Woodland Park residents should note that the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) has placed Lutheran High School’s athletic department on probation for at least 12 months, effective immediately. CHSAA said it determined that “racist and discriminatory language and unacceptable behavior occurred at Lutheran athletic events,” and the school now faces a formal notice that could lead to suspension of its CHSAA membership.
According to KRDO, the decision follows a review of documentation, official game reports, and first‑hand accounts from students and communities at other schools. The allegations first surfaced when KRDO13 reported racism claims from members of the Sand Creek High School community. Subsequent reports indicated that students from Rampart High School also experienced racist behavior during a JV and varsity football game against Lutheran.
In response, Air Academy High School and Coronado High School forfeited their scheduled games against Lutheran, citing the racism allegations. Palmer Ridge High School, however, announced it will proceed with its upcoming game, stating it condemns racism while using the matchup to demonstrate its team’s values.
CHSAA requires Lutheran to develop a detailed Corrective Action Plan that addresses game management, spectator conduct, staff training, and overall school culture. These requirements take effect immediately and will remain in force throughout the 12‑month probationary period. Lutheran’s leadership must also appear before the CHSAA Board of Directors to show progress on the plan, and failure to comply could result in suspension that would bar the school from all CHSAA‑sponsored activities.
Academy District 20 President Susan Payne and Interim Superintendent Dr. Susan Field praised CHSAA’s “thoughtful, thorough, and systematic review,” emphasizing the district’s commitment to sportsmanship, dignity, and a learning environment free from hate.
Lutheran Executive Director Dan Gehrke sent an email to families stating, “Lutheran High School condemns racism in any form, and we will complete every requirement CHSAA has set. We are disappointed that CHSAA reached its determination before our own review is complete.” He asked the community to keep students, families, coaches, and staff in prayer while the school finalizes its response.
Taura Williams, mother of Sand Creek cheerleader Laila Bryant, expressed relief at CHSAA’s action, thanking Coronado and Air Academy for forfeiting their homecoming games and calling for accountability across schools.
What’s next: Lutheran must submit its Corrective Action Plan and schedule a meeting with the CHSAA Board of Directors during the probation period. The district and community will be watching for updates on the school’s compliance and any further actions by CHSAA.
