Colorado district may resume construction of alternative school

Jefferson County, Colo., school officials say they could resume construction as early as next week on a school for troubled youths. Construction on a new home for the Johnson Program was halted earlier this week after complaints from neighbors who fear the students could cause problems in the community. Officials are planning a community meeting for next month, but a district spokeswoman says construction could resume as early as Aug. 26, following a preliminary meeting with community leaders.To read The Rocky Mountain News article, click here.EARLIER: The Jefferson County (Colo.) district has halted work on a building for a program serving troubled kids after neighbors complained about the project. The Johnson Program provides alternative instruction and counseling for students in grades 7 through 9, most of whom have been expelled from Jeffco schools. The new facility for up to 135 students is planned for the campus that includes McLain Community High School and Long View High School, as well as Warren Tech and Red Rocks Community College. Neighbors fear the Johnson program will lower their property values. Construction has been stopped at least until officials can meet with residents. Workers had been tearing out a parking lot when construction was halted. The Johnson Program is now housed in a former elementary school in Golden, but wiring and fire safety at the building are considered inadequate. To read The Rocky Mountain News article, click here.