July 2, 2015
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2015 WINNERS GUIDE HighlandsRanchHerald.net A publication of
D O U G L A S C O U N T Y, C O L O R A D O
Court rules against vouchers School district aims to take case to federal level, plaintiffs say argument ‘should be over’ By Jane Reuter
jreuter@coloradocommunitymedia.com The Colorado Supreme Court ruled against the Douglas County School District’s Choice Scholarship Program, agreeing with a lower court that it violates the state constitution. “The Colorado Constitution features broad, unequivocal language forbidding the state from using public money to fund religious schools,” the decision read. “Yet aiding religious schools is exactly what the CSP does.” But district leaders said it’s not the end
of the road. They intend to take the matter to the U.S. Supreme Court. “While we were disappointed, we are not surprised,” school board President Kevin Larsen said during a June 29 press conference at the district’s Castle Rock administration building. “This may very well be simply a case of delayed gratification. Douglas County kids may have to wait just a little bit longer to get full access to choice.” Larsen said he believes a positive ruling at the federal level could pave the way for students nationwide to use public funds to attend private or public schools. “We have reason to believe the United States Supreme Court justices have an interest in this question,” board member Craig Richardson said. “We believe competition makes all schools better. We believe Voucher continues on Page 6
From left, Douglas County School District Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen, legal counsel Rob Ross and school board President Kevin Larsen listen as board member Craig Richardson speaks during a June 29 press conference on the Colorado Supreme Court’s voucher verdict. Photo by Jane Reuter
Fun, food fireworks for July 4 HRCA plans Independence Day to remember By Taryn Walker
twalker@colorado communitymedia.com
Sean Taite, 10, spins Reese Dobson, 9, on the dance floor as Boulder Brass plays big band music at the Culture on the Green series at Civic Green Park in Highlands Ranch on June 26. Photos by Taryn Walker
Culture on the Green means swing Boulder Brass musicians blow their horns at Civic Green
4th of July 5K Run/Walk The annual Independence Day 5K Run/ Walk will kick off at 8 a.m. along the scenic trail system of Highlands Ranch. According July 4 continues on Page 12
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By Taryn Walker
twalker@colorado communitymedia.com There aren’t many times when you get a chance to hear ragtime and big band music live in the park, but with Highland Ranch Community Association’s Culture on the Green series, it’s possible. Boulder Brass, which is made up of professional musicians who play trombone, euphonium and trumpet, serenaded the crowd on the lawn at Civic Green Park on June 26. The free series is a way to encourage the community to pack a picnic, spread out a blanket and enjoy live music during the summer. Children of all ages danced in front of the Case Pavilion stage — twirling, spinning and swinging their bodies into rhythm as the band played tunes like “Wallstreet Rag” and “Tuxedo Junction.” Band members introduced songs and composers, explaining the origin of every tune, as well as the background of each musician preset. Many of which were pro-
The Highlands Ranch Community Association is hosting a July 4 extravaganza from just before 9 a.m. to after 9 p.m. Street closures from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m. for the parade include Highlands Ranch Parkway between Lucent Boulevard and Broadway, Zotos and Ridgeline from Dorchester to Highlands Ranch Parkway, and Blake Drive from Ridgeline to Highlands Ranch Parkway. Food and beverages will be for sale during events with cash or tickets accepted only. Tickets are required for rides and games and each ticket equals $1. Here’s a look at some of the events:
#Recruiting has changed Musicians from Boulder Brass mute their horns during the big band song “Tuxedo Junction” at the Culture on the Green Series at Civic Green Park. fessors of music and members of philharmonic orchestras and bands. The next Culture on the Green event will take place on July 31 with band Dez Rubia-
no & Friends. Following that, the Colorado Wing Ensemble will take the stage on Aug. 28 and Ballet Ariel will wrap on the series on Sept. 25 with Ballet Ariel.
High school athletes are turning to new technologies to find the right college. Find our special report inside.
See Pages 26, 27