Horizons K-8 Charter School Board — Regular Meeting Minutes

Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
Time Called to Order: 6:18 PM (MT)
Location: On-site with Google Meet livestream

 

---

1) Call to Order & Roles

• Chair/Facilitators: Travis Lockhart; Jasmine Graves Black-Clemons (GBC)
• Timekeeper: Adam Brink
• Secretary (Minutes): Jordan Logan
• Process Observer: Rachel Clionsky
• Quorum: Present (see roll below)
  
   

 

---

2) Attendance

Parent Board Members (Voting)

• Travis Lockhart – Board Chair
• Jessica Slatus – Board Member
• Joel Gratz – Board Treasurer
• Rob Horansky – Board Member (joined at 6:30 PM)
• Jordan Logan – Board Secretary
• Michael Joseph – Board Co-Chair

Parent Attendees (Non-Board)

• John Begosian – Parent, former board member
• Michael Ashmore – Parent, former board member

School Administration 

• Jasmine Graves Black-Clemons (GBC) – Head of School
• Kristin Hauger – Assistant Head of School

Teacher Board Members

• Adam Brink – Teacher Board Member
• Caley Gallison – Teacher Board Member (7–8 Science)
• Rachel Clionsky – Teacher Board Member (5–6)
• Kate Bachtel – Teacher Board Member (SPED & GT Coordinator)
• Jim Freund – Teacher Board Member (7–8 Math)
• Fran Cohen - Teacher Board Member (1-2)
  
  Community Attendees

• Additional community members joined via Google Meet
  
   

 

---

3) Public Comment

• The floor was opened for public comment (up to 3 minutes per speaker; 15 minutes total).
   
• Result: No public comments offered.
   

  ---

4) Consent Agenda — Approval of Prior Minutes

• Item: Minutes of the regular meeting held May 28, 2025.
   
• Discussion: Corrections requested for misspelled names and attendance status.
   
• Action: Motion to approve with corrections.
   
• Outcome: Approved by the Board (after corrections).
   

 

---

5) Nominations — At-Large Board Members (Non-Voting, 1-Year Terms)

Candidates:

• Michael Ashmore (former board member) — would contribute historical context (e.g., COVID period; prior charter renewal).
  
   
• John Begosian (former board member) — would provide continuity and institutional knowledge.
  
   

Context: At-large members are non-voting, may be invited into executive session as needed, and do not count toward parent/staff balance requirements.

Discussion:

• Benefits of institutional memory and historical insight were acknowledged.
   
• Teacher board members expressed that this proposal is inconsistent with past board practice, noting there is no precedent for at-large non-voting parent members.  
• The expressed intention was to include outreach to community members, and people with specialized expertise. 
   
• Teachers emphasized the action is not a current priority and did not support moving forward with the addition of these at-large members at this time.
   

Outcome: No concordance reached. Action deferred for consideration at a future meeting.

 

---

6) Head of School Updates (GBC / Admin Team)

A. Director of Finance Hiring

• Posting: Position posted three times; final posting closed Aug 14, 2025.
   
• Applicants: Three applicants; one strong candidate declined due to compensation. Final application count to be shared Aug 15, 2025.
   
• Interim Coverage: External accounting firm under consideration as contingency.
   

B. Finance / Budget Status (FY24–25 wrap; actuals as of Aug 8, 2025)

• Fund 11 reconciled to actuals through Aug 8.
• Pending reimbursements (~$130,000; e.g., SPED, custodial true-up).
   
• Expenses tracking ~93% year-to-date; summer spend lower than usual.
   
• Beginning fund balance $631,191; administration projects >$800,000 once reimbursements post.
   
• Board requested clearer labels and MOUs for charter renewal to link purchase services/fees to deliverables.
   

C. Reporting & Transparency

• Budget/finance docs to be linked in future agendas (sensitive data removed).
  
   

D. Enrollment

• Current estimate ~380 students; final counts to be provided by next Wednesday.
   

  ---

7) Action Items

1. Bank Signer Update: Add Joel Gratz as bank account signer; remove former members. (Owner: Admin/Finance; Target: ASAP)
    
2. Finance Doc Links: Include budget/finance links in agendas. (Owner: Admin; Starting next meeting)
    
3. Line-Item/MOU Mapping: Draft clearer line-item labels and MOUs/purchase-service definitions for charter renewal. (Owner: Admin w/ FRC; Draft for renewal sessions)
    
4. Finance Director Search: Share applicant totals after posting closes (Aug 15). (Owner: Admin)
    
5. Enrollment Update: Provide current enrollment counts by next Wednesday. (Owner: Admin)
   
    

 

---

8) Executive Session — (See separate confidential summary) 

Start: 7:03 PM • End: 9:30 PM (MT)
 

9) Adjournment

• Public session adjourned prior to executive session.
   
• Final adjournment at 9:30 PM (MT).
   

 

---

Appendices / References

• Agenda (posted publicly; Google Meet link provided; technical issues resolved).
   
• Corrected minutes of May 28, 2025.
   
• Fund 11 actuals through Aug 8, 2025 (admin copy).
   
• Hiring updates post-close.
  
   

Horizons K-8 Board of Directors

Regular Meeting Minutes
Date: August 28, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM (called to order at 7:15 PM)
Location: Horizons K-8 / Google Meet hybrid

 

---

Attendance

Parent Board Members

• Michael Joseph (Co-Chair)
   
• Travis Lockhart (Chair)
   
• Joel Gratz (Treasurer)
   
• Jordan Logan (Secretary)
   
• Jessica Slatus (via Google Meet)
   
• Rob Horansky
   

Teacher Board Members

• Fran Cohen
   
• Jim Freund
   
• Adam Brink
   
• Caley Gallison
   
• Rachael Clionsky (via Google Meet)

 

Community Members
 

• Lynn Pencee (via Google Meet)
   

Staff / Legal Counsel

• Brad Miller, Esq. (Legal Counsel)
   
• Kristin Hauger, Assistant Head of School
   

Additional Participants

• None
   

 

---

Call to Order

• Meeting was called to order at 7:15 PM by Chair Travis Lockhart.
   
