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St Vrain’snationallyrecognizedschoolsandprogramsofferavarietyofpathwaysforfamilies tochoosefrom,ensuringthebestmatchfortheirstudent’sneedsandinterests Open Enrollmentisanopportunitywhenfamiliescanrequesttheirstudentattendaschooloutsideof theirneighborhoodschool.StudentswhodonotlivewithinSt.VrainValleySchools’boundaries butwanttoattendaschoolinSt.Vraincanalsocompletetheopenenrollmentform.
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inside
Navigating School Choice
Finding the Perfect School: Tips for Families Moving to a New Community
Exploring Classical, Montessori and Waldorf Options
What is the Difference Between a Private and a Charter School?
Faith-Based Education
Finding the Perfect Preschool
Balancing Act: Find the Right Mix of Activities for Kids
Little Scientists: How STEM is Shaping Preschool Learning
Parenting Wisdom: Books to Guide, Inspire and Support Your Journey
Impact on Education: Investing in Your Student’s Wellbeing
Simple Hacks at Home to Make School a Success
Ladies in the Lumberyard
Recipes: Manage Hectic Mornings with Quick, Healthy Breakfasts
Whether you choose the school down the street or a private school a town over to meet your child’s needs, now is the time for families to tour schools, ask questions and, in many cases, register or apply for the 2025-26 school year
Parents may wish to start the search with a map in hand: Consider how far your family is able or willing to drive, walk or bike to school and what schools are located within your ideal radius. This is also the time to evaluate your family’s educational priorities. “The top factors to consider when comparing schools are the average class size, the tenure and experience of the teaching faculty, the specific support services available for your child and the academic
Tour schools now for the best fit next year
“A school’s mission and values should align with your family values and speak to the kind of education you want for your child.”
and extracurricular opportunities available to all students,” said Chris Ingwalson, director of marketing and communications at Dawson School in Lafayette. Susan Boyle, chief enrollment and strategy officer at Boulder Country Day School, added, “A school’s mission and values should align with your family values and speak to the kind of education you want for your child.”
Jen Wilger, executive director of Temple Grandin School in Boulder, encouraged parents to involve students in the decisionmaking process. “Ask them if they can see themselves at this school and whether they think they might find friends who share their interests,” she said. To this end, Ingwalson recommended that families interact with faculty, students and parents during a school open house “to get a complete picture of what the
(Photo: Boulder Country Day School).
culture is like.”
Taylor Replane, director of enrollment management at Friends School Boulder, said families should ask at least three questions when touring a school: “How is the school meeting the individual needs of the students? What is the balance between academics and social-emotional development? Do you feel a sense of belonging when visiting the school and engaging in their admissions process?”
Some families may choose a school to meet a particular need for their child. At Boulder Country Day School, class sizes are kept small so that teachers can get to know each student and find what “lights their fire,” Boyle said. Other schools, such as Temple Grandin School for children who are neurodivergent, are designed to serve the needs of a specific student population. Wilger explained, “For students who want to find ‘their people,’
we provide a supportive community of peers who share similar strengths, interests and challenges.”
Many parents consider extracurriculars and before- and after-school care when selecting a school. Public and private schools alike offer various services, with select schools focusing more on STEM activities, sports, theater and music. Parents can ask to see a list of offerings and cost options.
Speaking of cost, public schools may provide speech, occupational or other therapies to a student, depending on academic and behavioral needs, through an Individualized Educational Plan or 504 Plan. Many private schools offer scholarships and financial aid.
“In the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD), we are very inclusive We welcome every student and work to provide an inclusive and equitable environment,” said Randy
Barber, chief communications officer with BVSD “All abilities are supported in every BVSD school, so it becomes more about a child’s preferences in terms of programming and extracurricular activities, as well as the culture and personality at each building.”
While a few Boulder County private schools, including Dawson School and Temple Grandin
School, operate on a rolling application schedule, most are opening their application process now BVSD’s open enrollment window runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 8, though children enrolling in their neighborhood school can do so anytime. Visit school and district websites to sign up for tours, apply or register.
(Photo: Temple Grandin School).
(Photo: Dawson School).
(Photo: Boulder Valley School District).
FINDING THE PERFECT SCHOOL
BY ROSS MAAK for Raised in the Rockies
As parents moving to a new community, one of the greatest challenges can be finding the right schools and school districts for your children.
Schools can vary drastically, even within the same district, when it comes to differences between public schools, charter schools, private schools, test scores, parent involvement opportunities, extracurricular activities and more.
Pam Metzger, Vice President of Relocation and Corporate Services for WK Real Estate in Boulder, deals with these types of situations every day. As a member of the real estate community, Metzger isn’t in the business of guiding parents toward or away from specific schools or districts. Instead, she focuses on helping them find the information they need to make an informed decision.
Here are some tips for those preparing for a family move:
Set priorities
“Just as we would ask someone what’s important to them about a house they want to live in –do they want a big yard or a basement or a ranch-style home? – we ask them what’s important about a school for their kids,” Metzger said.
So first, a family should decide what’s important to them. Are they looking for a school with high test scores? A great theater department? A juggernaut of a basketball team? A great view of
Tips for families moving to a new community
the mountains? All of the above?
“Every child and every family is different,” Metzger said. “Not one school or district is a one-sizefits-all. Here, we’re very fortunate to have great schools in every area, and we can help provide a comprehensive school guide for parents to help them find the right spot.”
Online resources
Metzger said she typically starts the process with parents by guiding them toward the Colorado Department of Education’s website.
“They publish schoolaccountability reports laying out demographics, teacher ratings, test scores, safety ratings, how they use funds and more,” Metzger said. “It’s the best way to get factual and accurate information.”
There are a few other sites that can complement the search, including niche.com, greatschools. org and schooldigger.com. Niche, for instance, uses authentic personal experience in addition to data to produce rankings. It adds in things best places to live, best districts and best colleges, in case a parent is looking for more information.
School types
Sometimes, parents seek a more specialized type of learning or something more non-traditional. According to the Colorado Department of Education website, there are more than 260 charter schools in the state.
“These are public schools but run separately from the school district,” Metzger said.
Private schools are, of course,
always an option as well.
In-person visits
“Once a parent has used online research to hone in on a geographic location, they can pick a handful of schools of high interest,” Metzger said. “Then they can try to arrange visits in person.
“There’s nothing like stepping in the doors of a building, meeting the faculty, staff, volunteers and seeing the students running around in their environments. That’s a great way to see if it’s a good fit.”
Metzger also said reaching out to a school’s Parent-Teacher Organization can be a great way to get references. Many PTOs will put you in contact with current parents at the school who have kids of similar ages.
Things to keep in mind
There are a couple potential landmines, however. First, if a parent is coming in mid-year and moves geographically close
to a charter school, there’s no guarantee their child will be able to attend that school.
“In a lot of cases, charter school test scores are high,” Metzger said. “If that’s a high concern for a parent, they may pick that school. If they’re not arriving until November, for instance, the charter schools typically have a lottery process to get in for the following school year …
“There’s usually no openings mid-year, and it can be a very competitive process to enroll.”
Also, many schools have specific guidelines around inperson visits, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s not always easy to visit a school anymore,” Metzger warns. “Typically, a school will have an open house for prospective students during the fall. If you’re coming in, say, March, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a school tour during that time.”
She recommends calling ahead if you know when you’re coming for a visit and attempting to schedule a tour well ahead of time.
As parents moving to a new community, one of the greatest challenges can be finding the right schools and school districts for your children.
EDUCATION
Exploring Classical, Montessori and Waldorf Options
BY COURTNEY JOHNSON for Raised in the Rockies
In Colorado, parents are lucky to have many choices regarding their child(‘s) education. School choice is always a hot topic, especially with the proposal of Amendment 80 on the November ballot, adding language stating a “right to school choice” into the Colorado Constitution.
Navigating the educational system can be quite challenging when figuring out the best learning style for your child(ren). When looking for the best environment, discuss the specific needs of your child to choose the right fit. Read on to learn more about Classical, Montessori and Waldorf school choice options.
Classical
A classical education is built on the trivium — three liberal
language arts introduced by Dorothy Sayers in an essay in 1947 called The Lost Tools of Learning. Translated to the Grammar, Logic and Rhetorical Stages, these align with child development.
An additional component is added to a Classical Christian education. “The ACCS (Association of Classical Christian Schools) emphasizes a Christcentered curriculum, focusing on traditional subjects taught through a biblical worldview and the classical trivium (grammar, logic, and rhetoric),” said Brigette Modglin, Founding Family Member and Board Member of Summit Classical Academy in Broomfield.
The classical educational journey begins with a focus on grammar, building the foundation for stronger readers and writers, and includes cursive handwriting. “Students focus on memorization
and foundational knowledge across subjects, said Modglin. In the Logic stage, from approximately six to eighth grade developmental age, depending on the school, the focus turns to critical thinking, reasoning and understanding subject knowledge at a deeper level. “It includes a rigorous reading of novels cover to cover,” said the Director of Twin Peaks Classical Academy in Longmont, Joseph Mehsling. At Twin Peaks, students grades 6th12th receive 4-6 novels a year to “annotate and make footnotes in. It is literacy at its core,” he said. Papers are handwritten and edited on paper. Technology isn’t introduced until students are ready to create the final product. In the upper grades, the trivium is all brought together Critical thinking skills move on to rhetorical analysis with knowledge, facts and persuasive arguments.
Although charter school enrollment has declined recently, Classical charter schools have grown. “Kids seek truth, beauty and goodness,” said Mehsling. “If children can read, write and do math well, they can be successful at anything they do,” said Mehsling. “If there are gaps, those doors close. Every student deserves a classical education,” he said.
Montessori
The Montessori method of education began in Italy in the early 20th century when physician Maria Montessori focused on children’s natural interests rather than formal teaching methods. A Montessori classroom emphasizes hands-on learning and developing real-world skills cognitive, social emotional and physical.
A true Montessori school focuses on the whole child. “It follows the child,” said Mona Chughtai, Director/AMS Montessori Certified Teacher and Positive Discipline Parent Educator at Children’s World Montessori in Erie. “All of us are individuals with different needs and interests. We look at what the child wants and tap into their interests, so the child will learn better.” Learning is sensory, hands-on and individualized, taking those interests and creating lessons in art, music, science, social studies, reading and math. Child-led experiences are the focus of Montessori. “We don’t place focus on academics. It organically happens as that is how
Looking at all stages of child development, including social emotional, intellectual and physical development, Waldorf education crafts teaching methods, curriculum and subject topics. (Photo: Boulder Valley Waldorf School).
the classroom is set up materialwise,” said Chughtai. “It is sort of like osmosis. Children just absorb it. Children want to learn and love to learn. It creates awe and wonder. What if, what is…”
With multi-age classrooms (ages 2-6 in Chughtai’s case), everything is designed to meet the child at their level. “We see where the child is. We meet them there and then take them up.”
Chughtai points out that 95% of brain development is done by age 5. Montessori, therefore, centers on hands-on and multi-sensory learning around practical life skills and developing confidence. “Montessori helps children not to be followers but leaders who make great decisions. They can stick to their values. I choose this or that.”
With a Montessori base, a parent coaching piece and a social-emotional piece, an emphasis is placed on practical life skills, problem-solving and self-correction. “In an authentic Montessori, we teach selfregulation and self-control,” said Chughtai. “Emotional intelligence is a lifelong thing. Developing focus and concentration sets up children for success, especially as they move on to elementary education.”
Respect for the child while teaching the child to respect themselves, others, and their environment, whether the classroom or the outdoor
environment, is also important to a Montessori education. “Montessori has beautiful things to offer,” said Chughtai. “With its educational philosophies, it creates well-rounded aware individuals to be wonderful community members.”
Waldorf
Based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf is a whole-body approach to education. Referred to as the Steiner education, it was created in Europe over 100 years ago.
Looking at all stages of child development, including social emotional, intellectual and physical development, Waldorf education crafts teaching methods, curriculum and subject topics. Using the timetable of development, a Waldorf education changes over time. “The content, rhythm, and methods in Waldorf education recognize that the child’s emerging consciousness and learning modalities change over time, “ said Ruth Godberfforde, Assistant School Director of Boulder Valley Waldorf School.
Beginning with exposure to play-based sensory activities for two to four-year-olds, a Waldorf education matures to fostering creativity, imagination and natural curiosity in the elementary grades.“Waldorf education
addresses the whole child – head, heart and hands – in a balanced way to prepare children with the full range of skills and capacities needed for a meaningful life,” she said. “In middle school, children are now empowered to take that “front seat” for their learning environment, with a more Socratic-style approach and discussion groups.”
While a Waldorf education is individualized, there is an emphasis on relationship building, and collaboration fostered even in the earliest educational experiences. “Waldorf integrates learning through thematic projects weaving writing, moving,
creating, arts, music, science and math into meaningful, practical experiences for students, fostering lifelong engagement, learners, and contributing community members,” said Godberfforde. Emphasizing active participation from an early age, Waldorf begins with socialemotional learning to open the doors to study. “Time is built into the daily schedule for students to develop and regulate their senses,” said Godberfforde. “Celebrating unique strengths and talents and working on areas for growth are made easier by a sense of engagement as cooperation takes priority over competition.”
A classical education is built on the trivium—three liberal language arts introduced by Dorothy Sayers in an essay in 1947 called The Lost Tools of Learning. Translated to the Grammar, Logic, and Rhetorical Stages, these align with child development. (Photo: Summit Classical Academy).
A Waldorf education matures to fostering creativity, imagination and natural curiosity in the elementary grades. (Photo: Boulder Valley Waldorf School)
What is the difference between a private and a charter school?
BY JARED FIEL
for Raised in the Rockies
Photos courtesy: Prospect Ridge Academy
When choosing where to send your kids for school, it’s good to know the difference between private and charter schools.
Well, the short answer is charter schools are public schools who get state and federal funding based on enrollment while private schools are funded by tuition, endowments and fundraising.
But there are many other differences, even just among charter schools.
“Prospect Ridge Academy does take pride in our ability to provide a rigorous, college preparatory K-12 for all our
students,” said David Wilson, Communications and Engagement Manager for the Broomfield charter school. “PRA’s studentfocused initiatives meet the student where they are, whether that is with gifted and talented programming, or with extra assistance from our specialists team.”
Katie Gustafson, Executive Principal at Flagstaff Academy in Longmont, agrees services can be different. “We offer a rigorous academic program in addition to whole child development that includes a robust character education program, social emotional learning, a greenhouse classroom, and a variety of Essentials classes in the areas of science, technology, visual arts, music, and physical education,”
she said.
When choosing between a charter and a private school, here are some other differences –beyond tuition and funding – our experts pointed out:
Admissions: Private schools could have testing requirements
or additional admission requirements. Charter schools are open to all students within a designated jurisdiction. Crowded charter schools may have to go to a lottery system if applications exceed spaces available.
Religious and political
SHAPING MINDS, NURTURING HEARTS, INSPIRING SMILES
BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE FOR K-5TH
YMCA Before & After School Care sets out to give kids both smile-inspiring escapades and foundational experiences. The Y is a state-licensed organization that provides a safe, supportive environment that focuses on learning, developing interests and making friends.
•Available for select BVSD, SVVSD , Weld RE-J5 and Thompson schools
•Full-time, part-time and drop-in options
•School Day Off Camp and Late Start Day options
EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE
YMCA Inspire Preschool (Longmont, Johnstown and Loveland locations) provides early childhood education for preschoolers (ages 2.5 to 6; Loveland location ages 3-6). Our Boulder Early Childhood location offers care for ages 6 weeks to 6 years.
•Full-time and part-time options
•Open year-round
•Comprehensive preschool curriculum
•Universal Preschool Colorado elligible.
Financial assistance and CCAP are available to those who qualify.
influence. Private schools can have leanings while charter schools must meet state and district standards for objectivity
Academic standards and teaching credentials. Again, charters school must meet state and federal standards and private
schools have more flexibility Student and teacher demographics. Charter schools tend to reflect more of what the community looks like.
EDUCATION
faith-based EDUCATION
Christian schools in Northern Colorado offer learning with purpose
BY MATTHEW L. VAN DEVENTER for Raised in the Rockies
Many Christian schools dot Northern Colorado, giving parents and students more choice and opportunity in K–12 education.
Crossroads School in Longmont offers a haven for sixth through 12th graders who may otherwise not thrive in a traditional school setting because of learning disabilities, mental health issues or a chaotic household, to name a few reasons.
Staff and faculty sign a statement of faith, ensuring the delivery of a consistent Christian philosophy Students are not required to be Christian but must express different viewpoints respectfully
“We give them an exposure to a Christian worldview and
Vista Ridge Academy provides students “a Biblical, Jesus-centered education. Not only do students learn about the Bible, they have opportunities to serve their local community (Photo: Vista Ridge Academy).
the opportunity to decide for themselves whether they want to embrace it or not,” stated the school’s executive director, Barb Bulthuis.
Their teachings integrate “Christian values and the love of Jesus into the curriculum and day-to-day activities,” explained Bulthuis. They also promote ethical behavior and character development, thus instilling virtues like honesty, respect and kindness.
Also located in Longmont, St. John the Baptist Catholic School has been educating students academically and spiritually for the last 100 years.
The school’s principal, Stacey Chavez, said, “Our challenging curriculum and extraordinary attention from faculty help form students who achieve academic excellence and are highly prepared for high school and beyond.”
As a Christian school in Erie, Vista Ridge Academy provides students “a Biblical, Jesuscentered education,” said second and third-grade teacher, Rachel Fetroe. Not only do students learn about the Bible, they have opportunities to serve their local community
This spring, Vista Ridge Academy will celebrate its 125th year as a Seventh-Day Adventist Christian School. They enroll preschoolers to eighth-graders and encourage cross-age relationships so that students know they have friends everywhere. Fetroe said their teaching focuses on the whole body: heart, body, and mind.
Fetroe continued, “The lens of hope, offered by Jesus, for both now and the future is something that can give students courage to be the best they can be and to help those around them as well.”
New High School Now Open
Shining Mountain offers a vibrant curriculum, with rigorous academics supported by the arts and tailored to align with human development.
This education goes beyond traditional standards, nurturing the whole person and fostering authenticity and confidence for life
Finding the Perfect EDUCATION PRESCHOOL
Expert tips to guide your search
BY DARIAN ARMER for Raised in the Rockies
The moment you become a parent, the worrying begins. Is my child where they should be developmentally? Are they eating enough? Eating too little? Should they already know
their letters? Should they be involved in sports yet?
The questions abound, and while we don’t have all the answers, we gathered some tips from professionals about what to look for in a preschool for your child.
First, all the administrators below say it’s important to know that there is no onesize-fits-all preschool program. Before getting into educational ideologies, narrow down the basics like: Hours of operation, Full-time versus Part-time classes, Home-based versus center-based programs.
