Colorado Parent Magazine February 2023

CharterGuideSchool

Why Choose Charter School?

7 MUST-READ VALENTINE'S BOOKS

TOP BOARD GAMES TO PLAY WITH FAMILY

Gear up for the next family game night with these great games. PUBLISHER

ONE PASSIONATE MAMA

Love is in the Air

It’s important to take time away from your to-do lists and busy schedules and have a date night. When is a better time to take a date night than Valentine’s Day? Here are some romantic spots and getaways that every couple adores.

Love + Crafts Crackpots

The pottery store in Longmont, Crackpots, offers an interactive way to celebrate love this year with projects like creating a Love Potion or box, Couples Mugs, a Lantern, and more! There is an $18 fee per couple and an additional cost for the project. Reserve your spot online today. crackpots.com

Dinner for Two

Fruition Restaurant

The romantic restaurant Fruition is perfect for Valentine’s Day dinner. Pair your delicious plate with a cocktail and dessert. Seating is available at 5 p.m., and reservations are encouraged. The menu changes regularly, so jump online to peek at the gourmet plates. fruitionrestaurant.com

Date Night in PJs Home Base

For a romantic night, you don’t have to leave your house or break the bank. Stay home; make a fun, colorful meal together; pick a movie; or take a night stroll. Add a delicious and inexpensive bottle of wine to the night, like the Cote Des Roses Rosé ($17), Bogle Chardonnay ($12), or Barista Pinotage ($17).

Romantic Getaway

Brown Palace

The Brown Palace, a historic hotel in Denver, offers beautiful rooms, a spa, a delicious breakfast, and tea time. The hotel is near the Denver Zoo and Coliseum, so explore downtown with your partner. marriot.com

— Austria Cohn

Love in All Different Ways

From friendships to family to relationships - the word love has many different meanings. Buy a book for your kiddo that will teach them about love (and all the different forms). Here’s a list of books for the youngsters, tweens, and teens in the family - there is even a spooky book.

Children

In Little Blue Truck’s Valentine by Alice Schertle, the Little Blue Truck delivers valentines to all his farm animal friends. While he gives out his cards, he begins to worry that he might not receive any valentines. This lovely children's book will tell kiddos the meaning of Valentine’s Day in a fun way.

Teach your child to embrace the uniqueness of their hair with the book Hair

Love by Matthew Cherry. Go on the adventure with Zuri and her father, who doesn’t know very much about styling hair, yet, he does anything that’ll make her happy. This empowering book explores Zuri’s unpredictable hair, with kinks, coils, and curls bouncing everywhere.

Middle School

Seventh grader, Keiko, expects a great year in the book Keep It Together, Keiko Carter by Debbi Michiko Florence. Yet, things don’t always go as planned. Kieko develops an unexpected crush, has friendship drama, and finds the courage to stand up for herself in this sweet story.

After one of her best friends receives a mean valentine, Nancy Drew becomes caught in the middle of two of her friends. Read the adventure and follow her journey to the truth in the book Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew: Valentine’s Day Secret by Carolyn Keene.

Teens

In This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen, Remy, a teenage girl who doesn’t believe in love, finds herself in a relationship with Dexter, a romantic musician. She usually breaks up with boyfriends before they get too serious, but for some reason, she can’t bring herself to break it off with Dexter.

Add some paranormal activity to Valentine’s Day and read Valentine by Jodi McAlister. Four teenagers born on Valentine’s Day begin disappearing, and Pearl Linford, born on the same day, must figure out what’s going on before it’s too late.

Adults

BONUS: Learn about the different forms of love with The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman. This book is for couples flourishing and falling; you might even learn something about yourself!

— Austria Cohn

wellness

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6 Tips to Sustain Your Energy Throughout the Day

Photo by diana.grytsku on Freepik

For Every Kid Who Never Had the Opportunity

By Austria Cohn

The tragic and sudden passing of a youthful teen has led to his family, teammates, and community taking action, so no other family has to experience the same loss.

Ralph Maccarone received a phone call from his son’s coach, Mike, as he was driving to pick his son up from soccer practice. The coach told him that his son, Rafe, who’s 15 years old, “dropped on the field.”

Ralph assumed he fainted or passed out from the heat or exhaustion.

“There was silence on the other end of the phone, and Mike said, no, you need to get to the hospital now,” Ralph recalls in detail.

Ralph raced to the Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in Orlando, where his son was taken, and his teammates joined him shortly.

“We were told at that point that things weren’t good,” Ralph remembers the night. “He ended up passing away the next evening from sudden cardiac arrest.”

Later, his family and teammates learned that Rafe had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) that caused his sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

The sudden death of Rafe shook his family, teammates, and community. A sports physical is required to play soccer, and Rafe passed that exam every year. The basic exam didn’t give him or his family the necessary warning. Rafe passed away one week before his sixteenth birthday.

According to Who We Play For’s (WWPF) website, “SCA is the #1 killer of student athletes and the leading cause of death on school campuses. 1 in 300 young people have an undetected heart condition that puts them at risk for SCA.”

Purpose of Who We Play For

The organization conducts screenings using electrocardiograms (ECGs) to detect any signs of SCA. These screenings are fast, reliable, and noninvasive, and the students receive their test results in three to five business days.

According to Ralph, the organization has screened over 200,000 kids in seven states. They have found over 200 kids with life-threatening cardiac

issues that have gone undetected.

WWPF is also pushing for every school to have an Emergency Action Plan with the necessary medical equipment nearby and available in case a student goes into SCA.

In Rafe’s case, medical equipment was unavailable, like an automated external defibrillator (AED). The AED was locked in the school office because it was after hours during practice.

The organization provides ECGs for $20 each; normally, this equipment would cost anywhere between $150 and $200.

A Team Coming Together

After the unforeseen death that changed so many lives, Rafe’s teammates came together years later to found the organization Who We Play For.

“They decided they wanted to do something about it,” Ralph says. “It was called the Play for Rafe Foundation, and then it was morphed into Who We Play For.”

The nonprofit began in Florida but has stretched across the U.S. Now Ralph lives in Colorado and does screenings every year in Pagosa Springs. The Pagosa Springs screening focuses on eighth graders' heart health before they attend high school.

When the organization was founded, Ralph asked Evan Ernst, the executive director and one of Rafe’s teammates, why he was creating this nonprofit.

“He looked me straight in the eye and said, Mr. Maccarone, you were there when it happened. You don’t want another family to have to go through what you and your wife have gone through,” Ralph recalls. “They have held true to that commitment to our son and to our family.”

How YOU Can Help

If this story touches your heart, you can help the cause by donating to cover a child's screening. If you want screenings at your child’s school, you can contact WWPF. Finally, let’s bring awareness to SCA and prevent this horror from happening to another family.

The Top Eight Questions Parents Of Teens Google Most

By Cheryl Maguire

Freepik

1. Why do teens do drugs? During my time working with teens, there were a myriad of reasons for why they chose to use drugs. Their reasons ranged from peer pressure to mental health issues (a form of self-medication).

In Ask The Expert: Why Do Teenagers Use Drugs?, Dr. Joseph Lee notes that some teens simply want to experiment and conform or heighten social experiences.

