Westminster schools get HVAC, lighting and shade upgrades ahead of fall semester

Westminster Public Schools reported several facility upgrades completed over the summer, from air conditioning installations to new windows and playground shade structures. Dr. Gatto told the Board of Education the operations team completed phase 1 upgrades at Shaw Heights that included air conditioning, LED lighting and new windows. He also said an office renovation at Tennyson Knowles improved customer service areas, and that classrooms received new flooring and carpeting. Gatto listed new shade structures installed at Colorado Sports Leadership Academy, Gregory Hill, STEM Union and Westminster Academy for International Studies, and said the district planted more than 350 water‑wise plants and grasses as part of efforts to reduce bluegrass turf. Why it matters: Facilities work affects learning conditions immediately as students return to class. Board members at the meeting praised operations staff for summer work but took no formal vote on facility projects during the Aug. 12 meeting. The superintendent did not provide a project cost breakdown or funding source during his remarks. He described the described changes as aligned with the district’s strategic plan and environmental stewardship goals.