Once you’ve found schools meeting the above criteria, schedule a time to tour them.
“If possible, ask for a tour during class hours to see the students and teachers in action. Do the students look happy? Are they engaged in activities? Are the teachers interacting with students? What is the noise level in the room? How big are the class sizes? Ask the director about their safety protocols, how they handle disciplinary issues and their philosophy on education,” says Sara Godwin, director of the Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten.
Amy May, owner of Treehouse Learning, says, “In a quality preschool program, there isn’t an actual distinction between play-based learning and academics because playful learning experiences are the most effective way for children to learn the foundations necessary for all academics. Through play and intentionally guided playful experiences, children learn literacy and pre-literacy concepts, math and science concepts, as well as other critical skills like problemsolving, communication, selfdiscipline and more.”
Amy French Troy of TLC
Learning Center echoes that sentiment.
“As an educator, I don’t think that play-based learning and academics are mutually exclusive; rather, they work symbiotically to ensure that learning is fun and that children can connect their learning, their play and the real world,” says French Troy. “If we want kids to get jazzed about learning and stay enthusiastic as the difficulty of their schoolwork inevitably increases, we have to get them excited about learning from a very young age.”
Now that you know what to look for in a preschool, the experts have some tips for when to begin your search.
Amy May says the Fall or Winter, the year before your child is ready to go to preschool, is a good time to begin looking so you’re ready to decide in the spring.
Amy French Troy says it’s never too early to start thinking about what kind of educational setting you would like for your child. She encourages families to explore the types of financial assistance their prospective preschool offers because the cost of high-quality early learning can be very expensive.
With potentially lengthy waitlists, it makes sense to start your search early
For more information about Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten, visit broomfieldumc.org/apple-treechristian. For more information about Treehouse Learning, visit treehouselearning.com. For more information about TLC Learning Center, visit learningwithtlc.org.
In the fall or winter, the year before your child is ready to go to preschool, is a good time to begin looking so you’re ready to decide in the spring.
PARENTING
Finding the right mix of activities for kids
BY LISA TRUESDALE for Raised in the Rockies
Participating in various in-school and after-school activities is vital for children and young adults.
“They help provide kids with new peer groups and mentors and help them learn values and life lessons,” says Andra Coberly Webster, executive director of communications for YMCA of Northern Colorado.
Yet being overscheduled or concentrating on only one type of activity can also be stressful for kids. It’s important to find a balance.
“While excelling in specific activities can boost self-esteem
ACT AC BALANCING
and skill acquisition, a wellrounded schedule ensures they don’t miss out on other vital experiences,” says Cynthia Burdine, owner and artistic director of Kinesis Dance.
Coberly Webster suggests signing kids up for activities with their friends.
Kinesis Dance
Kinesis Dance offers a range of programs designed to inspire and engage young dancers. “For the Littles” introduces ages 2-6 to the joy of movement and rhythm.
“While excelling in specific activities can boost self-esteem and skill acquisition, a well-rounded schedule ensures they don’t miss out on other vital experiences,
“It makes the activity a little more exciting, and for parents, carpooling can make everyone’s lives a little easier.”
Here are six area options to consider when crafting a wellrounded activity schedule for kids.
“Everybody Dance” is tailored for ages 6-18, providing comprehensive dance training across various styles.
“Through regular participation, children learn the importance of commitment, dedication, and perseverance, understanding that progress requires consistent
effort,” says Burdine. Kinesis Dance also hosts camps on school days off, a Saturday dance club, and numerous community events. For details, visit kinesisdance.com
YMCA of Northern Colorado
YMCA programs include beforeand after-school programs, plus camps for students K-5 on school days off. Youth sports options include ice programs and basketball leagues in the fall and winter, plus swim lessons.
“The Y is so convenient because parents can sign their kids up for so many different things in one location, so they’re not spending all their time driving from place to place,” says Coberly Webster “They can even get their own workout in while their kids play.” For all programs, visit ymcanoco.org
Thorne Nature Experience. (Photo: Chris Shinn/Thorne Nature Experience)
Boulder Ballet
Boulder Ballet offers dance classes for all ages and abilities, including a professional company that performs across the metro area.
“Dance not only builds discipline, self-expression, and resilience but also fosters a close-knit community where lifelong friendships are forged,”
says Wendy Timmerman, marketing director. “Children gain confidence and explore creativity in a supportive and nurturing environment by focusing on dance as a core activity.” For details, visit boulderballet.org
Thorne Nature Experience
The curriculum at Thorne
Nature Experience builds on classroom learning to foster a connection to nature, and also motivates children to appreciate the important role that nature plays in their daily lives. Preschool, in-school, after-school, and summer programs are held throughout the metro area and include nature mentorship, unstructured
play, and deep exploration of natural areas. Thorne recently opened their new headquarters, the Lafayette Nature Center, free for the public to visit. LNC is a nature play center that includes play areas, space for the community to gather, and community programs presented in Spanish and English. For details, visit thornenature.org
Thorne Nature Experience. (Photo: Chris Shinn/Thorne Nature Experience)
Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids
RMTK’s mission is “to inspire youth in their creative process while raising their performance standards to achieve theatrical excellence.” Students of all skill and experience levels can participate in productions during the school year and in summer camps
RMTK also offers in-person private acting, dance, voice and auditioning lessons. “The making of theater organically builds our youths’ connection to themselves and to each other, essential for the creation of emotionally mature and aware adults,” says Michelle Romero, artistic director
NamaSTEM
Founded by former teachers, NamaSTEM offers cutting-edge, hands-on, STEM-based programs, including programming with drones, 3D design and printing, robotics, cybersecurity, Minecraft, and customized programs.
“We also provide mindfulness practices like yoga, Pilates, and meditation, which adds another level of benefit for our students,” says Bruce Wyman, one of NamaSTEM’s founders. Though they currently work with ages 5 to 12, they’re piloting a program for middle and high schoolers soon and hope to extend the mindfulness practices to include opportunities for parents. For details, visit namastem.com
Kids Galaxy
Kids Galaxy in Longmont offers an out-of-this-world indoor play experience for children of all ages. With exciting attractions like trampolines, obstacle courses, and interactive games, it’s the perfect spot for birthday parties or everyday fun. Parents can relax at the café while kids burn energy in a safe, vibrant environment. Open year-round, Kids Galaxy provides a fun-filled escape, rain or shine, making it a top destination for family entertainment in the Longmont community For details, visit kidsgalaxyco.com.
Girls Rugby
Girls Rugby is dedicated to empowering young girls to see themselves as leaders while building confidence on and off the field. Through an inclusive team sport rooted in respect and teamwork, participants learn valuable life skills. Combined with a leadership and values-based curriculum, the program fosters a powerful environment where girls can lead, succeed, and shape their future. Girls Rugby believes every girl deserves the chance to reach her potential and take ownership of her life. For details, visit: girlsrugbyinc.com
The
Join
We can’twait to see youhere! 350 TerryStreet, Longmont 80501 720
NamaSTEM. (Photo: NamaSTEM)
Kids Galaxy. (Photo: KidsGalaxy)
“STEM is not hard. It’s not fancy things. It’s things you have in your home and nature that kids are exploring”
BY KATHLEEN DUFF for Raised in the Rockies
STEM concepts have been a part of the education landscape for years in primary and secondary schools, but now learning about science, technology, engineering and math has become part of the norm for many preschoolers. With careers requiring broadbased skills in problem-solving, creativity and collaboration, STEM is a natural approach toward preparing children for the
future.
LITTLE SCIENTISTS
How STEM is shaping preschool learning
No, little ones are not writing code and wearing lab coats. Rather, the concepts of STEM are integrated by encouraging learning from trial and error and hands-on exploration in daily life. Instead of telling children the answer or outcome, using STEM allows children to drive the process toward solutions
“I say Early Childhood (education) has been doing STEM all along,” said Shela Blankinship, director of early childhood education for St. Vrain Valley Schools (svvsd.org). “It is having children learn and play through their own curiosity and think through things without limitation. Young children are already so
great at that.”
Theresa Clements, director of Early Childhood Education for Boulder Valley School District (bvsd.org), said STEM in preschool guides the foundation of love of learning.
The approach includes “... wanting to problem-solve, perseverance, communicationlanguage is also a part of it - and collaboration,” she said. “Ideally, it’s based on what children are interested in and what’s going on in the world around them so it’s meaningful and relevant to them.”
She gave an example of preschoolers going outside to play on a windy day. The weather condition may lead them to ask questions about what causes the
wind to blow, and why it comes from a certain direction.
Blankinship said literature already provides a foundation for teaching STEM concepts. She said a preschool class reading the classic “The Gingerbread Man” discussed what the cookie could have done to cross the river and avoid the fox. Children came up with a variety of hypotheses and eventually worked together to create a pulley system using toilet paper rolls, straws and glue to solve the problem.
STEM is easily accessible at home, too. Expensive kits, toys or books are not needed. Rather, simple items found in the home can be used to help children explore.
Blankinship, who professes a passion for STEM, recommends parents ask their kids open-ended questions while learning. For example, a simple pitcher of water and a few measuring cups can provide plenty of fun as well as learning. Parents can ask children what they think will happen if they overfill the cups, which leads to learning about volume. She also
encourages nature walks to allow kids to ask questions and using building blocks to understand balance and engineering. She said, “STEM is not hard. It’s not fancy things. It’s things you have in your home and nature that kids are exploring. You have to be OK with what the kids come up with, you have to allow children to explore what
will and what will not work,” she said. “The process is the learning, not the product.”
Clements agreed: “Think about your day and different routines you are doing throughout the day It doesn’t have to be about purchasing a kit. Think about bath time - how fast do things move in the water? Or going to the grocery store and looking at the fruits and talking about them, their colors and classifications. Or counting the items in your cart. Or, asking a question about how the cart is moving. Just thinking about it and building on it throughout the day based on what your child is interested in.”
Cooking with preschoolers offers multiple learning opportunities, said Jennifer Skrobela, director of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) for the Boulder
Valley School District.
“You are incorporating math as you count the items you are using. You see how it changes as you add ingredients or how it looks when it comes out of the oven. Chemistry isn’t something you talk about with preschoolers, but it is part of the conversation.”
Young children naturally pursue the scientific method, which includes identifying problems, hypothesizing, testing or experimenting and something that traditional education has not always encouraged - learning from failure. Failure in STEM is a positive part of the process because it leads to learning.
Blankinship said, “If we don’t allow children to fail, then they won’t try If they won’t find success in failure, they won’t try It’s really about how our teachers and their families respond to what children do.”
Skrobela concurred. “Failure is a part of learning. Failure is not a bad thing; you fail forward. We have to re-norm this idea that failure is a part of the process.”
PARENTING
Parenting WISDOM
Books to guide, inspire and support your journey
BY LINDA THORSEN BOND for Raised in the Rockies
Anyone who says raising kids is easy probably has a short memory. There are times when the crying doesn’t stop, the guidance you give is tossed aside and your parents’ child-rearing tips don’t work.
That’s when you need to sit down and read a good book. Really. There are parents and educators who wrote their answers and they are just waiting for you to pick up their books and try them out.
Raised in the Rockies will introduce you to a local writer we think you’ll like, plus some book suggestions that might help you.
MIND BODY BEDTIME: PEACEFUL GAMES TO MAKE KIDS SLEEPY
By Susanne
Benton. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, 2018, 2023
Author Susanne Benton
Susanne Benton, who is lucky enough to live in Estes Park, wrote “Mind Body Bedtime: Peaceful Games to Make Kids Sleepy.” It’s a series of peaceful games that parents can play with their kids at the end of the day to settle their kids into sleep.
Susanne is an early childhood
educator, a preschool teacher, parent, stepparent and grandparent who loves to witness and foster children’s discovery of their abilities and their environment. She’s also a nationally board-certified massage therapist and has studied the relaxation process for over a decade. She strives to teach children and adults about the power of the mind-body connection and how to harness their individual strengths to bring calm, confidence and relaxation to their daily lives.
Susanne explained, “I realized that I could combine what I know about the physical relaxation process with child development practices to create a “secret sauce” for parents to use at bedtime. What if we could create conditions that bring on sleep? It turns out that we can! When we combine connection, a sense of safety, and love, we get peaceful, relaxed and sleepy kids! I created
GOOD INSIDE
By Becky Kennedy. Harper, 2022
Billed as a guide to becoming the parent you want to be, Good Inside says your kids are actually good kids but parenting is just hard. Most parenting advice sees children’s behavior as a problem to be fixed through time-outs, rewards, and serious conversations. But Becky Kennedy argues that these strategies jeopardize your connection with your children. That’s a high price to pay for band-aid strategies that don’t deal with the root causes of problematic behaviors.
and practiced these games with my daughter at bedtime, when she was in elementary school. She was someone who had a hard time falling to sleep at night. Over years, the games evolved into a set that included 10 mindfulness skills and relaxation practices.”
The book is geared to children ages 3-10. Susanne said, “Each peaceful game incorporates a mindfulness skill that relaxes the body and the mind. As you play these games with your kids, you are training their brains to find peacefulness and relaxation, at bedtime. When the body and the brain slow down and come into the present moment, the body relaxes and can shift better into sleep. These games feel like magic because they offer playful connection time with parents (what kids crave), a fun way to relax the body and begin to settle into sleep (what kids need), pre- scripted games so that parents don’t need to think much at the end of the day (what parents crave) and
practice in developing self -regulating skills that support our bodies and minds every day (What everyone needs).”
“I don’t think parents get enough credit for the way that they grow their kids into loving confident and secure adults,” Susanne said. “Parents are often shamed and criticized for not knowing the “right” way to parent. I assert that parents do many of the things that help their children grow, naturally, and they deserve to know that when they create connection, safety and love, in everyday interactions, they are building the foundations for resilient and happy children. It’s my goal to support parents where they are and offer tools and skills to bring more joy and confidence to their parenting.”
Susanne’s book was recommended by Claire Studholme, children’s librarian at the Longmont Library. It is available at the Longmont Library and on Amazon.com. Mind Body Bedtime: Peaceful Games to Make Kids Sleepy.
RAISING GOOD HUMANS: A MINDFUL GUIDE TO BREAKING THE CYCLE OF REACTIVE PARENTING AND RAISING KIND, CONFIDENT KIDS
By Hunter Clarke Fields and Carla Naumburg. New Harbinger Publications, 2019
A kinder, more compassionate world starts with kind and compassionate kids. In Raising Good Humans, you’ll find powerful and practical strategies to break free from “reactive parenting” habits and raise kind, cooperative, and confident kids. When children experience a parent reacting with kindness and patience, they learn to act with kindness as well — thereby altering generational patterns for a kinder, more compassionate future. With this essential guide, you’ll see how changing your own “autopilot reactions” can create a lasting positive impact, not just for your kids, but for generations to come.
POSITIVE PARENTING: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE (THE POSITIVE PARENT SERIES)
By Rebecca Eanes (Author), Dr. Laura Markham
THE BABY WHISPERER SOLVES ALL YOUR PROBLEMS
By Tracy Hogg and Melinda Blau. Ballantine Books, 2002
Nicknamed “the Baby Whisperer” by clients because of her uncanny ability to calm infants, Britain’s baby expert Tracy Hogg offers her unique infant communication approach geared primarily to parents of newborns. With more than 25 years of experience as a registered nurse, lactation consultant, and childcare instructor, Hogg shares her no-nonsense advice with quiet authority in a soothing, reassuring manner. Two dozen short segments or “scenes” cover a myriad of baby basics such as feeding, swaddling, and sleep
NO PERFECT PARENTS: DITCH EXPECTATIONS, EMBRACE REALITY AND DISCOVER THE ONE SECRET THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR PARENTING
By Dave Wilson, Ann Wilson, John Driver. TarcherPerigee, 2016
Following the wildly popular Vertical Marriage with the same charming, relatable dialogue between mom and dad, bestselling authors and national hosts of FamilyLife Today Dave and Ann Wilson dive headlong into the monumental task of parenting in the 21st century
Tired of yelling and nagging? True family connection is possible--and this essential guide shows us how. Popular Parenting blogger Rebecca Eanes believes that parenting advice should be about more than just getting kids to behave. In this eagerly anticipated guide, Eanes shares her hard-won wisdom for overcoming limiting thought patterns and recognizing emotional triggers, as well as advice for connecting with kids at each stage, from infancy to adolescence. Filled with practical, solution-oriented advice, this is an empowering guide for any parent who longs to end the yelling, power struggles, and downward spiral of acting out, punishment, resentment, and shame--and instead foster an emotional connection. Now a series of books, audiobooks and workbooks, all under the Positive Parenting heading. issues. Interspersed are several Q&A sessions that “listen in” on Hogg’s reallife parent support groups as a handful of fledging mums and dads ask pertinent questions and wait for Hogg’s brief yet satisfactory answers.. – Lynn Gibson. Recommended by Niwot residents Dan Partain & Andrea Fryrear
Raising kids with hearts for Christ may be the hardest thing you ever try to do, but it’s also the most important thing. Packed with funny and honest stories, compelling illustrations, biblical insight, and practical steps you can put into practice today, this hands-on parenting manual will encourage and equip every parent through any stage. An inspiring and resourceful guide, No Perfect Parents will cover essential topics like learning to discipline without losing your mind or causing more chaos, the parenting guilt trip, the teen years, and the top five parenting mistakes.
Brennan Partain’s parents swore by “The Baby Whisperer” when he was little. (Photo courtesy: Bruce R. Partain).
Impact on Education: Investing in your student’s wellbeing HEALTH
BY SHELLEY WIDHALM for Raised in the Rockies
When high school students in the Boulder Valley School District need a mental health timeout, they can stop by their school’s drop-in wellness center
They can meet one-on-one with a mental health advocate, sit in flexible seating and engage with fidgets and other sensory activities.
“It’s a place where students can go for a safe, quiet space, speak to a mental health professional, and learn coping skills to help them throughout the day,” said Emma Lyles, development and communications associate for Impact on Education in Louisville “It’s a safe and calming place to destress for general or test anxiety It’s a place for students to recharge and talk to a mental health professional during the school day if needed.”
Impact on Education, a foundation founded in 1983 to support the Boulder Valley School District, invested more than $1 million to pay for six wellness centers across the district’s
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high schools. The first center opened in August 2022 at Monarch High School, with five more following the next year The initiative began after the Marshall Fire, a wildfire that struck Boulder County and Superior in December 2021.
“It is critical because we’re in the midst of youth mental health crises,” Lyles said.
“After the Marshall Fire, it was clear students needed a space where they could address their concerns.”
Last school year, 1,875 students made 13,500 visits to the wellness centers.
The mental health advocates they met with are professionals who provide tier-one support, an initial level of intervention that doesn’t qualify as therapy or require referrals.
