The Cripple Creek/Victor School District Board of Education meeting Dec. 1 included a farewell to Mary Bielz, president for the past four years.  Bielz, whose influence in the district is legendary, is known for her advocacy and dedication to launching groundbreaking additions to southern Teller County.  

Co-founder and chair of Community of Caring Foundation, Bielz was instrumental in bringing the childcare center, “It’s a Place for Kids,” to Cripple Creek.  The center, scheduled to open in the spring of 2026, will accommodate 60 infants, toddlers and elementary-school students for the after-school programs.

For Bielz, the word “no” doesn’t exist.  

“We are change agents who have our hands on hope and hope does not disappoint us,” she said, after relinquishing her seat on the board.  “We are united in purpose and mind to serve our children and our community. So, hold on!”

As a parting gift, Bielz handed each board member a bamboo-covered, light, a “torch” as in passing the torch to Mark Green, Stephanie Stokes and Donna Brazill (elected for a second term), and new members Kasie Hilfers and Amanda Young.

In a ceremonial farewell, Superintendent Dan Cummings paid tribute to Bielz for her contributions to the school district for the past 52 years, beginning as the art teacher in 1973. During the 1990s, Bielz initiated the federal Americorps program in the district.

Becky Frank was among the Americorps instructors who taught the ESL (English as a Second Language)  to Spanish-speaking students. Today Frank is the director of Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation Department. Other Americorps instructors tutored students in mathematics and served as mentors.

“When Mary started teaching in the district, I wasn’t born yet,” said Cummings, who presented Bielz with a wood plaque crafted by Mark Green and engraved with the words, “Mary Moves Mountains.”

As a gag gift, Cummings produced a carved rendition of a red Converse shoe, Bielz signature footwear.

After the meeting and the tribute, Mariam Mondragon and Laureen Murray, former superintendent and former school nurse, respectively, hosted a reception in the gym where they were joined by officials, friends and family.

 “It has been a wonderful experience,” Bielz said.  “I’ve made so many friends.”