Kristen Harper

The meeting included a mid-year update on the District Unified Improvement Plan (DUIP), covering student growth data in reading and math, challenges regarding performance gaps, and the role of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in graduation rates. The committee discussed new principal training, legal responsibilities, and the importance of School Accountability Committees (SACs). Significant time was dedicated to revising committee bylaws, specifically regarding member term limits, leadership position limits, and the application and appointment process. Planning for future SAC kick-off events and AAR feedback were also addressed.

The Board of Education meeting focused on the approval of the interim superintendent contract for Dr. Robert Stein. Additionally, the Board discussed and approved the recommendations for the 2026-2027 District Accountability Committee, addressing concerns regarding the vetting process and the committee's adherence to quorum requirements.

This document presents the recommendation from The Partnership for Fiscal Sustainability to the Jefferson County School District Board of Education. It proposes a $135 million ballot initiative in November 2026, comprising a $75 million General Mill Levy Override for staff compensation and Career Technical Education, and a $60 million Special Purpose Mill Levy for capital maintenance of schools. The recommendation aims to address critical challenges including a significant budget deficit, underpaid staff, school maintenance issues, and unmet student opportunities, ultimately leading to improved staff retention, enhanced student programs, and better-maintained facilities.

The committee meeting covered a transition update for the superintendent, including the process for selecting an interim and permanent replacement. Significant time was dedicated to the district-wide cell phone policy, addressing state mandates and the need for consistency alongside accommodations for specific student needs. Updates were provided on the screen time and device use project, including upcoming workshops. The committee also reviewed security incident briefings related to Infinite Campus and Canvas. Finally, plans for the next academic year were discussed, with a focus on forming subcommittees to address topics such as AI in education, digital efficacy, and student data privacy.

The committee reviewed safety and security updates, including work at Evergreen High School. Discussions centered on the Partnership for Fiscal Sustainability to address a district budget deficit, with potential bond or mill levy measures for 2026. Updates on capital projects included the status of Wheat Ridge High School and Fletcher Miller, and the implementation of electric bus infrastructure. The committee also covered property disposition strategies, reviewing the status of closed school sites and engaging with municipalities for process improvements. Financial reports provided detailed breakdowns of bond proceeds, total expenditures, and encumbrances for construction projects, alongside information on unallocated capital funds.