Regular - Board of Education Meeting 5/26/2026 Audio starts at at timestamp 24:01

001Order. Please rise for the pledge of allegiance 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. >> One nation under God. >> Good evening. Welcome to the visitors. Um, first item is to approve the regular board meeting. Do I have a motion to approve the regular board meeting agenda as presented? >> So moved. >> Second. >> AJ Wilson, >> yes. >> And Bennett, >> yes. >> Mark Hamry, >> yes. Michelle Ericson, >> yes. >> Susie K, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Okay, thank you. Next item, donation of $1,000 to Ry High School. Mr. David Russell. >> Our uh TSA has been doing the fundraising for our trip to Washington DC and we've got we received

002a $1,000 check from PBLO Bank and Trust. I would like the uh board to approve acceptance of that. >> All right. Any questions? All right. Thank you. >> And do I have a motion to accept the gifts with appropriate acknowledgement? >> Second. >> AJ Wilson, >> yes. >> And Bennett, >> yes. >> Mark Emry, >> yes. >> Michelle Ericson, >> yes. >> Susie K, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. Next item, good news. Um, first item, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge student recognition. Amy Smith, Jod Abrams, welcome. >> Hi. They are not here right now. My name is Beth Anderson. I'm with American Heart. And we have some really exciting news. We would like to recognize Sean Erdman. Come on up. He is the number two student fundraiser in all of

003Colorado. [applause] He has raised over $8,000. Wow. >> Wow. [applause] >> AND made a school record for North Mesa. So, we have Jeff House here over from North Mesa. So, their school just broke a record. So, congratulations. We just want to say that we are so grateful for you. You're making a huge impact with heart health and kids with special hearts. So, thank you so much. This kid is exceptional. Let's give him another round of applause. [applause] >> Do you want to say anything? >> Yeah. [laughter] >> Thank you. >> Good job, bud. >> That's awesome. Next item, student recognition. Adam Bombgartner. That's a That's kind of a hard one to follow up. Congratulations, kid. Um for the for the people that are here tonight, uh this is our third year of uh this corporate

004partner program, and with it, it it truly involves um finding a connection with our corporate partners, uh businesses, and then reconnecting them back with our students. So this part of it with their packages um the corporations are able to pick maybe how many students or maybe what fits their needs as a business um in in their area. Um and [clears throat] with that they were able to select various students. How we got to today was back in April, beginning of April, we send out a nomination link um that goes across the entire district and uh parent or staff members uh across the district are able to nominate various students um to to be recognized. And I get the honor tonight um to recognize uh seven of our students um throughout our our school district. So,

005I'm going to start with Sunwest. I've got a couple ladies out here that are here representing Sunwest. And Sunwest outstanding student of the year selection is a senior from PBlo West High School, Miss JC Thompson. [applause] So JC, I hope you don't mind. I'm going to say a few things about you, okay? And then later we're going to invite everybody as far as our student uh recipients outside for some photos. So Jaci's a quiet leader who consistently goes above and beyond without seeking attention. She brings positive positivity to whatever she does, always greeting others with a smile and making those feel around her welcome. You did that tonight as I was standing at the front like a doorman. Throughout high school, she's been deeply involved in student council, demonstrating dedication, leadership, and a genuine commitment

006to helping others and improving school culture at Public West High School. She truly emol em embodies the west motto of respect a way of life. Showing kindness, perspective, and resilience in all she does. Beyond student council, JC has excelled in FBLA as a champion and a national qualifier, discovered a passion for healthc care through STEP uh program at Parkview or UC Health, right? Um and preserved as one of the senior leaders on the PBLO West soccer team. Ladies and gentlemen, your Sunwest Credit Union outstanding student of the year, JC THOMPSON. YAY. >> [applause] >> THANK YOU, JASON. And our next one, I've got a few ladies here from the Bank of the San Juans. If you want to come up and join me, Bank of San Juans, they actually have two selections. So, their first

007selection is a senior from Rye High School, Zariah Tillery. >> [applause] >> HANG TIGHT because I'm going to say a few things about you, too. You should be proud. Okay. All right. Zariah is a dedicated leader who consistently demonstrates service, creativity, and excellence in both school and throughout the community. As a leader in the salt team, she works collaboratively to promote volunteerism and leadership among student athletes. She also serves as a team captain for both color guard and winter guard, leading her winterguard team to a first place finish at state last year. Beyond athletics, Zariah has showcased her artistic talents by participating in four art shows, winning a visual arts contest through the League of Women Voters of PBLO, and becoming a published poet. [clears throat] You got something you want to read to them

008or not? No. All right. Uh she's also committed um through her community volunteering through the American Legion and assisting family and community events. Uh Zariah is an outstanding representative. Ladies and gentlemen, your Bank of the San Juans outstanding student of the year, ZARIAH. [applause] >> Did you want to say anything? >> No. >> Good job. >> Oh, okay. All right. So, Bank of San Juans has another student. Their second student is a junior from Publo West High School, Payton Odell. [applause] Ready for this? >> All right. Okay. Perfect. Payton is a highly accomplished student athlete and a competitor who's excelled in academics, athletics, and career focused organizations. She's lettered in three sports and earned all conference honors in basketball. In business and leadership competitions, you've become a district champion, a state qualifier in DECA uh

009for sports and entertainment marketing. Did I get that right? Yeah. Correct me if I get something wrong. A district champion in FBA and earned second place at the FBA state competition in video production. Additionally, Payton is a state champion in Skills USA photography and has qualified to compete both at the FBA National Leadership Conference [clears throat] in San Antonio and the Skills USA National Leadership Conference in Atlanta this summer, which we'll later hear about those those trips. Her dedication, talent, and success across multiple areas make her an outstanding student to her school and our community. Ladies and gentlemen, your Bank of the Sanans outstanding student of the year, PTON LAND. >> [applause] [applause] >> ALL RIGHT, OUR NEXT one is from Lot Tekka and I believe Mr. Two Saint as we have a busy time

010of year, right, was not able to make it, but their selection is an eighth grader from Pleasant View Middle School, Ally Lockett. [applause] [applause] Congrats, Allie. Keep smiling. It's contagious, right? All right. Um, as as an eighth grader, Ally has been an honor student throughout all three years at at Pleasant View Middle School and has consistently demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and character. She's been active actively involved in numerous clubs, sports, and organizations, serving as a positive role model for her peers. Through her integrity, integrity, excuse me, dedication and leadership, Ally has made a lasting impact on Pleasant View Middle School. Congratulations, Ally. OUR [applause] our next corporate partner who's here and this is our first year partnering together um is MXV Rail and their selection was a sophomore from Publo West High School, Fabian

011Canana. [applause] >> You're not done yet, but All right. Here. Fabian is an ambitious and innovative sophomore of the West High School. Would you agree with that? >> Yeah. All right. Uh, with a strong passion for electronics and engineering, how many things do you take apart at home? >> Too many. [laughter] Inspired by his goal of becoming an electrical engineer, Fabian has taken initiative to expand his learning far beyond the classroom. independently exploring concepts in electric electricity circuitry and technology design. Fabian has already achieved significant success through skills USA competing at the state level uh in electrical or I'm sorry electric yeah electrical construction wiring and contributing to a state runner-up robotics project. You want to share a little bit about your robotics project? >> Uh it was very successful and I had a lot

012of fun. >> Yeah. What was the what was the part of it? Did you have to like manipulate it to go through like a maze or do certain things or >> We had to compete against another team to I guess score more points than them by moving a bunch of balls into a objective. >> Okay. It wasn't like a robot crushing another robot, right? >> Battlebots. [laughter] >> Ladies and gentlemen, your MXV rail uh outstanding student of the year, Fabian K. [applause] [applause] All right. Uh, our next one is Bradley Auto Network and they are not here, but they have selected a sophomore from Public County High School, Brooklyn Kleti. [applause] Brooklyn, this is that part where you have to give the speech. Are you ready? No. Just keep smiling. Okay. All right. Brooklyn is

013a dedicated and well-rounded student who has fully embraced her high school experience through involvement in numerous activities and organizations. She actively participates in the public county high school dance team, student council, track, girls cabinet, DECA, and National Honor Society. While balancing the demanding schedule, Brooklyn has remained committed to academic excellence by maintaining a strong GPA. Her ability to successfully manage academics and extracurricular involvement reflects on her dramatic and her determination, responsibility, and strong work ethic. Ladies and gentlemen, your spread the auto auto network outstanding student of the year, Brooklyn College. [applause] [applause] >> All right, last but not least, UC Health. Look at here. We already just popped up. Perfect. Uh, UC Health has selected a senior from PBLO West High School. Callus Dan. Kay Dan. I knew I was going to have that. Kay

014Dan. Sorry. All right. Uh, Kay has des I'm going to start all over here. Ready? [laughter] Cut. Take two. Here it is. Kayla has demonstrated outstanding um achievement in healthcare education by competing at the HOSA state conference and earning a title of the state champion in the clinical lab science. >> What is that? >> Nobody >> briefly >> running tests on body fluids essentially. >> Okay. >> Just random tests. >> Helpful tests to identify illness. >> Yeah. All right. Thanks. I learned something today. This accomplishment reflects her strong knowledge and dedication and excellence in the medical and health sciences field. Your plan after graduation is >> to go to Oregon State and study bio health sciences. >> Very nice. >> Ladies and gentlemen, you're UC Health outstanding student Kay Dan. [applause] That is it. Thank

015you for allowing me to >> Yes, Mr. >> I'd like to say one more thing. Congrat Thank you all you awesome kids, but can we thank the parents who raised them, too? They're awesome. [applause] [applause] >> So, Mr. Emory did beat me to my uh ending punch line here. So, sorry with I it's hard that's hard to follow up. It's okay. Again, without the support of of our schools and all the hard work that goes in there, as well as the families that are sitting here with us tonight, um it it truly takes a village. And I again, I just feel honored and blessed to be able to recognize seven students, as well as to continue that partnership and that gap between our corporate partners and and our students. So, at this time, I'm going

016to interrupt a little bit. And those of you that were here being recognized tonight, if you want to meet me out front, we're going to take some photos and I'll be back. >> All right. Thank you, ADAM. [applause] >> And there goes >> there goes the audience. Yes. That was really great. >> That's one way to clear a room. >> Give a bunch of people awards. >> Okay, next item. National Counseling Appreciation. Rachel Brown and Tina Glay. Good evening and thank you for having us and allowing us this opportunity to present. I feel a little less nervous now that half the room left. Um I hope I can be half as exuberant as Mr. Bombgardner, but um today was field day and I kind of feel like I'm going to turn into a pumpkin as

017soon as I'm done speaking, so I'll do my best. Um, also because I don't like to put my name on anything that I don't own, I will let you know that this presentation was originally um put together by another counselor, but because um we were postponed a few times due to other issues, um my colleague here stepped up and she volunteered me and brought me along. So, here we are. Um we would like to um just inform you of some of the things that um the school counselors have been doing regarding career And so our presentation is from classroom to career. First I would like to tell you about the ask a national model um which is our governing body. Um the American school counselor association national model provides a framework for delivering a comprehensive

018counseling program. It ensures that counseling is data informed, equitable, aligned with school improvement goals and focused on student outcomes. Three core domains are academic development, social emotional development, and career development. Who are school counselors? School counselors are certified educators trained in academic development, social emotional learning, career development, systemsled student support, and crisis response. School counselors serve all students through a comprehensive preventive program. What do counselors do? School counselors are specialized educators with at least a 60-hour master's degree who support K12 students academic, career, and social emotional development. They provide direct services like counseling and classroom lessons and provide indirect services such as collaborating with parents and referring to outside resources to to remove barriers to learning. School counselors support student success and achievement, positive school climate and belonging, skill building for life beyond school, access