• Adam Brink volunteered to serve as note-taker.
   
• Fran Cohen volunteered as process observer.
   
• Legal counsel Brad Miller was introduced as a guest participant.
   

 

---

Public Comment

• No members of the public requested to speak.
   

 

---

Consent Agenda

• Minutes from August 14, 2025 meeting were reviewed.
   
• Correction/amendment: language clarified that the intention for potential at-large board members included outreach to community members with specialized expertise or connections to local foundations/fundraising opportunities.
   
• Motion to approve amended minutes: Passed by concordance.
   
• Minutes will be posted to the school website.
   

 

---

Legal Context & Executive Session Primer

• Brad Miller provided a brief explanation of Colorado law regarding executive sessions:
   
  • Permitted topics include legal advice, personnel matters, negotiations, student matters, and security.
     
  • Sessions must be recorded except when discussing direct legal advice or student matters.
     
  • Recordings are retained for 90 days.
     
  • Boards must remain on topic and cannot use executive session to discuss unrelated matters.
     

 

---

Motion to Enter Executive Session

• Motion: To enter executive session under C.R.S. 24-6-402(4)(b), (e), and (f) to receive legal advice from counsel regarding a personnel matter and board governance responsibilities.
   
• Motion seconded and approved unanimously.
   
• Parent board members, teacher board members, and counsel participated.
   

 

---

Adjournment of Public Session

 

•  The public portion of the meeting concluded at approximately 7:45 PM.

 

Executive Session

 

•  The Board entered executive session at 7:45 PM for the purposes permitted under C.R.S. § 24-6-402(4). No formal action was taken in the executive session.

 

Return to Open Session

• The regular board meeting reconvened in open session at 9:43 PM following the conclusion of the executive session.

 

Board Discussion & Decisions (Open Session)

 

• Independent Fact-Finder:
   
  • Motion approved to establish a subcommittee to vet and propose candidates for an independent investigator.
     

Adjournment

 

•  The reopened public session adjourned at 9:45 PM.

Action Items:

1. Secretary to update August 14 minutes with the amendment regarding community/foundation outreach.
    
2. Minutes to be posted on the school website after approval.
    
3. Board to ensure proper recording of executive sessions per C.R.S. requirements.

 

Horizons K-8 Board Meeting

Date: September 11, 2025
Location: Horizons K-8 School / Google Meet

Attendance

Parent Board Members: Travis Lockhart (Chair), Michael Joseph (Vice Chair), Jordan Logan (Secretary), Jessica Slatus
Teacher Board Members: Fran Cohen, Jim Freund, Caley Gallison (via Google Meet), Kate Bachtel (via Google Meet)
Others Present: GBC (Head of School, via Google Meet), Kristin Hauger (Assistant Head of School)

 

---

1) Call to Order

Meeting called to order at 6:04 PM (MT).

 

---

2) Approval of Minutes

• August 28th minutes reviewed.
   
• Approval deferred pending clarification on a specific motion.
   

 

---

3) Public Comment

• No public comments were offered.
   

 

---

4) Finance Updates

• Fund 11 update deferred until the next meeting.
• New Director of Finance has started.
   
• Financial reports indicate stable revenue, adequate reserves, and a surplus.
   
• Council budget reviewed.
   

 

---

5) Enrollment Updates

• Current enrollment at 367 students, with limited openings in some grades.
   
• Waitlist status and enrollment timelines reviewed.
   
• Administrative transfer process under development.
   

 

---

6) Facilities Update

• “Big Kids Play Too” outdoor play space project reviewed.
   
• Construction scheduled to begin September 17; completion anticipated late November.
   

 

---

7) Charter Renewal & Bylaw Revision

• Proposal made and approved to form a Charter Renewal & Bylaw Revision Committee.
   
• Scope, membership, and process reviewed.
   
• Community participation encouraged.
   
• Legal counsel will be involved in process.
   

 

---

8) Committee & Council Updates

• Community positions confirmed as filled.
   
• Council and finance committee meetings scheduled.
   

 

---

9) Adjournment of Regular Session

• Motion approved to include Melissa Rossback (Independent HR Consultant) in executive session.

 

• Public meeting concluded at 7:09 PM.
   

 

---

10) Executive Session

• Entered executive session.
   

 

---

11) Regular Session Resumed

• Motion passed to engage independent HR consulting support.
   

 

---

12) Final Adjournment

• Board meeting adjourned at 8:28 PM (MT).
   

 

---

Action Items

• Form charter renewal and bylaw revision committee.
   
• Include executive session on October 9 agenda.
   
• Provide independent HR consultant with requested information.

 

Meeting Minutes

10/23/25

 

Attendance: 

Jessica, Travis, Adam, Michael, Fran, Joel, GBC, Kate, Rob, Kristin, Caley, Rachel, Jim

 

1. Nomination of secretary: Kate
2. Nomination of process observer: Rob
3. Nomination of time keeper: Adam
4. Public Comment:

• No public comment

5. Consent Agenda: 

Motion to approve the 8/28/25 Meeting Minutes: Motion approved.

Motion to approve 9/8/25 Meeting Minutes pending name spelling corrections and addition of Rob and Jessica who were present: Motion approved.

Motion to approve 9/11/25 Meeting Minutes: Motion approved.

6. Finance Updates

• October Counts Number: 368 (at 370 currently given 2 students enrolled post October counts)
• Financial reports indicate stable revenue and adequate reserves.
• Council Budget: Donations are flowing in through HawkBucks and Artistic. 
• Last year’s fundraising goal was almost met, fundraising expenses less than anticipated.
• BVSD Place to Be Expo had high visitor numbers.

