District 49 named National Finalist for Baldrige Performance Excellence Program

The El Paso County Colorado School District 49 Board of Education convened for its regular meeting on August 14, 2025, at 6:36 PM. The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming the presence of all board members. Following the pledge of allegiance, the agenda was unanimously approved without any public forum participation or requests to pull items from the consent agenda.

Superintendent Hiltz provided an extensive update on the new school year, highlighting a smooth start with minimal teacher vacancies, a significant achievement for the district. He emphasized the importance of their goal to become a "role model organization," referencing the Malcolm Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. Hiltz announced that District 49 has been recognized as a national finalist in this prestigious program, a testament to the district's commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education. He expressed gratitude to the families, students, and staff who contribute to the district's success.

The meeting then transitioned to student board updates, with returning members Vivian Barr and Nikos sharing their enthusiasm for the new school year and the energy of the student board. They discussed their recent meeting, which included introductions and plans for teamwork activities.

Director Schmidt addressed a recent federal First Amendment case involving the district, emphasizing the need for policy revisions to ensure the protection of civil liberties during board meetings. He called for a clear policy that respects both the rights of the public and the decorum of meetings.

Director Heil reported on attending a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new automotive shop at Falcon High School, while Director Lavere Wright reflected on the positive impact of the Baldrige program on the district's operations and culture. Director De Volla welcomed the new school year, noting the district's early start and the successful hiring of staff.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism for the upcoming school year, underscoring the district's commitment to excellence and the collaborative efforts of its community. The board looks forward to further developments and feedback from the Baldrige site visit scheduled for September.