If you are concerned your teen is using drugs or alcohol, many online articles discuss signs to look for and options to get treatment. Some signs include changes in behavior and appearance, relationship changes, and changes in moods and motivation.

public areas and the increased price of cigarettes, teens still smoke cigarettes. In over 50 percent of the US, the law regarding the age to purchase tobacco is 18, which makes it more accessible than alcohol. The most common reason teens begin smoking is that their friends or parents smoke. Once they start, smoking is highly addictive.

5. Why do teens vape?

Vaping is smoking using an e-cigarette. Even though the user does not inhale tobacco, they are still inhaling a vapor containing nicotine. In Colorado, proof of age is required to purchase e-cigarettes, with the age requirement being 21. Since e-cigarettes don’t contain tobacco, teens often believe it is a healthier option than a cigarette.

6. Why do teens need more sleep?

When my twins were first born, I had an endless amount of questions about child rearing. Why aren’t they sleeping through the night? Why is their poop changing colors? And the question I asked the most was: why are they always crying?

Now that my twins are teens, in many ways I feel like a new mom again since raising teens is such a perplexing and confusing experience. Their behaviors are often hard for me to figure out. Like, why do they always feel the need to close the door? Or, why do they want to spend every waking moment with their friends?

My initial reaction is to grab my phone and Google it. And then I wonder, how did my mother raise me without an Internet connection?

Fortunately, parents do have the ability to easily find answers to their questions, which will hopefully make parenting a teenager a little less daunting. As a former counselor for adolescents in a residential facility, I can answer some common questions asked by parents of teens. Here are the top eight questions most Googled by parents of teenagers.

The best way to help prevent your teen from using drugs is to have open communication with them about drugs and how they are feeling in all areas of their life (friends, school, sports, etc.).

2. Why do teens cut themselves?

Cutting yourself is a form of self-injury. When I worked in the residential treatment center, often teens cut themselves as a way to deal with their depression or other negative emotions. If you notice your teen is cutting themselves, it is important to seek the help of a mental health professional so your teen can learn a more appropriate coping mechanism for dealing with their emotions.

3. Why do teens drink?

Similar to using drugs, teens often drink alcohol because of peer pressure or as a form of self-medication. Alcohol is also more accessible and acceptable to use than illegal drugs. Some of the teens I worked with had parents who either used or abused alcohol, making it easy for them to obtain it.

4. Why do teens smoke?

Despite laws regulating smoking in select

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that teens sleep for 8-10 hours per night. Sleep is necessary to aid in physical, intellectual, and emotional growth, but a teen’s busy schedule, including sports, homework, and spending time with friends often means a later bedtime combined with an early start time (my kids are on the bus at 6:40 a.m.). The end result is not getting enough sleep each night.

7. Why do teens get acne?

The exact cause of acne is unknown, but hormones, stress, and genetics do contribute to developing it. Since teens experience an increase in hormones, this may be why they develop it more than adults do. The best treatment for acne is using facial cleanser and, if necessary, seeing a dermatologist.

8. Why do teens commit suicide?

Suicide is a complex issue. Teens may commit suicide because they feel hopeless or pain due to depression. There are some incidents when teens feel bullied or experience abuse that leads to suicide. If you think your teen is having suicidal thoughts, contact a mental health professional, or The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Photo by ntoryset on

Love

Things We Love

in the

By Sarah Batrous

to

covered.

A rose that will never wither, the Bloce Galaxy Rose in Glass with LED Light is encapsulated in a glass dome and lit by a dainty string of lights and will certainly set a romantic mood while representing your undying love. amazon.com, $22.99

The Aromatherapy Valentine Shower Bombs are a pack of nine handmade heart-shaped shower bombs made of natural ingredients that come in your choice of either a variety of scents or single scent that will encourage you to relax and refresh your body and mind. amazon.com, $11.95

The Mother-Daughter Matching Shirts come in both pink and white and are made from stylish and breathable 100 percent Jersey Cotton. amazon.com, $17.99

The Let’s Make Memories Personalized Hugging Plush Puppies are made of soft poly plush, attached by Velcro, and can be personalized by having two names written on the ears. amazon.com, $29.99

The Bunny Chorus Valentine’s Day Decor Gnomes Gifts are sweet little plush and felt gnomes that add a festive flair to your Valentine’s Day decor, complete with candy heart messages and classic pointy hats. amazon.com, $21.99

is

air! Whether your special someone prefers something

wear, to relax with, to cuddle, or simply to admire, we’ve got you

home

Protect Your Home From Your Kids: These Are the Top Things They’re Likely to Demolish

Whether your kids qualify as Dennis the Menace clones or not, your house may be in shambles for years to come. But it is possible to minimize the damage. Following are some everyday household items you can anticipate might be demolished by your little, or not so small, terror–along with tips for a home that can withstand the childhood years.

By Kimberly Blaker

Photo:Freepik.com

Screens–Both door and window screens get pushed on, poked at, stretched, torn, and popped out by kids. So, install window guards, which come in a variety of styles and serve a dual purpose. Guards will protect your screens and prevent your child from falling out windows.

Sliding and Bi-Fold Closet Doors–These often don’t hold up to excessive use by children, especially when kids attempt to close the doors over heaps of stuff in the way. Prevent unnecessary opening and closing by installing a bi-fold door lock that hooks to the top. For doors used regularly by children, make sure they’re securely installed, so the doors don’t easily come off the track. If the doors are still a problem, replace them with sturdier doors and higherquality tracks.

Walls–These dirt magnets quickly take on a life of their own. For easy to maintain walls, avoid heavy texture, which is difficult to clean. Cover walls with either vinyl-coated wallpaper or semigloss paint. Eggshell or satin paints have enough sheen to wash up reasonably well. Avoid flat paint altogether.

Doors and Trim–These often ignored surfaces are filth collectors. Use high gloss paint, which can be repeatedly washed, on doors and trim. High gloss paint will also reduce the likelihood of damage to doors caused by tape and stickers and allow for easy removal of sticky residue.

Carpet–Mud, drinks, food, candy, paint, glue, nail polish, you name it, it’s going to end up on your floor. When choosing carpet, look for Olefin, the most stain resistant carpet fiber, in a dense, low tuft pile or loop. Olefin can even be cleaned with bleach. Nylon is also resistant to stain and less likely to matte. Be sure to install high quality, thin, dense padding underneath to reduce wear and extend your carpet’s life.

Toilets–To avoid frequent plumbing from excess toilet paper, buy single-ply tissue to reduce the amount your child uses. If you replace your toilet, install one made for residential use but with a more substantial, commercial size drain.

Lazy Susan Cabinet–Your lazy Susan shelves make the perfect step stool. But your child’s weight can cause imbalance and affect the lazy Susan’s rotation. Protect your child and your lazy Susan by installing a lazy Susan cabinet lock.

Mattress–Nighttime accidents can occur into the early elementary years. Even if your child doesn’t have an accident, his overnight guests might. Protect mattresses with a fitted waterproof mattress cover or pad placed underneath the comfier mattress pad.

Upholstered Furniture–Sofas and chairs will likely be eaten on, absorb spilled drinks, and be used as footrests for dirty feet and shoes. Your upholstered furniture may even be used as a creative canvas for artwork. So choose stainresistant synthetic fabrics. Nylon, followed by polyester, are the most resistant. Polypropylene is also an excellent choice and the only stainproof fabric. Also, consider stain guarding your upholstery or protect it with slipcovers.