 

7.  Assistant Head of School Update

• Preschool outreach has begun - 70 letters being sent 
• Liaisons reaching out to community
• Open enrollment planning meeting has begun in coordination with parent volunteers
• $3k and $1k donations made to support trees for new Big Kids Play space
• Hard work building community connections is paying off through donations and resources being shared to support nature play area
• Gala planning has begun
• Looking at ways to support families who may be losing SNAP benefits 
• Middle school video is complete in preparation for open enrollment meetings

 

8. Bylaw and Charter Renewal Update Committee 

• The current charter contract with BVSD expires in June of 2026.
• The Head of School leads the charter renewal process and Jim will be the faculty committee chair and Travis the parent committee chair. The first meeting of the committee will be held immediately prior to the next board meeting.

 

9.  Human Resources Consultant Increase

• Funds are currently coming out of the legal support budget in Fund 11.
• Motion to approve a budget of up to $10k for the Human Resources consultant: Motion approved.

Motion for Kristin to be able to attend executive session: Motion approved.

Motion to move into executive session at 7:33pm: Motion approved.

Motion to move back to public session at 8:14pm: Motion approved.

Feedback from process observer: Efficient as could be, missing a bit of context regarding time expectations, people listened and were cordial.

Motion to adjourn at 8:17pm: approved.

 

Horizon’s school board of directors meeting
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 6:05–8:59 PM
Location: Horizon’s K-8 

 

---

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 6:05 PM.

Board Members Present

Jessica, Travis, Adam, Michael, Fran, Joel, Kate, Jordan, Caley, Rachel, Jim

Administrators Present

GBC, and Kristin.

Meeting Roles

• Timekeeper: Adam Brink
   
• Process Observer: Jim Freund
   

Public Comment

No public comment was offered.

Approval of Minutes

Minutes from October 23, 2025 were approved.

 

---

2. Head of School Updates

2.1 Budget & Enrollment

• The school anticipates $73,000 less income due to BVSD reimbursing only 1.5 FTE for Special Education, though actual staffing is 2.0 FTE.
   
• The Head of Finance is completing a detailed review of all pass-through and reimbursement categories.
   
• Enrollment remains strong but 16 students short of full enrollment capacity.
   

2.2 Open Enrollment

• Both recent Open Enrollment events had strong turnout and community interest.
   
• The board discussed strategies to support enrollment follow-through and reduce fall attrition.
   

2.3 Fundraising & Events

• Hawks Bucks has raised $33,610 to date.
   
• Art-Tastic will host a new Kid-Tastic fundraiser.
   
• Big Kids Play Too ribbon-cutting is scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at 12:45 PM.
   

 

---

3. Charter Renewal

• Charter renewal is now in Part 2 of the application process. Submission to BVSD is planned for December.
   
• Committees are finalizing required policies, procedures, and documentation.
   
• The district site visit is scheduled for December 9, 2025.
   

 

---

4. Executive Session

A motion to enter Executive Session was made and approved at 6:44 PM under applicable CRS provisions.
By board motion, GBC, Kristen Hauger and Melissa Rossback were invited to participate.

The Executive Session concluded at 8:59 PM.
.

 

---

5. Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at the close of the Executive Session.

 

---

6. Upcoming Meetings

• Next Board Study Session: December 4, 2025

 

Horizon’s school board of directors meeting
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 6:05–8:59 PM
Location: Horizon’s K-8 

 

---

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 6:05 PM.

Board Members Present

Jessica, Travis, Adam, Michael, Fran, Joel, Kate, Jordan, Caley, Rachel, Jim

Administrators Present

GBC, and Kristin.

Meeting Roles

• Timekeeper: Adam Brink
   
• Process Observer: Jim Freund
   

Public Comment

No public comment was offered.

Approval of Minutes

Minutes from October 23, 2025 were approved.

 

---

2. Head of School Updates

2.1 Budget & Enrollment

• The school anticipates $73,000 less income due to BVSD reimbursing only 1.5 FTE for Special Education, though actual staffing is 2.0 FTE.
   
• The Head of Finance is completing a detailed review of all pass-through and reimbursement categories.
   
• Enrollment remains strong but 16 students short of full enrollment capacity.
   

2.2 Open Enrollment

• Both recent Open Enrollment events had strong turnout and community interest.
   
• The board discussed strategies to support enrollment follow-through and reduce fall attrition.
   

2.3 Fundraising & Events

• Hawks Bucks has raised $33,610 to date.
   
• Art-Tastic will host a new Kid-Tastic fundraiser.
   
• Big Kids Play Too ribbon-cutting is scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at 12:45 PM.
   

 

---

3. Charter Renewal

• Charter renewal is now in Part 2 of the application process. Submission to BVSD is planned for December.
   
• Committees are finalizing required policies, procedures, and documentation.
   
• The district site visit is scheduled for December 9, 2025.
   

 

---

4. Executive Session

A motion to enter Executive Session was made and approved at 6:44 PM under applicable CRS provisions.
By board motion, GBC, Kristen Hauger and Melissa Rossback were invited to participate.

The Executive Session concluded at 8:59 PM.
.

 

---

5. Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at the close of the Executive Session.

 

---

6. Upcoming Meetings

• Next Board Study Session: December 4, 2025

 

Horizons K-8 School 1/8/26 Board Meeting Minutes
Date: January 8, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:20 PM
Location: The Hub
Facilitators: Travis Lockhart
Secretary: Jordan Logan

Attendance:
Jessica Slatus, Travis Lockhart, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Kate Bachtel, Jordan Logan,  Kristin Hauger, Caley Gallison, Rob Horansky, Rachel Clionsky, Jim Freund, Joel Gratz

Administrators Present:

GBC and Kristin Hauger

 

---

I. Preliminaries & Consent Items

Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Travis Lockhart.