“They are separate from counselors, with the goal of focusing on mental health and student well-being,” Lyles said. “They provide students with access to individual and small group sessions to address mental health and various concerns.”
The foundation, which helps cover the district’s budget gaps, funds the salaries of four additional mental health advocates who work in middle and elementary schools. It also supports the district, including its original purpose of funding grants for educators, along with programs for early childhood education, college and career readiness, and learning tools such as school and multicultural art supplies. This support reaches 28,000 students and 4,000 educators each year.
“Our programs often are not direct services. We fund these positions for the Boulder Valley School District to carry out,” Lyles said. “If we don’t fund this, it can’t happen.”
julie@newdigs.co •www.newdigs.co
(Photo courtesy: Impact on Education)
Simple hacks at home to make school a success
BY JULIE KAILUS for Raised in the Rockies
One of the easiest ways to make school days go more smoothly is to rethink your family’s “transition” zones. Transitions are those times we come and go from the house. While they’re often some of the most harried moments of the day, they don’t have to feel unmanageable.
MAKE A MUDROOM
One of the best ways to smooth your transitions is to make a mudroom. If you don’t already have a designated spot to organize and decompress, consider what existing spaces best lend themselves to a transition or “drop” zone.
A drop zone is a designated area in your home where kids can leave their belongings when they come inside. “A well-designed drop zone can keep your home organized and clutter-free,” Carmen Gibson of Longmont’s Budget Home Supply says. “If the kids know where to store their belongings, they won’t have to run around the next morning trying to collect it all.”
Pick an area near the entrance that your kids use most often. Divide the space to create different zones for different types of items such as shoes, backpacks, coats, gloves, hats, sports equipment and tablets technology. Add hooks and pegs at a height that kids can reach easily. Magnets and dry erase boards are great for reminders and messages. And you can add charging station cabinets for phones.
No room for cabinetry? Put hooks on the wall, place a bench with bins underneath and consider hanging wall files for homework and mail. Easy Track is one affordable brand that can take the guesswork out of these home organizing solutions.
KID-FRIENDLY FLOORING
And don’t forget the flooring. You’ll need something sturdy in a kid-proof zone. Kelley McDonald of McDonald Carpet One suggests washable, waterand scratch-resistant products like luxury vinyl plank or tile. For play or homework areas that won’t see as much traffic, try bound carpet remnants. “Most flooring stores have lots of smaller remnants for reasonable prices, and these are especially good for children who like to lay on the floor while watching TV or even some light rough housing,” she says.
Interlocking foam or rubber tiles, found inexpensively at most home improvement retailers, are also a good option for setting up a colorful learning space or toy area, according to McDonald. “And neither of these things are permanent, so they’re easy to change or remove as children get older.”
FOOTWEAR ESSENTIALS
Last, rethink the kids’ shoe quiver for keeping transition zones tidy — and efficient. Jason Wetzel of Brown’s Shoe Fit recommends shoes with BOA lacing systems for quicker mornings; durable, do-it-all trail runners with tougher uppers and traction for a variety of outdoor activities; and wool socks and waterproof boots for all-day comfort and good protection from home to playground and back again.
LADIES IN THE LUMBERYARD
BY JULIE KAILUS for Raised in the Rockies
Each year Budget Home Supply presents Ladies in the Lumberyard, a party for a cause. This year benefits children in Colorado foster homes. Beneficiary Project Warm-Up of Northern Colorado was founded by Jenni Lovins of Firestone with a simple mission: to provide fleece blankets to every child in foster care in the community. Today its impacts are felt nearly statewide.
“As the weather turns in Colorado, it’s nice to think these kids have something warm and soft to cuddle up with and know that people care about them,” says Budget Home Supply’s Vernetta Angelo, who is hosting the fundraiser.
So what is Ladies in the Lumberyard? “The event invites ladies into what can be seen as an unfamiliar environment,” Angelo says. “As soon as they enter our doors, they see that our store is very inviting and easy to navigate. Not only do we want attendees to have a good time, but we want to give local artisans the opportunity to share their goods with this amazing community.”
This year’s Mardi Grasthemed evening event takes place Thursday, November 7 at Budget Home Supply, 780 Boston Avenue, in Longmont. The party starts with happy hour at 5:30 p.m., featuring signature cocktails and food, followed by two hours to shop local artisan booths, which the company provides for free.
During the night, there’s also
live entertainment, a magician, card reader and psychic, as well as a mask-making station, mural and chainsaw artists, giveaways and more.
Costumes are encouraged for extra fun at this free event. Those who donate gift cards, cash or hand-tied fleece blankets to support Project Warm-Up will
receive an extra prize-drawing ticket. Plus it’s good to be an early bird: the first 50 and 100 attendees receive special gifts. Ladies in the Lumberyard has averaged 200 attendees since its 2015 inaugural year.
Angelo says, “It’s just an ultimate girl’s night out to benefit a great cause.”
Ladies in the Lumberyard. (Photos courtesy: Budget Home Supply).
PARENTING
Manage hectic mornings with quick, healthy breakfasts
Family Features
Getting kids up and out the door is a challenge all on its own, and on those busy school mornings when nothing seems to run smoothly, healthy breakfasts can go by the wayside While it’s widely recognized as the most important meal of the day, that doesn’t always mean you have time to sit down and enjoy it.
Solving your morning rush with grab-and-go breakfasts you can make ahead of time accomplishes both goals at once: staying on schedule and fueling your kiddos (and yourself) for the day ahead. These delicious and nutritious recipes come from Healthy Family Project’s 2024 Back to School Campaign, which is raising $12,000 for the Foundation for Fresh Produce to support children’s accessibility to fresh fruits and vegetables
These Mixed Berry Whole-
Wheat Muffins are a perfect solution when you need to hustle out the door As a healthy, delicious treat kids can take with them to school or eat during the commute, they’re quick and easy to make. Loaded with blueberries – a bona fide superfood that’s high in fiber, low in calories and high in vitamin C, potassium and vitamin K – you may even need to make a double batch so you have plenty for breakfasts and afterschool snacks.
With a simple graham cracker crust and creamy Greek yogurt filling, Mandarin Orange No-Bake Tarts offer another refreshing, kid-friendly morning meal. They can help you start your day on the right foot whether you’re short on time or able to eat a quick bite together as a family
Discover more ways to manage school-day schedules with easy, nutritious recipes at healthyfamilyproject.com.
MIXED BERRY WHOLE-WHEAT MUFFINS
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12
1-1/4 cups white whole-wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1/2 cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup chopped strawberries
1/2 cup blueberries
MANDARIN ORANGE NO-BAKE TARTS
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Freeze time: 1 hour
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
4 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
In bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter
Press mixture into bottom of individual mini tart pans or mini muffin tin. Refrigerate crusts to set while preparing filling.
Preheat oven to 400 F. Grease muffin pan and set aside.
In medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In separate large bowl, mix egg, maple syrup, vanilla, yogurt and applesauce.
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in strawberries and blueberries.
Pour batter into prepared muffin tin, filling cups about 3/4 full.
Bake 15 minutes, or until tops are golden brown and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Remove from oven and let cool in muffin tin 5 minutes before removing.
or
Spoon
Freeze
In bowl, combine Greek yogurt, vanilla and honey
maple syrup. Mix well.
yogurt mixture into chilled crusts.
tarts at least 1 hour
Top with mandarin segments.
Adams 12 Five Star Schools
FromTheSuperintendent
Chris Gdowski
Transformingthestudentexperience
Our vision in Adams 12 Five Star Schools is for our students to be “equipped to navigate and thrive in our rapidly changing world.” Change is inevitable, but the rate of change in today’s world requires that we transform the student experience more quickly
We know that employers are becoming more focused
on skills than degrees and pedigrees, and that our economy is rapidly changing Colorado is #1 in the country in aerospace employment and #4 in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) employment. In the Five Star District, we are providing relevant and responsive academic programming across all grade levels to meet our community’s needs of today and tomorrow.
• We’re home to a nationally recognized STEM learning model that serves students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade.
• Since 2016, we’ve seen the number of students earning industry certifications roughly quadruple.
• We’ve gone from offering 18 unique career and technical education programs five years ago, to 27 unique career and technical education programs today, and the list keeps growing!
ELEVATE, our strategic plan, serves as a road map for creating and sustaining an environment in which our students thrive. Three conditions are equally important to elevating student success in the Five Star District.
• Raising achievement levels for all students.
for them to thrive in Adams 12 Five Star Schools. I encourage you to take a look at this year’s Five Star FOCUS magazine (www.adams12.org/focus), which features personal success stories of our students and graduates. Whether it’s preschoolers in the early stages of discovering their interests, or high school students who know what excites them, we’re here to support their journey and create opportunities for them to thrive.
The window for enrolling in any of our 50-plus schools opens Dec. 1. You always have a place at your neighborhood school, but may choose to enroll your student in a school outside of your neighborhood as long as there is sufficient programming, staff and space there. Our district website (www.adams12.org/enroll) provides more information, including answers to frequently asked questions.
• Taking pride in and feeling connected to the district’s positive culture.
• Knowing every student by name, strength and need
Whatever your child’s strengths or needs may be, there’s a place
Thank you for considering Adams 12 Five Star Schools for your child’s education!
Sincerely,
Chris Gdowski Superintendent Adams 12 Five Star Schools
Adams 12 Five Star Schools
ELEMENTARY
Centennial
Centennial Elementary is a small community based school with a HUGE amount of support. Our highly-educated staff are focused on supporting not only the growth of our students and teachers but also supporting the mental health and emotional needs of all in our community. At Centennial we believe in practicing the ABCs - our Raptor Qualities of Accountability, Belonging, and Courage. We learn about what these qualities mean, look like and sound like together, and then we practice them in every aspect of our time together in school. We would love for you to be a part of our Raptor Family!
Address: 13200 Westlake Drive, Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: (720) 972-5280
Website: centennial.adams12.org
Principal: Geneanne Payne
Enrollment: 294
K-5 Capacity: 432
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Student profile in percentages:
White: 25.5%, Hispanic: 70.1%, African American: <1%, Asian: 2.0%, Native American: 0.0%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 2.0%
Free and reduced lunch: 77.96%
Open house/visitation: Please email the principal, Geneanne Payne, at geneanne.m.payne@adams12.org, or call her at (720) 972-5283, to schedule a tour, ask questions, or learn more about student programming. We look forward to meeting our new families! Nosotras hablamos español.
Coyote Ridge
At Coyote Ridge, we provide a welcoming atmosphere which supports and encourages family and community partnerships. We are a collaborative staff focused on meeting the social/emotional and academic needs of all of our students. Students develop their individual talents, critical thinking, and technology skills by actively engaging in the learning process. As a PACK, we run
together to achieve our lifelong learning goals!
Address: 13770 Broadlands Drive, Broomfield, CO 80023
Phone: (720) 972-5780
Website: coyote.adams12.org
Principal: Carolyn Webb Enrollment: 392
Capacity: 456
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: White: 70.9%, Hispanic: 15.8%, African American: <1%, Asian: 5.4%, Native American: 0%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 7.4%
Free and reduced lunch: 13.91%
Open house/visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.
Meridian
Meridian opened its doors in 2004 with a focus on excellence
Working with the community, the name Meridian was selected with an emphasis on the meaning “pertaining to the highest point.”
Since that time, the staff, students, parents and community have continued to work together to make this vision come true Meridian has received multiple recognitions over the years for its outstanding growth and high achievement results, and the Meridian community remains focused and committed to providing its students with learning opportunities that they will take with them into middle school, high school, college and life
Address: 14256 McKay Park Circle, Broomfield, CO 80023
Phone: (720) 972-7880
Website: meridian.adams12.org
Principal: Jason Gooding
Enrollment: 523
Capacity: 672
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: White: 63.9%, Hispanic: 20.3%, African American: 1.1%, Asian: 5.5%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 9.0%
Free and reduced lunch: 20.79%
Open house/visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student
opportunities.
Mountain View
Mountain View is a special place where students and staff laugh, grow and learn together. Staff members know students as individuals and intentionally design learning environments so every child feels confident to take risks, be challenged and grow to their potential. The school’s center-based Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program is a strong, school-wide community of students, families and staff that partner together to provide opportunities for every child to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
Address: 12401 Perry St., Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: (720) 972-5520
Website: mountain.adams12.org
Principal: Peggy Heath
Enrollment: 518 (includes PS) Capacity: 576
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: White: 56.0%, Hispanic: 29.7%, African American: <1%, Asian: 5.8%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 7.5%
Free and reduced lunch: 40.00%
Open house/visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.
PRESCHOOL – 8TH GRADE Thunder Vista
Thunder Vista empowers future ready, compassionate learners who live with intention.
Thunder Vista believes in the importance of motivating and inspiring, nurturing a growth mindset, showing that everyone has value, and fostering a learning community
Grades served: P-8
Address: 3461 Preble Creek Pkwy., Broomfield CO 80023
Phone: (720) 972-7300
Website: thundervista.adams12.org
Principal: Jody Roper
Enrollment: 725 (includes PS) Capacity: 900
Daily schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Student profile in percentages:
White: 70.5%, Hispanic: 14.9%, African American: <1%, Asian: 7.9%, Native American:<1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 5.7%
Free and reduced lunch: 8.66%
Open house/visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.
KINDERGARTEN – 12TH GRADE
Prospect Ridge Academy
Prospect Ridge Academy provides a rigorous, quality K-12 education with an intensified math and science focus using core knowledge sequence and research-based college preparatory programming to provide a comprehensive foundation for lifelong learning creating academic, social, and ethical leaders.
Grades served: K-12
Address: 2555 Preble Creek Pkwy., Broomfield CO 80023
Phone: (720) 399-0300
Website: prospectridgeacademy.org
Executive Director: April Wilkin
Principal: Elementary, Kera Pratt; Middle, Steve Thygesen; High, Adam DiGiacomo
Enrollment: 1,474
Capacity: 1,600
Daily schedule: Elementary, Middle and High 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: White: 64.1%, Hispanic: 13.3%, African American: <1%, Asian: 14.9%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 6.5%
Free and reduced lunch: 8.24%
Open house/visitation: For information on Open Enrollment Sessions, visit the PRA website
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Westlake
Westlake is an exemplary middle school at which academic excellence is
Adams 12 Five Star Schools
expected and cultivated through a collaborative partnership among students, staff and parents. The Westlake community fosters a caring, respectful environment that is focused on learning.
Westlake empowers all members of its team to become leaders, innovators and learners in continual pursuit of ongoing improvements and achievement every day. Our hopes for our school community is best defined by our vision: Igniting a passion for learning and service: Dream, Risk, Achieve!
Address: 2800 W. 135th Ave., Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: (720) 972-5200
Website: westlake.adams12.org
Principal: Terrell Price
Enrollment: 860
Capacity: 1,175
Daily Schedule: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.
Student profile in percentages:
White: 59.3%, Hispanic: 29.3%, African American: <1%, Asian: 3.4%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 7.1%.
Free and reduced lunch: 30.32%
Open house/visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.
HIGH SCHOOL Legacy
Legacy High School provides opportunities, expectations and support for each student to achieve
academic excellence. The partnership of staff, students, families and the community encourages individual integrity, personal growth and enthusiasm for the future. Legacy continues to be recognized as a high-achieving, high-growth high school by the Colorado Department of Education. Legacy offers Legacy 2000, a four-year program that is designed for students who have an interest and ability in math, science, engineering and technology
Address: 2701 W. 136th Ave., Broomfield, CO 80023
Phone: (720) 972-6700
Website: legacy.adams12.org
Principal: Sara Marx
Enrollment: 2,060
Capacity: 2,000 (without mobile classrooms), 2,400 (includes mobile classrooms)
Daily Schedule: 7:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Student profile in percentages:
White: 61.0%, Hispanic: 25.0%, African American: 1.3%, Asian: 5.8%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 6.5%
Free and reduced lunch: 25.30%
Open house/visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.
Inclusive Catholic Education
Serving and Supporting Students with Diverse Learning Needs
Tuition Assistance Available for Qualifying Families
Located in the center of Longmont, CO
Voted the best school in Longmont for 8 years in a row Come and see what our Catholic School can offer your family.
Boulder Valley School District
Rob Anderson FromTheSuperintendent
BVSDisthePlacetoBe
No. 1 School district in metro Denver, accredited with distinction and offering an open enrollment preference for students with parents who work in Boulder Valley
Dear Prospective Students and Families, Thank you so much for considering the Boulder Valley School District, the only Metro Denver area school district to be Accredited with Distinction by the Colorado Department of Education.
Every year, BVSD is among the best ranked school districts in Colorado.
BVSD is known for its long history of excellence. Here are some of the ways that the district stands out:
• No. 1 School District in Metro Denver by Niche
• Two BVSD schools were in the top 10 of the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colorado Schools
• The Colorado Department of Education’s top ranking –a Accredited with Distinction – celebrating our excellence in education
• BVSD named one of the top companies in Colorado by Forbes Magazine twice in the past four years (#1 in 2000 and #2 in 2024)
• Highest teacher salaries in Colorado
• First school district in Colorado to implement universal dyslexia screening for all kindergarten students
Learn more about why BVSD is the Place to Be at bvsd.org/the-place.
This just in: New enrollment preference to make it easier to bring kids along during your commute and give them the best education possible.
BVSD is adding a new enrollment preference for those who work within BVSD’s boundaries. The goal is to encourage those who commute into our
communities to enroll in BVSD’s high quality schools and get some additional quality time with their kids along the way
Learn more about the new enrollment preference at: bvsd.org/bright-futures
Finding
the BVSD
school for your child
We know that choosing a school is a big decision. There is a lot to consider and we always encourage prospective students and parents to explore the many options available in our district and choose the best fit for a student.
The best part in BVSD, you really cannot go wrong. All of our schools are outstanding.
With 56 amazing options focusing on everything from International Baccalaureate to STEAM to Monetessori, there really is something for every student.
Enroll at www.bvsd.org/ enrollment. BVSD’s Open Enrollment window opens on November 1.
BVSD is the Place to Be!
Sincerely,
Dr. Rob Anderson Superintendent Boulder
Valley School District
Boulder Valley School District
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Alicia Sanchez
Alicia Sanchez is a neighborhood school committed to the vision of Alicia Sanchez, as a family and community-centered learning environment. Alicia Sanchez Elementary was among the 21 schools chosen in 2022 for the new Governor’s Bright Spot Award recognizing student achievement growth. The school has also scored at “Performance,” the highest designation on the state’s School Performance Framework. Students receive the benefits of a wide range of programming resources, including low student/staff ratios, personalized instruction, interventions based on student needs, computers for all students, 21st-century technology integration, and environmental education through a partnership with Thorne Environmental Education. The school’s outstanding after-school Dragon program offers free extended learning experiences for all students, with classes like theater and soccer. Alicia Sanchez also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. Alicia Sanchez Elementary prides itself on providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment for all students.
