The Dolores RE-4A school board on Monday was given presentations about the BEST grant construction project and the success of the elementary school art show.
The art show, which was student led, started with the goal of raising $500 for the Red Cross’ work aiding victims of wildfires in California. Artwork sold for $5 each, and by Monday, the show had raised about $700.
The board also was updated on a new math teacher and the addition of STEM lessons.
Middle school and high school students have worked on NASA-type projects and robotics, and the district is working with the Southwest Education Collaborative to bring in guest speakers. Upcoming speakers include a geologist, master electrician and Navy SEAL, via Zoom.
One parent thanked the district for preparing students for careers.
“It’s cool to see that our lower schools are taking this initiative and this action to couple up with out local resources and give our kids these changes, because that’s what’s going to put them ahead in life,” he said.
Next, the board heard from Matt and Chris, the owner’s representatives from Artaic Group, the project management firm who will be aiding in the construction of the district’s new high school through the BEST grant.
Artaic was also part of Dove Creek’s elementary school project through the BEST grant.
“Your community deserves a phenomenal and extraordinary education facility. Look at the incredible things your teachers are doing,” they said. “We’re big believers that the building is all a teaching tool. We’re excited to help you enhance your facilities and realize your dreams of fortifying the campus over time and really bringing the 21st century learning facilities to your staff and students.”
Chris and Matt explained that owner’s representatives are project managers who act as liaisons and representatives of the district to those working on the construction and other facets of the building project.
They added that they don’t design, don’t build and don’t profit from any budget changes, making them a neutral entity to help manage the project.
“We’re highly motivated to finish your project on your budget, on time and with they utmost, highest quality,” they said.
They also complimented the district’s committee tasked with helping oversee the project.
“They are not just checking the box. They’re asking valuable questions, they’re challenging information Matt and I am bringing to the table, and they’re keeping us on our toes. That’s really great for us, we really appreciate that,” Chris said.
Going forward, the representatives will provide a monthly update to the board so they can stay up to date on the project and its progress. As of right now, they are on track to break ground on the high school this summer.
“So very exciting, and things are happening really, really quickly. We’re on a very tight schedule and that’s why we’re here,” they said.
BEST grant projects must be completed three years after the award was announced. Matt and Chris estimated the project to be finished by or at the end of summer 2027.
The pair also noted that they were excited to work on a project in a rural community like Dolores.
“I’d rather work in our rural, Western Slope communities than do the biggest, fanciest project in Denver or anything like that. These are the most rewarding projects, educational projects. Our rural communities are our future, and it just makes us very proud,” they said.
After the Artaic presentation, the board heard about the district’s FFA request to travel to the Washington Leadership Conference in June, followed by a BOCES update.
According to the report, BOCES is planning on asking for “a lot more” money for staff raises, which could cost participating districts even more money, should the Montezuma-Cortez school district successfully pull out of BOCES.
Before the meeting’s close, board president Maegan Crowley reminded the community that the bond only came into affect after the district was awarded the BEST grant and that the recently passed mill levy did not increase taxes. She said there have already been questions and confusion coming from the community.
“I just want to remind that it is a good thing, and it is eventually going to make the town a lot more prosperous as well. That’s a proven fact. When buildings and schools are improved, the community around it improves as well … it’s a valuable investment for our community,” Crowley said.
The next Dolores school board meeting is Monday, March 10 at 6 p.m.
