Lewis-Palmer School District 38 is actively working to address the future of the Grace Best facility, while ensuring the continued success of the Home School Enrichment Academy (HSEA). At a meeting on Feb. 6, district leaders, board members and HSEA staff and families came together to discuss next steps, share concerns and reaffirm their collective commitment to providing a strong and sustainable home for the program.
Prioritizing Students and the HSEA Community
Brett Ridgway, Chief Business Officer, emphasized the district’s dedication to finding a long-term solution that maximizes resources and benefits the HSEA community. “We understand it. We hear you,” he assured families. “We are working to inventory and categorize what is available to make the best decision possible.”
The Board voted at their Jan. 21 regular meeting to demolish the Grace Best facility. With the need to find a new home for the HSEA and Transition Services, the district is considering various options, including a temporary facility during the transition period. The Town of Monument and the fire department have expressed strong support, and the broader community remains engaged in finding a viable path forward.
Tiffiney Upchurch, School Board President, who has personal experience with homeschooling, acknowledged the importance of preserving and enhancing HSEA’s offerings. “We need to make sure we are taking care of our programs at Grace Best,” she said. “It’s time to stop kicking the can down the road. We need to get it done.” She also reassured families that “everything is on the table” as the district explores solutions.
Families Express Passion and Commitment
Parents, students and staff spoke passionately about what HSEA means to them. One parent described the desire for a gymnasium and cafeteria as more than just about facilities, “It’s not just about PE, it’s not just about eating. It’s about our community.” Students echoed this sentiment, stating, “HSEA isn’t the building; it’s the people in it.”
District leaders acknowledged the concerns and assured attendees that they are fully committed to HSEA’s future. “Our goal is to be the best homeschool enrichment program in the Pikes Peak Region,” Upchurch stated.
Next Steps and Continued Support
While no final decision has been made, the district is actively exploring options to ensure HSEA’s long-term success. Ideas such as adding modular classrooms on school campuses to provide access to shared resources have been discussed. Families were invited to stay engaged in the process and to continue advocating for HSEA’s needs.
Julie Jadomski, Principal, encouraged the community to maintain its enthusiasm. “I hope you feel the passion in this room. I know I do every day,” she said. “That’s what makes this program so wonderful—it’s the passion from our staff and community.”
District leaders emphasized that HSEA remains a priority, and families should feel confident in the program’s future. “We are absolutely committed to the continuing advancement of the HSEA community now and its expansion in the future,” Ridgway affirmed.
As the district works toward a solution, families are encouraged to stay involved, share feedback, and trust in the district’s commitment to ensuring a thriving future for HSEA.