Address: 655 Sir Galahad Drive, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7300
Website: sae.bvsd.org
Principal: Becky McKay
Enrollment: 331
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Bear Creek is a nationally recognized school for academic achievement and growth. The school’s community is strong and committed to developing resilient, curious, and emotionally intelligent kids through rich learning experiences. Teachers create engaging, inclusive, and safe classrooms. All students are supported to achieve academic success through differentiated instruction and staff collaboration. Subjects are frequently integrated to increase relevancy, connections, and creativity. Bear Creek offers engaging Art, Music, and Physical Education programs, a Gifted and Talented program, in-person accelerated mathematics classes, language services, intervention supports, and a center-based program for autistic students. Parents and community partnerships, including a highly supportive PTO, create opportunities for whole school events (Fall Carnival, Lip Sync, Cultural Festival), and an extensive list of extracurricular activities (Intramurals, Choir/Musical, Math Olympiad, Battle of the Books, and Lifelong Learning classes). Students’ love for Bear Creek can be seen on the smiling faces of children arriving at school each morning.
Address: 2500 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-3500
Website: bce.bvsd.org
Principal: Tanner Dayhoff Enrollment: 318
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Elementary is a warm and welcoming elementary school serving students in the Broomfield area. Birch serves approximately 350 students in
PK-5th grade. Birch is honored to have received the Governor’s Improvement Award in 2017 and 2018 due to our exceptionally high academic growth rates. Students actively participate in music, studio art, physical education, and library as well as a large number of communitybuilding events. Learning at Birch gets students engaged with hands-on projects, inquiry-based learning, and real-life math applications. Birch offers special services for students with disabilities, as well as for those who are gifted and talented, and strives to meet the needs of all students. The essence of Birch lies in the true sense of community, which is embedded in every aspect of the school. You will find the Birch community to be warm, welcoming, and a great place to call home. Birch also offers free and tuition-based preschool classes.
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Boulder Community School of Integrated Studies
Boulder Community School of Integrated Studies (BCSIS) is a focus school that opened in the fall of 1996. Our school features an Arts Integrated curriculum in which creative expression acts as a vehicle for academic engagement and learning. Our teachers and students honor many modes of expression and celebrate cultural diversity. The BCSIS focus program integrates the arts into a rich, meaningful academic curriculum. Our staff also implements Waldorf-inspired practices to further enhance our classroom environments. Teachers use stories, songs, movement, art, and music from around the world as tools for teaching math, language arts, science, and social studies. We emphasize the development of children’s sensitivity to the natural world and aesthetic beauty Our science curriculum supports an understanding of sustainable practices, incorporating our school’s Garden to
Table and Eco-Cycle programs. Seasonal festivals create a framework for celebrating the growth and development of each child.
Address: 3995 E. Aurora Ave., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-6500
Website: bcsis.bvsd.org
Principal: Jenn Barr
Enrollment: 284
Daily Schedule: 8:05 a.m. - 3:05 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:05 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.
Boulder Universal
BU Elementary is an online public school serving BVSD and other Colorado students in grades K-5. Courses are taught in an asynchronous format by BVSD teachers using curriculum aligned to state and district standards. Elementary courses implement content from Florida Virtual School (FLVS). Students have access to BVSD Specials of Spanish, PE, Music, and Art. Students engage and interact with their actual teacher and classmates from across the state in an asynchronous online setting, allowing students to learn at any time and place Since all teachers are BVSD teachers, the class size ratio is equivalent, and often times smaller, than other BVSD schools. Boulder Universal also has a learning lab (virtual and in-person) staffed with their teachers for students to get one-onone support. Tuition is free for students enrolled and available to anyone who lives in the State of Colorado
Address: 6600 E. Arapahoe Road, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-5500
Website: boulderuniversal.org
Principal: Eric Moroye
Elementary
Enrollment: 41
Coal Creek
Coal Creek is an elementary school, serving 312 students PreK-5. We have a caring, kind, and dedicated staff who work hand-in-hand with hardworking students and a supportive parent community. The school’s staff members go above and beyond to ensure that each
Bear Creek
Birch
Birch
Boulder Valley School District
student feels valued, appreciated, and motivated to do their very best. From the moment families step foot in the school, they’ll immediately sense the warm and welcoming atmosphere that permeates every corner. Coal Creek’s JAM program is an innovative initiative that combines art, music, and physical education school-wide. This unique approach not only fosters creativity and self-expression but also promotes teamwork and a sense of unity among students. The school takes great pride in its inclusive RISE program, which provides essential support to students with autism. We firmly believe in embracing diversity and providing opportunities for all learners. We are incredibly fortunate to have a parent community that is actively involved and strongly supportive of the school. Their commitment and collaboration play a vital role in creating a vibrant and engaging learning environment. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey of education, growth, and community at Coal Creek.
Address: 801 W. Tamarisk St., Louisville
Phone: 720-561-4500
Website: cce.bvsd.org
Principal: Jeff Van Iwarden
Enrollment: 330
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m
Columbine students enjoy being part of an inclusive and welcoming neighborhood school that nurtures the whole child in a bilingual learning environment. The school community thrives in its rich diversity, inclusionary practices, focus on equity and social justice, and family partnerships. Beginning in the 2023-24 school year, we added a two-way 50/50 dual language strand in preschool and in kindergarten and will add a grade level each year We will continue to offer Spanish enrichment opportunities for our students in the English-only strand. All students are held to high expectations and are supported in reaching their maximum academic potential in Spanish and English. The Columbine staff is
highly-qualified, experienced, very caring and dedicated to students. The Columbine teaching staff engages in weekly data dives to examine students’ academic strengths and how they can support students in reaching their next goals. Columbine also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment.
Address: 3130 Repplier Drive, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-2500
Website: coe.bvsd.org
Principal : Lisa Martinez
Enrollment: 402
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Community Montessori
Community Montessori is a focus school and the only public Montessori school in the Boulder Valley School District where we guide and support the whole child: mind, body and spirit. Community Montessori serves children from preschool through fifth grade. Classrooms are multi-age: Children’s House includes children ages 3 through kindergarten; Lower Elementary is first through third grades, and Upper Elementary is fourth and fifth grades. The Montessori method challenges each student through a child-centered, individualized approach. The classroom environment allows children to move freely and make challenging choices within safe limits and clear academic expectations. Transportation is offered for those who qualify
Address: 805 Gillaspie Drive, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-3700
Website: cme.bvsd.org
Principal: Shannon Minch
Enrollment: 228
Daily Schedule:
7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; (½ day preschool is 7:50-11:30 or 8:50-11:30 on Wednesday)
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a m. to 2:50 p.m.
Creekside
Creekside Elementary at Martin Park is a unique, dynamic neighborhood school that hosts an international student population. We are proud to welcome students from the surrounding neighborhoods and many of the University of Colorado family housing units. At Creekside, children learn that diversity is a quality that is respected and valued. Academic programming at Creekside is provided to all children on a differentiated basis as determined by their performance level. Children with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are provided with special services within the classroom and/or in a pull out setting. Creekside is also proud to have an AIM (Achieving with Individualization and Modification) Intensive Learning Center (ILC) for students with autism. Creekside has a full time school counselor, support from a Family Health Advocate, and is pleased to partner with the City of Boulder to provide an array of services including after school clubs, mental health, and other social services.
Creekside Elementary at Martin Park is a creative, diverse, and motivating setting for all children. We are proud to be part of the south Boulder community
Address: 3740 Martin Drive, Boulder Phone: 720-561-3800
Website: cre.bvsd.org
Principal: Francine Eufemia
Enrollment: 372
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Crest View
Crest View is a highly diverse North Boulder neighborhood school that serves over 400 K-5 students representing over
40 countries. Teachers and support staff ensure that all students flourish with a balanced approach to emotional wellbeing and academic growth that meets the needs of each child. Our caring, kind, and experienced teachers create positive learning spaces that cultivate compassion, curiosity, and fun. All Crest View students have multiple learning opportunities for Project-based Learning, Maker Space, Garden to Table and a wide selection of Before and After School Activities. Our dynamic parent organizations are an integral part of our school community. They provide financial grants, a food pantry and food bag program, as well as sponsoring our Fall and Spring Festivals.
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Douglass
Douglass Elementary serves students in East Boulder County. Our school’s many years of high academic achievement and student growth have been acknowledged at state and national levels with honors such as the John Irwin and Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Awards from the Colorado Department of Education, and the National Blue Ribbon School Award. While those honors for academics are significant, we know that teaching to the whole child and the development of character is equally important. At Douglass, we CARE: Community, Achievement, Relationships, and Environment. Douglass Elementary School is a nurturing environment where students achieve academic excellence, build strong character, engage in arts and athletics, and succeed as thoughtful leaders. Our mission is to provide learning opportunities that foster caring, creativity, academic excellence, and leadership Douglass also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment.
Columbine
Boulder Valley School District
Emerald
Address: 840 75th St., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-5541
Website: doe.bvsd.org
Principal: Jonathan Wolfer
Enrollment: 319
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Eisenhower
Eisenhower is a vibrant neighborhood school serving a dynamic, involved community. We are proud of our students’ high achievement and high-performance record. Eisenhower has been the recipient of the John Irwin School of Excellence award and has been named as one of the top 25 schools in the Denver Metro area by the Denver Business Journal. The school urges students to reach their fullest potential through authentic work, fun, and real accomplishment. Social Emotional Learning is a priority where we use the Zones of Regulation, monthly themed lessons, and the Peace Path to teach our students how to thrive as a community Eisenhower is a ‘No Place for Hate’ school sponsored by the ADL, and we participate in the Reading to End Racism program. We strive for all those associated with Eisenhower to understand the wonder of learning and the importance of community. Gifted programs, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education programs, special education programs, after-school care and a variety of student activities are available. We offer a high quality, preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. Our diverse student population is truly a community of learners. Parent participation and involvement is highly encouraged. At Eisenhower, we SOAR (Safety, Ownership, Achievement, Respect).
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Emerald is a neighborhood school with diversity that mirrors the real world and currently has over 17 languages spoken by our families. In 2016-17, the school was rebuilt and Emerald 2.0 opened in August of 2017 Emerald offers high quality PK-5 education. Our preschool program is play-based and focuses on Kindergarten readiness. The building features an innovative learning environment, access to the outdoors and natural light, and flexible spaces. We believe in building positive relationships with our four magical words (Focus, Integrity, Respect, and Empathy).Contributing to our continued success are strong balanced literacy and math programs and an incredibly dedicated staff. We pride ourselves on the fact that every student is supported, challenged, and successful at our school. Emerald is proud to be the home of the dragons!
Fireside is a neighborhood school serving Louisville As a Fireside Family, “We are an inclusive community that fosters a love for learning.” We believe strong relationships are fundamental to supporting the growth and development of every child. This includes partnering with teachers, administration, parents and our community to provide the very best educational experience for all students. Rigorous academic programming, hands-on learning experiences,
innovative and adaptive instructional approaches, and attention to students’ social, emotional and physical well-being are some of the principles inherent in our school. Our aim is to equip every child with lifelong skills, habits for learning, and a solid character foundation in order to become contributing citizens and inspired learners. Fireside also offers a high quality, play-based preschool and an enrichment program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment.
Address: 845 W. Dahlia St., Louisville
Phone: 720-561-7900
Website: fie.bvsd.org
Principal: Kristen Smetzer
Enrollment: 435
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Flatirons
Flatirons Elementary is a warm and welcoming neighborhood school nestled beneath the majestic Flatirons, within easy walking distance of Chautauqua Park, the University of Colorado, and downtown Boulder. With a rich tradition of delivering exceptional educational experiences, our success is rooted in the dedicated collaboration of our outstanding staff and the enthusiastic support of our family volunteers. We foster a culture that celebrates creativity, curiosity, and the pursuit of students’ passions and dreams. At Flatirons, we lay the foundation for lifelong learning and career/college readiness, seamlessly integrating these principles into our learning environment. We place high value on both academic achievement and social-emotional learning. As a ‘No Place for Hate’ school, Flatirons is committed to maintaining a bias-free environment. We embrace diverse family structures, races, cultures, religions, genders, and abilities, cultivating an inclusive atmosphere where every student feels a genuine sense of belonging within the classroom, the school, and our broader community
Address: 1150 7th St., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-4600
Website: fle.bvsd.org
Principal: Jessica Seevers
Enrollment: 171
Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. - 3:35 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Elementary is an award-winning neighborhood school that prides itself on a brilliant balance of academics with whole child development. We know that children only get one childhood and believe that school should be joyful! Students at Foothill spend their days in collaborative and rigorous learning experiences as well as time to play and be kids! Our approach to learning is inquiry-based, student-centered, and collaborative. We challenge all learners through differentiation and measure their success in multiple ways to truly reflect their individual growth and progress. We take pride in our inclusive community that celebrates the strengths and uniqueness of each child. Our students know that they are valued and cared for and that they are safe and that they belong here in our Foothill Fox community
Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. - 3:35 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
given the rare opportunity to engage fully in their learning.
Foothill
Foothill
Gold Hill
Gold Hill is a historic mining town nestled in the mountains above Boulder. Founded in 1873, Gold Hill School is the oldest continuously run elementary school in Colorado. Students at Gold Hill Elementary are
The Gold
Boulder Valley School District
Hill School prides itself on conducting high-quality experiential studies through a project-based learning program, while still upholding state standards and accessibility to public education through BVSD. The Gold Hill School is truly a unique, hidden treasure in today’s modern world. The schoolhouse is a central hub and a point of pride for the Gold Hill community. The multi-age environment, combined with the low student-teacher ratios and long-term relationships foster a strong family-like atmosphere and culture. Each child’s distinct social, emotional and academic needs are attended to, as the whole child grows into a student with a love for themselves and others, as well as a love of learning.
Address: 890 Main St., Gold Hill
Phone: 720-561-5940
Website: ghe.bvsd.org
Principal: Jessica Seevers
Enrollment: 13
Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday Late start 9:30 a.m - 3:30 p.m.
Heatherwood
Heatherwood Elementary School is a charming neighborhood school nestled in a caring community. With a proud legacy of high academic achievement, the school is dedicated to nurturing the whole child through a balanced educational program. Starting in the 24-25 school year, Heatherwood will expand its offerings to include STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) principles through a focus on environmental literacy At Heatherwood, community and inclusion are at the heart of its ecosystem and its approach to learning connects students to their academic and social learning. Social and emotional growth are prioritized, along with its highly-esteemed arts, music, and physical education programs. Additionally, Heatherwood Elementary School proudly offers an accredited preschool program, further enriching its commitment to early childhood education. Heatherwood has heart!
Address: 7750 Concord Drive, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-6900
Website: hee.bvsd.org
Principal: Genna Jaramillo
Enrollment: 248
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
High Peaks
High Peaks is a multiple-award-winning
“Friend of Core Knowledge” focus school that opened in 1995. Teachers use creative methods such as art projects, dramatizations, reading and writing workshops, and collaborative learning to bring the Core Knowledge Sequence to life Core Knowledge uses a planned progression of specific content in world history, geography, science, language arts, and the fine arts. High Peaks also offers differentiated math opportunities based on specific student needs. Mission Statement: High Peaks integrates essential skills and authentic content within the framework of the Core Knowledge Sequence to foster academic excellence and continued growth. In an atmosphere of respect and collaboration among all members of the High Peaks Community, students will build selfesteem and a lasting love of learning.
Address: 3995 E Aurora Ave., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-6500
Website: hpe.bvsd.org
Principal: Christopher Basten
Enrollment: 250
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Jamestown
Jamestown is a small mountain school with a dedicated team of two teachers and extensive support staff, serving grades K-5. Jamestown’s unheard of
student-to-teacher ratio allows individualized learning and creative and flexible educational approaches. Students work in small, multi-age groups. A developmental approach, rather than grade level approach is emphasized. Jamestown’s greatest strength is its welcoming and loving environment where students learn the lifelong lessons of patience, respect, integrity, determination, and empathy. Community and parent involvement are extremely valued.
Address: 111 Mesa St.,Jamestown
Phone: 720-561-6020
Website: jae.bvsd.org/
Principal: Jessica Seevers
Enrollment: 18
Daily Schedule: Bell Times: 8:00 a.m.
-3:00 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Kohl
Kohl Elementary is one of few remaining neighborhood schools. It is situated in a park-like tract of land that anchors our corner of Broomfield. Our families and staff know it’s true; The Grass Really Is Greener in Colt Country. This explains the number of multi-generational Kohl families in our school community. We are proud of our history, excited by our present, and eagerly anticipate a future filled with innovative learning opportunities for students. Kohl is known as a high-achieving school; one that honors the individuality of children, values connections with families, and intentionally cultivates partnerships within our community Through quality classroom instruction and a robust PBIS system that is deeply embedded in Kohl’s culture, we strive to meet the emotional, social, physical, and intellectual needs of our students, such that they love learning and are prepared for tomorrow’s challenges as tomorrow’s leaders. Our talented and enthusiastic staff are themselves learners, currently engaging in the study and implementation of Data Driven Instructional practices (DDI). We maintain a focused approach to providing “a best first teach” to all students, as well as instruction that is appropriately differentiated and of sufficient depth and breadth to engage all learners. Kohl
Elementary School offers relevant and rigorous K-5 educational programming, as well as a high-quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on Kindergarten readiness. Go COLTS!
Address: 1000 W. 10th Ave., Broomfield Phone: 720-561-8600
Lafayette Elementary School is a neighborhood school that provides a rigorous academic program in a culturally diverse environment. Students benefit from individualized opportunities made possible by a comprehensive Gifted and Talented focus program. A Gifted and Talented Teacher Leader works directly with students, teachers, and parents to design educational experiences based upon identified strengths and talents. Our staff is committed to providing differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all students, including second language learners and children with special needs. Lafayette provides both extension and additional support opportunities to students, as well as, uses school wide Positive Behavioral Supports to empower student learning and leadership. We are a Green Star School and have an active Garden to Table program that all students, preschool through fifth grade, get to experience Lafayette also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. Our school motto is: We are learners, we are leaders, we are Lafayette Cougars!
Address: 101 N. Bermont Ave., Lafayette Phone: 720-561-8900
Website: lae.bvsd.org
Principal: Megan Weir
Enrollment: 476
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Boulder Valley School District
Louisville
Louisville Elementary is a neighborhood school in the heart of Old Town Louisville
Our staff sets students on a course of lifelong learning through an academic program that is grounded in developmentally appropriate academic standards. We also seek to live out our core values of inclusion, community involvement, and student success for all. Our high-quality instructional program has resulted in increased student achievement in all content areas. Louisville encourages school pride, positive behaviors and attitudes through our counseling program and socialemotional learning in all classrooms. Parents support our school in a multitude of ways, from volunteering at school to organizing fun and well-attended school social events. Louisville also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment.
