Throughout the master planning process, the School Board actively sought and incorporated community input, hosting public meetings and discussions to ensure the plan reflected local priorities. After reviewing community feedback and evaluating multiple options, the Board voted to select the Vista site as the preferred location for a future PK-8. The district has now submitted its FY 2026–27 BEST Grant application and, with Board direction, district leadership will now move forward in preparing for a bond election in fall 2026 to help fund the proposed project.

The Colorado Department of Education’s Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) program provides competitive grants that help public schools fix unsafe or deteriorating buildings and create healthier, more secure learning environments. Since 2008, BEST has awarded over $3 billion to more than 600 schools statewide, improving conditions for hundreds of thousands of students. For taxpayers, the program stretches local dollars by leveraging state funding to modernize essential community facilities and reduce long‑term costs.

Districts must contribute a portion of the project cost based on their financial capacity. The CDE Capital Construction Program calculates the match requirement for each applicant and is based on the district’s property wealth per student, household income, bonding capacity, fund balances, and enrollment size.

Full or partial waivers are available, and if accepted, this would increase the funds provided by BEST, and decrease the financial obligation of the taxpayers.

The Capital Construction Assistance Board (CCA) reviews applications, ranks them and compiles a prioritized shortlist for the State Board of Education. The SBE approves awards in June. Projects are either funded through cash grants, or longer-term lease-purchase agreements.

Preparation

July - December 2025

Awarded FY26 projects begin work. Potential applicants work with consultants and BEST staff to define project scope and develop budget. Notifications for upcoming grant cycle published.

No later than December 5th: All Districts and Charter Schools must notify BEST of intent to apply. Final FY26 project list is established based upon November election results.

December 30, 2025: FY26 Grant Agreements not fully executed may be rescinded in order to fund backup projects.

Application

January - March 2026

Match percentages available. Online training available. Applicants given access to GAINS to submit applications

January 8 - March 2: Application open, submissions due at 4 pm on March 2nd.

Approvals

March - June 2026

March 2 - April 16: Staff review of FY26-27 applications. Summary Book published. Conditional Commitment Vouchers delivered.

April 16 - May 12: Capital Construction Assistance Board (CCAB) review period.

May 12 - May 14: CCAB meets to prioritize recommended projects for FY27.

No later than June 20: State Board of Education (SBE) meets to approve prioritized list.

No later than July 15: Capital Development Committee meets to approve SBE Lease Purchase project recommendations.

Thank you for taking the time to review and consider our Facilities Master Plan. Share your thoughts by email with us at

rholt@pagosa.k12.co.us