Cherry Creek board highlights Class of 2026 as district leaders promise accountability steps

Assistant Superintendent Derek Volner presented the board with a slide show celebrating the Class of 2026 and district student achievements, saying the district will graduate 4,169 seniors and that Cherry Creek High School and its specialty programs posted notable academic gains.

“These celebrations are a nod to our hardworking staff,” Volner said, citing expanded CTE pathways, a record number of AP exams at Cherry Creek High and individual student awards such as Boettcher Scholars. He highlighted programs at Cherry Creek Innovation Campus and outcomes including increased graduation rates and student growth metrics.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Perry acknowledged recent scrutiny and staff departures and described steps she said the administration has taken to restore trust. “I have worked diligently to listen, assess, and respond,” Dr. Perry said, announcing a public accountability webpage and the district’s plan to solicit an independent audit of internal controls; she added the final audit report will be made publicly available under open-record laws.

Board members praised the students and staff. Director Futrell asked what the presentation may have missed; Volner said the most consistent theme was the adults supporting students. The board also noted retirements and ongoing construction tied to the 2024 bond program, including the Overland pathways and the planned IST renovation into a career-preparedness facility.

The meeting closed with the board continuing regular business; the district reaffirmed plans to share spring assessment data and a strategic planning dashboard publicly as testing results are compiled.