Chris Gdowski, Superintendent: Adams 12 Five Star School District

This week we had a powerful conversation with Chris Gdowski, Superintendent of the Adams 12 Five Star School District. As a Rotarian himself, Chris patiently answered numerous questions about school funding, graduation rates, engineering design, and much more!

Chris shared honest, behind-the-scenes insights, including:

• How the district raised graduation rates from 61% to 87%
• The financial tightrope of school funding
• Innovative career pathways that prepare students for real-world success
• Support strategies for students from diverse economic backgrounds

From budget constraints to teacher recruitment, Chris gave a transparent look at both the wins and the ongoing struggles in public education. He highlighted Adams 12’s commitment to student success and the district’s bold efforts in career and technical education.

You can listen to the full presentation here.

2025 Memorial Day
PP Gary Francis provided a review of the Memorial Day picnic that was held at the Broomfield Commons this past Monday. While the weather didn't cooperate for a flyover, there was still community support - including from our honorary member, Mayor Guyleen Castriotta. A write-up of the event by our club's newest member, Matt Ake, also appeared in the recent edition of the Broomfield Enterprise. 

Matt Ake's Craft Talk
New member Matt Ake provided his craft talk and told the club about his upbringing in Pennsylvania. Ask him about his thoughts about local PA colleges! He served in the Air Force, is active with the Broomfield Veterans Museum, and works as a project manager for the federal government. Welcome Matt! 
Announcements:
  • Police & Fire golf tournament 
    • PP Ben Vagher announced that the Police and Fire golf tournament will be on Monday July 7. The website for donations and sponsorships is also live and can be found via the club's homepage. Please spread the word to your contacts to buy sponsorships and/or tickets to the golf ball drop.
  • Car sweepstakes
    • Tickets for the 1970 Boss 302 Mustang can be bought on our website. Send this link to all your friends: https://broomfieldrotary.org/page/1970-shelby-mustang/ 
  • End-of-Year donations

    • If you would like to "move up" in Paul Harris levels, the club is running a points-match. For each $500 donation to the Rotary International Foundation, the club will match your donation with 500 points, moving you to the next Paul Harris level. 

  • Debunking 
    • Our annual debunking (oustillation) party will be on Thursday June 26 at 6pm at Hilton Garden Inn Broomfield. Come help celebrate the 2024-25 Board of Directors and welcome President Dennis Kennedy and the 2025-26 Board of Directors! Spouses and families are encouraged to attend. There is no cost to attend, but registrations are required. Please RSVP to President Michael by June 20. Regrets are appreciated.
 
  • NEXT WEEK
    • Next Thursday will be our monthly social. We'll meet at 6pm at PF Chang's by the Flatirons Mall.