creek, you get
an opportunity that most kids don't get. You get to learn about the world like you talked about and I hope you take advantage of that because what you're doing is becoming leaders starting at five in kindergarten and it's just so impressive. And the Yetis, I did not like that mascot when it was first
developed by Miss Laugher in the back, but it's grown on me. So now I'm a Yeti fan. >> I just want to um compliment all of you. But uh cheerleaders, you just never know who's watching you. And I want you to know that you are one of several of our
middle schools whose cheerleaders has set the bar high. I am so impressed with several of you all. Um, and I actually touch base sometimes when I see the uh cheerleader uh coach for the high schools. I'm like, you better get over
there to to see though. You're ju you just you look so professional. You look so good when you're cheering. And um I tell you, you definitely represent your teams your that you're cheering for in your school very well. Um also just
wanted to ask you have some phenomenal growth and I'm almost wondering sometimes when you grow at such a great high rate that achievement is just it's it's tough sometimes. And I know our young student
um articulated that you're really working on math and writing. So I'm wondering is that where where our little our hiccup because I I've had the pleasure to work with Doug. I used to call on you a little bit for sped so I know you're handling business but I just
wonder is that where we're identifying where we need to to >> Yeah. So so our next areas of growth definitely in math. um in math growth was great, but it's where the achievement where we're really trying to close those gaps quickly. Um so that we
we can achieve higher in in the performance area, but our growth was very very high. Um and it was across grade levels that we saw that and I think um we have the best teachers and there's no doubt about that. We have the best staff and coaches, interventionists
that really helped with that. But our plan was to stick with the plan and we have two or three things we're focused on. We're not going to get we're we're not going to let anything else take us away from that. And so that's why we're really focused on that. And um and then writing being a big focus as well. And I
think we've seen just writing across all grade levels and classrooms just flourished. And so it's been a focus, but that's what our focus is and that's what we've we've committed to. >> Wonderful. Thank you. It's always great to to keep it small and just do do that
well. So, yay for you all and I'm looking forward to seeing how well you all do on your test. And so, my thoughts are with you all while you're showing the state what you know. So, all right. Thank you. >> And we are officially done actually CMS testing. Uh so, we'll have some makeups,
but um they've already put the effort in and they got to celebrate tonight by being here. So, great job you guys. I want to commend you all on coming up here. >> Yeah. >> No, you're okay. I want to commend you all on your on
your speaking when you came up to the podium. You guys are nononsense kind of school. And when I walk the halls and when I see you guys come to your next class, period, it I don't know what you call them. I don't know. We called them bell ringers when when I was in school,
but you guys are straight to business when you guys step into the classroom. And I love that. And that's across all grade levels. And that is that's where that performance those performance growth points come from. You guys are are straight to business. You all look
great. You all are are are clean, professional. You guys look amazing. I love you guys. You guys are doing an awesome job. Uh, wait a minute. She She just keeps walking away. Where you going? >> I didn't want to make any assumptions
that Oh. So, um, I did not call everybody's name, so I'm going to correct that right now because everyone deserves to be recognized. So, again, it's Orion
Goddard, Xander, Polopos, Meredith, Cadence, P, Brooklyn, Deaser, Eileene Kamargo, Cisneros, Angel Morales. Yeah, if you hear yours called, you should be saying woo or something.
Okay, you're okay. Um, Yelen Galarsa, Yaslyn Solace, Janice Cardinus Bera, Justin Galarsza, Lauren Harris, Carla Monte, Mia.
Oh my. Mia A Wang, Romel Peron, and the San Creek Cheer Team. Let's give them another round of applause. So, we're going to ask you to come up um because we have something for you and
want to take a picture. But you guys did a phenomenal outstanding job. So congratulations. There's Everybody right Thanks. >> Hello. Thank you, Tom. Thank you. Be polite. >> Thank you. Peace out, everybody.
>> Stop. Just for the benefit of the principles and admin who are sitting in the back. Meeting could go faster if you moved up closer. trying to incentivize you. I mean, they got like empty seats.