019to opportunity, students dealing with traumatic issues such as grief, divorce or separation, self harm or suicidal ideiation, and we guide staff through the mandated reporting process. Counselors are trained in student development and planning. We also make handy warm bodies [laughter] So again what does ASA say? So our main um we want to enhance student growth in our three domain areas like we said earlier academic, career and social emotional development. We want to to help students with strategies and activities to help them enhance not only their career development but in academic and in social emotional development as well. We want them to understand the connection between school and the world of work and we want them to have a successful transition to post-secary education and work across the lifespan. So again recognizing that school counselors we

020start at elementary at the elementary level um all of those skills that we teach students they will need their whole through their whole lifetime. Career readiness is built in time over time through these skills. So self-awareness, goal setting, decision- making, communication skills, critical thinking, leadership and teamwork, exposure to opportunities, post-secondary planning, aspiration development. Uh again, career development is a process that begins early. Um we want students to start thinking about what they want to be when they grow up because again, over time that's going to change. Once they get [clears throat] that exposure in middle school and high school, that can change for them. And then we want them to have a lot of different experiences and opportunities. How do our how does our district school counselor support career readiness as a developmental process from

021elementary through high school? We're going to talk a little bit more about that next. Career readiness as a K12 continuum. Career development is not a single event in 12th grade. It is a structured process that begins in elementary school and grows each year. School counselors provide consistent guidance, access, developmentally appropriate supports, collaboration with families, staff, and community partners. In elementary school, as our elementary um counselors are kind of new, um our primary goal is to build early awareness of the world of work and student strengths. What does that look like? learning that adults have many different jobs, connecting school skills to future careers, developing positive attitudes about learning and effort, and the council role um focuses on lessons on strength, interests, and goal setting, career exposure activities, supporting social emotional skills for workplace readiness. Why

022does this matter? Early exposure helps students imagine possibilities and build confidence. So, um, we just had a few of our counselors let us know what they were doing in their buildings, um, for their career lessons. So, for Ry Elementary, they hosted a career day where students were able to explore interests, understand the world of work, and connect to what they learn in school to future opportunities. And, um, as I said, the um, elementary counselors, most of us are new, and so we're building our programs from the ground up. At Prairie Winds Elementary, they had high school students shared uh career and technical education pathways, giving elementary students a clear studentled view of future learning opportunities. North Mesa, they celebrate over 30 years of their career day, which helps um they collaborated with community members and

023parents to share their professional experiences with students. They had pre-event lessons that included explore the world of work, job o dictionary activities, career bingo, and career themed dressup days, giving students fun and interactive ways to learn about different careers. South Mesa Elementary, also celebrating over 30 years, um, hosted their annual career day after CEASS testing. Students were able to hear from a variety of community members and parents who present their careers with new presenters chosen every year. Classroom activities leading up to that day include career lessons, career bingo, dress up days, and hands-on activities to explore the world of work. At Violin Elementary School, there's a 28 member fifth grade audiovisisual club, which produces and runs the school's morning announcements. Um, giving students hands-on experience in public speaking, organization, and creative programming. By planning, scripting,

024and presenting daily broadcasts, students develop skills that connect directly to careers in media, communication, and leadership. At Liberty Point Elementary, my school, um, career conversations are always very exciting. Bringing this topic to students is a buildingwide effort. While classroom teachers have their own clear career lessons, the dean of students features a career of the week. Every day, um, she makes an announcement. um the beginning of the week she'll present which [clears throat] career is going to be featured for that week and then each day she gives facts about the career um over the morning announcements. Um my SEAL lessons offer third through fifth graders the opportunity to re research facts about the three careers of their choice using the Holland code descriptions. Um, I also introduce career terms and concepts to the K2 students and

025it all culminates in the annual career day which features guests from the community as well as parents describing their various careers. Students often dress as their favorite career for this event. This can be pretty stressful because trying to find enough people from the community that are willing to come in and speak um is hard enough. And then we had this year two uh guests cancel the night before our career day. So we were scrambling to find people, but we did have parents who stepped up um and presented their careers to our students. Goal setting across all grade levels at CRA and SVE. Um, students at Cedar Ridge Elementary and Sierra Vista Elementary are learning the importance of goal setting with the focus on why goals matter, steps to create effective, achievable goals. Grades K through

026one introduced through readalouds and discussions. Um, they practice sent setting simple goals. They express future career ideas through drawing and writing. Grades two through five built deeper understanding of goal setting strategies, applied goal setting skills to personal and academic growth. again at uh Cedar Ridge and Sierra Vista. Those are my buildings that I work at. I introduced uh through second through fifth grade the Holland's codes um and lessons included engaging videos for each personality type which they really enjoyed those videos. Um classroom discussions connecting traits to careers. our activities. They completed their own personality assessment. So, they were able to see their do their dominant traits, which was kind of cool. Um, then they had to do their own research of their career of interest uh to include the education and training requirements, average salary

027range, and projected job growth for that career. At the middle school level, career exploration 6 through 8. Our primary goal is to help students explore interests and begin linking them to specific pathways. What can this look like? again identifying career clusters and personal interests, learning about course choices, building decision- making and goal setting skills. The council role there is to uh the interest inventories and exploration tools, small groups and guidance lessons. Introducing the IAP conversations and platforms used within our district. And why does this matter? Because middle school is where students start forming academic and career direction. At Craraver Middle School, students at Craraver were able to participate in financially in a financial literacy presentation given by Sunwest Educational Credit Union and they were able to learn the basics in budgeting in addition uh learning

028more about the banking industry. Pleasant m Pleasant View Middle School held their health and career day where students will explore health careers through partnerships with UC Health's trauma and injury prevention for schools program and community professionals. Participants learned from AMR, PBLO fire department, health solutions, and district vape educator, and Park View nurses. Teaching CPR, gaining hands-on experience and firsthand insights into careers and health, safety, health, and safety. I [clears throat] should probably use them. Eighth grade financial simulation. 180 eighth grade students at Vinland Middle School participated in Bite of Reality, a hands-on project-based budgeting program through Miniqua Works Credit Union. For three weeks, credit union professionals taught lessons guiding students through a realworld financial decisions, managing income and expenses, and building practical skills for future careers and independent living. And then of course high school

029career planning and post-secary readiness um grades 9 through 12. The primary goal prepare students for graduation and next steps. What does this look like? Completing up and updating ICAP plans post-secary exploration, resume interview skills, financial aid support, aligning coursework with career goals. The counselor role is individual planning meetings, partnering with CTE and workforce resources, ensuring students meet graduation guidelines. Why it matters? Counselors help students leave high school with clear with a clear supported plan. >> At PBLO County High School, um 70% of students engaged in major clarity and 600 plus have selected a career pathway. Classroom connection staff integrates career and college conversations into lessons and support students with college applications. Guest speakers visit and share firsthand insights about careers and fields. Work-based learning uh 42 students completed work-based learning and 12step students gained hand

030on hands-on experience. Post-secondary preparation students did attend a CSUP construction management day and also STS and concurrent enrollment courses partnership with PCC with welding and machining uh for welding 20 first year and 14 secondyear students earning certifications and pursuing degrees. Um 10 students for machining and expanding those opportunities. The goal is to give students real world experiences and skills to explore and pursue their future careers. PBlo West High School. Um they offer 10 career pathways to help students explore and prepare for future careers. Some of the most popular pathways include biomed pathway 320 students 90 completing competing at HOSA Nationals 19 in the STEP program at Parkview Hospital. Business and marketing pathway 126 students in the workbased learning. Um annual career fair with 50 plus community partners. Automotive pathway again um collaborating with PCC taught

031courses 32 students um hundreds of industry certifications expected this year. Cyber security pathway 221 micro credentials completed through major clarity. Other pathways pathways include coding, engineering and technology, digital media communications, design and multimedia, general construction, and law and justice academy at Ry High School. Um, again, semester lessons and major clarity activities for all students, individual meetings for juniors and seniors on post-secary planning, senior access to CSUP support, work-based learning, work experience, and STEP program opportunities. Concurrent enrollment and senior seminar for career and college exploration, community presentations, lunch info tables, and career camps to inspire real world pathways. In closing, it's a K through 12 system of support. Career readiness is not a single event in 12th grade. It's a devel developmentally process supported across all grade levels. Working alongside school teams, counselors provide career f

032focused guidance and access to opportunities that help every student envision and pursue their next steps. It's really exciting to see the kids just exploring the possibilities and to see the different answers that kids come up with when you ask them what they want to do with their future. Um, what really surprises me often is it's the kids that are sitting in the office that come up with things like biochemical engineer and [laughter] and I think, well, you have the tenacity. Absolutely. >> Okay. And then we have a short video >> this test. I mean, I studied so much and I still don't know what's going on. >> My gosh, bro. You >> stressed? >> Yes. >> I got a solution for you. Follow me. >> Office girl. >> This is my dog, Miss Murray. She's

033going to help you with all your stress, bro. She's got you covered. All our school. >> Hi, I'm Jennifer Smith. I go to Po West High School. I'm a sophomore and I'm passionate about mental health and stress because re research shows that chronic stress can harm students concentration, emotional regulation and academic performance. High stress levels are also linked to increased anxiety and depression when students lack proper support. This is why uh qualified school counselors are essential. Um trained counselors use evidence-based strategies to identify concerns early and provide early and provide effective district. I'm a sophomore that goes to Publo High School and I'm here to tell you why I'm so passionate about mental health. It's because it shapes how students see themselves, handle challenges, and engage with school. High levels of stress can lead to

034students feeling isolated, burnt out, and discouraged, which can affect both their learning and personal growth. This makes it especially important for school counselors to be wellqualified and properly trained. Skilled counselors are able to provide accurate guidance, connect students with helpful resources, and support them through difficult situations. Their expertise can make lasting can make a lasting difference by promoting emotional resilience, healthy coping skills, and a more supportive environment overall. >> Alberano, I'm a sophomore at O West High School, and I think mental health in high school is important because it affects how students learn, build relationships, and handle stress during a critical stage of their lives. Many teenagers face pressure from academics, social expectations, and personal challenges, which can feel overwhelming without support. School counseling plays a key role by giving students a safe space to

035talk, learn coping skills, and get help before problems become more serious. >> Hi, my name is Jared Salazar, and I go to Polo High School, and I'm a sophomore. Um, I'm passionate about mental health and stress because it strongly impacts students well-being and academic success. Uh when these things go unressed, uh students can feel overwhelmed and unsupported. Uh this is why it is essential for school counselors to be wellqualified and they can recognize early warning signs, provide effective coping mechanisms and uh create a safe environment that helps students manage stress and threat. [applause] So, just a quick word about the counselor core grant um through which many of the counselors are >> I studied so much and I'm still >> I thought it was over. Sorry, >> Tim. >> The counselor core grant creates capacity

036to build comprehensive, proactive, and preventative counseling programs. uh maintains a strong focus on increasing academic achievement, expands support systems that benefit students across all grade levels. The grant impact and progress has streamlined the onboarding process for new counselors, developed um K through2 career programming and and align systems, increased counselor visibility by providing tier one lessons to all students, and strengthen student understanding of being future focused and planning ahead. Um, one thing I'll say before I go is the um, American School Counselor Association recommended ratio of counselors to students is 200 is it 20? >> 250 to1 um, which we are nowhere near close to. So, um, imagine what we could do if we had uh, that kind of ratio. >> On that note, I think I have the highest case load in the district because

037I split two schools. So, I have over 900 students. So that can a lot of times um I don't feel like I'm very effective in either one building but I know that I have made a difference and that's important. So um one thing I do want to say there's a handful of counselors here today. Raise your hand if you're a school counselor here today. [applause] >> So we wanted to give a great big shout out and thank you to Dr. Anthony Martinez because without his leadership we wouldn't be here. Um, our district our district counseling program has grown tremendously under his leadership. We know that he has passion in supporting students and helping helping us to help them min minimize their barriers. We've been able to establish again and streamline districtwide where we had no

