Two New Members Sworn Into Steamboat Springs School District Board of Education; Craig Begins Her Second Term

November 16, 2023 - Steamboat Springs, Colo. - Kevin Callahan, Leah Helme, and Lara Craig were sworn into the Steamboat Springs School District Board of Education today. Callahan and Helme are two new members of the Board of Education, replacing Alissa Merage and Dr. Matthew Rice, who decided to step down after their term ended. Craig is beginning her second term on the BOE. All members will serve four-year terms. 

“We are excited to have Kevin and Leah join our Board of Education and to have Lara returning for another term,” said Dr. Celine Wicks, Superintendent. “I am confident they will all help our schools and students thrive.” 

Kevin Callahan, originally from rural northeastern Pennsylvania, moved to Colorado in 2012 after a life-changing road trip and to Steamboat Springs in 2016. He attended Penn State where he studied Electrical Engineering Technology. Callahan founded Keystone Utility Systems 13 years ago, a construction company that specializes in remote reading and automated reading for utility companies. He has held numerous positions within the company, from installation to call center work to now being vice president. Callahan also teaches and performs music locally. He enjoys fly fishing, backpacking, hiking, and anything that gets him outside with his family. 

“I am looking forward to gaining a sense of connectedness to the growth and future of our community,” said Callahan. “I want an opportunity to help and truly be involved in the betterment of our valley and help invest in our future by investing my time in our public school system. As the father of two young children in this community, I will see the full breadth and depth of any effort I put into my tenure on the Board. I am honored to be able to do my best for my children and yours.” 

Leah Helme’s passion for education began as a senior in high school when she participated in her school's teacher cadet program, where she was placed in an integrated preschool focused on deaf education. She studied Early Childhood Special Education and Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. She moved to Steamboat Springs to manage the Chief Theater. When it closed, she worked for Horizons Specialized Services in various roles, including as a Host Home provider. She enjoys the opportunity to continue her passion for advocating for individuals with disabilities and disability services while having flexibility in her schedule to serve her community. 

“I am looking forward to learning more about the school system, its processes and how it works, while incorporating my passion for advocacy and ensuring all students are served academically, emotionally, and feel empowered to make decisions about their future,” said Helme. 

Helme and Callahan will attend their first Board of Education meeting on December 4. 

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Media Contact:
Laura Milius, Director of Communications
lmilius@ssk12.org