Louisville Elementary has close affiliations with EcoCycle (school recycling), the GROWE Foundation (community gardens), the Sloyd Experience (life skills) and Louisville Recreation. Moreover, BVSD’s Lifelong Learning Programs are abundant and offer many after school learning opportunities to LES students. LES is a true community school.
Mapleton Early Childhood Center welcomes learners ages 3-5 Full day preschool programs and a preschool enrichment program are offered in the beautiful, historic building on Mapleton Hill in Boulder. Children served at the center have a diverse array of neighborhoods and learning levels and are met in their unique place in the learning journey. Mapleton’s creative curriculum promotes progress in all developmental areas and helps every child become creative, confident thinkers and ready learners. The school focuses on social-emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development as well as early learning standards in literacy, mathematics, science and technology, social studies and the arts.
Enrollment: Six preschool classrooms and licensed for up to 121 students
Mesa
Mesa is a Seal of Excellence Human Rights Campaign Welcoming School, where the belief is each and every student, along with their family, deserves to feel seen, valued, and appreciated. The school’s unwavering focus on the individual ensures that all students experience growth and success. From the moment people arrive, they notice genuine warmth among teachers, students, and families. It is the strong sense of belonging that drives student success for all types of learners. Mesa is in the top five percent of achievement among all Colorado elementary schools. The academic program is enhanced by a value for the arts. All families are welcomed at Mesa.
Address: 1575 Lehigh St., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-3000
Website: mee.bvsd.org
Principal: Josh Baldner
Enrollment: 237
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Nederland
Located in a spectacular mountain setting, Nederland Elementary School is dedicated to providing students with an innovative elementary school experience filled with adventurous learning opportunities that will ignite lifelong curiosity, and provide students with a strong academic foundation for future learning. Our highly-qualified staff integrates science and social studies with our mountain surroundings by getting outside whenever possible. Through our SHRED program students have the opportunity to ski or snowboard with lessons and rentals at Eldora and also receive mountain biking instruction from SMBA (bikes and helmets provided!). We have high-expectations for all students and focus on equity to ensure all students succeed. Nederland Elementary also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. Finally, we emphasize the whole-child and social emotional development through our social emotional curriculum (Second Step), daily mindfulness, and restorative practices to resolve conflict. We have a very active PTA and a number of community based partnerships to support student learning. We are an amazing mountain school community!
Address: 1 Sundown Trail, Nederland Phone: 720-561-4800
Website: nee.bvsd.org
Principal: Caleb Melamed Enrollment: 188
Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Situated in the heart of Old Town Lafayette, Escuela Bilingüe Pioneer is a dual immersion bilingual school operating under a 90/10 model, whereby all students gain admission through the district’s open-enrollment process. We are committed to ensuring a harmonious mix of students based on their home language and language proficiency. At Escuela Bilingüe Pioneer, we prioritize fostering bi-literacy among our students as they embark on a journey to build seamless connections between Spanish and English. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to infuse a multilingual perspective throughout, enriching the learning experience. Our teaching staff is composed of highly qualified, bilingual educators who bring their expertise to cultivate a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Pioneer students also enjoy dedicated 50-minute sessions of physical education, music, and art every week, enhancing their well-rounded education. We deeply value our community partnerships, which enable us to provide a diverse range of after-school enrichment programs. In addition to our regular programs, Escuela Bilingüe Pioneer is proud to offer a top-tier, play-based preschool program. This program places a strong emphasis on kindergarten readiness in a joyful and interactive setting, ensuring that our youngest learners are well-prepared for their educational journey
Address: 101 E. Baseline Road, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7800
Website: pie.bvsd.org
Principal: Heather Riley Enrollment: 471
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Ryan
Ryan Elementary STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) School is a dynamic learning community with a focus on partnering with families and the community to prepare students for the 21st century Ryan offers high quality PK-5 education. Our preschool program is
Mapleton Early Childhood Center
Escuela Bilingüe Pioneer
Boulder Valley School District
play-based and focuses on Kindergarten readiness. Ryan develops the whole child with experiential project-based learning activities in the STEAM areas. Ryan embraces technology as a tool for engaging students and supporting learning. With a strong belief that partnerships nurture excellence, Ryan partners with the University of Colorado, Thorne Nature Experience, and Growe Foundation (to name a few). A wide variety of after-school programming is offered to extend the learning day and support the focus.
Address: 1405 Centaur Village Drive, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7000
Website: rye.bvsd.org
Principal: Stephanie Jackman Enrollment: 454
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m
Superior
Superior Elementary School has been designated an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School for 2022 by U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona. Superior is a school that combines high academic standards with social emotional learning so that all students are known, seen and valued. The outstanding educator staff creates dynamic and inclusive learning environments where students explore and investigate using critical thinking skills. Highlights include a highly effective staff that fosters joy and love for students so that every child achieves. The school also has an exceptionally inclusive specials program with a full-time teacher in physical education, music, and art. Choirs, clubs, intramural sports, and enrichment classes extend the school day. The Positive Behavior Intervention Support program unites the school around the words of respect, acceptance, and responsibility. A comprehensive elementary school counselor provides education, prevention and intervention services in the areas of academic, career and social/emotional development. Superior has a center-based program
(“AIM program”) with specially designed supports for autistic students who need behavioral and academic support. Superior’s autism team is committed to helping neurodiverse and neurotypical students discover their strengths and struggles, form opinions, & build connections. Superior also uses the latest media and technology throughout the school -- televised morning announcements, iPads, Chromebooks, Internet research and a wireless building add to rich integration of technology into the curriculum.
Address: 1800 S. Indiana St., Superior Phone: 720-561-4100
Website: sue.bvsd.org
Principal: Jonathan Stein
Enrollment: 430
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m
University Hill
Founded in 1906, University Hill is one of Boulder’s oldest elementary schools. Its 50/50 bilingual learning environment focuses on the diverse needs of all children and prepares them to be responsible world citizens who are biliterate in Spanish and English, and who excel in academics and thrive in a global community. The vision of University Hill is to provide a caring environment where children are empowered to be critical thinkers, mindful community members, and culturally competent, bilingual individuals. Our staff is highly diverse -- many have come to us from countries such as Mexico, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. Our dual language school community thrives on its diversity, inclusionary practices, and socialemotional skill development. University Hill also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. Staff, students, and families are driven by our school values of community, joy, growth mindset, kindness, and courage
The longest-running school in Colorado, Whittier International was founded in 1882, and is situated in the heart of the city. Whittier is a neighborhood school with an international focus, serving students from close to 40 countries. As an authorized International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program school, Whittier combines the BVSD curriculum with an internationally recognized academic framework that focuses on civic engagement to improve our world. “Inquiry” is a primary strategy used to integrate higher-order thinking, questioning and application of content knowledge through transdisciplinary units of study. In addition, students in K-5 are introduced to Spanish as a world language
Address: 2008 Pine St., Boulder Phone: 720-561-5431
Website: whe.bvsd.org
Principal: Lucas Ketzer
Enrollment: 329
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
PK-8 / K-8 SCHOOLS
Aspen Creek
Aspen Creek PK-8 students receive engaging academic programming. Art, music, and physical education at the elementary level and the exploratory/ elective programs at the middle level are
offered. In grades sixth through eighth, we offer teaming and exploratory programming to students. Our quality teachers are provided with job-embedded professional development opportunities that support quality instruction within the classroom. We have a strong parent community supporting the school. Aspen Creek also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment.
Address: 5500 Aspen Creek Drive, Broomfield Phone: 720-561-8000
Website: ac8.bvsd.org
Principal: Nick Vanderpol
Enrollment: 733
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m.
A neighborhood school serving the Town of Superior, CO. Eldorado PK-8 sets high academic standards for all students and provides a rigorous learning experience that celebrates students’ strengths as well as taking a whole-child approach to education. Eldorado PK-8 offers accelerated sixth grade through eighth grade classes in mathematics and language arts, Gifted and Talented programming, an inclusive special education learning environment, Spanish as a World Language elective, and a dynamic English Language Development program for our English language learners. Eldorado PK-8 also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. At Eldorado PK-8, faculty/staff, students, and families work collaboratively so that all students are challenged to their potential in a culture that fosters curiosity and risk-taking. As part of our culture, Eldorado PK-8 offers several enrichment opportunities before and after school for students to delve into their interests, while also building on their collaboration skills with our teachers and community
Address: 3351 Indiana St., Superior Phone: 720-561-4400
Eldorado
Boulder Valley School District
Website: el8.bvsd.org
Principal: Barb Aswege
Enrollment: 597
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Horizons
Since 1991, Horizons K-8 has offered a relationship-based and engaging program where students consistently meet or exceed rigorous academic expectations in a caring and supportive learning environment. With a balanced focus on high academic expectations and individual attention to the whole child, our committed teachers guide students to become self-directed learners who advocate for themselves, others, and a just world. Student-led family conferences, portfolios, and performancebased assessments keep learning relevant and authentic. Our high-interest curriculum offers a variety of developmentally appropriate academic experiences both inside and outside the classroom, including outdoor education, service learning, performances, STEAM, art, music, physical education, and Spanish instruction school-wide. In recognition of high academic achievement by students and the consistent hard work of an innovative and dynamic staff, Horizons has repeatedly been awarded the Colorado Department of Education John J. Irwin School of Excellence Award. Small, multi-age classes and instruction that balances academic and social-emotional learning continue to be a hallmark of the Horizons program
Meadowlark School is Boulder Valley School District’s first school in Erie and serves students in PK through eighth grade. The school is a dynamic learning environment organized into five multi-age learning communities: PK-K, 1st-2nd, 3rd4th, 5th-6th and 7th-8th. Flexible grouping arrangements and project-based learning (PBL) are two of our core tenets in creating challenging, meaningful, and engaging learning opportunities for all students. The innovative educational spaces promote collaboration and partnerships for all stakeholders. Personalized learning is a cornerstone of the learning community model. Meadowlark School also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. Our staff work in collaboration with students, families, and the community to support the whole child in social-emotional, physical, and academic growth.
Our school community thrives on its diversity, inclusionary practices, and social emotional skill development. Our mission is to empower all learners to reach their
unique potential and become compassionate, engaged global citizens. Monarch PK-8 is student-focused and dedicated to meeting the needs of all students through a rigorous academic program including strong arts, electives and physical education programs as well as supporting students’ social-emotional development. Monarch PK-8 offers accelerated sixth-grade through eighth-grade classes in mathematics, Gifted and Talented programming, an inclusive special education learning environment, Spanish as a World Language elective, and a dynamic English Language Development program for our English language learners. Monarch PK-8 also offers a high quality, play-based preschool program that focuses on kindergarten readiness in a fun and interactive environment. At Monarch PK-8, faculty/staff, students, and families work collaboratively so that all students are challenged to their potential in a culture that supports them to reach their unique potential and become engaged global citizens. . Monarch PK-8 offers several enrichment opportunities before and after school for students to delve into their interests, while also building on their collaboration skills with our teachers and community
Daily Schedule: 8:05 a.m. - 3:05 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:05 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.
KINDERGARTEN-12TH GRADE
Peak to Peak Charter School
Peak to Peak is a liberal arts college preparatory school designed for graduates to exceed entrance requirements of top colleges and universities. High expectations are an important part of the school culture, and each student is seen as an individual of great potential and promise. Students are challenged through appropriate placement in each subject. Character development is an integral part of all
aspects of the school, including K-12 service learning projects and required service hours in HS. Peak to Peak’s Elementary School uses robust differentiated classes to meet student needs. Accelerated math and literacy classes are offered beginning in first grade to students showing prior mastery of grade level content. Teachers intentionally design learning experiences to address the whole child, including daily discussion of social-emotional learning, alternative seating options, and movement integration within each classroom throughout the day. Peak to Peak’s Middle School offers a smallschool environment with a challenging sequence of standard and honors courses in core academic areas along with a rich variety of electives to prepare students for Peak to Peak’s challenging high school program. The Middle School also offers students an opportunity to participate in an array of extracurricular activities, athletics and a school-wide House system. Peak to Peak’s High School program includes a wide variety of standard, honors, Advanced Placement and post-AP classes. College counseling engages students early on, and continues throughout their K-12 experience. College counseling is integrated into lessons in the classroom in grades 9-12 and is based on a personalized approach to helping students access the colleges and universities of their choice and best fit after high school.
Angevine Middle School is a studentcentered middle school with an emphasis on academic achievement and social emotional development. Our greatest joy
Monarch
Monarch PK-8 is a welcoming community school serving students in preschool through eighth grade.
Boulder Valley School District
is working together to foster an inclusive learning environment that promotes the success and growth of all students. Learning at Angevine integrates communication, human relations, problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration into the content students engage with daily. Our focus on Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships includes creative and enriching experiences within a safe environment that are essential to a comprehensive curriculum. Angevine is unique in that we offer a dual language strand where students take a language arts, a content and an elective class in Spanish each year. Additionally, we offer a pre-engineering program, which feeds into the Centaurus High School engineering track, an award-winning visual and musical arts program, AVID, and new technology built into every classroom to foster the success of the 21st-century learner
Address: 1150 S. Boulder Road, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7100
Website: anm.bvsd.org
Principal: Rhianna Burroughs Enrollment: 659
Daily Schedule:8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
BU Middle School is an online public school serving BVSD and other Colorado students in grades 6-8. Courses are taught and created in an asynchronous format by BVSD teachers using content and curriculum aligned to state and district standards. Students engage and interact with their actual teacher and classmates from across the country in an asynchronous online setting, allowing students to learn at any time and place Since all teachers are BVSD teachers, the class size ratio is equivalent to all BVSD schools. Boulder Universal also has an in-person learning lab staffed with your teachers for students to get one-on-one support. Tuition is free for students enrolled and available to anyone who lives in the State of Colorado
Address: 6600 E. Arapahoe Road, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-5500
Website: boulderuniversal.org
Principal: Eric Moroye Enrollment: 55
Broomfield Heights
At Broomfield Heights, a proud neighborhood middle school, we embrace and support our richly diverse community by providing a safe, welcoming, and high-level learning environment for all of our students. Our programming is designed to meet the academic, creative, and emotional needs of each student. At BHMS, we are part of the greater community of Broomfield, and we continue to build on our tradition of excellence Our students engage in a wide range of exploratory choices and extracurricular activities to supplement high-quality instruction and an overarching focus on the whole child. School-wide positive behavior support, empowering students to be leaders, and providing a supportive network for each child are points of pride at BHMS. With the integration of technology and 21st-century skills into our programming, we are preparing students for their bright and dynamic futures.
Address: 1555 Daphne St., Broomfield
Phone: 720-561-8400
Website: bhm.bvsd.org
Principal: Erin Hinkle
Enrollment: 510
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
of cultures.
Casey promotes both challenging academics and a socially and emotionally nurturing environment that values the uniqueness of each student. Key features of our program include: A highly ranked math program that provides Casey and all students with all appropriate levels of challenge to ensure high levels of growth, a variety of content and elective classes that ensure all students are supported and challenged, a STEM program committed to enabling students to explore career options that align directly with the high school career and technical educational programming, Our renowned bilingual program offers classes in Spanish language arts, Spanish social studies, Baile Folklórico and a 6th grade bilingual elective exploring culture, art and dance, and finally, an award-winning arts program. At Casey, we believe in uncovering and fostering the potential of every one of our students and other stakeholders while supporting their individual interests and needs.
Address: 1301 High St., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-2700
Website: cam.bvsd.org
Principal: Dr. Bryant Shaw Enrollment: 454
Daily Schedule: 8:40 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:40 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Centennial
Home of the Cyclones, Centennial Middle School is a place where “everyone belongs”. The school community provides a rigorous academic program grounded in a caring and nurturing environment in your neighborhood school! A high degree of personalized attention is given through an engaging curriculum, a dynamic variety of course offerings, and an interesting array of after school and during school clubs and activities. At Centennial, students have a wide range of learning opportunities that support and nurture our diverse community. We utilize a variety of instructional practices within all of our courses. Our students grow and value our R2ISE expectations which create an atmosphere of Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Safety, and Empathy. Our welcoming school is thoughtful about
ensuring that our diverse parent community feels welcome at our many school-wide events and as a part of our PTO and other committee structures.
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Louisville
Louisville Middle School sets high academic and community standards for every student, following the core belief that everyone should have the opportunity to be challenged and grow with the support they need to thrive. We are the school on Main St, and we thrive as members of the greater community. A priority is placed on a balance of exceptional academic courses with robust electives and an exemplary fine arts program. We have a focus on socialemotional learning that prepares students to be stewards of the community Students’ families partner with staff to ensure a caring, engaging, and inclusive school culture where everyone is welcome. Students thrive in this strong sense of community as they strive to achieve ambitious learning goals, explore their creative and artistic potential, and challenge themselves to develop positive habits for life. Positivity, respect, integrity, determination, empathy are our values, and these are infused into everything we do to create “The LMS Way”; our lens on life that stays with our students as they move to their next great adventure in high school and beyond.
Address: 1341 Main St., Louisville Phone: 720-561-7400
Website: lom.bvsd.org
Principal: Chris Meyer
Enrollment: 602
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Boulder Universal
Casey
Casey Middle School is a dynamic learning community of students, parents, and faculty from an array
Boulder Valley School District
Manhattan School of Arts and Academics
Manhattan Middle School has an academically rigorous and caring, student-centered learning environment. While Manhattan is a neighborhood school, it is also an arts focus school that offers in-depth study of various art forms (visual, theatric, vocal, band, orchestra, digital multimedia, and woodworking) for students who wish to focus on a specific arts discipline. In addition, we offer a Spanish Dual Language Program designed for students continuing elementary bilingual education and for heritage Spanish speakers. Manhattan also offers a traditional middle school program with a variety of electives in the arts, world languages, and technology, as well as accelerated math classes and Gifted and Talented programming. Our focus at MMS is to prepare students for their scholastic and career endeavors by encouraging and incorporating critical thinking, exploratory and project based learning, social and emotional growth, and executive functioning tools into every class to support the skills that students need in their futures. Manhattan offers the same extracurricular sports as all BVSD middle schools, as well as many before- and after-school clubs. Clubs change each year. Here are a few active Manhattan clubs: Jazz Band, Art/Graffiti Club, Dance Club, Crochet Club, Dungeons and Dragons, Chess Club, Latino Student Organization, Math Counts, Robotics, Destination Imagination, Sources of Strength, and Allies, an anti-bullying group that celebrates differences.