Uhhuh. Yeah. You got to work on your game a little bit. All right, we are moving on to item four. It is communicating with the public. And on this evening, we do have
um Mr. Zach McCamzi, founder and CEO of the Legacy Institute. He is also winner of the Colorado League of Charter Schools Lifetime Achievement Award. Look at you. From the launch of Atlas Schools to the creation of the Legacy Institute, every
decision Zach has made is guided by a single conviction. A student's socioeconomic status should never determine the quality of education that they receive. So, turn it over. So, for those who don't know the history, Zach actually
started Atlas um as a partner with D2. Um and then he left his legacy there and now he's um helping us with D2 Promise. Um and we just won an award together for that. And so, Zach has been kind of connected to D2 in an auxiliary
different way for years. Um and the success that Atlas has had has been a lot due to how Zach set up Atlas. even though as a principal when he was principal I didn't like him because we were competing for students. Um I've gotten over that a little. Um and we
just want to recognize this award is given to you know chart there's a lot of charter schools in our state. We are heavy charter state but this award really is given to someone who's made a huge impact and his impact for the students who need it most is definitely what is highlighted in this award. And
so Zach the board has something special to give you. And then also if you'd like to say a few words cuz I know you love speaking in public like this. Uh I hope in here there's a job offer at Sand Creek because after what I just saw like I want to I want to go to Sand
Creek. Uh I think my new communication strategy in life is I'm going to bring the entire Sand Creek team with me everywhere. disagreements with my wife, big public things. I'm just gonna have them speak for me. Um, but, uh, just appreciate you. This is very thoughtful. It's very nice. Um, I've known a lot of
you for a long time. I've worked with Dr. Wendy for a long time. Um, and I just have so much respect for this district and this school board and this leadership in particular. Um, I work with a lot of school boards and districts across the state and I just
think even tonight I'm like this is what it should be and this is what it can be and it needs to be for so many kids. And unfortunately it's just not as frequent as you make it look here. And I think the routine every time I'm here it's like you like each other, you like your
teachers, you like your schools, you're very proud of the community and u just the small part I've been able to play over the years. uh just really grateful to have the partnerships and um you know for legacy institute I hope we get to work with you for many more years in the future I think all of the things that
you're doing from kids from young age to uh the promise to the way that you've invested in schools to your high achieving schools but then the way you do it I think just matters so much and I think that in this time in particular we need more
examples of public officials public leaders big time famous national leader winners acting the right way and doing the right things for kids. Um it's just so needed and so I just very much appreciate this. This is very nice and
um I like all of you very much and I just appreciate all that you do for kids in our community. >> We got to take a picture. >> Yeah, we made sure we comment. >> I'm sorry. Comment Zach. >> I don't know if you recall. I remember
you about 15 years ago when you were with the Lane Foundation and I saw in you determination from another district. I was at another
district but I saw in you determination and you had a vision and look where you are now. you had a vision and when we look at Atlas Prep and just the way it has grown, yes, we're competing for
students, but I'm so proud that you have you had involvement in a chartered school that's now in D2. Thank you so much. You've done a great job. want to point out years ago um as a
principal at Stratmore Hills and when you began Atlas although we were competing for students you were not competing for our topnotch high achieving but you were you were just you were welcoming all students and
we had a couple of friends I don't even know if you remember but we had some conversations just in how to help that student be a little more successful even at your school. But I applaud you because you did not pick and choose, but you chose all our students, even those
challenging with with challenging situations. Um, you knew that they had possibilities and so I applaud you for that and thank you. >> Okay, now we're going to take a picture. We are at item five 5.1 public comment
and there is none on this evening. So we are just going on um communicating with the board. Um I am going to make a space for student rep uh report at this time.
>> Okay. I don't have too big of an update, but um recently Sierra has been we have had a lot of testing. So last week um juniors had CAMass science testing and then this week we have SAT and PSATs going on. So yesterday we had the juniors. Um today is the sophomores and
tomorrow will be the freshman. And um we have had a very welcoming environment for these testing days. Our principal has laid a red carpet outside of the front door and as you're walking in he's cheering you on. And there's people handing you stuff. I got like a chapstick, some pens. So, it's really
nice to like get your testing day started like that, you know, get good energy. So, that was very nice of our principal to set that up. And then we also have AP testing coming up. That is all throughout May. And then our spring sports are wrapping up. We have our two senior nights next week. Girls soccer is
on April 22nd and girls tennis is April 21st. So, I encourage everyone to show out for those seniors. We also have prom next week on the 24th and our theme is Golden Gala. So, everyone is very excited for that. And then finally, um Sierra is sending two students and our
principal to America's AI Youth Festival. >> What student? >> Um it will be me and um another another student. His name is Logan Aro. We'll be traveling to Boston, Massachusetts to discuss the future of artificial
intelligence. And I will just add because Mmer is not going to add those are the only people going from Colorado. So they are Colorado's contingency at the national conference and they will be writing an AI policy that they will put into place
for the whole nation. >> No pressure. >> Well, congratulations to you. Oh, that's an awesome achievement. We do some really incredible things in this school district. I'm just I know I can speak for the board and we're just so proud of
the accomplishments of everyone. So, um anyway, we're going to move on because you know, Miss uh Amy came and sat in the front row and everyone will need to thank her. So, we are at um item six. It is a board
consent agenda. We have OE2, superintendent emergency succession. OE um 13 facilities monitoring report and OE10
communicating with the public indicator report. At this time 6.4 I just need um um 6.4 approval of minutes from March 5th, 2026 work session. So, I just need
a something. Okay. Okay. Any day I just need a recommended motion, please, to approve. >> Madame President, I move to approve the board consent. >> Second. >> Motion to approve the minutes as stated
by Mr. Williams, second by Miss Frasier. All those in favor? >> I >> I so moved and approved. We're moving on to item seven. It is the superintendent consent report and comparison report
um for 202526 monthtomonth comparison. And we have the April personnel 2026 report. I just need a recommended motion, please. Madame President, I move to approve the superintendent consent agenda items as
presented. >> Second. >> Motion to approve the consent I mean the uh agenda as stated by uh Mr. Williams, second by Dr. Pam Robinson. All those in favor? >> I >> it's approved. Moving on to item eight.
