A Colorado school board violated open meetings law by concealing a “public Christian school” approval

The Pueblo County District 70 school board faced a significant legal challenge after a state judge ruled that it violated Colorado’s open meetings law. The court found that the board concealed the true nature of a “public Christian school” it approved in 2025, which led to the launch of Riverstone Academy. The ruling invalidated a June 2025 agreement that allowed the school to operate, potentially enabling the state to reclaim approximately $300,000 in public funds allocated to the institution.

In addition to the school-related decision, the judge ruled that the board also violated open meetings law by approving the appointment of Susie Carnes to a vacant board seat without proper transparency. The court ordered a new meeting to fill the seat, requiring the remaining four board members to vote. The ruling also invalidated the February 2025 appointment of Carnes, which had been made without a public meeting.

The decision marks a major setback for the school board, which must now cover attorney fees for the plaintiffs. Jonathan Lewis, Tara Stroesenreuther, and Adolph Vigil, the three candidates who sued the board after being overlooked for the vacant seat, emerged as winners in the legal battle. The plaintiffs had sought a different process for filling the seat, one that might have resulted in a vote for one of them rather than Carnes.

The Pueblo 70 school board has stated it will appeal the ruling, as it had previously announced plans to do so if the decision led to the removal of a board member or the requirement for a new meeting. As of midday Wednesday, no formal appeal had been filed with the court. A spokesperson for the district declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.

The case highlights the importance of transparency in public governance, a principle echoed in Proverbs 31:8-9, which calls for speaking up for the oppressed and defending the rights of the vulnerable. The ruling underscores the need for accountability in decision-making processes that affect the community, especially when public resources are involved.

The closure of Riverstone Academy in May has raised questions about the oversight of educational institutions, particularly those that operate under the guise of public funding. The court’s decision serves as a reminder that public trust is built on openness and adherence to legal standards. As the school board moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that all actions align with the principles of justice and integrity.

Source: Read the original report