038um programs established before. He's helped to write and manage those grants which many of us are employed because of that under his leadership. On a personal note, I just want to say that uh Dr. Mr. Martinez has been present for me. Uh, I've been in the district for three years now. Um, he's stepped up for me on a professional level. I respect him tremendously. His leadership. Anytime I had a question or a problem or I needed something, he always had an answer for me and he approached it with professionalism and confidence. Um, I just want you to know, Dr. Martinez, I'm pleased to have worked with you. I'm very honored and we just appreciate you so much. [applause] Does anyone have any questions for us? >> Thank you. >> Not again. >> Thank you. >>

039Well done. [applause] >> Next [clears throat] item. PCA spotlight. Kate, >> this is my >> have to keep reminding myself it's Tuesday. off is really throwing me. But what it really is is that tomorrow is Wednesday. I'm not ready for that. Um, so we have two folks to recognize today. Both unfortunately could not be here. One is attending their fifth grade recognition for their students this evening. So, uh, so we'll go with her first. She is our certified PCA spotlight. She's an ESS teacher at North Mesa Elementary. Lisa Porter. Lisa has spent 19 years at North Mesa Elementary pouring herself into students, colleagues, and community, and her impact is felt in every corner of that building. As an ESS teacher, she meets students exactly where they are at where they are, working to ensure that

040every child in her care has access to the educational foundations they deserve. She's the first person colleagues turn to with a question or a concern, and she shows up for them with the same warmth and care she brings to every student who crosses her path. Her encouraging words and warm smile are as much a part of North Mesa as the building itself. Lisa has taught across first through fourth grades and in ESS over her 19 years at North Mesa, a range that speaks to her flexibility, expertise, and deep commitment to ser serving students at every level. She's consistently the first to volunteer when a student needs additional support or assessment. And her ability to provide that special one-on-one attention has made a measurable difference in the lives of countless children. Outside of school, Lisa pours

041that same love into her children and grandchildren and travels with her husband Paul, a full life that reflects the whole grounded person she brings to work every day. [applause] Our next PCA spotlight is an is for uh an education support professional at Sierra Vista. She's the preschool lead teacher, Kaylee Martinez. Kaylee Martinez brings a warmth to Sierra Vista Elementary that is impossible to miss. From the moment students see her face, their own light up. And the and that kind of connection doesn't happen by accident. It is the result of someone who shows up every single day with gen genuine friendliness, care, and a spirit that makes both students and staff feel welcome and valued. Kaylee approaches every task she is given with a positive attitude and without complaint, modeling the kind of professionalism and joy

042that makes a school a better place for everyone in it. As a preschool lead teacher, Kaylee sets the tone for some of the youngest and most impressionable learners in District 70, and she does it beautifully. Her ability to build instant, genuine connection with students speaks to a natural gift for this work. and her willingness to step in, help out, and do whatever is needed makes her an invaluable member of the Sierra Vista team. She's the kind of colleague everyone is grateful to have in the building. Kaylee Martinez. [applause] Thank you, Kate. Next item, Boys and Girls Club recognition. Hello. Thank you for having us. I'm Becky Medina. I'm chief operating officer with Boys and Girls Club. and we're here because we want to uh celebrate, acknowledge uh Rhonda Ryan's um retirement. Uh you've been such

043an incredible leader and supporter and you really modeled the way and we appreciate that at Boys and Girls Club. When we started our partnership, we had one site in Mccard Community Center serving the Aendale community, some at Vineland, Vinand Middle School, and a few from County High School. And we've been able to expand to three additional sites. uh Prairie Winds Elementary. Uh then Liberty Point International Middle School with support of 21st Century Funds and um and an additional extension site at Aendelle Elementary specifically supporting STEM and math education and that vision and [clears throat] creative partnerships. I really appreciate on behalf of all of the kids we serve, the kids in district 70 that vision and prioritizing youth outcomes and support of youth and families in the out of schooltime space where we're able to

044provide services both after school and in the summer. Um, >> said so much about what has been accomplished, but I'm just gonna kind of personalize it just a little bit. I'm Angela Hedon, president and CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Publo County. and we just didn't feel like we could um let Rhonda leave without us as an organization acknowledging not only um what you have accomplished um in District 70, but I think in our whole community because you have impacted kids all over um PBLO County. So um I just it it was a great to be here tonight hearing so many inspirational stories uh because I think myself and probably my colleagues here are so um inspired and have been inspired by you Rhonda um your intelligence um your innovation ability to think

045outside the box has really um inspired some like like-minded people but I just we just want you to know we love And we have a little gift. And this is Kendra Turner, our resource development um vice president of our resource development. So there's some flowers. A little birdie told us that um we were trying to figure out what you like and it was >> Oh, there's something there. >> Yeah, I think [laughter] it is um some massage and stuff like that. So that [laughter] >> we love you. Rhonda was not only on our board, but just again, as Becky said, she um just um helped us to be able to um begin this stronger relationship with with District 70 and being able to serve kids in partnership. So, we love you and thank you. Thank

046you. [applause] >> [applause] >> When I when I first got this job, they said, "Angela Heron wants to meet with you about um possibly starting another site at Liberty Point International and it just it for whatever reason it just didn't work well. And so we started it at Prairie Winds and then um she said, "Well, we're going to move the site from Prairie Winds to Liberty Point." And I kind of threw myself down in a tantrum and I said, "What? You can't take that away from Prairie Winds. Prairie Winds need you. Prairie, those kids need you." And so they they gave in and they opened another site at Liberty Point in addition to Prairie Winds. And I really do consider the Boys and Girls Club just an extension of our district uh learning. What I

047love about the Boys and Girls Club is that it's all about kids. It's not about adults. It's never about adults with Boys and Girls Club. I love that the fundraiser is all about the kids and they are the center focus of everything and that is because of your guys's leadership and your fundraising ability and I know you're going on to do uh >> different things [laughter] and you have my 100% support because you always do what's best for the community and so um thank you guys. Thank you for your guys' partnership. We couldn't >> We We are lucky to be a partner with you. [applause] All right. Thank you. Next item, information from the board and the superintendent. So, why don't we shake it up and start with Michelle? Okay, sounds great. Um, good evening.

048Wow, what a month this has been. Um, I've had the opportunity to visit 13 District 70 schools this past couple of months and I've loved every second of it. Um, I've toured, I've observed, I've attended events, um, celebrations of years of service, particip I participated in, uh, four graduation ceremonies, observing our staff and students in session was amazing. The school culture, the teachers, um, the staff, the students working together, and the hustle and bustle of the hallways offered an insight into each and every bu building I entered. And I just, that warms my heart. That's amazing. Um, if I haven't visited your building yet, my goal is to visit you before the end of September. I want to be in every building before the end of September. In addition to visits and anniversary celebrations, I

049was fortunate, as mentioned, to attend graduation ceremonies, and if I didn't make yours this year, I will be there next year. I promise. Um, every ceremony was unique, showcasing school tradition, academic rigor, all the accomplishments of our amazing kids, and I look forward to all the future visits, the celebrations, and learning more about our individual schools and programs. And I thank you very much for having me. Y. [applause] Hey folks. Well, we have a couple of great news things. Did you know the county baseball team is playing in the state championship on Saturday? >> That's pretty cool. Pretty exciting. [applause] Well, I have a cool story to tell you. And uh I attended graduation ceremonies as well and lots of student speeches were given and they were all fantastic but one stuck stuck out to

050me and it was given by let's see Daniel Padilla. He was a validictorian at County High School and he was quite a dynamic speaker. He was a pounder and he caught my attention right away. But a story he told was so special. He said when he was in kindergarten uh it was his first day of kindergarten and he was standing in line at the at the lunch with the cafeteria ladies and and he says, "Oh, good." He didn't know anyone. No kindergarteners do. And he said, "Oh, good. Hot dogs. I love hot dogs." And the cafeteria lady proceeded to put mustard all over it. And he says, "I hate mustard." And so, as many kindergarters we know, he was very upset. He went over into the corner, sat by himself, and was just crying his

051eyes out. This is a wonderful story he's telling me. And a custodian, and I knew who it was immediately, named Tim came up to him and said, "What's the matter? They put mustard on my hot dog." And he says, "Let me help you." And so Tim went and got him a hot dog without mustard. And for a senior to remember his first day of kindergarten because of one of our wonderful staff members, uh the the name of the custodian when they said, "Tim," I knew exactly who it was. I worked with him at county. Then he went to Vinland Elementary. His name's Tim Chrisman and a wonderful man. And just we we need to look at our our staff members as everyone providing uh for the student success. It's not like, well, I'll clean the

052floors and empty the trash and uh clean your rooms. No, they're right there with the students. How many of you had a custodian you absolutely loved? I did. >> I did. >> I Mr. Ortiz was his name. And so, uh, I was told, and I would love to say I wish this weren't true, but, uh, Mr. Chrisman died a couple years ago. And, uh, makes me wish I had spent more time with him, but he was a fine man, and I I loved him. He was a great guy. >> That's all. >> Thank you. [applause] Well, we have a long agenda tonight, so I'm just going to keep it brief. Um, I attended graduations this past weekend as well. It was really fun. Um, I enjoyed, like they mentioned, seeing the the different traditions in

053the different schools and seeing a lot of kids, especially in my community of Rye, um, that I knew. Some of them I went to school with their parents at Rye many years ago. So, it was it was really fun. I was honored to be able to participate in that. >> I'd have been upset if somebody put mustard on my hot dog, too. [laughter] [snorts] >> I probably would have done the same thing even now. So, um >> sorry with the potato salad, >> right? >> Um I also got to make it to some graduations. It's not as many as I would like to, but it's it's still one of my favorite things about being on the board is the anniversary awards and graduation makes up for everything bad that sometimes comes with this and with

054the challenges. It It's really cool to see those kids walk across the stage and know that they accomplish something and then to also see some of those kids go, "This is just the start." And I think that's where some people kind of think, oh, this is the end of a, you know, end of a benchmark or whatever. And a lot of those kids are learning now. Like, this is just the beginning. And I think that's a great mentality to have is the kids that realize, hey, it's not ending. It's given me the chance to start. >> That's Yeah. I love too how so many of them I mean you have this opportunity to speak in front of your entire graduating class and all the parents and so many of them sat and thanked the teachers

055that got them there. That was really sweet. Um selfishly I enjoyed being able to hug my nieces that came across the stage and hand them their diplomas. That was extra special for me. Um attending the swallows one was really really sweet and Dr. Compton came up and she's like, "Oh, whoa. We don't usually get board members. This is wonderful." I was like, "This is great." It was so sweet and those kids accomplished so much. It was just this was a great weekend. Everyone said, "Oh, man. Did you spend your whole Memorial weekend of graduation?" I was like, "Yeah, it was awesome." So, it was great. >> Yeah. Thank you, Rhonda. >> Um, well, I have a few things. So, I I had told Rebecca Pal from Prairie Winds that I would mention this and I

056and I want to celebrate their Destination Imagination teams, the Super Civilians and the Brain Blasters. Uh they got first place at the regional tournament and the Brain Blasters went on to place third at the Super and the Super Civilians went on to place fifth at the state tournament. And so they also went to the super civilians went to Kansas City this weekend to um compete in the national convention. Um and they didn't place in the top 10, but they they did well. And so we we're very proud of them and we um appreciate that she gave us that information and she's doing that with these kids because it's a great opportunity for these kids to um compete in Destination Imagination. Um, I don't think people always realize how many graduations we we do have as