It is the uh monitoring board performance. Item 8.1, it is the annual work plan. You have any additions, changes? >> No, ma'am.
>> All right. Moving forward, it is item 8.2, legislative updates. >> I'm going to have Mrs. Thompson share legislative updates and Mrs. Arures share financial legislative updates. And
Gus escort her. Good evening. Uh well, it is my pleasure to be able to give you a legislative update. I put a um a packet in each of your boxes. Hopefully, you you've received that. Um
but this is the we have we have uh just a short amount of time before this legislative session adjourns on May 13th. So this is the point in time of the session where um lots of committee meetings, bills are being reviewed,
testimony taken, but in the last 3 days or so, most of the time in the legislature has been spent on trying to finalize the long bill. The long bill is how we get the school finance act settled for the year to determine how
schools will be funded in this next fiscal year. Um and so in this time as part of that long bill um there's been a lot of talk about Taber because Taber is a limiting factor um for our state and
so just by way of background Taber is our taxpayers bill of rights here in Colorado and Taber does three things. First it caps the govern government government's revenue growth so the amount that the state can can bring in.
Um, it secondly requires voter approval for any tax increases. And lastly, it requires our state to refund any excess revenues that have been collected. Um, if there is a certain cap that has met
been met. So, within the long bill, tucked very deeply in this bill, it's 46.8 8 billion that the state is allocating. There is a line item that shows um a $36.1
million savings. Um and this was achieved by cancelling Taber refunds across the next two budget years. Um, Governor Polus uh believes that the state has overpaid these refunds during
the 2526 um tax year. And so this all is because of some federal budgetary changes that came down uh just after the end of the last fiscal year. So around July 4th of
2025 um the way the federal government had made um some of the regulations had changed and so the theory is that had we had
that information before then these refunds would not have been issued and so um the the governor believes that there's been an overissance issuance of these refunds. Now, I will say the JBC has reviewed this. There was a February
20th memo where they pushed back and they were uh warning that keeping this $36.1 million may not pass the muster. Um and so nonetheless, um as there's been some
review of this, the the federal budget that was signed back on July 4th of 2025, um the decision has been made to hold back this $36.1
million of Taber refunds. So, we'll see. um that that creates a little bit of uncertainty because we don't know whether or not that's going to see challenge. Um but nonetheless, the reason why I share this is because those disputed TABER
refund dollars, if there is a dispute, could impact school funding in the future because school funding is a very large line item of this long bill. So, all of that to say, we're still waiting for the long bill to be finalized. I
think we're getting closer. Um, and that is what we're expecting in the coming weeks. The we we don't have a lot of excess funding in the state. We've we've shared that in prior um legislative updates. So, where we're at
right now is really trying to see what's going to make it through this session. Right now there's 75 approximately bills that impact K12 education overall that are being contemplated and moving through the process. Um just today we
had we were very well represented um on House Bill 261264. Um and that is a discipline bill that has been introduced and is moving was moving through committee today um regarding safety programs for students
in public schools. four of our staff members very graciously um testified on that bill and so um and just sharing some of the challenge the inherent challenges that if this bill passes would be very difficult in terms of
implementation in a way that um is not disruptive to school systems already. So that's really the the latest update. Um it is the it is the 16th of April and so between now and the 13th of May there's
going to be a lot of movement. So it is my pleasure to be able to report and keep you updated. I'm happy to answer any questions that you may have at this time. >> Can you just share that there's no money in appropriations? >> Yes. So, appropriations, um, like we
talked about at the last, um, update, right now, we're estimated to be at about $1.5 billion budget shortfall. So, there is no money in appropriations to fund additional legislative measures.
Um, right where where we're at with the long bill right now, I think we're settling more at a 1.1 billion budgetary shortfall. But the bottom line is whether it's 1.1 billion shortfall or $ 1.5 billion shortfall, there's no extra
money. And so it's just that the ongoing scenario that there's not enough money. There's never going to be enough money. But we're going to continue doing the absolute best that we can to serve our community with the resources that we have. And right now, the way it's
looking for K12 is we're going to um hold steady, but we are not going to get additional funding. So our programs while what we have in place are still sustainable, we just don't have a margin in which to
grow programs or to take on additional initiatives that are going to be costly until we get more information and have more certainty as to what that statewide budgetary forecast is going to look like in the near future.
