A couple of weeks ago, I found myself saying to the incoming UPE Principal, Jackie Powell, “You are going to have a blast in this job. This is an amazing place to work.”

For eleven years, I have had the great honor and pleasure of serving Ute Pass Elementary School and the Manitou Springs school district. It is a place where people come together to do public school just a little differently. Some might call us “weird,” others, “innovative.” Every day, even on the hard ones, I’ve interacted with parents, staff, children and community members who believe Manitou is special. Relationships, Deep Learning, and Opportunity are not just words; they are the mission we all feel when we wake up every morning. If you don’t believe me, ask our teachers. They live and model it every day.

I am ready for my next chapter. While I’m retiring after 30 years in public education, I’m not leaving the community. I am excited to stay connected and continue to support Manitou Springs School District 14 in any way I can. I know in my heart that Manitou is and will be outstanding. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside a lot of great leaders. Our current leadership in Manitou is among the best I’ve experienced. These people are right for this moment. They are uniquely skilled, compassionate, and caring. They are ready to listen, connect, adapt, adjust, and learn alongside you.

Ute Pass Elementary School and Manitou Springs School District 14 staff, parents, children, and citizens have given me many gifts: learning, laughter, and the power of community. I look forward to supporting and celebrating the Manitou and Ute Pass communities as you continue coming together to serve our children.

Chris Briggs-Hale, Retiring UPE Principal

Why are meals no longer free?

Over the past two years, the federal government allowed all students to eat free breakfast and lunch regardless family’s financial situations. However, beginning August 19, 2022 all students will be charged for both breakfast and lunch unless they qualify for Free and Reduced-price meals.

You can find the new application on the web site in July. www.mssd14.org Nutrition Services Department.

If you don’t qualify for free and reduced price meals, please make sure that there is money in your student’s account.

While you are submitting your application, we will provide your student with meals allowing the student to charge meals. If the account goes into a negative balance, the families are responsible for paying the outstanding balances. Please remember if your student had money on their account it is still there and If your student owed money It is still there also.

Any questions or concerns, please call. Paula Faucette, Director of Nutrition Services, at 719-685-2005 or email pfaucette@mssd14.org