057a district. We we have the gateway for the kids who go to PCC. We have the Swallows graduation, the District 70 online, Rye, PBLO County, and PBLO West High School. So, we had a lot to get to in three days. So last week was not exactly a Memorial Day weekend for us, but it was such a celebration for our kids and it is really it is the um I don't know just it's it's just amazing to see these kids some of these kids uh at Pub County High School were my last class, my last sixth grade class as a principal at Pleasant View. And so uh that was a little bit bittersweet. Um, we also had uh Pleasant View Middle School anniversary awards, which we uh gave out a bunch of awards, but many of

058them are retiring at Pleasant View. Um, that's a huge uh staff turnover there at Pleasant View. But Jean's been doing a great job of finding uh people to replace them, but that's a tough crowd to replace because they've been there for many, many years. And so, we wish that group well. Uh, another thing that we celebrated in this last three weeks was teacher awards celebration. And so we celebrated Ann Marie Cunningham from PBLO West High School who is a math teacher, Karen Maluso who is an ESS teacher at PBLO County High School, uh Carolyn Morrison from North Mesa who is a music teacher, Julie Smith from Prairie Winds who is a second grade teacher, and Sarah Ford a pair professional from uh Vineland Elementary. And I just wanted to mention all of them because not

059everybody's able to attend those teacher award celebrations, but uh they certainly deserve to be uh recognized. So, thank you. [applause] >> I made notes. >> Yeah, I I don't have notes. I'm gonna [laughter] try better next time. Um I think like everybody else said, very busy couple weeks. Um a lot of school visits. Uh myself and Director Ericson made a trek around the mesa last Wednesday and and hit several schools and I think one of the coolest things we caught was uh at at Vinland Elementary School. Uh the seniors were back doing their their walk through the schools and I think it was really cool. They had a little kitty little like a time capsule kind of thing and so they had the the kindergarten kids walking into it and the graduates coming out of

060it as kind of a symbol of you start here and this is where you end up. And so uh that was really cool. I I think the biggest thing about the graduation ceremonies is we have distinct schools and and as Susie said, you know, Swallows is a very different graduation than what you would see at Publo West or Pobo County. And then same with D70 online. Again, very personalized graduation. I see. So that's really cool to see the different schools and how they recognize and honor uh their students. And again, uh the end result is every one of them walking across the stage with a diploma. So, uh, in between those, I did make a trek up to Air Force Academy to catch one of the county high baseball games between the two graduations on

061Friday. Um, we'll plan on being up there 10:00 on Saturday. Correct, Mr. Bumgardner. >> Correct. And don't forget to fill out that extra pass. Mr. Vro, >> mine was filled out. I got right in, Mr. Bumgardner. You might want to go to the right gate this time. >> So, yeah, >> you might find your doors and everything wide open >> if you get a chance. uh you know uh go up. It'd be really great to celebrate and end the school year with the state championship. So it >> all right. Thank you. All right. Next discussion items. First item is a presentation of PBLO West High School FBLA trip to San Antonio, Texas. And um we'll also have Tanya do presentation of PBLO [clears throat] West High School skills USA trip to Atlanta, Georgia. >> All

062right. Good evening and thank you. Um, we will be traveling to uh San Antonio for FBLA Nationals. We have four students attending uh a duo in graphic design and one in business achievement awards and one in video production and that will take place the 29th through the 3rd. And then uh for Skills USA, we'll be traveling to Atlanta um the 1st through the 6th. So, next week we have three students. Um, [clears throat] this is the second year that we have taken students to nationals, which is pretty exciting. So, we're just adding students. Um, one in cabinet making, one uh in t-shirt design. He is actually a two-time state champion and will be competing at nationals again for the second time. And then one in photography. Any questions? >> All right. Thank you. Thank you.

063Next item, presentation of PBLO West High School wrestling team's trip to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Okay, good evening. Thank you for allowing me to be here. Um, and actually it's about 10 days ago, we got another opportunity to go to Oklahoma State uh wrestling camp. So, I'll be presenting both, but kind of some background as to why these are important to the Polaro West wrestling program. Over the past three years, we have worked hard to build a stronger culture within Public West wrestling. And one of the biggest steps forward has been introducing summer team wrestling camps. Three years ago, when we started, we just had eight wrestlers attend University of Northern Colorado. Last summer, we took 15 wrestlers to the University of Wyoming. And this year, as of this morning, we have 24 wrestlers signed up to

064either go to Oklahoma State or um Wyoming. Again, the one with the Wyoming camp kind of turned a culture within PO West. That camp last year helped build relationships, trust, accountability, and true sense of family within our team. Our wrestlers return returned home more connected as a team and more invested in each other's success. Throughout this past season, our wrestlers consistently talked about how much closer the team felt and how posit positive the atmosphere in the room had become. Looking back, that camp played a major role in helping shape the success of our past season. Where as a team, we placed two we had two wrestlers placed at this JV state tournament. We had 12 varsity regional places [clears throat] and we sent eight members to the state tournament. The momentum has continued this spring

065as well. It hasn't just stopped in the winter. As of this morning, we had two wrestlers qualify for a prestigious national tournament in Freestyle Greco that's held in Fargo in the July of 2026 in North Dakota. And this summer, um, after discussing both opportunities with the wrestling team, um, overwhelmingly they favored the Oklahoma State camp, but secondary they would choose the Wyoming camp. With board approval, we would love the opportunity to take our wrestlers to Oklahoma State this summer. This trip is much more about than wrestling technique. It is about continuing to build leadership, discipline, teamwork, accountability, and relationships within our program. It is also an opportunity for many of our student athletes to get out of PBLO and to experience a university environment, travel outside of Colorado, and continue building memories and connections that

066will positively impact them both on and off the map. The wrestlers and their families will cover the cost of the camp itself, including dorm lodging, meals, and we are requesting to use two of the Pleb West mini buses for transportation to carry that many kids. Thank you again for your time, support, and consideration of this opportunity for our student athletes and our wrestling program. Are there any? Yes, sir. Coach Gonzalez, um just interested how much does it cost to go on these trips? >> So, um the cost that the parents are paying for is $415. Um but that covers the four days and then the lodging at the each university and then the meals. >> That's not bad. >> No, compared. >> And are you going on all the trips? >> Yes. >> That's a

067busy summer. >> Yeah, it is. It's become a kind of a staple, but something that the kids in the program look forward to each year. >> Well, good job. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Appreciate it. >> 100. [applause] >> Next item. Presentation of Ry High School TSA trip to Washington DC. >> Uh the Ry High School TSA would like to take we would like to take three students to the national conference in Washington DC next month. We had two students who placed first in the state in structural design and engineering and a third student who took third in the state in music production. And uh the conference is June 21st to 27th at the uh Gaylord at National Harbor. And um I wanted to in addition to asking the board's approval, I wanted to

068ask consideration of one other thing. Um, when we go to this TSA conference, the TSA reserve uh sets blocks of rooms aside at certain hotels and the only hotel with rooms still available is $435 a night. Um, this is a five-day conference and um we have to get three rooms for myself, two boys, and one girl. Um, and I'm wondering if it's possible, given that all of the students are now graduating seniors and I'm now a soon to be retired teacher. Um, if there's any way in the world that the board could approve us doing something like a Airbnb or something much more affordable than three rooms a night at $435 a night. And if we don't stay at the TSA hotel, we we find a much more affordable hotel. The TSA charges us $200

069per attendee, myself and the three students, for not staying at one of their hotels. I wonder if there's any way possible that we could be approved to um do something like an Airbnb instead of having to pay either expensive hotel or cheaper hotel plus another $800 just for not staying in the TSA hotels. >> Does the Airbnb classify as a different hotel or does that still have the $200 charge per kid? We would still have a $200 charge per kid, but it would be quite a bit less expensive than >> than area hotels for that many nights. >> How's the availability for Airbnbs? >> I've not looked into it yet. >> This late in the game? >> I've not looked into it yet. I guess I'm a little bit apprehensive because of the fact that

070we're still responsible as a district for uh those students and and you uh and and anything that occurs while they're on that trip. And so um I would be hesitant. >> A cheaper hotel would be an option. >> A cheaper hotel too to really make up the difference. >> Well, you're talking five or six five or six nights. Uh, it be worth paying the $800 to stay in a hotel that's a couple hundred less per night. >> Yeah. >> And we can still do that. >> Just thought I'd ask. >> All right. All right. Thank you. Next item. Presentation of policy KG-R. So this is um a regulation to our existing policy KLG. Uh just a quick note, this was introduced uh back in the fall and it was tabled uh by the previous board.

071So this is basically your first reading of this draft policy. So we we won't discuss it tonight. Just a couple notes. um it is pertaining to uh a state uh statute that was passed last year. So uh it is listed on the policy. So you can definitely research a little bit about that um statute and then uh I did provide you with some legal briefing uh in regards to this policy as well. So uh please take a look at it in the next couple weeks. We will bring it back for uh more of a discussion uh in a future meeting and then of course a potential adoption prior to the start of the next academic school year. >> Bob, uh just for our audience education, can you give us a overview of what this is?

072>> It it's in relation to uh how we collect uh information and store information regarding uh birthplace. Uh and then it also outlines uh some specific parameters around uh immigration, our interaction with immigration officials and how they uh retrieve information or access our buildings or students. And it outlines uh specific people that are assigned at the district level uh to handle those types of things. And so it's yeah, it pertaining to all of that new stuff. >> Thank you, Bob. >> All right. Thank you. Next item, presentation of the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. Jamie, >> good evening. Thank you, Madam President and board. Um, I sent you a revised packet today, so feel free to follow along if you have any questions. I know it's a it's a lot of information, so you might

073have questions at a later date, but um, it's been a roller coaster this year with our state legislature. Um it started out positive and then they started talked about taking some things away from us. Um then it came back so it ended up pretty positive. Um the cost of living adjustment was a huge thing that they the last minute they changed and somehow PBLO lost $10 million or something u >> because of the cost of living adjustment adjustment just at the end. that it they agreed to give it back to us for this year, but next year it's probably going to come off depending on what happens. Um, and the specific ownership tax was another thing. They talked about taking some of that away. That's what you pay when you pay for your fees on

074your new vehicles and boats and trailers and stuff. So, um, but that they didn't touch that either. So, overall it was positive. Um, so just a couple highlights. Um, just this is a collaborative effort between basically everybody. We meet with started three four months ago. We met with principles every department. Um we've been negotiating for a while now with the PCA. Um the board we've met a couple times and accountability committee which is some community members. Um the per pupil revenue ended up increasing $490 a student um statewide. So from 11,000 that ours is 11,24 to 11,694. We based our budget on that count right there, 9651 overall. That's with charter schools and without charter schools, it's 8 8,79 students basically. I think that based on our print numbers from our principles, it's probably pretty

075close. Might be a little low, but it's better to be a little low, I think. Um, next page, please. Some things we changed. >> I Okay. Uh we added like we talked about in the past, we added the technology lines. We're getting new uh Chromebooks and MacBooks this year that some of them are already in. So we added those lines in. Some infrastructure things so we can upgrade our tech infrastructure so it's not an emergency at the last minute. Athletics, we added some lines so we can do some uh refresh on tracks, tennis courts, basketball courts, all that kind of stuff. So Adam's got a rotation working on that hopefully. I don't think we've heard yet. Sky View roof best grant is supposed to be this week Miss Mess presented last week. Hopefully we get

076that. So that line is in there as well. So overall our revenue increased $3.24 million which is 2.3 million more from the state. Our expense has increased $3.14 million. Uh we were able to do that's including the raises that M. Russell will talk about in a minute here. Uh but we we cut some other stuff. Um some retirements. We teachers I don't want to say we didn't cut teachers. We moved teachers around based on numbers. If if students had or if schools had less students, we just moved teachers around. So and with retirements and stuff, we we didn't have to cut anything. Um that's with the transportation increase around 150,000. You know, electricity is going up. So overall it was, you know, our revenues and expenses pretty much equal. Um all employees we we were

