Student leadership, academic progress, facility improvements, and community engagement were the main agenda topics when the Estes Park School Board met Monday night. The discussion reflected both pride in the district’s culture and a few points of tension among board members and the public.
Student spotlight: Link Crew
High school juniors and seniors presented on the Link Crew program, which mentors incoming freshmen through orientation activities, classroom visits, and check-ins.
Teacher sponsor Jessica Shochat said the 16 student leaders are building confidence and connection among ninth graders. Students shared that the program has strengthened their own leadership skills while helping freshmen feel more welcome. Board members praised the effort and discussed the potential to expand similar supports to the middle school.
Student council priorities
Members of the superintendent’s student council outlined their goals to boost school pride and communication. Plans include “Bobcat Buddies” events, welcome baskets for new students, and student feedback sessions in place of last year’s podcast. The Board encouraged students to join long-range planning and accountability committees to give input on districtwide decisions.
Superintendent’s report
Superintendent Ruby Bode highlighted the dedication of the new Bobcat Stadium during the first varsity football game, new stage lighting at the elementary school, and repairs to the high school building. Bode also noted that ongoing plumbing leaks near the middle school bus loop are being investigated for long-term solutions.
Financially, district revenues are projected to be $381,000 higher than expected. This will help offset a $400,000 decline in tax revenues from properties converted from commercial to nonprofit ownership, including Fall River Village and The Stanley Hotel. Bode said that district finances remain stable.
Community engagement efforts included a “Sub Discovery Day” to recruit substitute teachers, a partnership with the League of Women Voters, and preparation for upcoming parent-teacher conferences.
Early-year assessments showed minimal summer learning loss, with district averages staying close to national reading, math, and science norms. Teachers are using the data to guide instruction, while new wellness initiatives for staff and students are being rolled out.
School and student updates
At the elementary school, teachers were recognized with a new “Golden Globe” award for modeling school outcomes. Academic efforts are focusing on English language arts and multilingual learning, supported by United Way tutoring. Students are also participating in Rocky Mountain National Park field trips and wellness programs, including the Boys Breakfast Club.
Secondary students reported success in academics, athletics, and the arts, including achievements in state playwriting contests and increased club participation. Anti-bullying assemblies and a grant-funded staff wellness program are also underway.
Athletics and activities
Board members celebrated strong fall sports performances across high school and middle school teams and marked the ribbon-cutting of the new Bobcat Stadium. They recognized the role of boosters, contractors, and community partners in completing the project.
Community voices and Board dynamics
Public comment included remarks from retired teacher Barb Ayres, who expressed concern about the future of the Board. She emphasized the need to keep politics and religion out of the board to maintain public trust.
Ayres also flagged concern over the Board’s newest appointee, noting he was seated without the usual public vetting process. She encouraged more opportunities for the community to learn about him and his goals before he’s sworn in.
Context on new Board member
Although not officially sworn in until November, Franco Wederski has drawn community attention. He recently attended a Charlie Kirk vigil in Estes Park, where he expressed support for bringing a Turning Point USA chapter to the schools, a statement that has raised concerns among progressive community members wary of introducing partisan or religious influences into district affairs.
Wederski also remarked that he believed divine intervention played a role in being elected by acclamation, noting he was able to join the Board without running a contested campaign.
His early comments have set the stage for potential political tensions within the district. While no direct disputes surfaced at this week’s meeting, Wederski’s presence is already shaping the tone of discussions.