1. Putting Students First With Our New Personal Device Policy
At our most recent board meeting, the Board of Directors approved Policy 7.10: Student Use of Personal Technology Devices — a clear, consistent framework for how phones, tablets, earbuds, smartwatches, and similar devices are used during the school day across all JA campuses. The goal is simple: technology should serve learning, not compete with it. During school hours (first bell to last bell), students are expected to keep personal devices stored away. Smartwatches are permitted as long as they aren't used for communication or become a distraction, and personal laptops continue to be allowed where individual campus rules permit. Smart glasses are not permitted on campus at any time due to privacy concerns.
We believe this policy will meaningfully improve focus and help our students be more present with each other and their learning. Devices may still be used appropriately before and after school. If an exception is needed, families should connect with their campus principal prior to use.
2. Homeschool Funding Preserved for the 2026-27 School Year
This spring, Colorado lawmakers considered significant cuts to the per-pupil funding rate for homeschool enrichment programs — a proposal that would have directly impacted Summit Academy families. We're grateful that our staff and community stayed engaged throughout these discussions, and we're pleased to share that the funding rate has been preserved for the coming school year.
In lieu of rate cuts, the legislature passed new guardrails through the School Finance Act to address concerns about publicly funded programs spending on activities outside the spirit of the law. These changes are not expected to meaningfully impact Summit Academy's programs, which operate squarely within the intent of Colorado's homeschool enrichment statute.
We are sincerely grateful to our staff for staying close to this issue and for their ongoing engagement with local officials. Their attentiveness makes a real difference for our families.
3. A Standout Year for Summit Athletic Academy
The Board is celebrating Summit Athletic Academy's remarkable 2025-26 school year, and we could not be prouder of these student-athletes. Enrollment grew from 35 to 49 students, fueled almost entirely by family referrals — a testament to the community they have built. Worth noting: 8 seniors crossed the graduation stage, 3 students were inducted into the National Honor Society, and sports representation expanded across multiple athletic organizations.
Strong re-enrollment numbers for 2026-2027 show that families aren't just joining Summit Athletic Academy. They're staying. This academic program is opening real doors, with the majority of the 8 graduating seniors moving on to play collegiate athletics in a variety of sports at highly-regarded universities.
4. Welcoming New Board Members + Leadership
The JACS Board of Directors is pleased to welcome our newest board members, Ryan Ingram, Leah McGahee, and Reese Evenson, and to congratulate those who have stepped into leadership roles for the 2026–27 fiscal year. Strong governance is only possible because dedicated volunteers are willing to step forward and serve, and we are grateful for the time, expertise, and commitment our board members invest in supporting our students, families, and staff. The Board's officers for 2026–27 are: President – Jeremy DuVall; Vice President – Chris Robbins; Chairperson – Kim Daly; Vice Chairperson – Leah McGahee; Treasurer – Ryan Ingram; Secretary – James Suckow; and Assistant Secretary – Reese Evenson. We look forward to working together in the year ahead to advance our public charter school mission and support student success.
5. A Legacy of Growth, Stability + Service
We extend our sincere gratitude to Tim Matlick for his eight years of dedicated service as our organization's first Executive Director, guiding a period of remarkable growth and stability. Under his leadership, JACS expanded educational opportunities for students and families, grew and strengthened our homeschool programs, welcomed JA Coal Creek Canyon into the JACS family, invested in significant campus improvements, increased staff compensation, maintained exceptional academic outcomes, and strengthened the organization's financial position for the future. Most importantly, Tim remained steadfast in his commitment to our mission of helping students attain their highest academic and character potential. We thank Tim for his leadership, vision, and service to the JACS community, and we wish him all the best in this next chapter. The impact of Tim's leadership will be felt for many years to come, and we are grateful for the strong foundation he leaves for the next generation of JACS leaders.