Last week:

• The Pikes Peak Bulletin published a new article about our district, titled ”Refugees’ from Woodland Park heading to Manitou schools‘.
• Through a CORA request, we learned a little more about what Ken Witt knew about Gateway’s Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award, and when he knew it.
• We posted a video from Truth and Liberty Coalition’s 5/10 broadcast, where Helstrom, Wommack, and Harris called upon their viewers to go to that evening’s board meeting.
• The WPSD finally issued a press release acknowledging Gateway’s award, as well as the awesome achievements of the high school, with record SAT scores and also receiving the Marzano High Reliability Schools Level 1 certification.
• A CORA request revealed that retiring Gateway principal Ashley Lawson was placed on administrative leave in early June, with no reason given, though the email made it clear this was not a disciplinary action. Lawson was also given a gag order, prohibited from communicating with anyone involved with the district (including parents and students). She was also prohibited from accessing any district or school grounds without appointment.

Here’s what’s coming up this week:

• The Thursday, July 6th City Council meeting agenda contains a line item, “Celebration and Congratulations to Gateway Elementary for receiving the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award.” It’s great to see Gateway staff get the recognition they deserve…better late than never! This council meeting also features a discussion, “Council discussion on Woodland Park School District’s Sales Tax IGA.” (IGA is Inter-Governmental Agreement)