And there's no relief coming from the feds? >> No, probably not. Um, that's a whole different challenge um in and of itself. There's a lot of restructuring at the federal level. Um, and and in the name
of efficiency, I don't know. That has yet to be observed. But the bottom line is is that until we know federal funding is still going to flow through in a stable way, it's very difficult for our state legislators to be able to then
pass down um certainty at the lo to the local level. So it's it's it there is a lot of uncertainty right now. Thank you. >> But IDA will still continue, right? IDA.
Yeah. So, IDA is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. It was initially um authorized by Congress back in 1975. And when it was authorized, Congress aspired to fund it at 40%. Right now, it's it's never been fully
funded fully funded at 40%. The closest we ever got was around 2019 at 19%. I'm sorry, I misstated 16%. where we are right now is maybe 13%. So what that
means for districts like ours is that for the amount that we are required legally for compliance purposes to fund in terms of services um we have to backfill with our general fund dollars. So that um is doing the
right thing. By by no means I don't think anybody has ever um said that that's not the right thing to do. It is in fact the right thing to do to make sure that we can provide the services so that every student can access education.
The struggle is though when we're backfilling it takes away from other areas and other programming needs in order to meet this extremely underfunded federal mandate that you're correct. It is not going away. It is not um
the regulations and the requirements have not lessened at all. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Hi there. Good evening, Madame President and board members. Corey Argory, CFO at Harrison District 2 and Gus, of course.
Um, I'll see Gus. Um, it's so wonderful when the um our attorney can come up and speak um at pretty much do a lot of my presentation. So, that that is a good thing. What I'll tell you is in the next few days um you
will get the update for the district specifically. We have closed our the month of March now. Um very good news for the district. Um for us it is our district is stable especially as compared to many of the districts around
us. Um while a lot is going on at the state level. Um we will certainly watch what's happening legislatively for the next three weeks. Um and also at the federal level. Um we will continue to run our operations and our programs. Um,
you know, we we put a a stake in the ground. I will at our next board work session, April 30th, I will present to you our proposed budget for next year. Uh, we have moved forward doing our budget just like we have uh last year where we say we're going to build our
budget regardless of all the things that we cannot control. um we're going to move forward and the good thing is that um the budget uh we have a four-year plan as I had presented to you before. I know he's distracting.
Um but the good news to get Yeah. And every time I say budget, he's he's been through a lot of budget meetings. Um and so our our we have we have some wins. We really do. Our medical plan is a win. Um
it so far uh is has a reserve of 2.5 million we're projecting which uh is 2.5 million less than we thought we were going to spend which that is good news um that I don't think other districts can report. So, you'll be getting my synopsis along with the U monthly
financials from last month. Um, where we're ending up, the revised budget uh said we were going to be $6 million over in expenses than income. Um, and it's looking like we'll be 5.1 million. So, um, a savings of 900,000 to the district
that we start next year with uh, still in our pockets. So, so it's a good thing. It means that the district is being fiscally run well. We're doing good with taxpayer dollars. So that that that we can control, we are controlling.
And I will just applaud again both Miss Harris and Dr. Valdez on our new salary schedule for admin and teachers. We are not wellliked by other districts right now because they are barely being able to give a 1% increase and they're wondering how we redid our whole
schedule. Um and we Dr. Dr. Valdez can speak to it best, but we have people just wanting to come here. It's not just the salary schedule. Culture matters also, but it is a big factor when they see that we really value what we ask them to do because I will tell you, no
one works harder than our teachers and our special ed team and our paras in our classrooms in D2 because what we ask is high high stakes, high accountability, and we need to reward that. So, I'm just super excited that we've been able to make that happen for our staff and that
people are seeing that we're different once again in a good way. >> So, I'm excited to be able to present the budget to you at the next meeting uh and um walk you through some of the things that we have in there, talk to you more about our four-year plan. Um
and I'm avail I'm open for any questions you might have. We'll probably reserve questions for the next meeting. >> All right. Yeah, absolutely. Ready? >> Excellent presentation. Uh I know Gus is happy you're not talking about the budget at the moment. He just like
sprung to life. We are at the end. Does anyone have any additional comments or questions? It appears that all minds are clear. So with that being said, I just need a recommended motion to adjurnn, please.
>> Madame President, with no further business, I move to adjourn the board of education meeting. >> A second >> motion to adjourn the board of education meeting by Mr. Williams, second
by Emily. Miss Emily, I hadn't heard from you all night. I was like, "Oh, there you are." Okay. All those in favor? Hi. >> Hi. >> You're dismissed. And thank you, Miss Amy, for coming to the front.