In a fast-moving public meeting on March 23, the Estes Park School District R-3 Board of Education recognized student achievement, reviewed district operations, and addressed a board vacancy.
The board opened the meeting at 5:16 p.m., approved the agenda unanimously, and noted there was no public participation.
Student art project highlights cultural connection and collaboration
Students and staff were recognized during a “Spotlight on Success” presentation for the Paper Bridges project, a student-driven exhibit centered on Hispanic art and cultural exploration.
Art instructor Angela Barberi said the project emphasized multiple “global outcomes,” including problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership, as students worked together to create and present the exhibit to peers and the community.
The project included guided tours for elementary and middle school students, as well as public and foundation presentations. Students took on a variety of roles, including tour guides, artists, and project coordinators.
Yazmin Lopez, who served as the project photographer, said the experience allowed her to observe the full scope of the exhibit and see how participants engaged with the work.
“It was really nice to be able to see everything,” Lopez said.
Barberi also recognized student leaders, including project manager Evelyn McGillicuddy, who coordinated multiple tours, and students who created or presented pieces tied to historical and cultural themes.
Each student received a certificate of achievement recognizing their work in “cultural connection and artistic expression.”
Board members praised the project and asked students to reflect on what was most meaningful. Students said both the creative process and seeing younger students engage with the exhibit stood out as highlights.
Student council report focuses on engagement and activities
Members of the Superintendent’s Council reported on efforts to strengthen school culture and student engagement across the district.
Students said they have been meeting with district leadership to build stronger connections between students and administrators and are planning a “Bobcat Buddy” field day aimed at bringing students of all grade levels together.
The event will pair older and younger students and focus on wellness and play, with contingency plans to move activities indoors if weather becomes an issue.
Student representatives also shared updates on spring athletics and highlighted a recent visit from motivational speaker Alex Sheen, who led a workshop focused on goal-setting, personal accountability, and mental health strategies.
They also recognized a departing staff member, describing her as a teacher, coach, and mentor who made a lasting impact on students.
Superintendent report highlights facilities work and financial outlook
Superintendent Ruby Bode reported continued progress on the district’s facilities master planning process, with a key meeting rescheduled to allow for more detailed cost estimates tied to building assessments.
Several maintenance and improvement projects are planned for spring and summer, including playground resurfacing, irrigation upgrades, locker room repairs, and replacement of the district’s key card system. July will serve as a primary window for major maintenance work.
Bode also outlined the district’s financial outlook, noting that while statewide school funding may increase modestly, the impact on Estes Park will be limited due to its reliance on local property taxes.
Rising operational and insurance costs remain the district’s primary financial pressures, alongside maintaining competitive staff compensation.
The district is also gathering input on how to allocate remaining funds, with priorities including classroom furniture replacement, playground improvements, and expanded outdoor seating.
Bode highlighted the launch of a 24/7 “ReachOut” crisis support line available to students and families, emphasizing that it can be used for general mental health support and not only emergencies.
Additional updates included strong participation in student-led conferences, progress toward implementing student learning portfolios, and continued community engagement efforts.
Administrative reports highlight programming and student opportunities
Administrators shared updates across all school levels, highlighting academic initiatives, extracurricular activities, and community partnerships.
Elementary officials reported strong demand for the district’s Project Launch summer program, with more than half of available spots filled shortly after registration opened. The program will continue this year despite partial funding changes, with district leaders emphasizing its value for both academic support and childcare.
Upcoming elementary events include a combined preschool and kindergarten roundup to support early assessment and intervention, a student-led fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and ongoing project-based learning activities.
At the secondary level, administrators highlighted improved attendance at student-led conferences, increased participation in activities, and expanded opportunities for real-world learning, including partnerships with local organizations and career exploration programs.
Students have also participated in robotics competitions, arts programming, and field-based learning experiences, while teachers continue collaborative planning and instructional development.
Athletics report outlines busy spring season
District officials reported that spring sports are underway across multiple programs, including baseball, soccer, track and field, golf, and swimming.
Participation remains strong at both the high school and middle school levels, with additional support from local club sports partnerships helping expand opportunities for students.
Board members noted the high level of student involvement across academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
Board declares vacancy following resignation
The board approved a resolution formally declaring a vacancy following the resignation of board member Ava Kendall in February.
Under state law, the board will appoint a replacement within 60 days. Interested candidates must submit a letter of interest and required documentation by May 1, with interviews scheduled for May 7 during a public meeting.
The appointed member will serve until the next regular biennial election in November 2027.
Board members emphasized the importance of public awareness and outreach to encourage community members to apply.
Consent agenda approved, executive session follows
The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, including prior meeting minutes, a personnel list, and policy-related items.
Following regular business, the board entered executive session to discuss confidential materials related to superintendent candidate applications.
The meeting adjourned to executive session to discuss candidates for the superintendent position at approximately 6:20 p.m.