Wood Furniture–Protect tables, chairs, desks, and other wood furniture from scratches, gouges, chips, crayons, and drinks by buying solid wood coated with a scuff and stain-resistant polyurethane finish. If solid wood isn’t in your budget, avoid inexpensive veneered furniture, which will bubble and chip with minimal use. Instead, look for something in between.

Blinds–All it takes to ruin a set is to pull the strings the wrong way, which can cause them to tangle inside the frame. So purchase blind and shade cord wind ups by Safety 1st to keep cords out of children’s reach. When kids are old enough to adjust blinds on their own, tie the pull strings together in a knot a few inches above the pulls to prevent blinds from malfunctioning.

DVD and CD Players–These electronics are great for poking and stashing items such as crayons, band-aids, and other small objects that wreak havoc on the players. When buying a new player, look for one with a built-in child lock function. Otherwise, keep equipment in a locked entertainment center cabinet.

Computer–Although CD-Rom drives have become less common, you might have one. Like DVD players, they’re neat little compartments for kids to stash paper clips, pennies, and other tiny objects that can get lost and lodged in gears. Additionally, young computer users can cause problems from accidental system changes, not to mention adware, malware, and viruses from surfing the net. So keep your computer in a locked cabinet. If the keyboard and mouse are within reach, turn off the computer when not in use. If your child uses a computer, give her one of her own. Used laptops or desktop computers can often be purchased complete with a monitor and keyboard for as little $100.

Vacuum–Your vacuum cleaner is likely to gobble countless foreign objects such as pennies, marbles, and game pieces. So look for a vacuum specially designed to deflect foreign objects. Alternatively, ask a salesperson which vacuums best handle foreign objects without belt breakage or motor damage.

Television–TV buttons draw young children like magnets. Fortunately, most TVs today don’t have buttons, or they’re inconspicuous at the very

least. But if they do exist, rest assured, your kids will discover them. To prevent broken and lodged buttons, mount your television on the wall out of reach of little hands.

Battery Operated Devices–Battery compartments are simply irresistible to curious kids, resulting in missing batteries and lost or broken covers. For battery-operated items, look for those fastened by a screw or that require prying to open.

Silverware–Spoons make great shovels and will surely come up missing. So keep good silverware in a safe place. To protect your everyday silverware, have plenty of small shovels available for your kids and their friends, whether you have a sandbox or not. The garbage disposal also poses problems with kids. To keep silverware from falling into the disposal and being gnawed up, buy a sink strainer.

Dishes–Save the elegant table for guests and special occasions. Give young children their own set of plastic dishes to eliminate breakage. As your kids grow, invest in a set of Corelle dinnerware. It comes in a wide variety of designs and is nearly unbreakable.

Photo Albums–Kids love looking at family photo albums, but it won’t take long for the albums to be in shambles. Choose photo albums with heavyduty sleeves. Then seal sleeve openings with clear acid-free tape.

Books–Scribbles, tatters, and tears will likely fill your books if they aren’t kept out of reach. Protect jacket covers by removing and storing them, and cover your books with store-bought or homemade covers.

CDs, DVDs & Video Games–Claims for the longevity of CDs and DVDs didn’t take kids into account. Disks are likely to be trampled and broken, shuffled, and scratched until they’re rendered useless. Keep disks in a binder case that holds multiple CDs rather than jewel cases. Kids are more likely to put them away if they don’t have to match up disks to the right case.

Car Upholstery–Family travel is tough on auto interiors. Protect your vehicle with seat covers and floor mats throughout. This will make for easier cleaning and help retain your vehicle’s resale value.

Sprinklers–Kids love running through the sprinkler. They also like standing on it, adjusting it, and squirting with it. So a single day of water play can do the sprinkler in. Stick with non-mechanical sprinklers, or have a non-mechanical sprinkler available for your kid’s use.

learn

Why Choose Charter Schools?

Picking the right school for your child feels like an endless struggle. Sometimes your first choice isn’t the right fit or maybe you don’t know where to start. If you’ve lost faith in the traditional public school system and find private school is too expensive, you will find yourself searching for the middle ground. You’ll find that the perfect alternative is enrolling in a charter school.

By Sarah Batrous

The Nitty-Gritty Basics

So, what is a charter school exactly? According to the Colorado Department of Education, charter schools are “public schools that operate via a contract with an authorizer such as the local school district or, in some cases, the Colorado Charter School Institute.”

In Colorado, charter schools boast higher graduation rates than their district-run counterparts and have given previously underserved students an impressive leg-up when it comes to proper education.

The entire point of their existence is to bridge the gap between well-off students with more education choices and offer brick-and-mortar schools that cater to unique needs, serve disadvantaged children, and offer dynamic learning styles. With over 200 schools to choose from, there’s a lot to consider.

A Built-In Fail Safe

Since charter schools are held to a higher standard for education, they are also held entirely accountable for the school’s success. This success is deemed by whether or not the school meets the criteria and provisions written in the charter (contract).

If things go horribly awry within the school’s administration, chances are nothing will be swept under the rug “for posterity’s sake” since their contract authorizer has the ability to shut down the school if it fails to meet expectations academically or follow the financial and organizational standards set by the state charter system.

These check-ins by authorizers typically happen toward the end of the contract, which usually spans about five years.

Cost

Since charter schools are authorized and funded by the state, tuition is free. The amount of state funding provided to each school is based on Per Pupil Operating Revenue (PPR). This is essentially a financial formula that calculates the total amount of funding needed based on the number of students enrolled.

This funding supports students’ learning needs, and due to these schools’ unique freedoms education-wise, plenty of exciting programs can be offered.

Education and Enrichment Opportunities

Teaching methods, topics, and more are generally innovative and flexible in charter schools. Since these schools aren’t bound to the public education criteria, they are better able to easily allocate and approve resources that support students and fulfill their learning needs.

There are six types of unique charter schools: STEAM/STEM, Environmental Science, Language Immersion, Project-Based, Place-Based, and Montessori.

STEAM and STEM charter schools have a unique emphasis on core subjects like sciences, technology, English, art, and math. For students seeking an education that focuses on these subjects and provides exciting insight into what careers they can pursue in these fields, it’s a great fit.

Environmental Science charter schools are steeped in nature. Attending students will be able to view the world around them through scientific and empathetic lenses, seeing how the natural world and environments work together and how we can be better stewards of Earth. With lots of opportunities to be outside, students can get hands-on experience in nature.

Language Immersion charter schools offer an entire curriculum taught in two (and sometimes three) languages. Since kids’ minds are like sponges, they can easily pick up a second or third language beginning in kindergarten. The languages taught vary by school, but oftentimes, French, Spanish, and Mandarin are offered.

Project-Based charter schools have curious students explore the world and its dynamics through design thinking, a learning method that focuses primarily on asking questions and requiring research and hands-on activities to answer those questions. Oftentimes, this means students can come up with their own theories about subjects that interest them and study them using traditional methods like the scientific method and more.

Place-Based charter schools move beyond the traditional school house. Instead, learning is hosted in institutional places of learning like museums. Students will enjoy learning about local culture, heritage, history, the environment, and more while also getting ample access to courses that feed traditional subjects like

English, math, and science.

Montessori charter schools are brick-andmortar schools that teach in the Montessori method, putting stock into the idea of independent learning and exploration. Students will be able to be under the instruction of a teacher who lets them learn about the subjects and skills they are most interested in.

