WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 7, 2023
VOLUME 128 | ISSUE 28
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Teachers stay for connections, community
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Elizabeth district keeps some dedicated educators despite challenges posed by pay BY COURTNEY FAY SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
It’s no secret that the Elizabeth School District has struggled to keep teachers. In an article published in the Elbert County News on June 29 of this year, the Elizabeth School District needed to replace 30% of its teaching staff for the upcoming school year. Teacher pay consistently tops the list of reasons it is difficult to keep staff within the District. Teachers in neighboring districts make significantly more income than those in the Elizabeth School District. While this dramatic pay gap continues to be a challenge, there are a number of educators who have remained in the Elizabeth School District year after year. We know some of the factors that are causing teachers to leave the district, but what is making some stay? Lisa Mullins, who began her career with the district in 1998 and currently teaches computer classes and yearbook at Elizabeth Middle School says, “I have spent my career in the SEE TEACHERS, P8
U.S. CITIZEN Parker officer takes oath
P4
LOCAL IMPACTS
A look at Proposition HH P6
A NEW TEAM Elizabeth School District Superintendent Dan Snowberger, left, honors Food Services PHOTO COURTESY OF ELIZABETH SCHOOL DISTRICT Director Teri Maher for her 20 years with the district.
CALENDAR: 9 | VOICES: 10 | LIFE: 12
Elizabeth girls launch flag P8 football squad
ELBERTCOUNTYNEWS.NET • A PUBLICATION OF COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
THAT’S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR In a lonely world, friendship makes a difference P12
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HEALTH & WELLNESS INSIDE THIS ISSUE