FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 2026

Contact:
Westminster Public Schools
Ryan McCoy, Chief of Advancement 
303-519-0708 | rmccoy@wps.org 

WESTMINSTER, CO — At its regular meeting on February 24, 2026, the Westminster Public Schools (WPS) Board of Education voted to adopt the recommendations of the Forward Together Facilities Initiative (FTFI) as part of the district’s long-term right-sizing and sustainability plan.

The Forward Together Facilities Initiative represents more than a year of study, analysis, and community engagement focused on aligning school facilities, programs, and enrollment while minimizing disruption for students and families.

Like districts across Colorado and the nation, Westminster Public Schools has experienced sustained enrollment decline driven by demographic shifts and lower birth rates. The adopted plan provides a phased, multi-year path forward to strengthen programming, maintain fiscal responsibility, and ensure long-term stability.

Summary of Adopted Recommendations

The Board approved the following phased recommendations:

2026-2027

• Westminster Academy of International Studies (WAIS) will relocate to Harris Park, forming a PK-6 International Focused Program.
• Grade 7 and 8 students will attend Uplands Discovery Campus PK-8.

2027-2028

• Fairview PK-8 will transition to a PK-6 program; grades 7 and 8 will attend Colorado Summit Leadership Academy.
• Tennyson Knolls Preparatory School will transition from a PK-8 to a PK-6 program; grades 7 and 8 will attend Hodgkins Leadership Academy.

2028-2029

• Mesa PK-5 will close; a boundary committee will determine student transitions, and not all students will attend Uplands Discovery Campus.
• Sunset Ridge PK-8 will transition to a PK-6 program; grades 7 and 8 will attend Uplands Discovery Campus PK-8.

2029-2030

• Hidden Lake Secondary School (HLSS) will close as a site; the educational program will continue and relocate to the former Mesa building.

A Phased Approach Focused on Stability

“These recommendations reflect thoughtful, long-term planning,” said Superintendent Dr. Jeni Gotto. “Our goal is to align facilities and enrollment in a way that strengthens academic programming, preserves student opportunity, and ensures sustainability for years to come.” The Board’s action allows the district to move forward with a phased implementation plan designed to provide clarity, advance communication, and structured transition support for families and staff.

Commitment to Communication

WPS remains committed to clear and ongoing communication as implementation proceeds. Families will receive detailed information well in advance of any transitions, and support systems will be in place to ensure students feel welcomed, connected, and supported throughout the process.

For additional detail, background, and the full rationale behind these recommendations, families and community members are encouraged to review the Executive Summary, available at: www.wps.org/ftfi

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About Westminster Public Schools

Westminster Public Schools serves students and families across Westminster and surrounding communities and remains committed to preparing learners for success in college, career, and life.