The Overall Positives

Most parents who choose to send their children to private schools are wooed by the idea of academic growth, college readiness, and career preparedness. Since many charter schools are able to allocate funding towards hiring the most accredited staff and the creation of programs that mesh with students’ goals, both parents and students are pleased with what charter schools can accomplish.

Charter schools often have a certain school culture or environment that entices and encourages students to foster skills and pursue their interests all the while enjoying the company of like-minded peers.

Mixing together the idea of exploration, collaboration, and support forms a spirit of togetherness. How is this possible? Smaller classroom sizes.

Thanks to selective enrollment, charter schools have a lower student-to-faculty ratio. This means that teachers will have more time and opportunities to connect with students and learn about each student’s unique background, interests, and approach to learning. This type of bond is what catapults most young learners toward a brighter future.

All-in-all, charter schools are a great option for parents wanting to give their children specialized education without paying hefty tuition fees.

To get started in your search on finding the charter school that will best suit your family, take time to come up with a list of criteria that suits your needs, then talk to your child about their interests, making sure they have a say in what learning environment they want to explore the most. Finally, visit the schools on a tour to see them in action.

Photo:Freepik.com

Photo:Freepik.com

Aurora Academy of Advanced Learning

Ena Meyers 720-500-5252 aalk8.org

K-8

Aurora Science & Tech Middle School

Jacquelyn Seigle 303-524-6397 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

Aurora Science & Tech High School

Kryszelda Gorrell 303-524-6397 dsstpublicschools.org

9-10

Empower Community High School

Eric Rowe 720-621-5094 empowerhighschool.org

9-12

Global Village Academy Aurora Chris Denmark 720-571-2303 aurora.gvaschools.org

K-8

Rocky Mountain Prep Fletcher

Julieta Garcia-Vicente 720-863-8922 rockymountainprep.org

PreK4-5

Vanguard Classical School East

Tam Smith

303-338-4110 vanguardclassical.org

K-12

Broomfield

Prospect Ridge Academy

Adam DiGiacomo, Steve Thygesen, & Kera Pratt 720-399-0300 prospectridgeacademy.org

K-12

Castle Rock

Renaissance Secondary

Amy Stuart 720-689-6120 rensec.org

6-12

Colorado Springs Academy for Advanced and Creative Learning

Nikki Myers 719-434-6566 academyacl.org

K-8

Eastlake High School

Cassandra Berry 719-300-8947 eastlakehs.net

9-12

Grand Peak Academy

Nicole Parker 719-495-7360 grandpeakacademy.org

PreK-8

New Summit Charter Academy

Jenn Reissig 719-749-4010 newsummitcharter.org

K-8

Rocky Mountain Classical Academy

Cullen McDowell 719-622-8000 rmcacs.org

PreK-8

Commerce City

The STEAD School

Amie Weldy 720-835-2995 thesteadschool.org

9-10

Denver

5280 High School

Kyle Kirby 720-919-1056 5280highschool.org

9-12

Academy 360

Rebecca McLean 303-574-1360 academy-360.org

ECE3-5

American Indian Academy of Denver

Rachel Bachmann Jacobs 720-919-7559 aiadschool.org

6-11

Arrupe Jesuit High School

John Nugent 303-455-7449 arrupejesuit.com

9-12

DSST: Byers Middle School Elin Curry 303-524-6350 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: Byers High School Elin Curry 303-524-6350 dsstpublicschools.org

9-12

DSST: Cole Middle School

Misha Hudak 303-524-6354 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: Cole High School

Misha Hudak 303-524-6354 dsstpublicschools.org

9-12

DSST: College View Middle School

Graham Wynings 303-524-6320 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: College View High School

Bill Knous 303-524-6320

dsstpublicschools.org

9-12

DSST: Conservatory Green Middle School

Jenny Trainer 303-802-4120 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: Conservatory Green High School Meghan Janci 303-802-4127 dsstpublicschools.org

9-12

DSST: Elevate Northeast Middle School Briana Mesa 303-524-6305 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: Elevate Northeast High School Travonda Favorite 303-524-6305 dsstpublicschools.org

9-11

French American School of Denver Suzanne Acheson 720-966-1380 fasdenver.org

K-5

Girls Athletic Leadership School

Leah Bock & Carrie Donovan 303-262-6437 galsdenver.org

6-12

DSST: Green Valley Ranch Middle School

Caroline Gaudiani 303-524-6300 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: Green Valley Ranch High School

Jenny Brown 303-524-6300 dsstpublicschools.org

9-12

Highline Academy Charter School Southwest Campus Sarah Verni-Lau 303-759-7808 highlineacademy.org

K-8

Highline Academy Charter School Northeast Campus

Vanessa Rodriguez 720-485-5172 highlineacademy.org

ECE-5

Monarch Montessori of Denver

Laura Pretty 303-712-2001 monarchm.com

K-5

DSST: Montview Middle School

John Clark 303-524-6380 dsstpublicschools.org

6-8

DSST: Montview High School

Becca Meyer

303-320-5570 dsstpublicschools.org

9-12

Rocky Mountain Prep Berkeley

Kayla Bylund

720-464-3550 rockymountainprep.org

PreK4-5

Rocky Mountain Prep Creekside

Austen Kassinger

720-863-8920 rockymountainprep.org

PreK3-5

Rocky Mountain Prep Southwest Bridget Tiebout

720-464-3533 rockymountainprep.org

PreK4-5

STRIVE Prep - Federal Robert Barrett 720-460-2800 striveprep.org

6-8

STRIVE Prep - Green Valley Ranch

Aisha Williams 303-999-2893 striveprep.org

6-8

STRIVE Prep - Noel

Jay Gordon 303-999-3825 striveprep.org

6-8

STRIVE Prep - Rise

Cate Dance & Thomas Velazquez

720-485-6393 striveprep.org

9-12

STRIVE Prep - Ruby Hill

Andrew McKee 720-460-2800 striveprep.org

K-5

STRIVE Prep - SMART

Chelsea Yondo Feller 303-962-9880 striveprep.org

9-12

STRIVE Prep - Sunnyside

Kelly Gomes 720-723-2000 striveprep.org

6-8

STRIVE Prep - Westwood

Nate Mullen 303-962-9880 striveprep.org

6-8

Vanguard Classical School West

Keria McCafferty

303-691-2384

vanguardclassical.org

K-8

Wyatt Academy

Melody Means

303-292-5515 wyattacademy.org

K-5

Englewood

Parker Performing Arts School

Phil Molfino 720-709-7400 parkerperformingarts.org

K-8

Erie

Aspen Ridge Preparatory School

Rachel Miller 720-242-6225 aspenridgeprepschool.org

PreK-8

Fort Collins Fort Collins Montessori School

Paul Vincent 970-631-8612 focomontessori.org

PreK-6

Highlands Ranch

Ben Franklin Academy

Diana Simpson 720-383-4519 bfacademy.org

PreK-8

STEM School Highlands Ranch

LynAnn Kovalesky 303-683-7836 stemk12.org

K-12

Lafayette

Peak to Peak Charter School

Jennifer Klein 303-453-4600 peaktopeak.org

K-12

Lakewood

Addenbrooke Classical Academy High School Cynthia Lamgo 303-989-1336 addenbrooke.org