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Nevin Platt Middle School and The CHOICE Program
Nevin Platt Middle School is a community school serving students in grades 6-8 in Boulder, Colorado Students thrive in a safe, academic and social environment, where teachers and staff are committed to each student’s intellectual, physical and emotional needs. Our programming focuses on academic rigor, encourages exploration and experiential learning opportunities, encourages students to demonstrate mastery through projectbased learning, promotes technological expertise, and supports community building in a safe environment. Platt is also home to the CHOICE Program. CHOICE is an acronym that stands for “Cooperative Hands-On Integrated Community Education.” Students in the CHOICE Program attend mixed-gradelevel classes and stay with the same team of teachers for all three years of middle school. CHOICE students are out of the building approximately 25 days a year experiencing community based learning opportunities. Students may apply for this three-year program only through the open-enrollment process.
Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Southern Hills
Southern Hills is a John J. Irwin School of Excellence Award-winning neighborhood middle school in south Boulder. Southern Hills offers personal attention and a close-
knit community based on the PRIDE Cougar Values of Participation, Responsibility, Integrity, Determination, and Empathy. Southern Hills offers accelerated classes in mathematics, language arts, and foreign language along with a wide variety of electives. With strong programs for gifted/talented and special education, Southern Hills prides itself on meeting the needs of all students. There are also many opportunities for students to explore their interests through a variety of student activities, clubs, and athletics.
Summit Middle School, a four-time Blue Ribbon Award winner, was founded in 1996 as the first charter school in BVSD. Summit values scholarship, providing a rigorous academic curriculum within a caring community that supports student development and instills a lifelong love of learning. Summit is selected by families seeking challenging academics and thorough high school preparation. Summit requires English, Science, Math, Social Studies, and World Language daily, while also offering a variety of elective classes. Summit’s culture encourages character, creativity, community, and scholarship Summit is a diverse and safe community where students are nurtured and challenged.
Address: 4655 Hanover Ave., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-3900
Website: sum.bvsd.org
Principal: Adam Galvin
Enrollment: 360
Daily Schedule: 8:00 a.m. - 3:05 p.m.
MIDDLE-SENIOR SCHOOLS Nederland
Nederland Middle-Senior High School (NMSHS) provides students with exceptional student experiences and outcomes through excellent academic and extracurricular opportunities, and was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of “America’s Best High Schools 2022”. Ned Middle-Senior high School’s focus is learning, belonging and involvement. Located just west of Boulder at approximately 8,400 feet, our neighborhood school boasts beautiful mountain & wildlife views and great opportunities for mountain biking, hiking & skiing. Our unique mountain location allows us to connect curriculum to the outdoors and the community, and we are proud to boast about our Outdoor Recreation Leadership CTE pathway. Our robust offerings include Advanced Placement (AP), Career and Technical Education (CTE), and Concurrent Enrollment (CE) options. We provide our students with small class sizes to ensure that ALL students receive individualized teacher feedback, build close relationships with their peers, and receive social-emotional support. Students have many extracurricular opportunities at Nederland Middle-Senior High School. From being able to participate in all of our athletic programs (including skiing and mountain biking) to award-winning music and theater programs, fine arts, and clubs, we provide multiple opportunities for students to find their Panther Pride
Address: 597 County Road 130, Nederland Phone: 720-561-4900
Website: neh.bvsd.org
Principal: Gavan Goodrich Enrollment: 234
Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Boulder Valley School District
HIGH SCHOOLS
Arapahoe Ridge
Mission: To graduate students. Arapahoe Ridge High School is an alternative education campus in BVSD. Student enrollment consists of juniors and seniors with a few sophomores. As an alternative high school, Arapahoe Ridge provides students with half-time schedules for required academics and work-based learning for elective credits. This allows students to work, volunteer or have an internship. Transportation to campus is offered via school buses that are available from the comprehensive high schools within BVSD. Students may also access RTD for FREE. Students may also have the opportunity for FREE college classes. Open enrollment and immediate transfers are available. If interested in joining Arapahoe Ridge now, contact the school and ask for a consultation. ARHS will set up a face-to-face meeting where students may decide for themselves if ARHS is a change they want to make.
Address: 6600 E. Arapahoe Road, Boulder
Phone: 720-561-5231
ARHS Principal: Dr. Joan Bludorn
Assistant Principal: Johnny Fernandez
Community Liaison: Sandra Salazar
Enrollment: 265 Boulder
Founded in 1875 as part of the University of Colorado Boulder (CU), Boulder High is the oldest established high school in Colorado. Its downtown Boulder location, in close proximity to the university, provides students with an enriched, expanded learning environment. Students regularly access university classes, libraries, CU’s Conference on World Affairs, guest speakers, visiting artists and
other cultural activities. Additionally, the location provides the opportunity for regular walking field trips from its urban setting. Boulder High is an Advanced Placement focus school, with one of the most comprehensive programs in the state, offering 30 Advanced Placement courses. Boulder High has an artsfocused pathway, which enables students to deeply integrate art into their academic and personal life with the exposure to art and artists in the local community Boulder High also boasts the only darkroom for high school photography students in the Boulder Valley School District. Boulder High also has one of the district’s largest Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) programs, serving students from 30 countries who speak dozens of languages with English as their second language
Boulder Preparatory High School is a college-preparatory program serving students who are looking for a smallschool setting that provides individualized attention. The charter school offers rigorous academics through a unique and diverse curriculum. The academic program is complemented with a weekly Life Skills program to prepare students for adulthood and their social responsibilities in the world community. We will not give up on students, even when they give up on themselves. All graduates must be accepted to college before they can receive their diplomas. Over the years, Boulder Prep has provided the academic and social opportunities needed to transform youth-at-risk into college bound youth-of-promise
Boulder TEC is BVSD’s Career and College Center that equips each student with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to develop their own career path. All of our programs are focused on experiential learning where students engage in authentic, hands-on activities that encourage reflection and connections between the classroom and the real world. Through the use of industry standard equipment and an extensive network of industry partnerships, our students are able to master skills and knowledge that ensure they have meaningful career discovery opportunities. Programs offer college concurrent enrollment credit, the opportunity to earn professional licenses or certificates, work-based learning experiences, as well as integrated core academic credit that counts toward high school graduation. Specific programs include Automotive Collision Repair, Automotive Service Technology, Biomedical Science, Construction Trades, Criminal Justice & Crime Scene Investigation, Culinary Arts, Emergency Medical Services, Natural Resources, Physical Therapy, Sports Medicine, Teacher Academy, Video Production, and Welding. Students from all BVSD high schools are eligible to apply to attend as part of their 11th and 12th grade years.
Address: 6600 E. Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, Phone: 720-561-3300
Website: bouldertec.org
Assistant Principal: Ming Scheid Enrollment: 425
Boulder Universal
BU High School is an online public school serving BVSD and other Colorado students in grades 9-12. Courses are taught and created in an asynchronous format by BVSD teachers using content and curriculum aligned to state and district standards. Boulder Universal also partners with Front Range Community College, CU-Boulder, and others to provide students a college experience within the high school setting. Students have the option to earn a full year of college credit with their BU teachers and courses. The flexibility of an asynchronous learning environment allows students to pursue personal passions and learn highly independent learning skills. Students engage and interact with their actual teacher and classmates from across the country in an asynchronous online
setting, allowing students to learn at any time and place. Since all teachers are BVSD teachers, the class size ratio is equivalent to all BVSD schools. Boulder Universal also has an in-person learning lab staffed with your teachers for students to get one-on-one support. All courses are NCAA approved. Tuition is free for students enrolled and available to anyone who lives in the State of Colorado
Address: 6600 E. Arapahoe Road, Boulder Phone: 720-561-5500
Website: boulderuniversal.org
Principal: Eric Moroye
Enrollment: 151
Broomfield
Broomfield High School is the center of our community. We offer a comprehensive program of study designed to meet the various academic needs and interests of our students. Courses offered include Advanced Placement courses in many disciplines, fine arts, and vocational courses. Broomfield High School also partners with Front Range Community College and Metro State University to provide students a college experience within the high school setting. Eagles are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, theater, music, and clubs. Everyone works together to make Broomfield High a school in which all students can succeed and accept new challenges.
Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.
Boulder Valley School District
Centaurus High School is a collegepreparatory high school with an award-winning Engineering Academy and International Baccalaureate Diploma program. In addition to Engineering and International Baccalaureate, our Advanced Placement courses, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), fine arts, Business, Engineering Academy and exceptional extra-curricular programs ensure that each of our students are prepared for the most rigorous academic majors at the university level. We offer multiple classes for industry certification and concurrent coursework, which allows students ample opportunity at achievement with our Grad+ programs. Graduates from our programs have been accepted to nationally ranked schools to further their studies in a variety of fields, including engineering, pre-law, premedical, international policy studies, business, journalism, and art. Centaurus’s student focused support systems and strong sense of school pride, spirit and community allow students to participate more fully in their high school experience, garner more personal assistance, and build lasting relationships with both peers and faculty while still accessing a wide variety of academic programs, athletics and activities. Our adopted school motto is ‘You Belong Here” and we believe in HEART (Honor, Empathy, Achievement, Respect and Triumph)as a community of Warriors.
Address: 10300 South Boulder Road, Lafayette
Phone: 720-561-7500
Website: ceh.bvsd.org
Principal: Carlyn Carroll
Enrollment: 1570
Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.;
Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.
Fairview is a nationally recognized comprehensive high school with a tradition of rich and rigorous academics, including a strong college prep program, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program, a vast array of Advanced Placement (AP) and Concurrent Enrollment (CE) courses, Career Technical Education (CTE) options, and an extensive program for students with special needs. We are dedicated to supporting all of our students’ success. We provide students with a variety of rich pathways to explore talents, passions, and interests. Fairview is recognized nationally for its four pillars of excellence: academics, athletics, arts, and activities. Our students routinely win awards and state championships in athletic, artistic and scholarly competitions. At the national level, our students have been selected as U.S. Presidential Scholars. Our students have won titles at the Intel Science Talent Search and National History Day competitions, and we frequently have the highest number of National Merit Finalists in the State of Colorado. Fairview is home to 25 varsity sports, 8 choirs, 5 bands, 2 orchestras, and multiple theater productions. We have 50 - 150 clubs and activities, depending on student interest. We value student voice and cultivate student leadership. U.S. News & World Report “America’s Best High Schools” ranks Fairview at 365 out of 25000 schools (2023). Niche ranks Fairview as the third best public high school in CO (2022). With a plethora of exciting opportunities, Fairview offers a caring community, an inclusive academic environment, and a culture of belonging. Fairview is a place for all to thrive.
Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.
Justice
Justice High is a charter school for at-risk youth in the Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley communities. It is a pre-collegiate academic program, requiring all graduates to have taken and passed two college-level courses and be accepted into a minimum of three colleges. All students are required to participate in extracurricular activities and work in their community. Justice High School also offers students some vocational courses and opportunities to complete their GED or HiSET
Monarch High School prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. Monarch is an award winning comprehensive college and career preparatory high school with a four-year graduation rate of over 96 percent. It offers a vast array of Advanced Placement courses. Many Monarch courses are tied to concurrent enrollment opportunities through CU Succeed, Metro State University, and Front Range Community College. Monarch also encourages students to become involved in our highly competitive athletic programs, robust and successful music programs (band, choir, orchestra), broad fine arts course offerings, dynamic drama/theater program, and over 60 clubs. Monarch’s Career and Technical Education programs -- which include Culinary Arts, Computer Science, Business, Aviation & Aeronautics,
and Engineering (award-winning Robotics program, pre-engineering, 3D Design, and Industrial Design) -- are all designed to meet the diverse needs of individual learners, while ensure all student interests are fostered and celebrated.
Since 1993, New Vista High School has been a highly regarded, non-traditional school that actively engages every student in rigorous learning. If you want to “Think Big” about your high school experience, we strongly recommend you consider New Vista! Our “small liberal arts” high school includes: high academic and behavioral expectations for all students; personal relationships built on mutual respect with all adults in the building; an adviser who supports each student from enrollment through college counseling and graduation; choices that allow students to shape the educational program to meet their needs and interests; active, relevant learning within all classrooms as well as varied and engaging course offerings; and significant opportunities to learn in the broader community. At New Vista we have a school culture that values individuals, community, and learning with an explicit emphasis on understanding and valuing equity and diversity. New Vista is truly a place where students can have a personalized high school experience and will emerge with both the academic skills and self awareness to make change and build successful futures. New this year, join us in our brand new school building that has been designed with our innovative approaches in mind!
Empoweringstudentsuccesswithworld-class educationalopportunitiesandcommunitysupport St. Vrain Valley School District
Dear St. Vrain Valley Schools Community, Thank you for your unwavering support of St. Vrain Valley Schools
Your outstanding dedication to the well-being and success of our students, teachers, staff and schools is a testament to
our incredible community Among our many high-quality programs, we are very proud of the outstanding portfolio of educational options available across all of our schools.
Elevation and Technology Center
Choosing a school for your student is an important personal step in charting their future path Toward this end, St. Vrain offers a diverse and extensive selection of rigorous academic and cocurricular programs that provide you and your student choice in selecting a school that best aligns with their interests and educational goals.
In addition to our high-quality, rigorous preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and fully online LaunchED program, our many high school options include instructional focus academies in aerospace and engineering, energy, biomedical sciences, business, medical and biosciences, leadership, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), and visual and performing arts. Other excellent programs across St. Vrain include honors courses, Advanced Placement and AP Capstone courses, International Baccalaureate, CU Succeed Gold and Silver Dual Enrollment Programs, P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School), P-TEACH (Pathways to Teaching), Seal of Biliteracy, St. Vrain Virtual High School, the Innovation Center, and the Career
St. Vrain has the highest graduation rate in the Denver Metro Area at 93.3%, with the highest graduation requirements, and the lowest dropout rate at 0.6%. Our graduates have enrolled in a record number of concurrent enrollment college-level courses, giving them a head start on their postsecondary education, as well as thousands of college credits on their transcripts, saving their families millions of dollars in future tuition costs. Our students have also received numerous recognitions for their academic achievements, talents, and innovative ideas, including Boettcher Scholarships, Daniels Scholarships, National Merit semifinalists and finalists, AllState athletes, All-State musicians, and acceptance letters from many of America’s highly competitive colleges, universities, and military institutions.
Students who take courses at the Innovation Center and Career Elevation and Technology Center can focus on advanced learning and workforce readiness skills in some of the fastest growing industries, including: advanced manufacturing, aeronautics, agricultural sciences, artificial intelligence, automotive technology, bioscience, culinary arts, cybersecurity, electronics, entrepreneurship, healthcare, information and communications
technology, interactive media, machining, optics, robotics, and welding and fabrication technology
Student engagement is an important part of any comprehensive educational experience. Accordingly, St. Vrain offers a robust selection of co-curricular activities and enrichment options in every school throughout our district. Students are encouraged to participate in the arts, music programs, robotics, debate, theater, student government, athletics, and many other highquality activities that further support the development of wellrounded citizens who embody teamwork, leadership, and strong character. St. Vrain Valley Schools’ college preparatory and high-quality instructional focus programs – delivered in partnership with rigorous courses and engaging activities – ensure that our students experience a world-class education.
Thank you for your outstanding support in championing the advancement of St. Vrain Valley Schools into a nationally recognized center of excellence for student engagement and 21st-century learning.
Sincerely,
Don Haddad, Ed.D. Superintendent St. Vrain Valley Schools
St. Vrain Valley Schools
PRESCHOOL
Spark! Discovery Preschool
Spark! Discovery Preschool offers full- and half-day programs for children ages 3 to 5, along with full-day childcare services for families in Firestone, Frederick, and Dacono. Spark’s mission is to provide a nurturing, high-quality learning environment where children can grow, build a strong foundation, and develop a lifelong love of learning. The dedicated staff builds positive relationships with students and families, fostering trust, creativity, and exploration. As a STEM-focused preschool, Spark! emphasizes hands-on, inquiry-based learning, integrating language, literacy, math, and technology to develop essential skills. Spark! follows the St Vrain calendar and offers summer childcare options.
Address: 555 8th St., Frederick
Phone: 720-652-7906
Website: sdpk.svvsd.org
Principal: Paige Gordon
Enrollment: 257
Daily Schedule:
Monday through Thursday AM Session: 8:30 to 11:10 a.m.
Monday through Thursday PM Session: 12:25 to 3:05 p.m.
Monday through Thursday Full Day
Session: 8:30 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.
Childcare (M-F): 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 48.25%; Free/reduced, 16.34%
Average student-adult ratio: No greater than 10/1
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Alpine Elementary
Alpine Elementary, an IB World School, blends International Baccalaureate (IB) principles with STEM education to inspire inquiry, global awareness, and innovation. Through rigorous exploration and Spanish language instruction, students expand their global understanding. The STEM program encourages design thinking and problem-solving using technology. Alpine also offers childcare and enrichment opportunities, including a top-tier robotics program, 100 Mile Club, Allegria choir,
and various after-school clubs, nurturing well-rounded, engaged learners.
Address: 2005 Alpine St., Longmont
Phone: 720-652-8140
Website: aes.svvsd.org
Principal: Amber Marsolek
Enrollment: 397
Daily schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 53.40%; Free/reduced, 47.36%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Black Rock Elementary
Black Rock
Elementary focuses on individual student needs while implementing all school cluster grouping and flexible grouping to ensure academic excellence Black Rock features gifted and talented programming as well as foreign language studies in Spanish. The school’s highly-qualified staff models strong collaboration, which promotes a safe and encouraging learning environment, and instills high standards of academic rigor. Black Rock implements a weekly Design Challenge for all students to use higher level thinking strategies to solve problems. Black Rock boasts a highly engaged parent community that supports the school through volunteering and relationship building.
Address: 2000 Mountain View Blvd., Erie
Phone: 720-890-3995
Website: bres.svvsd.org
Principal: Sharla Kaczar
Enrollment: 614
Daily schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 31.43%; Free/reduced lunch, 13.19%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Blue Mountain Elementary
Blue Mountain is committed to working in partnership with the community and parents to create an exemplary school – one that is the center of our neighborhood,
and a shining star in our district. Blue Mountain provides a rigorous educational experience, enhanced by the instructional focus of science, technology, and inquiry; a program founded on current research and best practices of teaching. This focus allows students to have extended learning in math, design, and science, while utilizing instructional technology on a daily basis.
Address: 1260 Mountain Dr., Longmont
Phone: 720-652-8220
Website: bmes.svvsd.org
Principal: Stephen Hoel
Enrollment: 557
Daily schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 27.47%; Free/reduced lunch, 13.82%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Burlington Elementary
Burlington Elementary is a neighborhood school enriched by a strong community of parents, students, teachers, and staff. Burlington provides many opportunities to enhance the interests and talents of students during the day as well as before and after school. Students participate, learn, and excel in a variety of engaging activities before, during, and after school, from studying ecosystems in the school’s greenhouse and pond, and taking part in design thinking projects, STEM, and robotics, to joining the 100 Mile Club and performing in an annual musical. The Burlington community takes pride in embracing the school motto: “Trailblazers Together! Explore! Create! Lead!”
