COMMERCE CITY, Colo. — When 6th and 9th graders in the Adams 14 school district return to class Friday, they'll be the first to attend school under new management.
The school district in Commerce City has hired Florida-based education consultant MGT Consulting Group to manage the district for at least four years.
The Colorado Department of Education ordered Adams 14 to seek outside leadership after years of failing to improve low test scores. MGT says it will work with the current district leadership and individual school leadership to improve academic programs and the district's educational culture.
"We kind of really owe it to every child in any district in the state of Colorado to prepare them the best we can for their lives when they walk out of doors when they leave high school," said Don Rangel, a project director with MGT.
Rangel spent 36 years as a teacher, principal, and superintendent in Colorado schools. He was chosen to serve as a transformational specialist and to be a liaison with district leadership at Adams 14.
As part of the transition to new management, parents will have an opportunity to ask questions and give feedback during monthly "parent academy" meetings.
Each meeting will focus on a different topic, like curriculum, school safety or finance.
"Our belief is a well-informed parent can ask the right questions when advocating for their children and be more involved more meaningfully," Rangel said.
The entire Adams 14 district returns to school Monday, Aug. 12.