Dear JA & Summit staff, families, and community,
As we enter the final stretch of the 2026-27 school year I want to start by thanking all our families and staff for making this an amazing year for our students. With record enrollment at various campuses, construction projects, a facility purchase, safety improvements at multiple locations, and many other programmatic enhancements, our students have experienced many exciting events and activities this year. Jefferson Academy Charter Schools’ drive for continual improvement, designed to enhance student learning and character development, remains strong and centered on our Mission and Vision.
This is also a time of transition for the organization. A huge congratulations goes out to Dr. Ann Schultz, who, after a rigorous national search, was selected by our Board of Directors to serve as JACS’ next Executive Director.
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With vast experience in education at all levels including in Colorado charter schools, executive leadership, and having spent the last year serving as the Principal of our Secondary campus, Dr. Schultz is ideally positioned to lead our schools. In the coming months Dr. Schultz and I will work together for a seamless transition as we “pass the baton".
Heading into the 2026/27 school year, the state legislature is struggling to balance the budget. With the newest projected budget deficit of $1.3-1.5 Billion, and with K-12 schooling being the second largest budget category, we are expecting and planning for school funding cuts next year. Through strategic financial planning we are positioned to handle a reasonable reduction in funding. A bigger challenge is the legislature debating whether to cut part-time funding by 50% which would impact our Summit programs. Over the last several weeks we have been deeply engaged in providing documentation to members of the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) to enhance their understanding of our programs and provide an alternative path that would keep our programs whole while still allowing for significant budget cuts in this area. We are happy to report that the JBC changed course and did not recommend a cut. Now we will engage with the legislature as we expect a bill to be introduced cutting funding.
As we head into the transition of organizational leadership and with the funding challenges still unknown, we will rest on the following two Core Values:
We stand confident and unwavering in our Mission and Vision.
We value learning through growth.
Thank you for being true partners in the education of our students.
In partnership,
Tim Matlick, Executive Director
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- The Summit Academy and JA Secondary had graduation rates of 100% and 97% respectively (2024/25 school year).
- 1,200 of Jeffco’s 2,500 part-time students are enrolled in our Summit programs.
- The JA Board of Directors committed to providing reasonable salary increases to all staff members next year even when many schools and districts are freezing salaries.
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- JA Secondary held their first on-site track meet on the new track on April 1st with an official Ribbon Cutting event scheduled for the next meet on April 7th.
- JA Coal Creek Canyon received 57 of 60 points possible on their national School Quality Review report regarding the transition from a district school to a charter school.
- JA Elementary mid-year testing indicated that on average 77% of students in grades 1-6 classified as High Achievement and 72% classified as High Growth in Math & Reading.
- Summit Academy Westminster replaced/upgraded their entry fobs and PA systems over winter break.
- Summit South continues to pursue securing a permanent location half way between the current Littleton and Conifer locations.
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We continue to build out and add functionality to our new website and communication platform. Recent additions include syncing our system with Jeffco’s Infinite Campus so student contact information is updated nightly. Also, the new “Alert” system was activated which allows emergency notifications to be sent by text, phone calls, emails, and through social media simultaneously. These alerts are programmed to make it easy for recipients to identify which JA or Summit campus are issuing the notifications. Lastly, several comments were received through our staff and parent surveys requesting a school based app. This has been in the works for the last year and half. With the active sync and alert notification systems coming on line, we expect to roll out the JA and Summit App at the start of the 2026/27 school year. This app will allow you to select your home campus or more than one campus if your children attend different schools. Stay tuned!
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From Dirt to Dreams: Jefferson Academy Secondary Celebrates New Track with Ribbon Cutting & First Varsity Meet
Jefferson Academy Secondary is stepping into a new era—one built on perseverance, community support, and a long-awaited milestone. On April 7, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., the school will officially unveil its brand-new all-weather track with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and the Metro League Relays, held on campus at 11251 Reed Way in Broomfield.
For years, Jefferson Academy athletes trained on a dirt track—one of the last of its kind still in use by an active team in Colorado. While it presented challenges, it also became a symbol of the program’s grit and determination. Despite the limitations, athletes continued to train, compete, and excel without letting the conditions define their performance.
Now, those same athletes will take their marks on a modern surface designed to support both performance and safety. The Metro League Relays will bring together nine Denver Metro schools, marking the first varsity competition on the new track and a proud moment for the entire Jefferson Academy community.
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This new facility represents a significant step forward for the school. What once began as a basic track with minimal infrastructure has evolved into a space that fully supports student-athletes and reflects the strength of the program.
The project was made possible through a partnership between Jefferson Academy Charter Schools and the City and County of Broomfield—demonstrating the power of collaboration between school and community to create meaningful opportunities for students.
The impact of the new track is immediate. Improved training conditions, reduced risk of injury, and the ability to host home meets all contribute to a stronger, more competitive athletic program.
More than just a facility upgrade, this track represents years of advocacy, persistence, and belief in what Jefferson Academy students can achieve. It is a visible reminder of what can happen when a community invests in its students and refuses to stand still.
On April 7, that dedication will be on full display—not just in the lanes of the new track, but in the pride of every athlete, coach, and supporter who helped turn this vision into reality.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter.
