In response to recent school closures, parents from Scenic Elementary are rallying to establish a new tuition-free public charter school, Scenic View. The initiative is aimed at preserving the spirit and practices of the closed school while offering an alternative educational option for the community.
Scenic View Charter School Proposal Gains Momentum
Parents from Scenic Elementary took a significant step by submitting a letter of intent for Scenic View to School District 51. This marks the beginning of their efforts to create a charter school that reflects the unique culture and educational methods of Scenic Elementary.
Josh Worth, a parent and one of the proposal’s advocates, emphasized their desire to continue Scenic’s legacy. “We think there is something special about Scenic that we can provide to other kids,” Worth stated. The proposed school aims to uphold the values and learning environment that parents and students cherished.
The group’s immediate goal is to collaborate with District 51 to turn their vision into reality. Worth added, “We are hoping to work with them to provide this school to all members of the community.”
Determining a Home for Scenic View
While the parents are pushing forward with their plans, they are still working out key logistical details, including the location for Scenic View. Ideally, they would like to use the existing Scenic Elementary School building. However, other options are being considered in case the original site isn’t available.
A formal charter school application will soon be submitted to School District 51, outlining the proposed school’s mission, structure, and funding requirements. “Our biggest goal is to work with D51,” Worth reiterated, highlighting the collaborative approach they hope to take with the district.
The timeline for opening the school is ambitious but achievable. The group aims to welcome students to Scenic View by the fall of 2025, giving them time to finalize crucial aspects such as finances, staffing, and governance.
Support for Scenic View Grows
Community interest in the proposal has been building, with many parents and local residents expressing support on social media. Scenic View is envisioned as a tuition-free charter school that remains accessible to all families.
Parents leading the initiative are encouraging others to get involved by sending letters of support or interest to their designated email: scenicwhbn@gmail.com
Key challenges still lie ahead, such as securing approval from the district, finding a permanent location, and ensuring adequate funding. Despite these hurdles, the parents are optimistic about turning Scenic View into a cornerstone of education in Grand Junction.
District 51 Remains Silent
As of now, School District 51 has not commented on the proposal. While the parents await a response, they continue to refine their plans and rally community backing. The success of Scenic View hinges on collaboration with the district and support from Grand Junction residents.
The coming months will reveal whether the Scenic View project can transform from a proposal into a fully operational charter school.