Public Comment
Members of the Big Picture Team provided an update regarding next steps following the faculty engagement survey facilitated by Melissa Rossback. The team reported a desire to hire an outside mediator to support discussion of survey results at upcoming faculty meetings. The board discussed the distinction between governance and operational responsibilities and noted that while funding decisions fall under board oversight, the staff may hire a mediator as desired as this decision falls under operational matters.

Approval of Minutes
The board reviewed the minutes from the December 11, 2025, and December 19, 2025 meetings.

• December 11, 2025 minutes were amended to clarify that professional development decisions are a faculty matter, with funding governed by the board.
   
• December 19, 2025 minutes were amended to clarify that the Kolbe Index was introduced by a contractor.
   

Vote: Board approved minutes by concordance.

 

---

II. Reports, Actions, and Discussion Items

Charter League and HR Updates

Michael Joseph reported ongoing efforts to obtain a proposal from the Colorado League of Charter Schools (CLCS) for anti-bias training. GBC will follow up with the CLCS representative to expedite the receipt of a proposal from CLCS.

The Board discussed the formation of a long-term HR consultant subcommittee to define future HR needs.  The plan is to discuss and organize the mission of this subcommittee at the next board meeting in February.  Melissa Rossback continues to serve as the interim HR consultant.

 

---

Head of School and Financial Update

Fund 11 Budget
A budget amendment was presented with a projected $140,000 revenue shortfall from the previously adopted budget.  This is the result of a 16-student deficit in the October count. There have been some changes in how BVSD is funding the school, which include per pupil allotment increased by 3% and district purchase service costs increased by 11%. The board noted limited transparency in the district’s reimbursement methodology. The school will likely receive a $50,000 reimbursement from BVSD this year as BVSD has overcharged the school in a few areas to this point.

Council Fundraising
Council fundraising is ahead of schedule, having reached approximately 87% of the $116,500 fundraising goal prior to the annual Spring Gala auction.

Head of School Evaluation
The Head of School (HOS) presented annual goals for the 2025–26 school year. Rob will develop a faculty input survey in which responses can be anonymous. The board discussed transitioning to a year-round evaluation process rather than the current annual review process. HOS evaluation subcommittee will discuss the development of a year-round HOS evaluation process.

Budget Action
The amended January 8, 2026 budget was approved by the board by concordance.

 

---

Enrollment and Charter Review

Enrollment Planning
GBC recommended an enrollment target of 374 students for the 2026–27 school year, with 404 open seats offered to BVSD to optimize funding.

Charter Renewal Update
Adam reported continued progress on waiver reviews. A recent site visit was successful, and positive and supportive feedback was provided by the evaluator.  Charter renewal negotiations with BVSD are anticipated in Spring 2026.

 

---

Committee Updates

Development Committee
Kristin reported that fundraising remains strong. Planning is underway for a Spring Gala.  This year’s event will be at Relish in Louisville.  Attendees will be invited to play in a pickleball tournament. A “Dine and Donate” event with Organic Sandwich in Boulder and Louisville is scheduled for January 15.

Finance Review Committee
Joel reported that the school’s financial reports appear strong.  The committee continues efforts to better understand and clarify the district’s reimbursement process, which is confusing.  

 

---

III. Closing

Legal Considerations
The board discussed Sunshine Laws and open meeting requirements, including considerations related to board member’s attendance at staff meetings.

Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM.

 

Horizons K-8 School
Board Meeting Minutes

February 12, 2026

Call to Order: 6:05pm
Facilitator/Chair:Travis Lockhart
Secretary: Jordan Logan
Timekeeper: Rachel Clionsky
Process Observer:  Rob Horansky

Attendance:
Jessica Slatus, Travis Lockhart, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Kate Bachtel, Jordan Logan,  Kristin Hauger, Caley Gallison, Rob Horansky, Rachel Clionsky, Jim Freund, Joel Gratz

Kate Bachtel departed the meeting early.

Administrators Present:

GBC and Kristin Hauger 

 

---

Opening Business

Public Comment

No public comment was offered.

Approval of January 8, 2026 Minutes

Board members reviewed the January 8, 2026 meeting minutes.

Motion: To approve the January 8, 2026 minutes as presented.
Second: Received.
Vote: Approved unanimously by concordance.
Result: Minutes approved without changes.

 

---

Charter Renewal Discussion

Consultant: Sara Taylor with the Colorado League of Charter Schools
 

Sara Taylor provided an overview of her review of the school’s charter renewal application. She evaluated the application using criteria aligned with the Colorado Association of Charter Schools standards and provided ratings, strengths, and recommendations for improvement.  She found the document to be generally strong as the school’s academics, financial health among others appear strong.  The document could be further strengthened by adding more specific details to all sections.
 

Renewal Process Update

GBC reported that:

• The charter renewal application has been submitted to BVSD.
   
• The Boulder Valley School District Board of Education is scheduled to vote on renewal on February 17, 2026.
   
• BVSD representatives have indicated a recommendation for renewal.
   
• Following renewal approval, contract negotiations with BVSD will begin.
   
• Renewal term length (up to five years) will be determined by the district.
   

Consultant noted that non-renewals typically occur only in cases of significant financial or compliance concerns, which are not present for Horizons.

Sara Taylor offered continued support and consultation as needed.

 

---

Board Retreat & Training Discussion

The Board discussed potential formats for a future board retreat, including governance training, document alignment, and bias training. Options ranged from a facilitated multi-day retreat to shorter in-house sessions.  Consensus emerged that additional discussion and planning are needed before committing to a format.  Board members agreed to continue discussions on this topic in future meetings

 

---

Head of School Update

Budget Update

GBC reported:

• Budget remains stable and tracking is consistent with prior month.
   
• 2026–2027 budget development is underway.
   
• 387 students are currently committed for Fall 2026.
   
• Awaiting finalized district funding projections.
   

Appropriation Document

The Board must re-sign the appropriation resolution due to the inclusion of Fund 6 in addition to Fund 11.