077able to do an 8% raise on the base um plus steps, the new certified schedule. Um we'll talk about in a minute as well, but um we had a a team that worked on that for 7 monthsish and came up with a new certified schedule that um we'll talk about in a minute. This is just some information from that um Colorado School Finance Project puts out. shows our numbers, our pre per pupil count the last five years. So you can see we went over the last five years it's down about 500 students uh which statewide we're probably above average. There's I mean it's better than most of the state actually. A lot of surrounding districts are down even more than that. So that's that's a good number. Next page shows the table C shows what

078our funding was last year versus our funding this year from the state. So the change from 2526 to 26 27 is up about 2.3 million. Go to table D. This is interesting one. Um last year the school finance project did a a study an adequ adequacy study for the state what we should be getting if our number if our if our dollars were adequate to fund everything we need to do. And you can see that's 158 million is what we should be getting. Obviously that's probably not going to happen anytime soon. Um, but the good news is if the new formula that they implemented a couple years ago is fully implemented, we'd get that 119 million. So, and we're getting 114 million this year. So, it ends up we in the end we'll get about

0794.8 million more once that's fully implemented. So, we are we will be getting more money in the future as long as they agree to keep fully implementing that in the future. this year. Next year it's going to be 45% implemented and then it goes to 60, you know, it goes up slowly to like 2032ish, but I don't I doubt we'll be getting to 158 anytime soon. Um, this just shows our funds. So, everybody knows we have different funds. Our general fund obviously is where most stuff comes out of. So, if you look at the far right, that's our budget for all the different funds. Our charter school fund, our cap reserve insurance, so on and so forth. The reason it shows like we're up 39 million or 29 million, sorry. It I just added the

080fund balances in there, which they're they're supposed to be in there. Last couple years they just a portion of the fund balance was in there, not all of our fund balance. So that's why it went up 29 million at that bottom number because the fund balance was not included and now it is. So, okay, this is where our revenue comes from. Um, state equalization. That's the money the state sends us is about 80 just under 81 million. Our local property taxes 31.6 million. The specific ownership tax I just talked about 3.25 million. State programs that could be a couple different things. It could be grants, could be some other uh programs we get money from. Same with federal other local sources. That's a lot of that is our interest we earn on investments and a

081few other little things. And then we are required to have that 4.3 million in there by parah just in case something happens we have to pay out a bunch of parah. So if you look the difference on the far right it ends up with all of our um funds it's about 4.2 more. Next couple slides are just some graphs um that shows again where our revenue comes from. You can see again just um our state revenue is a you know majority of where it comes from. Go back one please. There you go. Um, that one shows our programs. So that's each department basically. So instructional services the total general fund budget is about 106 million. So you know instructional services is around 60% of that. People services which is Mr. Spladnik's department um you know

082instructional staff general administration school the school administration business services so on and so forth. So you can see just what the breakdown on that. And then the next one's broken down by objects which are just the different types of expenses. So out of the 106 million budget about 86 million 87 million is salaries and benefits. Um so 80 you know that's a pretty high percentage. And then purchase services, property services, other things we buy, and then supplies and capital make up the rest of that. Okay, there's a page that's um all I have on the presentation, but in your packet, there's a few more pages you can look at and get some more information if needed, but it's there's a lot of numbers. That was a quick overview, but overall, it's it's a positive spot

083to be in. So questions, >> mine's kind of more of a comment, but >> uh I just want to thank you and our team. >> When other districts are kind of getting up a creek, it seems like you guys were able to, you know, come back and say, "Hey, we've managed the money this well, so we can actually accomplish these things." And so I think you guys have done a great job and I hope our public catches on to how we're managing money because you guys have done a phenomenal job doing that. Yeah, this is we're not in a normal situation for most of the state. So, we're we're we've been very conservative and >> yeah, Mr. Ryan did a great job managing it and keeping us conservative. So, we're in a good spot to

084do some cool things. >> I think I think what helped the most was staffing for the number of people in the building according to the student numbers and not overstaffing. Um I I know that sometimes that feels um not great whenever you're not overstaffed, but whenever you're adequately staffed, uh I I believe that's what has helped us the most. And um cutting expenses and making sure that the money what any money that we did have that was extra was sitting in the bank earning interest rather than not earning interest because that that's helped us tremendously. >> Um and cutting the fat. I mean, if you know me, I I'm a tight wad and I hate to waste money. And so, I think that's really what we've done and we've done it well. And I think

085that you'll see at this next audit that we've done it really well. >> Yeah. >> We'll be in good shape again. >> Even after these raises, we'll still be in really good shape. >> Yeah, I agree. >> Which is cool. >> Yeah, that's great. Thank [applause] you. Next item, presentation of theou between PCEA and Publo County School District 70 regarding the compensation package. Stephanie, good evening, Madame President, members of the board. I am presenting to you anou for compensation for the 2627 school year. Um we have worked in conjunction with PCEA this year um in bringing this compensation uh package to you. So um as Mr. Mr. Wagner Express, we spent about seven months on the certified salary schedule. Um we did work as a small group with equal representation from PCEA and district administration.

086And really our goal was to increase that base salary for certified um staff in order to be competitive to attract and and retain great educators in our district. So, um, this, uh,ou is proposing that we move our base salary for the certified salary schedule from 43,350 to 47,000. Um, a few other key points to that new salary schedule. Um, we did standardize the step and the lane. Um, in the new schedule at $1,500 going down and across, um, we did consolidate the number of lanes from 10 lanes to eight lanes. Um, a lot of these changes were um made after looking at every salary schedule we could find in the state and comparing hours with um all of those salary schedules. The majority of them do have a salary schedule that steps down um by

087BA BA plus hours. Um it doesn't go on that every year the steps continue. So that was very common across the state. Um, a lot of our decision- making was in trying to help um, employees move over horizontally sooner. So, BA changed to BA plus 15 to a BA plus 10. So, less hours to move sooner in their career over horizontally. And then that does increase their career earnings over the, you know, the span of their career. Do you want to speak to that certified? >> Uh, I think you kind of got it all. we were really focused on increasing career earnings and um I think long-term getting uh that highest average salary up because that really matters to all of our staff in terms of retirement with TAR. So those I think we did

088a lot of work. >> All right. Also in compensation looking at our educational support professionals or classified staff um this uh compensation forou would increase the base salary $1.25 an hour from $15.70 an hour to $16.95 an hour. Um as you know we're often chasing minimum wage increases in Colorado and I come to you in January requesting um a rate increase there. So hopefully we can get ahead of that with this um base salary up to 16.95 an hour. We also increased our preschool directors um their base salary went uh from 35,557 to 38 um 391. So that's an increase of $2,844. Article 15 would get an 8% increase. Admin salary schedules would get an 8% increase. and we would grant steps on all of our salary schedules in accordance with our language and the

089negotiated agreement. It's just a highlight of that um total package. Do you have questions about that? >> I don't. No. Do you want to roll right on into >> can? Yeah. So, in front of you is a tenative agreement. Um this will add bereavement um to the approved reasons for employees to request donated days from other employees. Um bereavement is not an FMLA qualifying event. So it's not part of our sick leave bank nor part of our donated days at this time but this would add it to donated days. So employees could request days donated in in a bereavement leave meet. >> I love that. And then the lastou is in regards to our library technicians and their certification requirements. So thisou would pause the requirements of library technicians to earn that library certificate within

0905 years of their hiring. Um it is a 30-hour certificate. um would like to take time to review the language in articles 16121 and 2 um during the next school year um to include um some considerations of the position expectations, the compensation and the relevance of the certificate to the jobs that they currently do. Um, a lot of those positions have um changed from not just ser servicing a library, but they also handle a lot of technology as well. And we want to make sure that our requirements are meeting um the requirements of the job. And so we'd like to pause the language um and take the year to review that and get input from our media texts as well. >> Very good. Any questions? >> I have a comment. Now, I mentioned this before,

091but it is so amazing how our leaders Stephanie and Kate work together with their teams calmly, logically in the in the >> agree, but we get there and we >> Let me let me finish in the hopes of helping our teachers and staff and I I have to say it wasn't always that way. It was pretty adversarial at one time and you guys are standing real close to each other. So >> long history. >> So thank you very much. >> Thank you. We really do work together for what's best for our students, which >> we provide through offering what's best to our staff. So that's our partnership. While we don't always agree, we do agree that in the end the decision has to be what's best for kids. >> Thank you. [applause] Presentation of the

092following job descriptions. TSA sponsor, HOSA sponsor, and Skills USA sponsor >> student. >> Hi again. I I'm noticing a little bit of a pattern. Earlier I had to follow a kid who raised over $8,000. Now, I'm following a compensation package. Um, this should be short and sweet. Um, essentially these three job descriptions fell underneath an umbrella, a CTSO umbrella. Instead of leaving it underneath that umbrella, now they're specific to TSA, HOSA, and Skills USA, which matches everything else within our article 15. So, that's essentially what we did. Um, these aren't new positions. These are positions that are already there. Um, but it does take it underneath that that umbrella. If you have questions, Gina would love to answer. >> She has about a half an hour. So, go ahead. [laughter] >> I think the only

093thing I would ask, um, is that I know we we just live in such a world of acronyms. if you could just tell us I mean I know like with you know health technology um and skills I I think like we just are like the and even what was shared earlier about like the many programs like through the counselors I mean we just have so many amazing programs in our school district and if you could just briefly tell us about those three um to give people a point of reference. Thank you. >> Okay. Um, so actually skills is not an acronym. Skills is just the name of the organization. [laughter] So that one doesn't isn't really an acronym. TSA is the technical student association. Um, which they're very similar in what they do, just have

094different names. Um, TSA has a variety of of competitions that our kids um, compete in. Skills does as well. Some of them are very similar. Some of them like Skills has some things that TSA has. TSA has stuff that Skills doesn't have. So they're very similar. Um, and HOSA actually is just HOSA, >> but it used to be like health occupational, but now they don't like it's not an acronym. It's just HOSA. I don't know why they changed it. Um, but it is our it is what our biomed and health students um compete in. Um that's the so we're required under CTE um to ha all of our programs in order to be recognized as a program have to have a CTSO which is those compet those are those those organizations they have to belong

095to one of the many that are that are kind of out there and so that's where that kind of stems from. Yes. >> So are these extracurricular or they during the school day or co-curricular? >> Kind of both. Um some schools like some of our middle schools do have classes during the day. Okay. Um where they work on some of these um activities, some of their competitions. However, most well all of them who are competing are working outside of school hours as well. So, and it's a lot of their time um that they put into all of the things that these kids are doing. And some of them, you know, our our middle school kids, like some of those programs have, you know, 100 plus kids in them. Even our high schools have 100 plus

096kids in them. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. >> So, so the skills, you're right, like I apologize for using the word ep like but um like Skills USA, they compete right here in PBLO. >> So, yes. And yes. So, as of right now, Skills has their uh regional um competition is is located is hosted here in Publo. has been for the last two years I believe >> or four something like that. Um but nationals are are obviously elsewhere. Um TSA is generally held in in Denver. DECA is usually held in Colorado Springs in um HOSA is also in Denver. >> So >> yeah. >> So there's 25 minutes of anybody else. [laughter] >> All right. Thank you guys. Appreciate it. Next item, presentation of the 2627 board meeting schedule. Kimberly R. >> Tim will pull