9-12

Lively Arts Home School Program

Lynn Pollitt 720-808-5181 mpcshomeschool.org

PreK-8

Littleton Collegiate Academy of Colorado

Christian Becker 303-972-7433 collegiateacademy.net

PreK-12

Longmont St. Vrain Community Montessori School

Katie Torres 303-682-4339 jjurkovich@svcmontessori.org

PreK-8

Firestone Firestone Charter Academy

Jessica Cervantes

303-772-3711 firestone-charter-academy.org

PreK-8

Parker American Academy Steve Colella 720-292-5300 aak8.org

K-8

Global Village Academy Douglas County

Stacy Bush 720-476-8044 douglascounty.gvaschools.org

K-5

Parker Core Knowledge

Trustin Thompson 303-840-7070 ckcs.net

PreK-8

Peyton Liberty Tree Academy

Mrs. Stahnke 719-559-8733 ltaeagles.org

K-12

Thornton Global Village Academy North Nicole Wetzel 303-446-7100 northglenn.gvaschools.org

K-8

Stargate Charter School

Kate Sivarajah 303-450-3936 stargateschool.org

K-12

Westgate Community School

Sharon Collins 303-452-0967 westgateschool.org

K-12

Westminster Woodrow Wilson Academy

Carl Bartusiak 303-431-3694 wwacademy.org

K-8

Woodrow Wilson Academy’s Home School Connection

Chelsea Minshull 720-289-9230 wwahomeschool.org

K-6

Wheat Ridge Mountain Phoenix Community School

Michael Heffernan & Maggie Payne 303-728-9100 mountainphoenix.org

PreK-8 Learn

Charter School Tours

By Austria Cohn

Finding the perfect charter school for your child can be stressful, especially if you don’t know very much about this type of program. From learning style to environment, a lot goes into choosing the right one for your kiddo. Here is a list of charter schools offering tours and open houses that will make that decision a little bit easier.

Most charter schools allow parents to sign up for a private tour to learn more about the school. Sign up online or email the admissions office.

Colorado Springs

New Summit Charter School

February 22 and March 22

7899 Lexington Dr., Colorado Springs

Denver

Academy 360

Wednesday, March 22, from 4-5 p.m.

12000 E 47th Ave., Denver

Girls Athletic Leadership School

February 14 from 10-11:30 a.m.

750 Galapago St., Denver

Rocky Mountain Prep

All Rocky Mountain Prep Schools offer weekly tours.

Fletcher

Thursdays at 1 p.m.

10455 E. 25th Ave., Aurora Creekside

Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

7808 Cherry Creek S. Dr. #3-300, Denver Berkley

Fridays at 10:30 a.m.

3752 Tennyson St., Denver Southwest

Thursdays at 10 a.m.

911 S. Hazel, Denver

Strive Prep Green Valley Ranch

February 2 at 5 p.m.

4800 Telluride St., Denver

Englewood

Parker Performance Arts School

First Wednesday of every month. February 1, March 1, and May 3

Kindle Round-Up

April 21 for all registered kindergarteners. 15035 Compark Blvd., Englewood

Erie

Aspen Ridge Preparatory School

February 7 at 5 p.m. 705 Austin Ave., Erie

Parker

American Academy Castle Pines Campus

March 8 from 6-7:30 p.m.

10260 Twenty Mile Rd., Parker

Photo:Freepik.com

Charter School PROFILES

wellness

6 Tips to Sustain Your Energy Throughout the Day

If you were to create a visual of your energy levels, would it look like the greatest roller coaster to exist? Would it include high peaks (of energy) and several drops that would certainly have you holding onto your hat? If so, you’re not alone.

By Amanda Miller

Our energy levels fluctuate throughout the day. We often start off strong with high energy, but after a grueling day, we find ourselves needing an afternoon pick-me-up to help power us through to bedtime. It can be quite the ride, but it can also be difficult, especially when we have to keep up with kiddos whose energy levels never seem to hit those downward slopes.

Thankfully, there are ways to sustain our energy throughout the day so we can start strong and finish strong.

Food Makes a Difference

We’ve long heard before that the foods we consume play a significant role in how we tackle the day. We also all know that breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day. What we sometimes can forget is how helpful a snack can be in maintaining our energy. It seems our kiddos’ love for snack time is something we should take note of.

Meg Fraley, Family Clinical Supervisor at Nourished Colorado, recommends starting your day with a hearty breakfast followed by a morning snack. From there, have your lunch before fitting in another afternoon snack. She explains, “When we drink coffee or caffeine, it gives us that energy burst, but it’s not sustainable; whereas food gives us that longer sustaining energy. If we don’t have enough from the beginning of the day, we tend to get tired and not have enough energy, and we go to that place where we need caffeine. If we get more [food] in throughout the day, we tend to not have as much of a drop at that point.”

All Foods Are Great

The types and amounts of food one person may need to sustain their energy can differ from what someone else needs. The key is listening to your body to find out what works best for you.

Fraley shares, “When I am looking at what I am going to eat, I am looking at what

foods sound good and what’s going to give me energy, and that differs for everyone. I recommend trying different foods and having your plate be as well-rounded as possible. Make sure you’re hitting all the different groups on that plate like fats, carbs, and protein, and really listen to your body, asking yourself ‘when I eat this, does it give me energy?’”

Make it a Coffee Combo

There’s nothing wrong with an afternoon coffee to give yourself the jolt of energy you may be needing to power through the evening. However, if you find yourself reaching for that cup of joe each day and your energy isn’t kicking into high gear quite like you anticipated, consider pairing your coffee with an energy-sustaining snack.

“I’ll do an afternoon iced coffee and pair it with something else, and what I noticed is when I’m getting tired, that combination really helps. The caffeine really spikes our energy, and then we crash because we’re not giving ourselves something more sustainable. I recommend a pick-me-up of some sort, but I highly recommend adding food. I tend to go for something with protein or carbs at that time,” says Fraley.

Sleep Well and Often

Getting the right amount of sleep at night is difficult. The daily stressors alone are enough to keep us up at night, but trying to get in as many hours of sleep at night as possible will help to keep you alert throughout the day.

Fraley agrees and shares that food can play a role in good, quality sleep. She says, “I think it all goes full circle. If you’re not getting enough food throughout the day, it’s hard for you to get a decent quality sleep. If my patients are struggling to sleep, we’re talking about ‘are you getting enough food?’, ‘is your body waking up because it's hungry?’, and ‘are you fully nourished enough?’ When my patients get enough food, their sleep in turn gets better.”

Get in Movement

When you’re exercising, you may think that you’re getting more tired. However, exercising is actually beneficial in doing the opposite and boosting your energy. According to Dr. Toni Golen and Dr. Hope Ricciotti, exercising boosts oxygen circulation throughout the body. They explain, “This increase in oxygen not only supports the mitochondria’s energy production, it allows your body to function better and to use its energy more efficiently. Plus, your body gets a boost from an exerciseinduced increase in hormone levels that makes you feel more energized.”

The movement you choose to participate in doesn’t have to be extensive either. A little bit will go a long way. Fraley shares, “Movement can give us energy, but I also know as a parent, it’s not always the easiest to get in. Even a 15-minute yoga break or a walk outside can be really helpful.”

Take Screen Breaks

In order to prevent digital eye strain, the American Optometric Association encourages practicing the 20-20-20 rule. What this entails is taking a 20 second break, every 20 minutes, by looking at something 20 feet away. While this helps to prevent eye strain, it can give you a much-needed dose of energy, too.

