Thank you for taking the time to read Issues #7 of “A View of the Summit,” one of our many ways of sharing our academic and budgetary work with you. 

Exciting Developments in Our Future Ready Pathways Program

I am thrilled to share the incredible momentum behind our Future Ready Pathways initiative, reinforcing our commitment to preparing Summit School District students for success in an ever-evolving workforce.

At our recent Future Ready Pathways community meeting  at Summit High School, we showcased our vision of empowering students through high-quality, work-based learning experiences across our diverse pathways—including Natural Resources, Computer Science, Skilled Trades, Education & Human Services, Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing, Health Sciences, and Outdoor Leadership. During the meeting, community members participated in a structured networking experience where they engaged with pathway leads to learn about work-based learning opportunities and priority areas within each pathway. Participants actively contributed by identifying ideas for how they or their organizations can be involved in supporting work-based learning within the pathways.

Our Pathways program is more than just a district initiative; it’s a transformative approach to education that bridges classroom learning with real-world application. We are merging rigorous instruction aligned to the Colorado Academic Standards with opportunities for students to engage directly with local professionals, complete meaningful job tasks, and explore career interests.

The energy and commitment from our community partners, local businesses, and educators is inspiring. As we move forward, we are looking for local business connections to partner with us on a variety of levels. We value your expertise and are excited to collaborate with you, from presenting your work experience in alignment with developing curriculum to providing targeted work-based learning experiences that allow students to solve real-world problems, receive professional feedback, and build essential employability skills.

 

Our goal is clear: to ensure every student graduates not just academically prepared, but future-ready—equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to our vibrant community.

Know someone who might be interested?

Complete the form here.

Special Programs and How They Are Funded

Over the next few weeks, we will spotlight several programs that support specific student groups, including Special Education, English Language Learners, and preschool. Many of these programs receive categorical funding, which is allocated through separate state formulas rather than the standard School Finance Formula (Total Program) used for general education funding.

One of the major categorical programs in Colorado is Special Education, which serves students with disabilities.

       

For the FY 2024-25 fiscal year:

• The total cost of Special Education services in our district is $4.3 million.
• Summit School District received $1,300,199 in Special Education Categorical funding, covering about 30% of total program costs.
• 91.4% of this funding is allocated to salaries and benefits for 43.74 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff, serving 397 students.

Additionally, Special Education programming is supplemented by Federal funding through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):

• $719,404 in IDEA funds
• $15,093 in IDEA Preschool funds

These grants combined support a total of 7.63 FTE. 

More details on state Special Education funding can be found in the School Finance in Colorado research publication by the Colorado Legislative Council staff.

We appreciate your ongoing support and engagement with Summit School District. Stay tuned for more updates on our programs, initiatives, and funding realities in future editions of A View of the Summit.

Tony Byrd, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Laura Cotsapas
Chief Transformation Officer

Kara Drake
Chief Financial Officer

Kerstin Anderson
Director of Communications