What began as a $7.5 million school expansion grew to exceed $10 million, with construction delays pushing back occupancy and forcing students into temporary learning spaces. For Challenge to Excellence Charter School (C2E), keeping a K–8 school running while managing a major construction project has brought some hard-earned lessons.

Executive Director and Principal Liz Dougan and School Development Manager Katie Novak share a candid account of what happened, what they learned, and what they would do differently.

Hear how C2E navigated financing shortfalls, tighter cash flow, and unexpected delays, with critical support from more than $800,000 in Great Schools Colorado grants. Explore lessons in contingency planning, coordinating with project partners, preparing temporary learning spaces, and communicating changing timelines to families and staff.

Through an interactive expansion scenario, consider how your school would respond to unexpected costs and delays, and identify planning strategies for future facilities projects.

(83) School Expansion: Lessons in Financing, Delays + Communication

Speakers

Liz Dougan

Katie Novak