Address: 1051 S. Pratt Parkway, Longmont
Phone: 303-776-8861
Website: bes.svvsd.org
Principal: Erica Bowman
Enrollment: 316
Daily schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 55.38%; Free/reduced, 48.10%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Centennial Elementary
Centennial Elementary school’s vision is centered on providing a safe, consistent, and engaging environment. We aim to equip students with the skills to successfully transition from elementary school as confident, compassionate, and capable lifelong learners. Centennial is committed to creating clear and focused academic goals that set high expectations for all students. With the school’s focus on innovation, students learn to empathize, define, and ideate new ways to solve problems as they work collaboratively to prototype and test solutions. Centennial Elementary benefits from the strength of a close-knit community, where everyone feels connected and supported.
Daily schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 37.78% Free/reduced, 31.21% Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Central Elementary
Constructed in 1878, Central Elementary was the first school in Longmont and was designated a Longmont historic landmark in 1976. Central is an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB) World School with a rigorous inquiry-based curriculum. The school’s mission is to develop knowledgeable, caring, and open-minded individuals who will become contributing citizens in a global society. Central has a dedicated and caring staff, an active PTO that supports and enhances students’ learning experiences, and an involved community that takes pride in the school’s long lasting legacy of educational excellence
Columbine Elementary is dedicated to fostering a robust STEM education for preschool through fifth grade By integrating technology and inquiry-based design thinking into everyday lessons, all staff members promote rigorous instruction that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century. The staff prioritizes building positive relationships with students and parents, creating a strong sense of community. Additionally, Columbine offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that encourage meaningful connections, support academic achievement, and instill individual pride in students.
Address: 111 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont
Phone: 303-776-2840
Web site: columbinees.svvsd.org
Principal: Julia Cooper
Enrollment: 230
Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Student profile in percentages:
Minority, 86.96%; Free/reduced, 82.12%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Eagle Crest Elementary
Eagle Crest Elementary, located in the scenic heart of southwest Longmont, is a vibrant hub of education and innovation. As a leadershipfocused school, Eagle Crest brings together students, teachers, families, and the community for a better future. The school’s commitment to STEM education, design thinking, and robotics inspires students from preschool through fifth grade to thrive academically and socially. Through dynamic, student-driven service learning projects,
students apply these skills to real-world challenges, expanding their horizons while making a positive impact. At Eagle Crest, the school prepares young leaders to take on the world, blending academics with creativity and cutting-edge technology
Address: 4444 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont
Phone: 303-485-6073
Website: eces.svvsd.org
Principal: Amanda Holden
Enrollment: 414
Daily schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 42.27%; Free/reduced, 40.10%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Erie Elementary
Erie Elementary is a community that nurtures academic excellence and promotes lifelong learning through engaging STEM-focused instruction. Erie Elementary has been proudly serving the Erie community for over 50 years, and as a STEM-focus school, encourages creative thinking, inquiry, and problem solving throughout the day. Teachers integrate the STEM concepts of science, technology, engineering, and math to ensure a rigorous experience for all students. Students can participate in a wide variety of before and after school activities including band, choir, Vex Robotics, and drama club, as well as many PTCO sponsored events.
Address: 4137 E. County Line Rd., Erie Phone: 303-828-3395
Website: ees.svvsd.org
Principal: Amy Smythe Enrollment: 450
Daily schedule: 8:55 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 29.11%; Free/reduced, 18.00%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Fall River Elementary
Fall River’s motto is “We Have The Courage to Be Outstanding!”
This drives the school’s mission to
develop students’ curiosity, empathy, and leadership skills as independent critical thinkers. Fall River has an experienced and innovative staff that expertly integrates 21st-century skills and STEM into daily learning, while also ensuring students’ academic, emotional, social, artistic, and physical success. Every day, students look forward to rigorous and engaging instruction, hands-on integration of technology, artistic expression, movement breaks, and positive behavior support. Strong parent and community involvement is a huge component of yearly high performance
Address: 1400 Deerwood Dr., Longmont
Phone: 720-652-7920
Website: fres.svvsd.org
Principal: Quinn O’Keefe
Enrollment: 518
Daily schedule: 8:55 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 34.36%; Free/reduced, 25.48%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Grand View Elementary
Grand View
Elementary empowers curious, young leaders through a welcoming, loving and collaborative community rooted in empathy, trust, and integrity. As a leadership focused school, Grand View fosters a nurturing environment where risk-taking is encouraged through hands-on learning and design thinking experiences. The school focuses on being open-minded while developing meaningful relationships and upholding high expectations. Grand View offers robotics, choir, art club, student council, STEM Explorers, 100 Mile running club, and activities before and after school. Grand View believes in building strong partnerships between students, staff, families, and the community
Address: 6601 Aggregate Blvd.
Frederick Phone: 303-702-8000
Website: gves.svvsd.org
Principal: Francesca Craver
Enrollment: 438
Daily schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 34.02%; Free/reduced, 27.40% Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Highlands Elementary
Opened in 2021, Highlands Elementary is the newest school in St. Vrain Valley and features an architectural character honoring the history of the area which includes mining, agriculture, and the prairie landscape. Classroom extension rooms include large garage doors, green screen rooms, and operable partitions for flexibility. Highlands Elementary’s focus around design thinking promotes a culture of wonder, creativity, and innovation in all students. One of the school’s conditions for learning is to develop and value ongoing partnerships between students, staff, parents, and the community. Highlands Elementary celebrates creative, curious and empathetic learners, empowering all to reach their full potential and positively impact a global society
Address: 475 Highlands Circle Erie Phone: 303-702-8040
Website: hles.svvsd.org
Principal: Ryan Ball
Enrollment: 474
Daily schedule: 9:00-3:30
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 34.18%; Free/reduced, 12.24% Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Hygiene Elementary
Hygiene Elementary offers a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) focus that provides high levels of engagement and inquiry-based learning for students. Students are exposed to movement opportunities throughout the school day. The school’s mission is to create strong partnerships with families and the community. Hygiene Elementary believes all children can learn with confidence and passion. Spanish, choir, robotics, coding, and 100 Mile Club are some of the before- and after-school activities available at the school.
Address: 11968 N. 75th St., Longmont Phone: 720-652-8021
St. Vrain Valley Schools
Website: hes.svvsd.org
Principal: Renee Collier
Enrollment: 316
Daily schedule: 9:10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 17.41%; Free/reduced lunch, 24.05%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Indian Peaks Elementary
Indian Peaks
Elementary is committed to academic excellence and leverages evidence-based instructional practices, such as Thinking Maps, Write From the Beginning and Beyond, and Take Flight to meet the needs of all learners and uphold the rigor of the Colorado Academic Standards. The school offers a variety of enriching programs, from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and Robotics to the Mariachi Band. Indian Peaks offers biliteracy support for K-3 students, full-day kindergarten classes, and a full-day preschool program. The school fosters a supportive learning community and upholds values such as accountability, safety, perseverance, integrity, respect, and empathy. Indian Peaks is an amazing place to learn.
Address: 1335 S. Judson St., Longmont Phone: 303-772-7240
Website: ipes.svvsd.org
Principal: Karen Smith
Enrollment: 236
Daily schedule: 9:10 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 91.95%; Free/reduced, 76.27%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Legacy Elementary
Legacy
Elementary fosters academic growth and social development by building strong connections within the community. The school partners with parents, local municipalities, and businesses to cultivate civic-minded students. Academically, Legacy
emphasizes critical thinking, utilizing Thinking Maps and Icons of Depth and Complexity as part of its instructional approach. In the school’s STEM lab, students engage with multiple Design Thinking processes, preparing them for future innovation. Legacy offers a range of extracurricular activities, including Robotics, Chess Club, Show Choir, an annual drama production, and Student Council. The school’s commitment to community involvement creates opportunities for students, and encourages local support that benefits all children
Address: 7701 Eagle Blvd., Frederick Phone: 720-652-8160
Website: legacyes.svvsd.org
Principal: Sean Corey
Enrollment: 442
Daily schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 34.16%; Free/reduced, 34.16%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Longmont Estates Elementary
Longmont Estates Elementary is an outstanding school dedicated to nurturing both academic excellence and the well-being of its students. Guided by the mission to offer a stimulating learning environment centered on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Longmont Estates empowers every student to unlock their full potential through engaging and demanding instruction. The school presents a dynamic core curriculum, enriched by innovative elements such as design challenges, coding, Gifted and Talented enrichment programs, a Movement Lab, in-class physical activities, and Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports.
Address: 1601 Northwestern Rd., Longmont
Phone: 720-652-8101
Website: lees.svvsd.org
Principal: Traci Haley
Enrollment: 365
Daily schedule: 8:20 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 27 99% Free/reduced, 34.24%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Lyons Elementary
Lyons Elementary offers full day preschool through fifth grade in a small-school atmosphere with a mission “to educate all students to their highest potential by fostering a cooperative, creative, and communitybased environment.” Strong community partnerships enhance student learning inside and outside the classroom. As a STEM Focus school with an emphasis on Environmental Leadership, students work side-by-side with scientists to solve authentic problems in the community Ongoing STEM projects, such as the Trout Hatchery, Production Garden, Drone Data Collection, and Redstone Historical Museum, help students build data literacy, computer science, and presentation skills. Through leadership activities, students develop intrinsic motivation, problemsolving, and healthy risk-taking.
Address: 338 High St., Lyons Phone: 303-823-6915
Website: lyonses.svvsd.org
Principal: Andrew Moore
Enrollment: 267
Daily schedule: 8:05 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 12.73%; Free/reduced, 17.98%
Average student-teacher ratio: 21/1
Mead Elementary
Mead
Elementary is a community of students, teachers, and parents committed to the development of the whole child through a belief in every child’s unlimited potential by focusing on high expectations, rigor, raising achievement, and developing character. Students have access to technology including iPads, Chromebooks, and laptops, which enhance classroom-learning objectives. As a movement school, students participate in twice-daily movement breaks to activate both sides of the brain, which helps children re-energize and focus on learning.
Address: 520 Welker Ave., Mead
Phone: 970-535-4488
Website: mes.svvsd.org
Principal: Betsy Ball
Enrollment: 873
Daily schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 30.36%; Free/reduced, 24.40%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Mountain View Elementary
Mountain View Elementary offers an integrated academic focus which provides opportunities to challenge students and build competencies to be successful in the 21st-century. Mountain View is a standards-based, balanced learning community in which each child will reach their academic, social, and emotional potential. Students in grades PK-4 benefit from rich opportunities to engage in the design-thinking process. Mountain View offers a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) based early childhood center where students are encouraged to accelerate their learning through both discovery and the design-thinking process. Wraparound childcare programming complements the school’s STEM preschool program. Mountain View Elementary also offers many enrichment opportunities including Robotics, 100 Mile Club, Mustang Singers, Rock Band, Student Council and AAA.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 69.37%; Free/reduced lunch, 71.77%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Niwot Elementary
Niwot Elementary offers preschool through fifth grade with a focus on differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all students, no matter their interests or abilities. Niwot is proud of their academic excellence, innovative
St. Vrain Valley Schools
instruction, and strong parent and community involvement. The school’s mission is “to provide each student with a well-balanced and successful learning experience that promotes a lifelong enjoyment of learning, positive self-esteem, and an appreciation of respect and acceptance for all individuals.” Niwot also offers Cougar Club, Wrap Around and many enrichment opportunities, including Robotics, 100 Mile Club, Cougar Choir, and Mwebaza Club
Address: 8778 Morton Rd., Niwot
Phone: 303-652-2828
Website: niwotes.svvsd.org
Principal: Nancy Pitz
Enrollment: 407
Daily schedule: 9:10 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 13.76%; Free/reduced lunch, 8.60%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Northridge Elementary
Northridge Elementary is a diverse and welcoming PK-5 school community with an instructional focus of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), along with Early Transitional Biliteracy Instruction. Through these approaches, students become critical thinkers and problem solvers with strong language and collaboration skills. Northridge’s highly skilled staff fosters positive relationships with students and parents, which has developed a strong sense of community throughout the school. Students and teachers engage in academic conversations, design thinking, social-emotional learning, healthy living activities, and targeted direct instruction to ensure growth and academic achievement.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 86.32%; Free/reduced lunch, 66.78%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Prairie Ridge Elementary
Prairie Ridge Elementary is a neighborhood school where students thrive as they ‘Imagine, Believe, and Achieve’ by collaboratively investigating, exploring and solving problems. Students set and meet challenging goals as they build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, and engage in activities that spark their interests and creativity. Prairie Ridge offers programs such as advanced learning classes, Robotics, Student Council, Soaring Singers, 100 Mile Club, Safety Patrol and Coding. The school community values respectful relationships, high expectations, rigorous instruction and multiple layers of support so that as learners today, students are well prepared to lead tomorrow and contribute to our changing world.
Address: 6632 St. Vrain Ranch Blvd., Firestone
Phone: 720-494-3641
Website: pres.svvsd.org
Principal: Carole Oliphant
Enrollment: 411
Daily schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 32.12%; Free/reduced lunch, 33.82%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Red
Hawk Elementary
Red Hawk is built on the foundation of strong relationships and a focus on serving and supporting teachers and staff, students, and families. As a Professional Learning Community school with a movement focus, Red Hawk is dedicated to equipping all students to succeed through purposeful identification of academic standards, engaging lessons, and supporting the whole student with a personal health emphasis. The school’s effective teaching teams and student support staff pair research-based instructional practices with a “whatever it takes’’ mentality Students participate in Full STEAMM Ahead Fridays and engage in specialized learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and movement.
Address: 1500 Telleen Ave., Erie
Phone: 303-774-2700
Website: rhes.svvsd.org
Principal: Tim Garcia
Enrollment: 605
Daily schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 17.85%; Free/reduced lunch, 10.41%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Rocky Mountain Elementary
Rocky Mountain Elementary, a STEM-focused school, equips students for success in the 21st century. With a strong biliteracy program, engaging and rigorous instruction, and diverse learning opportunities, students receive a well-rounded educational experience
The staff is dedicated to fostering positive relationships with students and parents, ensuring a supportive and caring environment. Rocky Mountain emphasizes recognizing positive behavior, encouraging students to “Be Brave, Work Hard, and Have Fun,” while cultivating strong connections that support their academic and social growth.
Address: 800 E. Fifth Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-772-6750
Website: rmes.svvsd.org
Principal: Kenny Wildenstein
Enrollment: 313
Daily schedule: 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 87.86%; Free/reduced lunch, 72.52%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
Sanborn Elementary
Sanborn Elementary emphasizes individual student growth and provides a positive, equitable learning environment where all students thrive
The school’s daily practices, from preschool through fifth grade, embed entrepreneurial mindsets, offering students opportunities to engage in real-world entrepreneurial processes and develop essential lifelong skills like
creativity, critical thinking, and problemsolving. Sanborn nurtures perseverance, empathy, and respect while promoting a love of learning. The school offers enriching activities such as Robotics, Student Council, 100 Mile Club, Drama Club, and the ‘Dragon’s Den’ Community Schools Program. Sanborn’s collaborative approach ensures every student excels academically, socially, and emotionally
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 47.70%; Free/reduced, 56.07%
Average student-teacher ratio: 24.5/1
PRESCHOOL-8TH GRADE
Aspen Ridge Preparatory School
Aspen Ridge is a small, bold, and connected PK-8 charter school within St. Vrain Valley Schools. As a tuition-free school of choice, Aspen Ridge grows children socially, emotionally, and academically, teaching them not only to problem solve and become engaged community members, but also to be kind and accepting of all. Each student has a Personalized Education Plan, and students and families are empowered to be partners in annual goal setting. Intervention and time for extension are built into the school day for all K-8 students, and middle school students can choose from more than 30 electives throughout the school year in addition to their core classes.
Principals: Charla Salmeron (Head of School); Rachel Miller (Principal); Bridget Shahinian (Assistant Principal), Eric Rhoda (Dean of Students)
Enrollment: 626
Daily schedule: 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 19.59%; Free/reduced, 8.58% Average student to teacher ratio: 23/1
St. Vrain Valley Schools
Address: 5753 Twilight Ave., Firestone
Phone: 303-772-3711
Flagstaff Academy Charter School
Flagstaff Academy Charter School is an awardwinning
kindergarten through eighth grade tuition-free public charter school located in Longmont. The school offers a rigorous curriculum and a fee-based full- and part-time preschool program for children ages three to five. With a strong focus on science and technology, students are exposed to inquiry-based science, robotics, computer sciences, integrated technology, and a greenhouse classroom. Flagstaff Academy is also a leader in whole child development, with specialized Essentials classes in exceptional fine arts and a strong focus on social emotional learning, character development, and ethical leadership
Address: 2040 Miller Dr , Longmont
Phone: 303-651-7900
Website: flagstaffacademy.org
Principals: Katie Gustafson (Executive Principal), Ryan Younkerman (Asst. Principal K-5), Kate Salgado (Asst. Principal 6-8)
Enrollment: 775
Daily schedule: 8:15 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 33.42%; Free/reduced lunch, 18.45%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
Firestone Charter Academy
Firestone Charter Academy is a PK-8, academically rigorous, tuition-free school in St. Vrain Valley Schools As a core knowledge school, Firestone Charter teaches students to become true 21st-century thinkers and innovators through communication, collaboration, global competency, and problem-solving. Students master a well-rounded Classical Core Knowledge curriculum starting with the building blocks of knowledge in the Grammar years (PreK-4) through discovery and hands-on learning. They progress to analytical thinking in the Logic years (5-8) through scientific inquiry, Socratic Seminars, and debate Students are offered electives like Band, Drama, Fitness Design and Programming. These provide students the opportunity to specialize their learning.
Website: firestonecharteracademy.org
Principal: Jessica Cervantes
Enrollment: 615
Daily schedule: 8:10 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 27.97%; Free/reduced lunch, 22.11%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
Soaring Heights PK-8
Soaring Heights PK-8 provides strong learning opportunities through an engaging academic environment designed to focus on the whole child. The STEM focus, with an emphasis on neuroscience, prepares students to succeed in a rapidly-changing world. Students acquire the ability to think logically and critically, communicate effectively, give and receive feedback, and show empathy towards others.
Soaring Heights PK-8 has naturally-lit classrooms, two makerspaces, a large media center, science labs, four music rooms, two gyms, a track, and a baseball field. Soaring Heights has developed partnerships with Anschutz Medical Center, Oceans First, BrainCo and Sphero to connect students with field experts.
