In a series of invitations to city leaders, Woodland Park School District Superintendent Ginger Slocum entertained several members of the business community last week.

Over the past few months, while acting as the interim superintendent, Slocum sought input from veterans, first responders, senior citizens, parents and realtors.

Former principal of Columbine Elementary School, Slocum was recently appointed to the position of superintendent.  

“I love my life as an educator; it’s really my passion,” Slocum said, in her introduction to the business leaders.

To add visibility to the community about the district, educators, administrators and school board members will take turns appearing at the Friday farmers’ market in Woodland Park, Slocum said.

For the recently elected school board members, developing a strategic plan is a top priority. 

“We started the process with the community in December and January with a lot of listening; we tried to identify what a healthy district looks like,” said Kassidi Gilgenast, one of the new school board members.  

Among the qualities identified are operational integrity, educator talent, safe campuses and community engagement. 

“Our first priority is stabilization in terms of our finances and operations while rebuilding relationships,” Gilgenast said. “Hopefully, we can get a point where we have stable revenue and are able to grow.”

The board, she added, will develop the plan over time with the goal of meeting the needs of the students.

An idea favored by all is a continuation of the career day, expanded to an all-day career fair, a model developed by the Cripple Creek/Victor School District.

Lynn Jones, co-owner of Colorado Gear Lab and Zebz Outfooter, has hired 16 high-school students over the past several years but at times doesn’t hear about events from the students.

“I would like more information about school events,” she said. “I just think you can’t over-communicate.”

Slocum wrote that down on a piece of paper.

On that note, Robb Davidson, who was appointed last month to fill a vacancy on the board, heads the internship program at the high school. 

“We talk about the interview process, what to wear about professionalism and learning time-management skills,” Davidson said. “Students can make deliberate choices over the next few years.”

To enhance communication, Debbie Miller, president of the Greater Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce, had a request.

“Bring the homecoming parade back downtown on U.S. Hwy. 24,” Miller said. “It’s just another way to get that community pride back and to get businesses to interact with the kids.”

This year, homecoming football game is Sept. 11.

An enthusiastic meeting with leaders engaged in presenting ideas for enhanced communication within the community, the gathering is a signal that the district is open for business.