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Board of Directors: An Opportunity to Make an Impact
Jefferson Academy Charter Schools (JACS) is built on a strong foundation of family involvement and community leadership—and now, families have an opportunity to play an even greater role in shaping the school’s future.
From May 4–12, 2026, the JACS community will vote to fill two open seats on the Board of Directors, with terms beginning in June 2026. As current terms come to a close, the upcoming election creates space for new voices, fresh perspectives, and continued commitment to the success of JACS students.
Why It Matters
As a family-governed school, JACS relies on parents and guardians to help guide its direction. The Board of Directors plays a critical role in setting policies, supporting school leadership, and ensuring the mission and vision of JACS remain strong.
Board members work collaboratively to:
- Shape policies that impact the future of the school
- Support administrators while advocating for students and families
- Help maintain a positive, student-centered culture
- Strengthen the overall school community
Each Board member serves a three-year term (through June 2029), contributing to the long-term success and stability of JACS.
Who Can Apply
All parents and guardians from any JACS campus—including Summit Academy & Summit Academy South—are eligible to run. While experience in areas such as legal, leadership, facilities, fundraising, or project management is valuable, it is not required. A passion for education and a willingness to serve the school community are the most important qualifications.
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Expectations of Board Members
Candidates should be prepared to:
- Support JACS’s educational philosophy, policies, and administrative structure
- Become familiar with the Core Knowledge curriculum
- Read and align with the principles in Cultural Literacy and The Schools We Need and Why We Don’t Have Them by E.D. Hirsch
- Sign the Board Manual upon election
- Actively participate in one or more Board committees
How to Run
Interested candidates must submit a candidate letter and resume by April 21, 2026. Submissions can be made in person at a school office or via email to jlilyblade@jajags.com.
Candidate letters should include:
- Personal and professional background
- Reasons for seeking a Board position
- Goals and vision for serving JACS
- A brief introduction and connection to the school community
All candidate materials will be shared with families via email and posted on the JACS website ahead of the election. Candidates will also be contacted to provide a photo for use on the website and social media.
Get Involved
Serving on the Board of Directors is a meaningful way to contribute to the continued growth and success of Jefferson Academy Charter Schools. Strong leadership plays a vital role in supporting students, staff, and families—and this is an opportunity to be part of that impact.
Families with questions are encouraged to connect with current Board members to learn more about the role and responsibilities.
JACS looks forward to another successful election season and the continued involvement of its dedicated community.
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Celebrating a Well-Deserved Honor:
Tim Matlick Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
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Jefferson Academy Charter Schools is proud to celebrate our Executive Director, Tim Matlick, who was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Colorado League of Charter Schools at the League’s annual conference this past February.
This distinguished recognition highlights Tim’s decades of service and leadership within the charter school community across Colorado. Known for his thoughtful, trust-based approach, he has guided schools and leaders with clarity and care, helping create environments where educators are supported and students can thrive.
Throughout his career, Tim has served in a variety of leadership roles, consistently strengthening organizations and advancing high-quality education. His impact reaches far beyond any single position, leaving a lasting mark on the schools, educators, and communities he has supported.
As Tim prepares for retirement at the end of this school year, this award serves as a meaningful reflection of his dedication, integrity, and lifelong commitment to students and education. His leadership has helped shape Jefferson Academy Charter Schools into the strong community it is today.
We are incredibly proud of Tim and grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.
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The Parent Teacher Organization at JA Elementary serves our community by fundraising, providing teacher support, volunteering, and coordinating events.
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The Boosters at JA Secondary provides organizational and financial support to teachers, clubs, and athletics by coordinating fundraisers, teacher hospitality programs and volunteer opportunities. |
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The Parent Teacher Organization at JA Coal Creek Canyon serves our community by fundraising, providing teacher support, volunteering, and coordinating events. |
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The Foundation for JA provides financial assistance to support the needs, efforts, and mission of Jefferson Academy PK-12 Charter Schools. This organization seeks to fund large-scope and long-range projects for JA. |
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Are you interested in being a part of the JA or Summit team? We are in search of amazing people who can help us further our mission: to help students attain their highest academic and character potential through an academically rigorous, content-rich educational program.
Take a moment to search our current openings, and send job applications and questions to: jobs@jajags.com.
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Did you attend Jefferson Academy for at least one full school year?
Please take a moment to complete our JA Alumni Registration so that we can add you to our database and update your communication preferences!
Visit the Alumni page on our website for any updates that may be posted, and be sure to share the link with other alumni!
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Supporting JA, Summit, & Local Businesses |
Did you know? Our website features a directory of JA & Summit family-owned businesses, making it easy to shop local and support our community. Explore the listing here and connect with these businesses today! If you are a JA/Summit family, own a business, and would like to be included (at no cost), reach out to Tiffany Flores for details.
Additionally, any local business has the opportunity to advertise on our campuses through banners, scoreboard ads, and more. These options provide a great way to support our schools while promoting your business. For advertising details, also reach out to Tiffany Flores.
Let’s continue strengthening our community by uplifting our schools and local community!
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