The 20-second breaks give you time to get an energy-sustaining snack, hydrate, stretch, or step outside to bask in the sun. All of these things can help give you a quick energy boost and get you back on track.

Making these lifestyle changes a habit won’t happen overnight. Between keeping up with kiddos, work, and everything in between, sometimes we’re lucky to even remember to eat something that isn’t what our kiddos left behind for breakfast. It’s going to take time and plenty of reminders, but in the end, it will work out, and you’ll be energized throughout the day, everyday.

Our Planet

Watch the amazing documentary series that will be accompanied by a live orchestra. Feb. 21-23. Colorado Springs, Denver, Beaver Creek. ourplanetinconcert.com

4

Monster Jam

All Monster Truck Fans, prepare to tear up the weekend. There are four times to choose from so jump online today and get a Monster Jam ticket. Feb. 1012. Ball Arena, Denver. monsterjam.com

“It’s a Birds World”

This is a free performance for children and their families to explore the beauty of music (it’s perfect for a child's first concert!). Jump online to reserve a free ticket and watch the Aurora Symphony Orchestra. Feb. 11. Armory Performing Arts Center, Brighton. aurorasymphony.org

Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular

A multimedia laser and light show comes to the Paramount Theatre that’s accompanied by Pink Floyd recordings. There will be 3D and prism glasses to add to the immersive experience. Feb. 25-26. Paramount Theatre, Denver. laserspectacular.com

The Secret Comedy of Women

Enjoy tons of laughs with your girl friends at the girls-only comedy show. Grab a ticket online and choose from a variety of dates and times. Feb. 1-26. Denver Center for the Performing Arts. artscomplex.com

6

Ice Festival

The Cripple Creek Ice Festival returns with an exciting weekend of competitions. Watch the sculpting and vote for your favorite ice sculptures! Feb. 18-26. The city of Cripple Creek. visitcripplecreek.com

A Pandemic Performance 10

Steamboat Winter Carnival

Join the celebration of winter sports at the carnival that has professionals doing amazing tricks, beautiful snow sculptures, family competitions, and so much more! Jump online to see the entire schedule. Feb. 8-12. Howelsen Hill Ski Area, Steamboat Springs. steamboatchamaber.com

Colorado Golf Expo

For all golf lovers, plan to attend the 2023 Colorado Golf Expo. This is a family-friendly event that will have fun activities and deals. Feb. 17-19. Colorado Convention Center, Denver. coloradogolfexpo.com

The original performance, Psyche, is about the true emotions and struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic. This performance is exclusively at the Osborne Studio Theater at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS). The dance performance is by Shayla Mellen, a senior dance major, and she captures the raw emotions from the pandemic and performs them live onstage.

“This performance is about COVID times, more specifically when we were isolated and away from each other,” Mellen says. “I felt like this was a piece that everybody would be able to connect to because everyone had a different experience.”

Nine dancers and the UCCS Department of Theatre and Dance have worked hard to bring this performance to life. There are three dance solos that depict isolation. The first solo focuses on feeling lonely and depressed. The second solo breaks into the anger side of the pandemic. The final solo is about realization.

“Towards the end, it’s being able to realize that there was a reason, and it made us sit with ourselves and become different people,” Mellen says. The end of the show will focus on healing and moving forward after the pandemic.

The hour-long show is for all audiences and is a great way to spend a few hours with the family and support local theater. Tickets are $7 each and can be purchased online at the Ent Center for the Arts webpage. There are show times from February 3 through 12 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, the show starts at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday, the show begins at 4 p.m. with a 10-minute intermission.

“It felt like it was a good thing to bring to the stage and talk about,” Mellen says. “I found music that made me feel like I was in that moment again.”

Osborne Studio Theater, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. entcenterforthearts.org

to do today

February

1 Wednesday

Free Comedy Night

Head to the Wide Right every Wednesday for a free stand-up comedy night. Sign-up at 8:30 p.m. if you want to take the stage and the jokes begin at 9 p.m. Grab a cheap drink and their delicious wings. Wide Right, Denver. Widerightdenver.com

Painting with a Twist

Join the class and paint the Colorado Ripples and enjoy half-off wine bottles. Tickets range from $37 to $49 per person. Arrive early to get your smok and grab a glass of wine before the class starts at 6:30 p.m. Painting with a Twist, Lakewood. paintingwithatwist.com

2 Thursday

Chelsea’s Bingo

6:30-8:30pm

Play bingo every Thursday and Sunday at Century Bingo. Win money and prizes, and enjoy the concession stand that has reasonable prices. This is an excellent activity for families, and they have nightly drawings! Century Bingo, Aurora. chelseahutchisonfoundation.org

Denver Nuggets Game

9-11pm

Support the Denver Nuggets Thursday against the Golden State Warriors. Get tickets online that start at $48 each. This is great for a family activity or a date night. Ball Arena, Denver. nba.com

3 Friday

Lady of the Camellias

The beautiful and raw performance comes to Colorado at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. With a mix of romance and tragedy, Lady of the Camellias will grab everyone’s attention. Dates to see the show start Friday and end February 12. Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver. coloradoballet.org

RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour

12:15-2:45pm

Go on a guided stroll through the epic art district and visit some of the top beer spots (there are ciders for nonbeer drinkers). Tickets for the event are $55 per person, and you can buy tickets online. Ration Beerworks, Denver. denvermicrobrewtour.com

4 Saturday

Colorado Garden & Home Show

Purchase a ticket today to the Colorado Garden and Home Show, which will have hundreds of companies and beautiful flowers! This event is for all ages and begins Friday and ends February 12. Colorado Convention Center, Denver. coloradogardenfoundation.org

Goldens in Golden

11am-1pm

Celebrate your golden retriever with other owners on Saturday in Golden. Take a group photo with the other owners and pups, and meet other people who love their pets! All dogs need to be on a leash, and please clean up after your pooch. Check the website before attending because this event is

weather permitting. Golden Visitors & Information Center. visitgolden.com

5 Sunday

Mama and Me Elephant

11am-1pm

For ages seven and up, paint a “Mama and Me Elephant” that you can cherish forever. There will be alcohol and soft drinks so everyone can find something they enjoy! Prices range from $37 to $49, and you can book a spot for you and your kiddo online. Painting with a Twist, Lakewood. paintingwithatwist.com

Superbowl 5K

9-11:30am

Start Sunday off with the family at the Superbowl 5K in Denver. There will be a Craziest Fan Costume Contest, a Super Bowl warming mug, and a custom finisher medal. Run or walk the 5k, and the Kids Fun run begins at 8:40 a.m. Registration ranges from $30 to $40, and people can reserve a spot online. Wash Park, Denver. rundenverseries.com

6 Monday

Music & Movement

9:30-10:15am

This event is best for children between the ages of two and five with their families. Early learning and development are mixed with music, dancing, movement, and stories! No registration is required, and this is a free class. Broomfield Library. broomfield.org

Public Coffee Tasting

Noon-1pm

Love coffee? Join the Coffee Tasting event led by Miguel Vicuña, a coffee specialist at Sweet Blooms. Try all current and traditional coffee and meet other coffee fanatics. Tickets are $15. Sweet Bloom Coffee, Lakewood. sweetbloomcoffee.com

