The Children’s Kiva Montessori School has received approval from the Montezuma-Cortez RE-1 School Board to pursue transferring its authorizing entity to the Colorado Charter School Institute.
Kiva’s request was presented to the school board earlier this month. If the transfer is approved by CSI, the change could take effect as early as July 1.
The board passed the resolution for Kiva to proceed, though President Joshua Shumway and member Laura DeWitt voted against the measure.
Children's Kiva Montessori School operates as a public charter school for kindergarten through grade eight. Kiva Head of School Lurleen McCormick told The Journal that the transfer would ensure the school’s long-term autonomy and stability.
“As a rural Montessori charter school, CKMS values the autonomy of local governance, individualized instruction and strong family partnerships. CSI’s statewide expertise in charter oversight, academic accountability and operational systems will allow CKMS to maintain its unique Montessori model while benefiting from specialized support tailored to public Montessori charter schools and stable support during staffing changes and/or transitions,” McCormick said.
A change in authorizer would not alter the school's day-to-day operations for students and families. Kiva would remain a public charter school, continuing under its current mission, leadership and governing board. The main change would be in its oversight. CSI would take responsibility for setting performance expectations and monitoring academic, financial and organizational performance, as well as ensuring compliance with applicable laws.
Kiva would operate under a new charter contract with CSI and undergo annual evaluations under its accountability system. CSI currently authorizes more than 45 charter schools across the state, including in Towaoc.
To transfer, Kiva must submit an application that includes several steps: submission and review of the application; evaluation of the school's academic performance, financial health and organizational capacity; a public community meeting; a capacity interview with CSI's review team; a site visit and a public presentation before the CSI board. The board will then discuss and vote on the application during a public meeting.
“This transition is designed to preserve what families value most about Kiva – its close-knit community and child-centered approach – while positioning the school for increased accountability and continued growth with strong performance outcomes and sustainable success for years to come,” McCormick said.