097it up here in a second. So basically it's the same schedule as last year except for I changed the dates from >> to meet it. A lot of the schedules, a lot of the dates, like for instance, can you scroll up a little bit for me, Tim? >> Why not? >> So for instance, like the May 25th. So, some of those dates are because we do have deadlines with CDE. Um, they don't always get you the budget on time and then we have to have it approved by the 31st. So, some of those days um are to go around those schedules and also around the um Thanksgiving and spring break and Christmas break schedules. Um I don't really particularly like to work over my breaks even though I sometimes get stuck doing that. And then

098I mean like Jamie, he needs like the May 25th date because he has deadlines and things like that. The only one that I changed was I moved it up a week, the July 13th. Um I'm not sure why this one was so late in July. Usually we have it right in the middle. So any questions? >> I don't think so. Thank you. >> Appreciate it. discussion on board legal re representation. >> Yeah, I'm just gonna stay over here for this one. Not sure how much discussion will take place. So >> um based on last week's notice from uh Miller Farm Carlson Law that uh they were um removing themselves as uh removing their services for the district legal uh council for the board. I thought it be important for us to start having the discussion

099of what direction we we want to move. Uh right now we do have captain and artists on board to handle our district um operations. We do have an engagement letter. It's it's pretty general and broad. So uh I think I say this we we do have the availability to utilize them uh during this time if needs come up in regards to policy or any other legal matters that that the board may need. Um, so we do have that currently. So I just wanted to start the discussion to see the direction that you guys want to move um or the direction you want to go in regards to um now that farmer Carlson is no longer with the district. We still have we still remember Casby. We utilize CASBY a lot for policy. Um probably 90%

100of the policies across the state and districts usually come from CASBY. Um, however, there are times where we do need to seek legal advice on certain policies and there may be questions, specific individual questions that you as a board may have or we as a district may have in regards to a certain policy. So, again, I I believe we could utilize Cap Kaplan for that right now, Kaplan Ernest. Um, and we just throw it out there for you guys to to see what direction you want to go in regards to to the next steps. Well, we clearly need legal representation. Um, I'll just be really forthright. I got on the phone with Brad and asked him to reconsider and I'll continue to do that. Um, of course that would require a board vote, but I

101think to me the clear path forward is that we need to issue RFPs and we need to evaluate our options. Um, and then you know we'll have to make a decision. But I think that's the first step. I don't know if anybody else has >> other thoughts regarding that but that's me. Yay. >> Perfect. >> Yeah. Unless I can [laughter] um Yeah. So I think that's what we need to do. Um I think the first step in that probably is to compile a list of uh >> Well, I think we would put a that RFP, right? We would compile a list of what we're looking for in a firm and then do an RFP, right? >> We Yes. But I think we could also identify if there and I don't have anybody in mind. If

102there were firms that we were particularly interested in, we could reach out to them as well. There's nothing that would prohibit us from asking them, you know. So, yeah, I think that's the thoughts. Well, I think that the way that the um the district in looking for legal representation regarding truencies and that sort of thing, I think that there are places that you post it public like so we would post it publicly. That's part of our responsibility is to make sure we go through the >> So, I mean, I think you you know that's I think there's a a prog a process that we need to follow. >> There is, but I don't and it's it's it doesn't really matter. So, I don't really want to debate it, but I don't know that there's any

103policy that would prohibit us if we had somebody that we were interested in to call them and say, "Hey, we issued an RFP. Would you please respond?" Um, but I don't it's not like I have somebody in mind. So, it's kind of a moot point at this at this juncture. Um, but I think that's our >> How long would we leave it open for, you guys think? >> Yeah, that's a good question. I don't know how much of a time crunch we're in. >> Well, AJ, there's probably a a standard on probably this is the way it's done. Uh the attorneys who might apply would know what the standard is that we have this much time to repair to prepare their proposal. And uh I think it's great, >> but I think we need to

104put a deadline. So maybe we need to determine what what that standard is. I don't know. >> And I I think that the RFP that was already issued to hire attorneys on behalf of um the district. I I think we would need to look at like we have to have a a guideline, right? So do we I mean first we have to put together the RFP ourselves and then we would post it. Then we would create a timeline is the way I would think that we'd go about doing this. I mean we >> Yeah. Just saying we want a a law firm is one thing, but what is it that we're looking for? Because I think they've already hired someone to do that and maybe that law firm is best for us because we'd be

105the same law firm. Maybe not is what I I'm hearing. >> What was the timeline you used? >> I laid it out in the RFP. Uh and I I I [clears throat] provided the RFP for you guys. It had dates on it. I I believe it was two weeks that we had it open on bidet. Uh, and then it also outlined when we would review it and when we would make a decision by it. >> Yeah. >> We have we have two more meetings in in June and then we're off for a little bit. Um, >> one meeting. So I I it could be you a work session for you guys to decide what goes into the RFP and how long you want to open and then how you're going to select what process you'll

106use to look at the RFPs and select. So that may be the next step at the the next meeting to include that into a work session. Um like you said, we we we have we have the availability to to utilize uh our our current district attorney. I you know we're we're at the time where we're wrapping things up and there's probably a few things that are going to come up. But again, I think if you guys have something that you need answer to a question you guys have, you can let me know and then I can get information and and get you a summary back from from Kaplan on some things if they do come up before this. So, I I think you guys have time, but then only having a few meetings before we

107get into that little bit of a break will probably be a little bit of a challenge. >> Yeah. So, as far as um a work session or something, to me, the challenge that we're we need to decide about is our next meeting is scheduled. Sorry, I'm just pulling up my calendar. Um scheduled for June 9th. I don't think it's prudent to try to plan a work session for June 9th given our other commitments on that day. And so that just, you know, unless we have a special work session, I think that puts us out kind of far before we're even deciding what we want in the RFP. And >> well, I think that following Monday is supposed to be our CASBY training. I'm not sure if we had heard back from everybody whether or not

108we can all attend. >> I cannot know. I'm out of town. >> Yeah. And so that might be a day because it the way that it schedules I think it's like five hours in the middle of the day. >> Yeah. So I mean I you know we could discuss it >> and I don't I Yeah, we just didn't hear back. I think we haven't moved forward with whether or not we can all go to the CASBY team. >> And Susie, you're available on that day, right? Are you talking about the CASBY or the >> the Casby on the 15th? >> Yeah, I'll be here. >> Good. >> Um, so we obviously need to plan a special work session then. >> They're suggesting we do it on the 15th. I feel like choosing and discussing an

109RFP is pretty crucial. So, I would prefer not to do it on a day that I'm scheduled out of town. Um, but you know, let's see. We also have later in our agenda to discuss maybe changing our June 9th board meeting to the 10th. If we did that, we could do a work session on the 10th ahead of our meeting >> and address it then. But I do know that you had a conflict. >> Right. I was I thought we were going to talk about like I I'm going to do whatever is best for I mean I'll I'll make my my schedule work. It just would be more convenient to have it on Tuesday for sure. >> I understand. >> Yeah. Yeah. Um, >> I think with the attorney with the RFP2 though, we also

110need to make sure that if we don't go with Kaplan and Ernest that we choose a law firm that is willing to not be both because I know that's kind of where we ran into the issue was, you know, Brad chose not to be our representation as well because we wanted to split it. So, I think that's important to >> put out there on the RFP. >> That would be something to >> when we're putting the, you know, putting together the >> Yeah. >> the RFP. Um, >> so I believe there is possibility to have a work session after the regular board meeting. Correct, Kimberly? >> Yeah. >> Can you repeat that? Could there's an availability to have a work session following the regular board meeting? That's another option. >> Absolutely. >> If if we're

111gonna let's put it this way, if we're going to have a board of education day between our court date and the board meeting, we might as well just throw it in all on the same day. >> I'm honestly not. >> Yeah. >> But it depends on when we get out of court, too. Yeah, but I don't think we could count on scheduling. >> Yeah. >> Putting at the end, >> right? So afterwards, so when the meeting adjourns, then we would just go into a work session or >> um >> I I don't want to be the dissenting voice, but I I come almost an hour away. [laughter] So, for me to be at court at 8 o'clock in the morning and then leave here at 10 o'clock at night, you know, that's that's a long

112day. Um, I understand that you guys aren't in the backyard either, but I'm not sure how productive we're going to be after all day long in court and then a board meeting and then try to deal with some pretty heavy heavy topic. Yeah, I don't see why we would have to cram it all in the same day. That would be incredibly emotionally taxing. Yeah. >> I mean, we have to have wherewithal to make the right decisions if we're going to have one session of deciding what's going to be on this RFB that I don't understand the urgency to force us to cram all that into one day. >> Well, I'm perfectly comfortable going with Kaplan and Ernest until we decide. I mean, I think that they I I think between that and CASBY, we have

113good guidance while we're deciding. So, I'm not in a hurry to do this. If you're not in a hurry, [clears throat] I think we can >> use Kaplan in earnest until we can uh create a an RFP that we can agree on. I think that's fine if that's um I mean, it makes sense to me. I think what um uh Bob was mentioning is that we have two meetings in June and that's why I think even like with our strategic planning and that sort of thing like we have two meetings in June and we do need to work on that. I I think our goal was to have that done before July one and then we only have one meeting in July and it's July I believe 21st. So we only so we go from

114basically the middle of June 9 the 9th like the 23rd. So we have basically a month off where we're not meeting. It's about a month isn't it? Um I believe and so I it's so I mean when I say a month like we just we're not meeting. So if we want to set up a meeting in between I think we should make ourselves available. I mean, I'm I'm willing to be here when I need to be here. So, >> yeah, I agree with that. I'm willing I'm I would like to do I prefer that if set up a meeting in between and not do that all in one day. That seems, >> you know, just like we just don't need to do that. So, I'm absolutely happy to do a day in between. >> Please

115could also call a special board meeting to where you can discuss it like a work session but also have a vote. >> Oh, there you go. It doesn't always have to be just a work session and then later on, but you can set up a special meeting to where you can have like a work session before and then have a vote after. >> Well, I think the idea of having it during our break time, so to speak. >> Great. Fantastic. >> The timeline could be flexible because we again we we do have a we do have legal counsel that we can >> and we set policy. >> The attorney's job is to just check the legality of the policy. and legality is the legality. >> So in that break time is I think that's why

116maybe it was the 21st. So you do have the three weeks but one of those weeks is the Fourth of July week. >> Um but then there's the following week, the 7th or the 14th and it doesn't have to be on a Tuesday and it doesn't have to be in the evening. Um in the past it was always in the afternoon. >> So I'm gonna make a suggestion and it might not work for people. So, if it doesn't, that's fine. But we're scheduled to have a meeting on June 9th, a regular board meeting. That's also the court date. I wonder if we could um there might be good reasons not to. I don't know. But I'm wondering about moving the regular meeting and a work session to June 4th. It's a Thursday. It's next week.

117we just have it a little bit sooner and do our regular board meeting and our work session. >> I mean, we had talked about we have it on our agenda to move our maybe move our regular board meeting anyway and we were talking about the 10th which creates a conflict for Michelle. What if we just go a little bit earlier? I'm okay with the point >> or >> on the 4th do the board meeting and do the work session on June 4th. >> Right. But at the same time at the or earlier in the day? >> Just a just a regular evening board meeting like normal. Just a couple days earlier than currently scheduled. >> That kind of screws up our uh >> um like getting agenda items in and stuff too though, doesn't it?