Fund 6 includes state funding and levy allocations designated for specific operational categories (e.g., IT and custodial services).

Signatures were collected to correct the document.

 

---

Executive Session

Executive Session Start: 7:45 pm
Melissa Rossback joined the Executive Session at the request of the Board, which was approved by concordance.

Executive Session End: 10:03 PM

The public meeting resumed.

Motion: Joel Gratz moved to designate Travis Lockhart to proceed on matters discussed with legal counsel during Executive Session.
Vote:  Quorum was reached and motion was approved by concordance.
 

 

---

Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 10:03 PM.

 

Horizons K-8 School
Board Meeting Minutes

February 17, 2026

Call to Order: 3:06pm
Facilitator/Chair:Travis Lockhart
Secretary: Jordan Logan
 

Attendance:
Jessica Slatus, Travis Lockhart, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Kate Bachtel, Jordan Logan, Caley Gallison, Rob Horansky, Rachel Clionsky, Jim Freund, Joel Gratz

Jessica Slatus departed the meeting at 4:15pm

Travis Lockhart departed the meeting at 4:20pm.

Administrators Present:

Kristin Hauger

Public Comment - none offered.

Executive session 

Board Chair Travis Lockhart confirmed that quorum was reached. A motion was made and seconded to enter executive session pursuant to C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(f) for the purpose of discussing the performance evaluation of the Head of School. The motion carried by concordance at 3:08 p.m. The board approved by concordance to include Melissa Rossback and Brad Miller in the executive session. The board approved by concordance to conclude executive session at 4:55 p.m

Quorum was reached, motion was proposed, seconded, and passed assigning Joel Gratz and Michael Joseph to act on the issues discussed in executive session.  

Meeting adjourned at 5:15pm

 

Horizons K-8 School
Board Meeting Minutes

February 23, 2026

Call to Order: 4:10pm
Facilitator/Chair:Travis Lockhart
Secretary: Jordan Logan
 

Attendance:
Jessica Slatus, Travis Lockhart, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Kate Bachtel, Jordan Logan,  Kristin Hauger, Rob Horansky, Rachel Clionsky, Jim Freund, Joel Gratz

Public Comment: None offered.

Executive session - Board Chair Travis Lockhart moved to enter executive session pursuant to C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(f) for the purpose of discussing the performance evaluation of the Head of School. The board voted by concordance to enter executive session at 4:12 p.m. By concordance, the board agreed to permit Melissa Rossback and Brad Miller to be present during the executive session.

Executive session ended at 5:50pm

Quorum was met, motion was made, seconded, concordance was not met and motion was passed by super majority to assign Michael Joseph and Travis Lockhart  to communicate with legal counsel about issues discussed in executive session.  

Meeting adjourned at 6pm.

 

Horizons K-8 School
Board Meeting Minutes

March 2, 2026

Call to Order: 4:02pm
Facilitator/Chair:Travis Lockhart
Timekeeper: Adam Brink

 Secretary: Jordan Logan

Attendance:
Jessica Slatus, Travis Lockhart, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Kate Bachtel, Jordan Logan,  Kristin Hauger, Rob Horansky, Caley Gallison, Rachel Clionsky, Jim Freund, Joel Gratz

Kate Bachtel departed the meeting at 5:45pm.  

Public Comment

Public comments were received from: Peter Hegelbach, Cory Pavicich, Sarah Wise, Rachel Mentz, Mike Ashmore, Tia Whitehouse, Piper Mirriam, Lynn Pence, Adrienne Gauthier, and Allyson Desart.

 

---

Reports, Actions & Discussion

HOS Leave & Interim Leadership Update

The Board reviewed communication plans for notifying students and families of the head of school’s leave. Staff will communicate the situation calmly and directly.

Interim HOS Kristin Hauger reported feeling well-supported. Responsibilities have been identified and distributed. Key updates:

• Charter financial negotiations are in progress, with three presentations to the BVSD Board scheduled beginning in early April.
• CMAS exam coordination is the primary near-term focus; Stephanie is available to assist.
• Kim and Tess are designated emergency head of school backups, consistent with district practice.
• The Big Picture Team is meeting to identify school leadership priorities.

 

---

Executive Session

At 5:17 p.m., Board Chair Travis Lockhart moved to enter Executive Session pursuant to C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(f) to discuss personnel matters related to the interim Head of School. The Board seconded the motion and approved by concordance and permitted Melissa Rossback and Kristin Hauger to attend.  The board ended the executive session at 5:55pm.

No Board action was taken.

The meeting adjourned at 5:58pm.

 

Horizons K-8 School

Board Meeting Minutes

March 5, 2026

 

Call to Order: 6:04pm

Facilitator/Chair:Travis Lockhart

Timekeeper: Joel Gratz

Process Observer: Jordan Logan

Secretary: Jordan Logan

 

Attendance:

Jessica Slatus, Travis Lockhart, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Kate Bachtel,

Jordan Logan, Kristin Hauger, Jim Freund, Rob Horansky, Joel Gratz

Opening Statement from Travis Lockhart.

 

Public Comment

Public comments were received from: Cory Pavicich, Sarah Wise read by Tracy Eliasson,

Daniela Thornton, Rachel Mentz

 

Discussion -

Travis proposed to launch a parent engagement survey.

Michael proposed that this survey is critically important as it could be used in the and it should

happen yearly.

Joel and Jim stated that this may not be Board work and this should be handed off to

administration and faculty to carry this out.

Rob has been developing a survey for the HOS evaluation subcommittee.

Action items - Followup with Melissa Rossback and “Teacher Powered Schools” consultants.

No motions made.

Charter Renewal Support, Update & Review

Kristin and Lori met with Summit Middle School administration to discuss the charter renewal.

 

Kristin reported that she will work with Summit and Peak to Peak to negotiate the charter

renewal contract. She will focus her negotiations on special education funding and EL.

