ECE News

When Garfield Re-2 elementary parents opened their child’s report card this year, they likely noticed some changes. Included in their first-quarter report are reflections of the same traits that the community identified as most important.

District educators sought to make report cards more meaningful, easier to understand, and more closely aligned with the qualities that matter most for students’ long-term success.

At Elk Creek Elementary, leadership isn’t reserved for adults; it starts in elementary school. Through the school’s Service Learning Program, fourth- and fifth-grade students who score “blue” (or above grade level) on their i-Ready reading assessments and demonstrate strong character are stepping up to help their school community one job at a time.

The idea is simple yet powerful. When students thrive academically, they can dedicate part of their day to serving others. Each quarter, participants complete a real job application, request a letter of recommendation, and interview for a position that helps the school run smoothly. From mentoring preschoolers to assisting teachers, maintaining school grounds, or serving on safety patrol, these young leaders are putting their skills, and hearts, to work.

The Garfield Re-2 School Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, June 25 at the district office. Thank you all who came to the meeting!

We began the evening by celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of our high school spring sports athletes. Heather Grumley and Lisa Pierce shared heartfelt and enthusiastic reports on the incredible success of our student-athletes. This meeting also marked their final presentation before retiring. We extend our deepest gratitude to both Heather and Lisa for their years of dedicated service to our students, schools, and community. We will miss you both! 

The Garfield Re-2 School Board celebrated outgoing Board President Britton Fletchall at their June 25, 225 school board meeting and declared a vacancy in Director District A.

Fletchall submitted a letter of resignation on June 18 and shared that his decision is rooted in the growth of his business, which now requires more travel and extended time away from the area.

“Serving has never been a burden, but a true motivator,” he explained. “While I value the ability to participate remotely, I believe this level of board service is most effective when done in person.”

RIFLE, CO - The Garfield Re-2 School District is pleased to announce that Kirk Banghart will serve as the next Superintendent beginning July 1, 2025. His contract was unanimously approved at the April 9, 2025, School Board meeting. Mr. Banghart will take over for current Superintendent Heather Grumley, who is retiring at the end of the school year after five years in the superintendent role and over 30 years in the Garfield Re-2 School District.

Mr. Banghart brings a passion for continuous improvement, a deep respect for the great work happening in Garfield Re-2, and a commitment to listening and learning from the community. His contract will officially begin July 1, 2025, and he will begin spending time in Garfield Re-2 a few days a month, specifically to support critical hiring decisions and get to know the staff of the District. 

Garfield Re-2 Superintendent Heather Grumley has informed the Garfield Re-2 School Board of her intent to retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year.

Grumley will continue as Superintendent through June 30, 2025.

Every day in school is critical. 

As a four-day school week, if a Garfield Re-2 student misses just two days a month, that is about 30 hours of math instruction and 60 hours of English Language Arts instruction that they are missing. 

“We know that the best indicator of student success is having a great teacher in front of students. We want all of our students in class if they are healthy,” said Assistant Superintendent Lisa Pierce, who facilitated the concerted effort by the District to support improved attendance.