118>> Yeah. I I I think I would go with the 10th over the fourth. I mean, I would just make it work. >> Yeah. >> But I would prefer the ninth, honestly. I mean, like I know we were supposed to vote, but um if we're throwing out dates, I mean, maybe we could I I I think um I I'm not sure like what needs to go on the next agenda. I would need to look at it because it could be that I mean, we're you know, right now there are things and hires and and that need to happen. And I I do don't want to put any school in a predicament because we're doing this too soon. >> Russell, I believe for sure. Yeah, that's >> short executive session for at least one personel >>

119matter. Short executive session. >> Oh, an executive session for personnel. >> It should be fairly >> Yeah. So >> not alone. >> So we could >> as we learn from our lives, changing the schedule creates more problems and just leaving it the same. >> And the executive session can always be following the board meeting as well. >> Yeah. >> And if the executive session has to be split, we've done that in the past where it starts and then we go into the regular board meeting and then we convene into executive session. Yeah. >> So, >> I'm just really opposed to adding something to the ninth on an already really long day. I think that we're not um I think Susie said it well, you know, to be come off of a day like that and

120then try to make decisions. I just don't know that it's the wisest approach. >> Well, will the 10th work then? I agree with Michelle. I [cough] could do the 10th [clears throat] >> and then we could have the executive session and the work session >> on the 10th. >> Should we vote on the 9th and the 10th and see >> I know the ninth is the 9th is best for me too, but >> I kind of like just keeping it all on Tuesday. >> My schedule is so full taking another full day. I mean, >> it's insane. >> But okay, if we're not in a time crunch though, we don't necessarily have to have everything in set for the artist. >> Yes. Good. you a >> or do we? >> But I think we just

121>> I'm not really comfortable. I mean I don't I you know how I feel about Kaplan. So I'm not I'm motivated to make a decision sooner rather than later. Um I think Susie was working on some data regarding capital. >> I have the same feelings. I would rather move quicker and issue the RFP, you know. >> Yeah. >> Are we in a hurry? >> I am. Yeah. I'm not I'm not really in favor of just using Kaplan. >> Well, sure I understand, but there's really no rush in finding another attorney. >> Well, we don't ever want to be without representation for long. >> Seems really risky to me. >> Well, we have representation. >> No, we don't. The district does, but as a board, we don't. We would have to, you know, it's it's a

122separate it's a separate issue. We can we can access them, but we don't actually have our own representation right now at this. >> But they were I mean with Miller and Farmer and Carl like they were representing the whole district before. So, how is Kaplan and Ernest representing us in the um I mean in the immediate and potentially through July to make sure we do this right and on behalf of everybody if we don't go with Kaplan, you know what I mean? Like what like >> take time? Yeah, we we only have we have obviously this evening we've got the 9th or whenever we decide to meet one more meeting in June. And that's kind of the the issue though too is that we just don't have many meetings to work through this. So I

123would say I don't we have representation. Casby is wonderful. I've called them many times. I mean I don't I mean if we have if it's you know I I they're very thorough. Um, as I think it was mentioned this evening, a lot of our policy comes right from them. It's, you know, it it is so I I Yeah, I I'm open to meeting on another day to go to work on an RFP to have a work session at some other time. But that evening of the 9th, I mean, if we could handle the personnel issue quickly, sounds like it's going to be quick, and have our meeting, I think that sounds reasonable. >> Yeah. >> Could you zoom in on the 15? >> No. No. I'll be out of town with previous commitments, so I

124can't um Yeah. Okay. Well, I guess um just differences of opinion. So, we'll we'll just have to put it to a vote when we get to the the action items. Um so, that wraps up both of those. So, now we're to open forum. We have do we have seven So you guys get a three minute timer. Each is different on whether it pops up on the screen. I'm hoping it pops up on the screen. And just make sure you guys follow policy BH. First one I have is Deona McDonald. And I'll start it as soon as you start speaking. >> Hey, good evening. My name is Deona McDonald. I'm a fourth grade teacher out at Cedar Ridge Elementary in District 70. I'm here tonight to speak in support of the 2025 2026 compensation package, specifically

125from the perspective of our certified staff. On the current salary schedule that we have, it was built on a structure that took decades to reach its highest earning potential. staff spent years, sometimes their entire careers, climbing slowly toward a salary that reflected the education and expertise they brought to this district from day one. That is not a competitive model and it's not a retentive model and it has cost us some talented educators who could not afford to wait. The new certified salary schedule you saw this evening is more compact. That means staff reach their higher earning years sooner. It means the average career earnings is greater. The highest average salary which is the number that matters for retirement goes up. And because our retirement through parah is calculated on our highest average salary, a more

126competitive schedule does not just benefit the staff today. It it benefits them for the rest of their lives. And I'm about halfway through my career. So, I'm real excited about that. [clears throat] The certified base moves from $43,350 to $47,000, which is an 8% increase to the base. Steps are standardized at $1,500 and they will be granted as they are earned. Lanes are also at that same number and will be granted for those who have earned them. Most certified staff are seeing a greater percentage increase at their individual cell than they have in either of the last two years. Um, this agreement we know is not the finish line. Our bargaining teams from PCEA and the District 70 administration have acknowledged that there's more work to do, but this is a meaningful step in the

127right direction. I'm proud to support it and I hope you will as well. Thank you for your time. Thank you. [applause] >> Our next one is Kirby Martinez. >> Hello. Uh my name is Kirby Martinez and I work as uh an ESP in food service in district 70. I'm also a member of the bargaining team and I'm here tonight to speak in support of the proposed compensation package. I became involved in bargaining after many ESPs, including myself, became ineligible for benefits following changes to our work hour requirements. Experiencing that firsthand showed me how important it is for employees to have a voice in the bargaining process and how important fair compensation is for the people who support our students every day. This agreement is meaningful because it provides an 8% increase to the salary schedule

128for all employees and adds contract days for ESPs, which means additional paid time and professional development opportunities. These improvements recognize the value of the work performed by every employee in the district. Perhaps most importantly, this agre agreement includes a commitment to convene a dedicated ESP salary schedule committee next school year. For many ESPs, compensation is one of the few tangible benefits of working in the district. And the commitment to continue examining our salary structure shows that our concerns are being heard and that this work is not finished. As Devona mentioned, this agreement is not the finish line. There's still more work to do, but it is a meaningful step in the right direction, and it reflects the collaboration and good faith effort um of both the administration and the union on the bargaining team. I'm

129proud to support it and I respectfully ask the board to approve this agreement. Thank you. [applause] >> I'm probably going to say this wrong. My next one is Andrea Nlitch. Sorry, I have a hard last name, too. >> It's fine. Good deal. >> I'm here tonight to present a petition with over 1,179 signatures on it requesting an immediate resignation from the board of education members Bennett and Wilson. We also include in that Susie KS who we do not recognize as a member of the board. My name is Andre Naglich. I have communicated to this board before, but I'm a graduate of PBS High School and a mom in this community. Character qualities like integrity and honesty, kindness, goodness, dedication, and self-control are important. And it is because of those tenants that I urge these board

130members tonight and Susie KS to immediately submit your resignation from this board out of integrity. Following suit with Brad Miller, we ask that you stop the extreme hyperpolarization and political polarization being caused in this school board, preventing our children from getting the important resources they need and preventing our educators from leaving for break and being able to sleep at night. This is important for the next school year. We need to move forward and it is with your humble and honest self-accountability action and your your all self-professed belief in the Christian faith that you hold yourselves accountable and understand you've done harm to this community and you continue to do harm to this community. With every board meeting, with all of your comments, it's devastating and difficult for people to sit here and take our board

131seriously. And that's unfortunate for the families in District 70 and for all of our students. In my opinion, and that of 1,179 others, member Bennett, you've caused great harm to this community with your choice of words and your actions. We ask that you please resign now. We also ask that out of the kindness of your hearts and out of the goodness of your faith that you start acting in good faith to resolve the lawsuit looming at our door. Because of your bad faith actions, this lawsuit has been brought to the entire district. Please apologize to the community and to the students who have been watching for the inappropriate behavior that should not have been rendered by adults against our students and their educators. Please apologize to the voters and your constituents for deceiving them and

132making false claims during your campaign that you would provide solutions to problems that are fundamentally outside of your scope of work as a member of the board of education. It continues to be extremely inappropriate even tonight and it's heartbreaking to watch. Mr. Wilson, please resign tonight so that we can put the Riverstone Academyou and everything associated to it behind us. Please resign because while your heart and truly I believe that that you've been in the right place, unfortunately it seems like you've been the pawn of bad faith actors of Brad Miller of Quinn Fryberg and what seems to be their bad faith plan all along to come here use us and then drop us which is exactly what has happened this week. Brad Miller dropped all of you. Riverstone Academy no longer exists. We were

133utilized for a purpose and it doesn't mean to seow bad faith amongst our community. We can fix this, but I think it will take your resignations to do that. And that's why I submit these petitions to you tonight. [applause] Next, I have Katie Brown. Madame President, members of the board, and superintendent Ryan and superintendent of uh my name is Katie Brown and I serve as a school counselor in district 70. As a special service provider in D70, I am reading this prepared statement on behalf of one of the other D70 special service providers who is not able to be here this evening. I'm writing to strongly urge you to support the 2627 compensation package. Tonight, I simply want to offer some important context about what this proposal actually represents and who it impacts because sometimes

134I know there can be reluctance around supporting salary increases for administrative staff. And I appreciate that people care deeply about how district resources are used. When people hear the term administrative salary schedule, they understandably picture superintendent, executive directors, and central office leadership. While these people work hard and also deserve a raise, the reality is that this salary schedule includes many, many highly specialized professionals who work directly with students daily. Their work directly and indirectly supports our teachers, which in turn supports our students. This group includes school psychologists, speech language pathologists, aiologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, electricians, and other specialized staff members whose work is essential to supporting the student learning safety and well-being. These are clinicians, specialists, and special and service providers, not traditional administrators. It should be noted that we cannot move horizontally

135across the scale based on our hours of professional development as our scales are not designed that way. So we rely on vertical movement for increases with years of service regardless of our ongoing education in most cases. Most of these positions are very difficult to fill because of nationwide shortages in these fields. Also, surrounding districts are offering significantly higher salaries and have significant raises in recent years, making retention an ongoing challenge. For example, the starting salary on my scale is now 20,000 higher in 60 than here in our district. This increase is not simply about compensation. It's about retention. It is about making sure that we can continue providing speech services, physical and occupational therapies, educational evaluations, nursing care, behavioral support, and specialized programming for students with diverse needs. These professionals have fallen further behind comparable

136positions in neighboring districts. Meanwhile, they continue carrying larger case loads, navigating increasing student needs, and doing more with fewer resources. Including a provision related to the administrative salary schedule in this compensation package also matters because it creates transparency and ensures these specialized positions are not quietly left behind in compensation conversations. Every employee group deserves to be part of a fair and visible process. And I appreciate PCA and district for understanding and including all staff in this compensation package. THANK YOU. >> [applause] >> THAT WOULD BE IMPRESSIVE career as an auctioneer. Maybe next one is Chris. >> Good evening. Um, I wasn't planning on speaking up until you guys were just talking about needing an RFP for legal counsel, which I have to laugh about because we've sat in here for years saying, "Get an RFP

137for legal counsel." And instead, this past week, I I was hit with great news and told that our efforts to remove Brad Miller and oust him from this district finally worked. And I am so over thr overjoyed. Five and a half years we've been coming up here trying to tell you guys to be mindful and pay attention to this. Um, finally, he's gone. He's abandoned you guys. And I think it's hilarious that you're sitting there asking to call him back at this point with him having submitted his rec his separation and announced it to the public chieftain. Bringing him back would take a vote to the board. It's not like you can just bring him back on. But he's not there and I'm still here. He tried to run me out and I'm still here.