She discussed the shorter contract with BVSD and it does not appear to be punitive. The

school’s governance model was identified as an area for improvement.

She feels confident that the priorities are being addressed and they will be

Interim Head of School Update ● Fund 11 + Council Budget

- Kristin and Joel reported that there is a budget deficit of about $375,000.

- This has been typical for the school historically and it is likely the result of the school

having about 15 fewer students than were budgeted for.

- Administration plans to transfer about $186,000 from Council Budget to fund Big Kids

Play Too equipment.

 

Executive Session

At 7:25 p.m., Board Chair Travis Lockhart moved to enter Executive Session pursuant to C.R.S.

§24-6-402(4)(f) to discuss personnel matters related to the Head of School. The Board

seconded the motion and approved by concordance and permitted Melissa Rossback and Kim

to attend. Kim Welch departed session at 8:05pm.

The board ended the executive session at 9:11pm.

Board chair moved and it was seconded to accept the resignation of the HOS. The motion was

passed by concordance.

The meeting adjourned at 9:12pm.

 

:

 

Horizons K-8 Board Meeting Minutes

May 7, 2026  |  In Person & Google Meet

 

Facilitator: Travis Lockhart

Secretary/Minutes: Jordan Logan

Process Observer: Rob Horansky

Timekeeper: Joel Gratz

Board Members Present: Travis Lockhart, Jessica Slatus, Rob Horansky, Adam Brink, Michael Joseph, Fran Cohen, Joel Gratz, Kate Bachtel, Rachel Clionsky, Shoshana Kressler, Eric Altman

Also Present: Kristin Hauger, Interim Head of School

 

1. Convening & Public Comment

The board was convened at 5:38 PM. Public comment was received from Ryan Conrad, who raised concerns about teacher compensation. Conrad noted that delaying or reducing step increases could cost teachers between $100,000 and $200,000 in career earnings and negatively affect retirement. He asked that step increases be made retroactively to protect teachers’ long-term financial interests.

 

2. Consent Agenda

Motion to approve April 9, 2026 board meeting minutes.

Result: Motion passed by concordance.

 

3. Interim Head of School Report — Kristin Hauger

Spring Gala

Net proceeds from the Spring Gala were approximately $43,000 against a goal of $50,000.

 

Hiring Updates

Grades 3-4: Anna Hullet was hired and will begin in the fall. Special Education: four candidates were interviewed. Custodial: six candidates have applied for the open position.

 

Charter Contract Negotiation

Kristin is working with the school’s legal counsel on charter renewal. Negotiations with BVSD are ongoing, including ESL services and purchased services contracts.

Enrollment

Current enrollment for 2026-27 stands at 380 students. Waitlists exist for grades 3-4 and 5-6.

End of Year Events

End of year events are listed in Skylines.

in

4. Agenda Adjustment

Motion to move the interim leadership model discussion to the next agenda item.

Result: Motion passed by concordance.

5. Interim Leadership Model 2026–27

Kristin Hauger presented a proposed interim leadership model for the 2026-27 school year. The current leadership structure has created operational challenges. The proposed model was developed in alignment with the school’s Decision-Making Matrix and consists of a 1.0 FTE Head of School, a 0.5 FTE Dean, and a 0.5 FTE Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA). Current teachers have expressed interest in the Dean and TOSA positions. Supporters noted this model would minimize disruption to the school. An alternative model featuring two full-time administrators was also discussed.

Michael Joseph asked that the board adopt defined metrics to evaluate whether the model is working, and noted that interim models often become permanent — an outcome the faculty and administration do not intend. The board agreed that a long-term model for the 2027-28 school year must be adopted by November 2026, with BPT and faculty currently working on that longer-term plan.

Motion: Travis Lockhart moved to adopt Pathway B: a 0.5 FTE Dean and 0.5 FTE Teacher on Special Assignment for the 2026-27 school year, with the following commitments: (1) by July 30, 2026, responsibilities for the Head of School, Dean, and TOSA will be clearly defined with clear lines of accountability; (2) by August 30, 2026, the board will establish evaluation metrics for the interim leadership model; (3) by November 30, 2026, the board will adopt a long-term leadership model for Horizons K-8.

Result: Motion passed by supermajority.

 

6. Budget & Financials

Discussion of Fund 11 and council budget. Approval of the FY2026-27 budget was deferred to the next board meeting. Teacher salary feedback for 2026-27 was also deferred to the next board meeting.

7. Bylaw Revision, Governance Alignment & HR Consultant Presentation

The following items were deferred to the next board meeting: Bylaw Revision and Governance Document Alignment, HR Consultant Presentation (Melissa Rossback), and Proposed Bylaw Changes.

8. Interim Head of School Goals

Deferred to the next board meeting.

9. Executive Session

At 8:20 PM, Travis Lockhart moved to enter executive session pursuant to C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(b), (e), and (f) to discuss confidential employment contract matters regarding the Head of School. Motion was seconded and approved by concordance. Executive session concluded at 8:33 PM.

10. Interim Head of School Contract

Following executive session, the board voted to appoint Kristin Hauger as Interim Head of School from July 22, 2026 through April 21, 2027. This contract end date reflects the maximum duration permitted under Colorado law governing interim appointments. The board intends for Kristin Hauger to continue as Interim Head of School through the end of the 2026-27 school year at minimum; the April 21 end date is a legal formality.

Result: Motion passed by concordance.

 

Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.

Items Deferred to May 20, 2026

•       FY2026-27 budget approval

•       Teacher salary decisions for 2026-27

•       Bylaw revision and governance document alignment

•       HR Consultant presentation (Melissa Rossback)

•       Proposed bylaw changes

•       Interim Head of School goals

 

Horizons K-8 Board Meeting Minutes

May 20, 2026  |  Via Google Meet

 

Board Chair/Facilitator: Travis Lockhart

Secretary/Minutes: Jordan Logan

Board Members Present: Jordan Logan, Travis Lockhart, Jessica Slatus, Michael Joseph, Rob Horansky, Joel Gratz, Jim Freund, Fran Cohen, Rachel Clionsky

Process observer: Travis Lockhart

Timekeeper: Michael Joseph

Parent board members elect present: Shoshana Kressler and Eric Altman  

Call to order: 5:30pm

1. Public Comment

Community members wishing to provide public comment were required to submit a request by 12:00 PM MDT on the day of the meeting. No public comment was received.

