Mesa Elementary earns Colorado Department of Education Center of Excellence Award

Mesa Elementary School has been honored with the prestigious Colorado Center of Excellence Award, a recognition that highlights its exceptional performance in supporting at-risk students. This accolade was celebrated during the Westminster Public Schools Board of Education meeting on May 27, 2025, where Janelle Stasney, the retiring principal, was acknowledged for her leadership and dedication.

Roger, a board member, shared the news of the award, emphasizing that Mesa Elementary is one of fewer than 30 schools statewide to receive this honor. The award is given to schools that enroll at least 75% of students deemed at risk while demonstrating significant growth in student achievement. Mesa has maintained a performance school status for 12 of the past 15 years, showcasing its commitment to educational excellence.

During the meeting, Roger expressed gratitude to the Mesa staff for their hard work and dedication, which he believes has been crucial in preparing students for future success. He also took a moment to honor Janelle Stasney for her years of service, highlighting her impact on both students and staff.

In addition to the award presentation, the meeting featured the Westie Achiever Award, presented by Jamie Chavez from the Westminster Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. This year, Ryan McCoy was honored for his outstanding service and leadership.

The meeting concluded with a heartfelt farewell to Mike Lynch, who has played a vital role in the district for over a decade. As he retires, he was presented with a unique award celebrating his dedication and the positive impact he has had on the community.

As the school year wraps up, Superintendent Dr. Gatto expressed gratitude for the support received during his first year and outlined plans for the upcoming summer and school year. The recognition of Mesa Elementary and the contributions of dedicated staff members highlight the ongoing commitment to educational excellence within the Westminster Public Schools community.