138So I'm sorry. I'm going to gloat. Uh I do want to point out you guys mentioned that court on June 9th. I will be there. I plan to attend. Uh, for anyone that doesn't know, that's thatou violation one, which might actually result in K's not even being on the board anymore, which wouldn't that be great? Then then we can go and see if we're going to have an RFP for legal counsel. And so, again, I I suggest I I support not forming that RFP yet. I support like putting that off and maybe not jumping to all these conclusions that we need to rush for no more legal counsel. Especially after last board meeting, we sat here and listen to you guys complain about the how inefficient it is to have legal counsel for the district

139and legal counsel for the board and how having one for the same would be smarter. But now it's since it's not your guy, oh nope, we got to get an RFP. The hypocrisy is astounding. It is hilarious. Like I really like that's the only reason I'm standing here. I I didn't write anything. I was just going to go and like let silence speak volumes of being like, "Yep, who's in the room?" But really, RFP now? Like I You can't even look at me. It's It's hilarious. It's hilarious. Um I do want to ask and I know you don't work for the uh homeschool enrichment program anymore, but again, you've never answered when you left that, Bennett. Uh, for my knowledge, I still I'm pretty sure you were still working under OC somewhere in there. But

140hey, you can keep it secret. I don't really care. I won. I won. And And I'm sorry. I'm going to use all of my time just because like it's it just feels good. Like five and a half years. You know how many times I've stood up here had shakes and nerves and everything else just to be like, "Hey guys, please listen. Please be fiscally responsible. Don't hire more legal counsel if you don't need it." that's fiscally irresponsible. Maybe use what's available. Casby has resources. Like this is why we need to elect people that understand how boards work, not just populists who go and screen parents rights and nonsense like that. So, uh, with that, I I look forward to seeing you guys on June 9th. I will be sitting there in attendance. Um, I look

141forward to it all. I look forward to how it all turns out. The the joy I feel cannot be be expressed. So, thank you guys. And bye Brad Miller. He's gone. Yeah. [applause] Next one is Hannah McDow. Good evening board. I'm Hannah McDow. Um I too have been up here quite a few times over the last five and a half years. Um, I was not planning on on speaking tonight, so I'm going to jump around just a little bit. Um, first of all, I am also going to point out the hypocrisy, Miss Bennett. Um, you've been putting off an RFP for legal counsel since December. Um, multiple requests, voted it down. So, I do find, um, it is a lot of moving goalposts. um first you you wanted to wait, then you you know you

142wanted to to put it off till after this and after that and then you voted it down. So I I do find it a bit ironic that you're very interested in legal RFPs. Now, um, in light of that though, with June 9th and the potential outcomes, using your own argument, Miss Bennett, um, from before when there was only a four-person board and that was your excuse not to do an RFP, I'd request that you do not do a legal RFP until we actually know what the composition of this board will be after the lawsuit is resolved that is happening on June 9th. Um, that was your argument before. I ask you to actually stick to it and not continue to move the goalposts. Um, additionally, you and M. KS claim that you've only known Mr.

143Miller for a couple of months, a few months, four months, something like that. Um, so why not give Kaplan and Casby at least that many months um to test them out and see how you like them and see if perhaps they could earn the same uh loyalty um in that short period of time that Brad Miller did. Uh fun facts for everyone else, I did do a recent Kora for the Miller meter. Um as of the end of April, Brad Miller has cost our district in invoices alone. not in court costs, not in lawsuits, not in payouts of any kind. Uh almost half a million dollars. I expect that um after I get the May, uh it may tip over officially into half a million dollars in invoice services alone. February of this year, with

144all of the antics and poor legal advice, set a astounding record. February 2026 cost the district $27,400 to Brad Miller um in February alone. It's outrageous. Right now for this month, we are averaging over $17,000 a month. Um two more things really quick. I'll squeeze them in. Miss KS, I have heard from the community that you've received several requests for all of the information you've collected about how terrible Kaplan is. I am explicitly I filled out the form asking you to send me all the information that you say you have readily available for why Kaplan is so awful and you're so against them. Finally, um I do strongly encourage this board to take every opportunity to pay our teachers and staff what they're worth uh to help keep district 70 competitive so that our students

145receive every bit of education they deserve um and that they get from this district. Thank you. >> [applause] >> AND MY LAST ONE IS Brian Kelson. [clears throat] [cough] >> Good evening board. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to speak. Some of you have heard me before. And uh I would like to take the opportunity to address uh an agenda item that probably doesn't get a whole lot of attention. And that is agenda item tonight 60.02 or 6.02. And 6.02 is student recognition. Student recognition. It's fantastic. I'm a half full guy as opposed to a half empty guy or an empty glass guy. And here's what I want to tell you. You have a district that has world changers and difference makers in it. They are students. They are paras. They are

146teachers. They are custodians. If you ask Mr. Emery, they are absolutely some of the most amazing people. And they come together in this district to do some fantastic things. And you saw evidence of that tonight. You saw evidence of that tonight in these young people who came before you. And what I want to encourage the board, what I want to encourage the staff, what I want to encourage teachers to do is to be more encouraging. I'm not saying you're not, but I'm saying let's ramp it up. Because when you do what you saw tonight, a full room because kids were here doing things that are absolutely mind-blowingly awesome, happens more often. It is a fantastic thing to see. It's the reason I come to the board meetings because I look for the things that are

147positive about this district and quite honestly they really aren't that hard to find. I mean, I look around and somebody who used to work in the news media and has been to many board meetings, this district and others, and I'm going to tell you right now to see the way the budget is being handled in this district, Jamie, you're doing awesome, man. I'm telling you, the work that's going on around here, you guys are doing so much with so little. And to see teachers that are sticking it out when they don't get paid what they get paid in 60. I get it. I get it. You love kids. Keep loving kids. And so obviously when I come before you as a pastor at Christ Church Public West, I have to share and that is in

148humility value others above yourselves. Not looking to your own interest, but each of you to the interest of others. And I see that in this district. Apostle Paul wrote it, but I see it here. I see people who are actually willing to do things outside the box, outside their time, outside what is normal for a school district. And the results, you saw them tonight. And you guys, there are a lot more kids out there doing a lot more great things. They don't need to come to this meeting, but we need to recognize them. Thank you. [applause] Thank you. Um item action items approval of the adoption of the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. >> I don't know why that is not. >> Yeah. [laughter] Do I have a motion to approve the adoption of the

149proposed fiscal year 2027 budget as presented? >> So moved. Second. >> AJ Wilson, >> yes. >> And Bennett, >> yes. >> Mark Emry, >> yes. >> Michelle Ericson, >> yes. >> Susie K, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. Approve theou between PCEA and PBLO County School District 70 regarding the 2026 2027 compensation package. Um move to approve theou. >> So move. >> Second. >> AJ Wilson. >> Yes. >> And Bennett. >> Yes. >> Mark Emry. >> Yes. >> Michelle Ericson. >> Yes. >> Susie Karens. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. Approval of the rescheduling of the regular board of education meeting from June 9th to um I guess we'll vote June 10th beginning at 6 pm to be held at the educational center 24 951 US Highway 50 East Colorado. Do I have a

150motion? >> So are we discussing the time and the changes and >> so um I thought we kind of already discussed it. I thought we would vote, but if you want to have more discussion, we can discuss further. >> I just didn't know time and stuff. >> Yeah, >> I know Wednesday. >> I think our regular time is it harder. >> Usually, >> is there another time that would work better than >> Yeah, I still like Tuesday because it sounds like from the attorney, we should get out on time. >> That's just fun. >> Yeah. I mean, we can um So, if we Well, maybe Wednesday wouldn't work for you to meet earlier for a work session. That was my thought. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So, I mean, we don't have to throw a work

151session into it or at least a long one. And if the executive session's short, we could still like we can kind of do what we did today. It's like we can have our executive session and if there's time we can do a work session still and if not then we'll roll it into the meeting. >> Good job. >> You know it's just >> and we could also do the executive session afterward if necessary. >> If we have to for that. Yeah. >> Because it's short. >> Yeah. >> But from my understanding it sounds like we'll be out in time. >> Possibly. Yeah. I mean I think it's possible. He said that it might it probably won't go over >> but even if it ends at >> whatever time you know to get >> I mean

152that's just tight and but you're right if we don't can't do it we can't do it. So >> um >> wouldn't that be easier for you though since you're already in town? For me personally, it's not because I have animals that I have to take care of. And so for me to go from we do leave my [clears throat] house at 7 a.m. and getting home at 10:00 at night or whatever, that is a long day without being able to care for my animals. I'm going to have to probably hire somebody to come in and deal with stuff that day for me. >> I think we need to clarify. He said the attorney said he would reach out to the clerk. >> Yeah. because the building closes at 4, but quite often that's when they

153don't let anyone else in, but court can still be in session. Um, so we need to know if it's 4:00 or if it's 5 or 6. You know, I know that from, you know, my dad was an attorney here in public for 22 years and the doors closed at 4, but he was often still there until 6. So, I want to be sure on that before we vote and then not be able to >> We don't have another time to vote. [cough] special meeting before. >> Well, how can we Well, so the only option Okay. Well, what happens in that if we're still sitting in court at 6:00? >> Yeah. And we're supposed to be in a meeting. That's the That's the concern. >> Well, the building closes at 4. I don't think the way

154I understood it was that it 4:00 is when the building closes. I don't think it's going to go past five is I I I don't think so. I mean, I I and I think he was clarifying for us to say that. I mean, I I did I checked I I checked to make sure it closes at four o'clock, >> right? The doors close at 4:00. Yes, that's what I'm saying. So, we know the doors closed at 4:00. Do we know the court ends at 4? Because >> Well, I mean, I think if we I don't think we'd be in court at 6. So, if we just went with our regular session and our regular board meeting and then had our executive session, that's going to be quick. That's a personnel issue afterward. I think that's

155what I thought that's kind of what we had discussed, but was a suggestion. It's just >> I would still plan it for before the meeting and then if we have to push that would be easier. >> I mean, that totally works because >> it's an we're the only ones there. So, if we can all be available, we should go to the have the executive session beforehand. I think that works or after if necessary. >> Personally, I would like to keep it on the night. That's just because that works better for my schedule. Well, Madame President, can we vote on this? >> Yeah. Make a motion. >> Well, could you read the proposal again, please? >> Well, the move to approve rescheduling of the regular board of education meeting from June 9th to June blank um

156beginning at 6 PM to be held at the educational center. So, I um I'll move that we move it to June 10th. Is there a second? I second. >> AJ Wilson, >> I'm gonna say no. >> And Bennett, >> yes. >> Mark Emry, >> no. >> Michelle Ericson, >> no. >> Susie K, >> yes. >> Motion defeated. >> Okay. Consent agenda items. Move to approve the consent agenda as presented, having been reviewed by the board. >> So moved. I'll second. AJ Wilson, >> yes. >> And Bennett, >> yes. >> Mark Emry, >> yes. >> Michelle Ericson, >> yes. >> Susie, >> yep. >> Motion carried. >> The next board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at the Educational Services Center, 24 951 East Highway 50 public, Colorado, beginning at 6:00 pm. Um Rhonda

157has an announcement. >> Uh yes. I'd like to uh introduce our uh curriculum and instruction director for next year, uh Ryan Mandridge. [applause] >> Thank you. Um in the interest of time, I'll try to keep this to about 25 minutes. So, um no, thank you. I'm truly honored and humbled to uh take on this opportunity and uh you know I've been in the district for close to 20 years now um serving the students uh staff and community um you know with with the passion and and and all my heart and soul and I I plan on continuing to do that in this role. I'd like to thank Dr. Martinez for your hard work and and leadership during this time and uh just look forward to the opportunity to continue that work this important work and

158uh just thank you for the opportunity and the trust and I look forward and excited for what's ahead. So thank you. >> Thank you. [applause] I have a motion to adjourn the meeting. >> So moved >> Wilson. >> Yes. >> Bennett. >> Yes. >> Marky. >> Yes. >> Michelle. Yes. >> Yes. She meeting a journal.