 

2. Consent Agenda

Approval of minutes from the prior meeting was deferred to the May 28, 2026 board meeting. The board also noted that language should be added to the minutes regarding the interim head of school contract posting — this is a statutory formality required by HR guidance and is not an indication that the board is seeking a new interim head of school. Travis Lockhart will draft appropriate language for review at the May 28 meeting.

Three items were deferred to the May 28 meeting: budget approval, teacher salary decisions, and interim head of school goals.

 

3.   Bylaw Revision & Governance Document Alignment

HR Consultant Presentation — Melissa Rossback, CHRO/MBA/PHR, The MiXx Consulting

Melissa Rossback presented a governance alignment and risk assessment reviewing the relationship between the Charter Contract, Bylaws, Employee Handbook, and Decision-Making Matrix (DMM). Her core finding is that the DMM and Employee Handbook are not aligned with the authority structure established by the Charter Contract and Bylaws, creating governance ambiguity, conflicts of interest, and potential legal risk.

Key concerns included: faculty and member groups holding decision-making authority over staffing, compensation, and operational matters that properly belong to the Board or Head of School; the concordance process being applied as a binding governance mechanism rather than an advisory tool; and teacher voting board membership creating recurring structural conflicts of interest. Rossback noted that even where teacher board members recuse themselves on conflict matters, the underlying structural problem remains due to circular reporting — teachers serve under board oversight while simultaneously participating in governance decisions affecting their own employment.

Kristin Hauger raised the faculty’s concern that if teachers leave the board, the board’s final authority over curriculum could diminish faculty influence over instructional decisions. Rossback responded that in her experience boards do not override curriculum decisions made by the operational team, and that curriculum authority for faculty could be codified in the bylaws as an additional protection.

Discussion also noted that the Employee Handbook has historically been rewritten by successive heads of school rather than by HR, which likely contributed to conflicts with other governing documents. Rossback recommended that future handbook updates be led by HR in partnership with the head of school.

Rossback agreed to share board onboarding and offboarding checklist templates with the board to support governance continuity as membership turns over.

Travis Lockhart clarified that no vote would be taken on the broader governance realignment tonight. The board’s action would be limited to establishing the structural mechanism for that ongoing work.

4. Bylaw Amendments — Vote

Travis Lockhart moved to approve three bylaw amendments:

1. Creation of a new permanent Governance and Policy Review Committee (Section F), with membership composed of at least one faculty director, at least one parent director, and at least one member of the administrative leadership team. The committee will conduct ongoing review of governing documents, policies, and procedures, and will advise the board on recommended changes. The board retains final decision-making authority.

2. Amendment of Section 4.6(A) to reduce the board meeting notice requirement from 72 hours to one business day (minimum 24 hours), consistent with Colorado open meetings law.

3. Amendment of Article III, Section 3.1 to clarify that the section defined as council membership.

Seconded by: Michael Joseph

Result: Motion passed by concordance.

Travis Lockhart will update the bylaws document to remove draft watermarks, update to today’s date, and upload to the shared board folder. Melissa Rossback will perform an audit check to confirm the changes were captured accurately.

 

5.  IEP & ALP Survey Results — Kate Bachtel

Kate Bachtel presented results from the IEP family survey, developed by the learning lab committee and approved by the Big Picture Team, with results shared with faculty on May 6th. The response rate was 69%. Key findings included: emotional support and educator expertise in neurodiversity were the top priorities for families; student well-being was rated strong or very strong by approximately 76% of respondents, with 7% rating it not strong; approximately 18% of respondents did not feel their child was meeting expected academic growth; and approximately 30% of students on IEPs did not feel strong peer connection.

Qualitative themes included requests for more professional development on neurodiversity for classroom teachers and administrators, better communication of accommodations to all staff, expanded neurodiversity support groups for families, and social-emotional learning curriculum to address peer relationships and covert relational aggression. The learning lab noted support for an investigation into a specific grievance raised by a family, and expressed commitment to accountability and improvement.

Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) survey results were not presented due to time constraints. Kate will email results to board members for independent review. Key ALP note: the school currently serves 89 students with ALPs, and a number of families reported never receiving their child’s ALP despite a faculty commitment to share them by fall conferences. Full ALP presentation and Learning Lab/SPED support needs discussion will be scheduled for the May 28 meeting, with an option to carry the fuller discussion to the July board meeting for the incoming board. 

6. Election of Officers for 26/27

Faculty board member elections had not yet been completed at the time of this meeting. Kristin Hauger indicated she would solicit candidates and aim to hold a faculty election by Friday, May 22. Given the need for officers to be in place over the summer, the board agreed to proceed with parent officer elections with the current board.

The following officers were elected for 26/27:

Parent Chair: Michael Joseph

Parent Vice Chair: Jessica Slatus

Secretary: Jordan Logan

Treasurer: Joel Gratz

Result: All four positions passed by concordance.

 

7.  Adjournment

Process observer remarked that the meeting was informative and members were in agreement on most issues. The meeting did run over allotted time.  

The meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM.