7 Tuesday

Free Winter Nature Walk

2-3pm

Join the free, family-friendly hike led by a Naturalist that will teach each hiker about the ecology and animals in the mountains. Come prepared for the weather because the group will spend an hour outside. Registration is required, so jump online to reserve a spot. Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon. walkingmountains.org

8 Wednesday

Bilingual Event: Simple Gift Playgroups 9-11am

Enjoy a free, fun morning full of music

Photo by Brett Sayles

and crafts with your kiddo every other week. Meet other parents with young children as your child gets a morning full of playing! Guests don’t have to register, but it’s encouraged. The Historic City Auditorium, Colorado Springs. jointinitiatives.org

DICP Food Bank

9:30-11am

Give back to the community by volunteering at the Denver Inner City Parish Food Bank, which gives families pet food for their furry friends. Jump online to sign up for volunteer opportunities. Denver Inner City Parish. coloradopetpantry.org

9 Thursday

Bilingual Storytime

11-11:30am

Calling all kiddos and their families for a storytime in English and Spanish. Children five and under are suggested, but everyone is welcome. Space is limited, and it's on a first-come, firstserved basis, so arrive early to claim a spot. Loveland Public Library. loveandpubliclibrary.org

Guided Snowshoe Tours

Join a Guided Snowshoe Tour Wednesdays through Saturdays and explore Vail Mountain. This event is for ages 10 and up, and everyone needs to come prepared (check online to see what each guest should bring). This is a free event, but donations are encouraged. Nature Discovery Center, Vail. walkingmountains.com

10 Friday

Craft Stick Harmonica

10am-5pm

Bring your kiddos between the ages of 5 and 12 to the Take And Make: Craft Stick Harmonica. After making a simple

craft stick harmonica, the kids can make some music! Old Colorado City Library, Colorado Springs. ppld.org

Sweetheart Ball

6:15-7:45pm

Dress up with your little sweethearts for the Kids’ Zone Sweetheart Ball! The night will be full of dancing, games, crafts, and food that the entire family will enjoy. For Parker residents, the ball costs $24, and for non-residents, it’s $26 per person. PACE Center, Parker. parkerrec.com

Winter Bike to Work Day

7am-9am

Start the morning off right and ride to work on Friday in Boulder County! There are complimentary breakfast stations to reward all cyclists! Check online to see the Breakfast Station Map. Community Cycles, Boulder. communitycycles.org

11 Saturday

Taylor Fest

8pm

All Swifties should head to Fort Collins for a night full of Talor Swift! Dance, listen to music, and requests songs all night long! Guests under 18 are required to be accompanied by an adult, and tickets start at $20. Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins. z2ent.com

Valentine’s Bash

Noon-6pm

The Valentine’s Bash is perfect for the whole family to celebrate the lovely holiday! There are several activities, including a craft table to make Valentine’s Day cards and over 20 vendors to explore. Admission is free, and the first 50 kids get a free gift! Norris Penrose Event Center, Colorado Springs. norrispenrose.com

12 Sunday

Bob Ross Oils Class

9am-3pm

Enjoy a fun class full of painting beautiful pictures. Learn techniques and use Bob Ross's licensed materials. There will be beer, wine, soda, coffee, and more! Reserve a spot online before the class fills up. Sipping N’ Painting Hampden, Denver. sippingnpaintinghampden.com

Valentine’s Day Partner Yoga + Thai Massage

Noon-1:30pm

For friends and couples, enjoy a relaxing and lovely yoga and massage session. Any singles that are interested in joining can email Yoga Pearl and find a partner. For two people it is $40. Yoga Pearl, Boulder. yogapearl.com

Valentine’s Flower Class

11am-1pm

Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your favorite gals and make a beautiful flower arrangement (while drinking champagne!). Book tickets online for $75 each. Ticket costs include all supplies needed and champagne. Something Styled, Golden. somethingstyledevents.com

13 Monday

Charlotte’s Web

10am

The Charlotte’s Web story comes to life in the theater with a performance that kids will love! Follow the unique story about a strange friendship between a pig and a spider. This play is recommended for grades Kindergarten through fifth. The show is recurring until March 3. Arcade Center for the Arts and Humanities. arvadacenter.org

Sensory Processing Disorder

Parenting Group

11:30am-1pm

This group meets monthly and is for parents who have children with Sensory Processing Disorders. Gain support and chat with parents who are in a similar situation as you. Sarah’s Office, Denver. sarahahn.com

14 Tuesday

Donation-Based Meditation

10-10:30am

For Valentine’s Day, show yourself some love by starting the morning off with meditation. At the beginning of the class, donate what you can and enjoy the relaxing meditation session. Sign up for the course online to reserve a spot. Anahata Yoga & Wellness, Minturn. anahatayogaco.com

One Love

6-10pm

Dust off your fancy clothes from the

closet you never get to wear and head to the One Love Jermaine’s Annual Jamaican Dinner. Bring your family or make it a date night and enjoy a fantastic dinner, silent auction, and dancing! Fred Field Center, Gunnison. gunnisoncrestedbutte.com

16 Thursday

On Your Feet!

7:30pm

Enjoy the exciting performance that is based on the inspiring true story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan. The musical shows the heart and heritage of two people who believed in themself and each other. The show beings Thursday and ends on Feb. 18. The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins. lctix.com

Telluride Comedy Festival

8pm

Jump online and reserve a seat for the 23rd Annual Telluride Comedy Festival. Tickets range from $40 to $75. If you can’t make it Thursday, pick a time for another weekend day. The Sheridan Opera House, Telluride. sheridanoperahouse.com

17 Friday

Midwinter Bluegrass Festival

Enjoy a weekend full of music at the Midwinter Bluegrass Festival beginning Friday and ending Feb. 19. The festival features Della Mae, Special Consensus, AJ Lee and Blue Summit, and so many more amazing artists! Tickets range from $25 to $105. Delta Hotels by Marriott, Northglenn. midwinterbluegrass.com

RZA and the Colorado Symphony Present: 36 Chambers of Shaolin and A Ballet Through Mud

Through February 18

From the mind of RZA – Colorado Symphony Imagination Artist and de facto leader of the Wu-Tang Clan – comes a symphonic doublefeature that bridges the gap between classical and contemporary music. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org

The Fly Fishing Show

10am

Calling all fly fishers to join the show from Friday to Sunday. Connect with business owners, manufacturers, and fly fishing professionals. Prices range from $18 to $38 for adult tickets. Guests can buy tickets at the gate, but it’s cash-only the day of. Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Aurora. flyfishingshow.com

18 Saturday

Carnivale Parade

Find flowers for your loved one on February 4.

