This time of year is always good to reflect, give thanks and chart a course for the upcoming year.

As we look to the end of 2021, we feel the need to shout our thanks from the mountaintops. Thank you, Clear Creek County! The outcome of the 4A decision sets us on a path of historic investment in each of our schools and ultimately the Clear Creek County kids who will walk the halls of them.

The Clear Creek School District RE-1 Board of Education is so grateful for the trust and confidence our community has placed with us. As we begin the planning and execution of this bond measure, we are acutely aware that our accountability is to all the citizens in this community regardless of their decision on 4A.

While the relocation of Carlson Elementary is certainly the biggest project included in this bond, we are excited to improve the facilities and learning environments at every school. Georgetown Community School will see long overdue exterior repairs and will now be able provide hot lunches to their students after kitchen renovations and equipment are installed.

King-Murphy will see interior improvements, increased security measures and updated classrooms equipped to deliver a 21st century education. Clear Creek High School/Middle School will have lights installed at the Athletic Complex, improvements to security and repairs to interior areas. These repairs were overdue, and it feels so good to be able to finally make these repairs.

We recognize the awesome responsibility we now have and the great opportunity in front of us to engage the community as we work together to see these projects executed. We will be assembling a citizen advisory task force and a design oversight group to work hand in hand with the Board of Education and the project management team.

These committees will be empowered to influence design decisions for the new elementary school on Highway 103, to ensure the funds allocated are advancing the projects as defined by the bond language and to help ensure that key milestones are met (and celebrated). If you would like to serve on these committees, please contact the district office.

These investments combined with award-winning curriculum, exceptional educators and a passionate community will have incredible impact on the futures of our kids and our communities. The district’s goal of becoming the premier school district for mountain families comes more in reach with each project and initiative. We can’t thank you enough for your trust and your support.

Kelly Flenniken is vice president of the Clear Creek school board. She can be reached at kelly.flenniken@ccsdre1.org.