Items Deferred to May 28, 2026 Board Meeting

• Minutes approval from 5/9

• Interim head of school contract posting language

• Budget approval

• Teacher salary decisions

• Interim head of school goals

• ALP survey results and Learning Lab/SPED support needs

 

Horizons K-8 Board Meeting Minutes

June 11, 2026  |  6:00 – 8:55 PM  |  Virtual / Google Meet

 

Facilitator: Travis Lockhart

Secretary/Minutes: Jordan Logan

Timekeeper: Michael Joseph

Board Members Present: Travis Lockhart, Michael Joseph, Jessica Slatus, Joel Gratz, Jordan Logan, Kate Bachtel, Jim Freund, Rachel Clionsky, Fran Cohen

Also Present: Kristin Hauger (Interim Head of School), Lori Paterson (Director of Finance), Melissa Rossback (HR Consultant)

 

1. Convening & Public Comment

The board was convened at 6:00 PM. No public comment was received.

 

2. Review & Approval of Minutes

Prior to approval, Travis Lockhart noted that Item 10 of the May 7, 2026 minutes was clarified to more accurately reflect the language around the interim head of school contract end date of April 21, 2027.

May 7, 2026 minutes: Approved by concordance.

May 20, 2026 minutes: Approved by concordance.

May 28, 2026 minutes: Approved by concordance.

 

3. Charter Renewal Negotiations — SPED & ELL Financial Model

Presentation — Kristin Hauger / Lori Paterson

Kristin Hauger opened by thanking the negotiating team — Lori Paterson, Michael Joseph, Travis Lockhart, and Mia (faculty representative) — for their work in bringing charter renewal negotiations to a favorable outcome. The team entered negotiations from a relatively weak position and held firm, presenting strong data and maintaining alignment with Summit Charter throughout. BVSD delivered its parity model proposal just one week prior to this meeting.

SPED

Horizons serves SPED/IEP students at a rate roughly in line with the district average (approximately 10% resource and 3.8% intensive, compared to the district's 11% and 4% respectively). Because the school is near parity, it will pay significantly reduced per-student costs under the new model. BVSD was unable to justify the cost of the existing insurance model given the school's performance in this area. Under the new model, Horizons will manage its own SPED staff and salaries directly rather than paying into a district pool and receiving reimbursement at the district's discretion. The school retains access to BVSD central services and intensive supports.

Lori Paterson reported projected savings of approximately $175,000 in the first year under the SPED model. Combined with ELL and revenue adjustments, total projected savings are approximately $172,000. Under this model, including the authorized COLA increase, the operating budget projects a small surplus of approximately $47,000 without requiring a council fund transfer. The school's total purchased services cost per student under the new model is projected at approximately $3,900, below Peak-to-Peak's approximately $5,200 per student.

ELL

Horizons currently enrolls approximately 1.6% of its students in ELL services compared to 6.6% district-wide. Because the school is below parity, it pays more into the ELL pool than it receives back, with a net savings of only approximately $3,000 under the new model versus the insurance model. The parity structure creates a financial incentive for the school to increase ELL enrollment. Kristin noted that some ELL-eligible families may have historically underreported home language use given the school's prior lack of ELL services, meaning actual ELL-eligible enrollment may be higher than current figures reflect. Translating school materials and improving outreach to multilingual families were identified as near-term steps.

Discussion

Joel Gratz raised the concern that while the SPED and ELL parity model is rational and favorable, the remaining approximately 75% of total purchased services costs have no predictable rate of change, making multi-year budget projections difficult given BVSD's requirement for a five-year budget submission. Joel proposed the board endorse the parity model while requesting BVSD include a purchased services cost increase guarantee for the duration of the contract, ideally tied to district revenue changes or a similar index so both parties are subject to the same budget pressures.

Jessica Slatus asked how this model serves the district and what vulnerabilities it may create for Horizons, particularly given projected state budget pressure in FY2028-29. Lori noted her projections used conservative assumptions with upside if enrollment or per-pupil funding increases. Kristin noted that rejecting this proposal would revert the school to the insurance model, which is a worse outcome. Summit Charter is being offered a phased-in version of the same model; Peak-to-Peak holds a more favorable arrangement but no other charter school is receiving those terms at this time.

Contract term negotiations are ongoing. Kristin is seeking a three-year contract with a two-year auto-renewal contingent on meeting growth milestones. BVSD has indicated the current offer is for three years only with no appetite for an automatic extension; Kristin has not withdrawn that ask.

Motion: To endorse the parity contract model presented by BVSD, with a request that Kristin Hauger negotiate inclusion of a purchased services cost increase guarantee for the duration of the contract.

Seconded by: Michael Joseph

Result: Motion passed by concordance.

 

4. Head of School Updates

Hiring and enrollment updates were not presented verbally due to time constraints. Kristin Hauger will provide these by email to board members.

 

5. Executive Session — Grievance Process

Motion made to enter executive session pursuant to C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(f) and, as applicable, C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(h), for the purpose of briefing the board on the outcome of the grievance process and related next steps involving student-related concerns. Kristin Hauger and Melissa Rossback joined for this session. No formal action taken in executive session.

6. Executive Session — Staff Employment Contract Matters

Motion made to enter executive session pursuant to C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(b), (e), and (f) for the purpose of discussing confidential employment contract matters regarding staff. Parent directors only. No formal action taken in executive session.

Executive session commenced: 8:05pm

Executive session concluded: 8:50pm

8. Other Director Items

Interim Head of School evaluation goals were not addressed at this meeting due to time constraints. This item will be carried to the incoming board and incorporated into the head of school evaluation framework for the 2026-27 school year.

No board meeting is planned for July. The August meeting date currently falls on the first day of school and will need to be revisited. The board noted the July 30, 2026 deadline for Kristin Hauger to deliver clearly defined roles and accountability structures for the interim leadership team, per the motion passed at the May 7 meeting.

 

9. Closing

Travis Lockhart acknowledged that this was the final meeting for several outgoing board members and thanked them for their service to Horizons.

 

Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 8:55 PM.

 

Items Carried to Incoming Board / Next Meeting

• Interim Head of School evaluation goals
• August board meeting date to be confirmed
• Purchased services cost increase guarantee — pending BVSD negotiation
• Charter contract final approval
• Leadership roles and accountability structure due July 30, 2026