1pm

Plan to attend the free 2023 Manitou Springs Carnivale Parade. The theme for the parade is Manitou Time Machine, so grab your beads and costumes and celebrate Mardi Gras. This is a family-friendly event that everyone is encouraged to attend. Memorial Park, Manitou Springs. manitousprings.org

Denver FamilyFest

Noon-6pm

The 5th Annual Indoor Denver FamilyFest is back with vendors, prizes, and fun activities. Children under 12 are free, online early-bird tickets are $10, and tickets are $15 at the door. Everyone in the family will love the activities planned, like a meet and greet with the Ghostbusters, free face painting, and pictures with Clifford the Big Red Dog! Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Denver. wingmuseum.org

19 Sunday Colorado Avalanche

1pm

Get ready for an exciting game where the Colorado Avalanche plays the Edmonton Oilers. Buy tickets online and wear something warm because the game is on ice! Ball Arena, Denver. nhl.com

Intergalactic Symphony Spectacular

2:30pm

The Colorado Symphony is boldly going where no orchestra has gone before! With space-themed favorites from John Williams' scores for Close Encounters of the Third Kind, E.T. the Extra Terrestrial, and Star Wars, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Holst's The Planets, and more, this program will be out of this

world! Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org

Lucky Stiff

One stop for an amazing Valentine’s Date that includes a multiple-course meal, cocktails, and a hilarious musical. This is perfect for a date day or night with friends! Buy tickets online that are $42 each. Steel City Theatre Company, Pueblo. steelcitytheatre.org

Mardi Gras Cookie Decorating 10am-12pm Have fun and celebrate Mardi Gras

by decorating cookies! Everyone is welcome to celebrate and appreciate the food, culture, and fun festivities for the entire family to enjoy. Grab a ticket online for $44. Sweet Addict Bakery, Colorado Springs. sweetaddictbakery.com

20 Monday

Farm to Fork: Cozy Cooking

8:30am-5pm

Learn the basics of cooking by creating a beautiful dish with vegetables, spices, and herbs. When the kiddos aren’t cooking, they will play and learn about the winter garden. Hawthorn Farm, Boulder. growinggardens.org

Ninja Camp Day 9am-3pm

Sign your kiddo up for the single-day ninja camp full of fun activities, snacks, skill-building, and even lunch! The camp costs $85 a day, and a waiver is required to be signed before your child can jump into the fun. Ninja Nation, Centennial. centennial. ninjanation.com

21 Tuesday

Mardi Gras 9am-12pm

Celebrate Mardi Gras by eating delicious Cajun and Creole dishes while listening to stories and history. The French Kitchen Culinary Center will recreate the legendary Café Du Monde beignets. Registration is $89 per person. The French Kitchen Culinary Center, Colorado Springs. tfkcc.com

Mardi Gras Concert

3-5pm

The Mardi Gras tradition returns to Snowmass Village for another exciting year of festivities! Get ready for an epic Bud Hi-Fi concert and other activities, including the King and Queen of Mardi Gras. Carriage Way, Snowmass Village. gosnowmass.com

22 Wednesday

Game On! 3:30-5pm

For ages 13 through 17, the Denver Public Library invites gamers to play the Wii Switch, Playstation 4, Xbox, and virtual reality. There are also board games so everyone can find a game they like. For disability accommodations, jump online and make a request. Denver Public Library. denverlibrary.org

Goonanaturewalkwith thefamilyonFebruary7.

Enjoyaweekendfullof musiconFebruary17.

Potato Chip Challenge

4-5pm

Celebrate the inventor of potato chips, George Crum, during Black History Month at the Louisville Public Library. Taste different flavors of potato chips and vote on your favorite. This event is for grades from first to sixth, and registration is required. Louisville Public Library. louisville-library.org

23 Thursday

Aspen Laugh Festival

7:30-9:30pm

Get ready to laugh until it hurts at the Aspen Laugh Festival. Choose between five days to enjoy the hilarious performances at the historic Wheeler Opera House. Thursday, Pete Lee, who has performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, will be doing an amazing stand-up comedy show. Buy a single ticket or a festival pass. Wheeler Opera House, Aspen. wheeleroperahouse.com

Denver Short Film Festival

7:30pm

The Short Film Festival promotes a unique genre by showing films varying in length from one to 20 minutes. This is a perfect date for film fanatics

or a fun exploration night for friends to learn more about short films at the historic Mayan Theater. General admission tickets are $17.50, and no one under the age of 17 will be allowed to attend. The Mayan Theater, Denver. denvershortfilmfestival.com

24 Friday

Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto

Through February 26

One of the most accomplished of all piano works, Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto features a striking opening movement and a glorious finale, with beauty and virtuosic style throughout that makes it one of the composer’s best. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org

Impossible Things

7:30-9:30pm

Get ready for a magical night that is full of deception! This is an original magic show that will have the whole audience in awe. This show is meant for a night out for adults, but children are welcome. General admission is $35 each, and the front row is $40. Cosmo’s Magic Theater, Colorado Springs. cosmosmagictheater.com

25 Saturday

Denver Travel & Adventure Show

Through February 26

Discover thousands of vacation options from the top destinations, tour operators and travel providers from around the globe. Colorado Convention Center, Denver. travelshows.com

Tutu Tea Party

2-3:30pm

Get creative with some crafts, dive into a storytime, and sip tea with your favorite little ones. This will be provided by the Colorado Ballet and is suggested for ages five through eight. Register online today. College Hil Library, Westminster. cityofwestminster.us

26 Sunday

Cocoa and Cuddles Tour

1-2:30pm

Head to Erie for a hot cocoa and cuddles tour at the Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary. Show some love to amazing animals with your family. Make sure to reserve a spot online. Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary, Erie. luvinarms.org

Free admission to the Museum

Free admission to the Denver Museum

of Nature and Science is back! Explore the world's wonders through science with your kiddos at the museum. Make sure to check out the kids' area, which has several fun activities for the youngsters. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. dmns.org

27 Monday

Colorado Avalanche

6-10pm

Get ready for an exciting game where the Colorado Avalanche plays the Vegas Golden Knights. Buy tickets online and wear something warm because the game is on ice! Ball Arena, Denver. nhl.com

28 Tuesday

Boulder Tuesday Hikers

9am-4pm

Join the Boulder Tuesday Hikers at North Boulder Park for a beautiful nature walk. This is a free event, and the trail to hike is decided by who shows up. Bring water, food, and snacks, and be prepared for the weather conditions.

North Boulder Park, Boulder. bouldercolorado.gov

The weekend of February 23, join the largest conference of its kind that will be addressing the latest nutritional approaches.

Prepare to hear about the benefits of a Low Carb, Keto, High Protein, Carnivore, Low Carb Vegetarian, and so many more unique nutritional approaches.

Ask questions, learn, and devise a meal plan that works for you and your family. There will also be information about health issues like heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Doctors, researchers, scientists, and nutritionists will be there to help teach different treatment options and preventive measures.

The conference schedule includes a variety of health-related

speakers who will have engaging presentations and Q & A style sessions. There is a live-stream option available for anyone who can’t attend the conference in-person. Make a relaxing weekend out of it by heading to the front range and reserving a room at The Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center. The resort offers fantastic amenities like a beautiful water park, burgers and drinks at the sports bar, and other activities and entertainment.

Feb. 23-26. Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Aurora. lowcarbevents.com

Right Foods Can Be Powerful Like Medicine"

Scrolling through social media or talking with friends at dinner, we all hear about the diets that “will change our life.” Everybody is unique, and some diets and meal plans work for some and not others.

At the Gaylord Rockies Resort, you can attend the Low Carb Conference, which will have healthcare and non-healthcare professionals present to help you understand different nutrition plans.

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fresh mindset

I want her to strive for her career goals and never give up. No matter what job she has, there will always be an impact on people.

TATUM LYONS is a Certified Nurse Assistant that does in-home care and finds joy in helping others. Tatum is also a single parent who loves to cook with her daughter, Mercedes, who is three years old. She hopes her daughter will never give up her dreams, no matter what obstacles she might encounter.