Address: 3280 County Rd. 5, Erie
Phone: 303-702-8020
Website: shpk8.svvsd.org
Principal: Cyrus Weinberger
Enrollment: 1,254
Daily schedule: 8:15 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 23.52%; Free/reduced lunch, 10 21%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
St. Vrain Community Montessori School
Established in 2009, St. Vrain Community Montessori School offers an authentic Montessori program in a tuition-free charter school for preschool through eighth grade
Students experience a child-centered, hands-on environment that educates the Whole Child in partnership with families. The school features Montessori-
credentialed teachers, a meticulously prepared environment, three-year, mixed-age classrooms, daily uninterrupted work-cycles, and an atmosphere that encourages social interaction, peer teaching, and a deliberate, embedded peace curriculum to support emotional growth.
Address: 1055 Delaware Ave., Longmont
Phone: 303-682-4339
Website: svcmontessori.org
Principal: Jessica Rawlings
Enrollment: 256
Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 19.10%; Free/reduced lunch, 11.61%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
Timberline PK-8
Timberline PK-8 is a vibrant and diverse community, empowering learners to be responsible citizens who positively impact their world. As a STEM-focused school, Timberline PK-8 offers innovative pathways to success through FalconTECH and the Seal of Biliteracy. The PK-8 model ensures smooth transitions from elementary to middle school, fostering strong relationships between staff, students, and families. With a collaborative approach, teachers integrate curriculum across grade levels, connecting learning in meaningful ways and nurturing the whole child. Timberline provides a rigorous, engaging environment where students thrive academically and build the skills needed for future success.
Address: 233 E. Mountain View Ave., Longmont
Phone: 303-772-7900
Website: tpk8.svvsd.org
Principal: Audrey Seybold
Enrollment: 778
Daily schedule: 8:20 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 88.43%; Free/reduced, 73.52%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
KINDERGARTEN –8TH GRADE
Carbon Valley Academy
Carbon Valley Academy K-8 is a charter school dedicated to creating a supportive environment where relationships and student growth are prioritized. CVA K-8 fosters a welcoming community focused on individual empowerment through intentional learning opportunities that inspire both academic and character development. The school offers rigorous academics through Core Knowledge and Eureka/Envision Math curriculum, with a full-time counselor leading character trait programs that focus on the development of the WHOLE child. The middle school program features smaller classes, elective options, and Spanish I completion. CVA provides after-school care, intramurals, free breakfast and lunch, and free bus transportation.
Address: 4040 Coriolis Way, Frederick Phone: 303-774-9555
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 51.60%; Free/reduced lunch, 38.4%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
Thunder Valley K-8
Thunder Valley K-8 provides students with diverse learning experiences that focus on curiosity, creativity and confidence
Students are exposed to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) daily. The Thunder Valley community fosters respectful relationships built on trust, advances equity through systems and programs, cares for each other to promote belonging, and challenges each other to live up to high expectations of achievement. Students and staff help each other persevere and act with integrity so that everyone reaches their
St. Vrain Valley Schools
full potential. At Thunder Valley, every person in the school community is respected, valued, and supported.
Address: 600 Fifth St., Frederick
Phone: 303-833-2456
Website: tvk8.svvsd.org
Principal: Catrina Estrada
Enrollment: 857
Daily schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Student profile in percentages:
Minority, 66.39%; Free/reduced, 57.06%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25/1
PRESCHOOL – 12TH GRADE
Twin Peaks
Classical Academy
Twin Peaks
Classical Academy (TPCA) provides an academically rigorous environment, encouraging students to seek truth, beauty, and goodness while acquiring foundational skills in literacy and numeracy. This classical education is provided to any PK-12 family seeking a well-rounded education that prepares all students for the opportunity of acceptance into a four-year university Our conservative and minimal use of technology, and focus on character education, provide a unique and distinctive choice in St. Vrain. TPCA consistently earns high School Performance Scores and PSAT/SAT scores as measured by the state of Colorado, demonstrating the timeless value of a classical education.
Address: 340 S. Sunset St., Longmont Phone: 303-772-7286
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 41.27%; Free/reduced, 36.34%
Average student-teacher ratio: Elementary School: 24.5/1 Middle School 25.5/1 High School 28/1
MIDDLE SCHOOLS
Altona Middle
Altona Middle provides an innovative and rigorous standardsbased education for students while developing leadership characteristics in every student. Students excel at their own pace and explore a variety of interests in the comprehensive elective and extracurricular programs. Altona consistently scored high on the School Performance Framework, earning a 90.7 in 2024 and a 93 in 2023. Altona has received numerous honors as a high achieving school, including six Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Awards, eleven John Irwin Awards of Excellence, the Colorado Middle School to Watch Award, and Best in the Nation for the Verizon App Challenge, and is ranked 37th out of 956 middle schools in Colorado according to the U.S. News and World Report.
Address: 4600 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont
Phone: 720-494-3980
Website: ams.svvsd.org
Principal: Jeremy LaCrosse Enrollment: 745
Daily schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 29.13%; Free/reduced, 19.78%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Coal Ridge Middle
Coal Ridge Middle School offers rigorous curriculum in all subjects including advanced-level classes in math and language arts. Coal Ridge’s goal is to provide all students the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of curriculum while stretching their learning to include real-world problem solving, and creative and entrepreneurial thinking. In addition to core area content, students choose from a wide variety of electives including art, physical education, technology, band, choir, orchestra, Spanish, and guitar. Coal Ridge strives to involve 100% of students in one or more after-school programs, including sports, music, and academic clubs.
Address: 6201 Booth Dr., Firestone
Phone: 303-833-4176
Website: crms.svvsd.org
Principal: Natalee Swan
Enrollment: 763
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 35.91%; Free/reduced lunch, 29.62%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Erie Middle
Erie Middle is a Pre-Advanced Placement focus school implementing rigorous instruction to prepare all students for Advanced Placement (AP) courses and college-level coursework in high school. Erie Middle has a robust instrumental and vocal music program with over 78% of students participating in band, choir, or orchestra. There is a school-wide focus on literacy and community and connections, and each day students engage in focused reading time as well as an Advisory class designed to provide direct instruction to build skills. Classroom instruction includes strong instructional strategies such as project-based and blended learning to engage all students. Students’ individual needs are met through additional extensions and interventions. Students are encouraged to participate in any of the more than 30 available activities, athletics, and clubs.
Address: 650 Main St., Erie Phone: 303-828-3391
Website: ems.svvsd.org
Principal: Andrea Smith
Enrollment: 743
Daily schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 25.57%; Free/reduced lunch, 12.52%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Longs Peak Middle
Longs Peak Middle embraces a whole-child approach, empowering students in grades five through eight to reach their full potential. Recognized as a Center of Excellence and a Colorado School to Watch, Longs Peak prioritizes rigorous
core content alongside high levels of student engagement and discourse. The school’s diverse curriculum features a wide range of electives, including seven music options, art, graphic design, Gateway to STEM, entrepreneurship, technology, and physical education, ensuring a well-rounded education. The Eighth Grade Academy program supports a smooth transition to high school, preparing students to be College Ready, Career Ready, and Ram Ready for a successful future
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 70.94%; Free/reduced lunch, 78.53%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Mead Middle
Mead Middle School has been recognized as a Colorado Middle School to Watch, a Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award winner, and a John Irwin School of Excellence award winner. Mead Middle is an academically rigorous, standards-based school with an EXCEL (Extra-Curricular Engagement and Learning) focus. The EXCEL program extends student learning and their sense of belonging, improving academic focus. Mead Middle’s goal is to involve all students in co-curricular or extracurricular activities. Mead Middle offers a variety of electives and co-curriculars including STEM, CSI, robotics, Introduction to Energy, and art. Students engage in the music program with classes in choir, band, and orchestra
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 28.70%; Free/reduced lunch, 27.30%
St. Vrain Valley Schools
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Sunset Middle
Sunset Middle is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World Middle School and is committed to high-quality, challenging, international education using global contexts. Sunset meets students’ needs through a differentiated approach to identify learning opportunities and individual pathways. All students enroll in the rigorous IB Middle Years Programme classes: Individuals and Society, Language and Literature, Science, Math, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Physical and Health Education, World Languages, and Design. Students join together as a community through the 10 common Learning Profile Traits shared by IB Middle Schools around the world: Balanced, Reflective, Inquirer, Knowledgeable, Open-minded, Caring, Communicators, Risk Takers, Thinkers, and Principled.
Address: 1300 S. Sunset St., Longmont Phone: 303-776-3963
Website: sms.svvsd.org
Principal: Alicia Bono
Enrollment: 341
Daily schedule: 7:35 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 56.30%; Free/reduced lunch, 56.30%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Trail Ridge Middle
As a STEMfocus school, Trail Ridge is committed to preparing students for a future that demands skills such as innovation, effective communication, collaboration, global awareness, critical thinking, and problem-solving. STEM integration and design-thinking are woven into every classroom, providing students with a forward-thinking educational experience This approach prepares students to solve social issues and become global citizens, preparing them to tackle the jobs and issues that await them upon college graduation. In 2022, Trail Ridge earned the distinction of being recognized as a
Special Olympics National Unified Champion School for its dedication to inclusivity
Address: 1000 Button Rock Dr., Longmont
Phone: 720-494-3820
Website: trms.svvsd.org
Principal: Eddie Cloke
Enrollment: 470
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 63.40%; Free/reduced lunch, 57 23%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
Westview Middle
Westview is a STEM-focus school dedicated to teaching the whole child. Known for high achievement, Westview was recognized as a “School to Watch” in 2015, 2019, and 2023 and as an Apple Distinguished School in 2016. Westview is consistently designated as Performance by the Colorado Department of Education and has been awarded the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award Students have the same core teachers throughout all three years. The robotics program is top in state, consistently winning tournaments. Students take a wide range of electives and participate in intramural sports, music, art, and Gifted and Talented programs.
Address: 1651 Airport Rd., Longmont
Phone: 303-772-3134
Website: wms.svvsd.org
Principal: Mark Spencer
Enrollment: 671
Daily schedule: 8:20 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 27.21%; Free/reduced lunch, 32.37%
Average student-teacher ratio: 25.5/1
MIDDLE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Lyons Middle Senior High
Lyons Middle Senior is an exemplary school focused on community connections, academic excellence, student engagement, and leadership U.S. News & World Report ranks Lyons as a top middle and high school in the region and a top 5% school in the state. Students thrive in a small school environment that fosters strong connections with teachers and staff. The Science and Leadership Program helps high school students develop leadership skills by partnering with the community to promote environmental education. Students can earn college credits through AP courses or a partnership with CSU Online, and they also have full access to coursework at the Career Elevation and Technology Center and Innovation Center
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 16.34%; Free/reduced lunch, 18.03%
Average student-teacher ratio: Middle School 25.5/1 High School 28/1
HIGH SCHOOLS
Erie High School
Erie High is recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its Best Schools in America profile. Erie High provides rigorous and enriching core subjects, electives, athletics, journalism, visual and performing arts, and leadership programs. Students receive state and national recognition, including Boettcher Scholarships and National Merit Scholarship finalists. Erie High offers
three focus programs: College Board’s AP Capstone program, the Academy of Engineering and Aerospace, and the award-winning Erie Tiger Network. Students can earn college credits through individual AP classes, CU Succeed, and Front Range Community College. Erie’s athletic programs compete yearly for regional and state championships.
Address: 3180 County Rd. 5, Erie Phone: 303-828-4213
Website: ehs.svvsd.org
Principal: Josh Griffin
Enrollment: 1,760
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 22.84%; Free/reduced lunch, 12.10%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
Frederick High School
Students at Frederick High School can earn 109 concurrent college credits through the state’s second largest CU Succeed program
where students earn CUDenver college credit while attending classes at FHS, as well as partnerships with Colorado State University, Front Range Community College, AIMS Community College and Advanced Placement classes. On average, FHS seniors have earned over 11 college credits upon graduation. FHS is home to the Biomedical Sciences Academy, and houses the district’s second P-TECH program in which students earn an associate degree through AIMS Community College at no cost to the student. FHS offers 18 competitive varsity sports and 30 after-school activities. Students participate in state and nationally recognized art, music, and performing arts programs.
Address: 5690 Tipple Pkwy., Frederick Phone: 303-833-3533
Website: fhs.svvsd.org
Principal: Russell Fox
Enrollment: 1,463
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 44.84%; Free/reduced lunch, 35.41%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
St. Vrain Valley Schools
Longmont High School
Recognized as an AP Honor Roll School, Longmont High offers 26
Advanced Placement and the AP Capstone Diploma. LHS’s partnership with the CU Succeed program offers an official CU transcript in 13 college courses. The Medical and BioScience Academy prepares students for competitive post-secondary education programs in medicine, research, and allied health sciences. The High School of Business program partners with universities to prepare students for post-secondary business degrees. TrojanTECH partners with Front Range Community College and local business leaders, allowing students to earn a fully funded and transferable Associate of Arts degree in Business. LHS has a tradition of excellence in athletics and visual/performing arts, consistently competing for league and state championships.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 45.14%; Free/reduced lunch, 42.82%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
Mead High School
Recognized as an AP Honor Roll School, Mead High offers 25 Advanced Placement courses and students can earn the prestigious Capstone Diploma while earning college credit. Additional concurrent enrollment credit opportunities are available through Front Range Community College, CSU Online, and CU Denver. Mead has been recognized by Newsweek and US News and World Report as one of the nation’s top schools. Home of Mead Energy Academy, students explore science,
innovation, technology, and career opportunities. Mead was recognized as a 2023 Unified Champion National Banner School for being a beacon of change for inclusion. Mead has a strong presence across the state in varsity athletics, visual/ performing arts, and a student-led newspaper
Address: 12750 County Road 7, Longmont
Phone 720-494-3940
Website: mhs.svvsd.org
Principal: Brian Young Enrollment: 1,098
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Student profile in percentages:
Minority, 31.33%; Free/reduced lunch, 26.50%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
New Meridian High School
Niwot High School
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New Meridian High School is an alternative education option that offers a high school diploma aligned with district graduation requirements, within a small, supportive, and community-oriented environment. Students access rigorous coursework such as Advanced Placement Environmental Science, Pathways to Teaching (P-TEACH), and numerous career and technical education program pathways through the Career Elevation and Technology Center, which is located on the same campus. New Meridian is dedicated to fostering collaboration and developing student leadership skills in a positive, empowering setting. Through strategic graduation planning and diverse course offerings, students earn credits at an accelerated pace, all while advancing toward their postsecondary and workforce readiness goals.
Address: 1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont Phone: 303-772-3333
Website: nmhs.svvsd.org
Principal: ToniJo Niccoli
Enrollment: 99
Daily schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 62.63%; Free/reduced lunch, 52.53%
Average student-teacher ratio: 20/1
Niwot High School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, a curriculum known for its rigor and international focus. Students can take Advanced Placement (AP) classes, IB classes, world languages, computer science courses, and performing and visual arts courses. The U.S. News & World Report and Washington Post rank NHS as a top high school, while Niche.com ranks NHS as #1 in state for magnet schools, #7 for college readiness, and #11 overall. In 2024, students earned over $25 million in scholarships. NHS offers over 50 co-curriculars, and athletics have won 37 team state championships, 186 individual championships, and 1 team national championship
Address: 8989 E. Niwot Rd., Niwot Phone: 303-652-2550
Website: nhs.svvsd.org
Principal: Eric Rauschkolb
Enrollment: 1,501
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 36.78% Free/reduced lunch, 24.47%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
Silver Creek High School
U.S. News & World Report ranks SCHS as a top 5% public school in the U.S. Boulder Weekly, College Board/ Advanced Placement Honor Roll and Newsweek recognize Silver Creek as a top high school. The Silver Creek Leadership Academy is a four-year program emphasizing leadership through service and real-world experiences where students become mentors and engage in their communities. The RaptorTECH program allows students to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity from Front Range Community College at no cost to the student. SCHS offers 25 Advanced Placement courses and the AP Diploma.
SCHS athletics are highly competitive within the state. SCHS offers over 40 co-curriculars.
Address: 4901 Nelson Rd., Longmont Phone: 720-494-3721
Website: schs.svvsd.org
Principal: Erick Finnestead Enrollment: 1217
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 28.35% Free/reduced lunch, 22.02%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
Skyline High School
Skyline High has been nationally recognized and named to the 2024 AP School Honor Roll. Students can take various courses, including AP, world languages, computer science, and the arts. Skyline was the first P-TECH school in the western U.S., where FalconTECH students graduate with an Associate of Applied Science Degree from Front Range Community College at no cost. The STEM Academy offers courses that can lead to acceptance to CU Boulder’s College of Engineering and a STEM Certificate. The VPA Academy offers classes in visual arts, music, drama, and stage technology, with concurrent enrollment options. SHS offers competitive varsity sports and various after-school activities.
Address: 600 E. Mountain View Ave., Longmont
Phone: 720-494-3741
Website: shs.svvsd.org
Principal: Anthony Barela
Enrollment: 1197
Daily schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 72.10%; Free/reduced lunch, 54.14%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
St. Vrain Valley Schools
St. Vrain Virtual High School
St. Vrain Virtual High School offers a traditional St. Vrain high school diploma in a unique setting. The school provides a rigorous, complete high school curriculum, in a small, personalized environment The curriculum is asynchronous online; students attend onsite daily to connect with mentors and receive academic support. The NCAA approves all core curriculum and the College Board approves all Advanced Placement courses. Students achieve academic success using high-quality instruction onsite, and curriculum provided by Flexpoint Virtual School, along with on-site staff who provide blended learning opportunities and one-on-one support.
Address: 1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont
Phone: 720-494-3975
Website: svvhs.svvsd.org
Principal: Stacey Struessel
Enrollment: 79
Daily Schedule: Monday-Thursday
7:45-2:30 and Friday 7:45-1:30
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 22.78%; Free and reduced lunch, 23.32%
Average student-teacher ratio: 20/1
APEX Homeschool Program
APEX is a K-12 program that exists to supplement and complement the efforts of parents who have chosen to be their child’s primary
educator. The program’s mission is to partner with homeschooling parents and provide homeschooled students the best of both worlds, bringing together the dynamic experience of a public school classroom and the freedom of a homeschool education. Parents remain the primary instructional provider, with the school supplementing and
complementing their efforts. Families participating in APEX receive instruction and most educational materials at no cost. Students who enroll in APEX are part-time public school students.
Address: 1351 S. Sunset St., Unit B, Longmont Phone: 303-702-8600
Website: apexhomeschool.org
Principal: Kim Lancaster
Enrollment: 726
Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Student profile in percentages: Minority, 19.01%; Free and reduced lunch, 14.74%
Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1
St. Vrain LaunchED
Virtual Academy
LaunchED Virtual Academy K-12 offers a fully-accredited 100% online education for students in
SUMMIT CHARTERMIDDLE SCHOOL
Recognized as a four-time Blue Ribbon award winner, Summit values scholarship by providing a rigorous curriculum and academic challenge in a caring community which supports student development and instills a lifelong love of learning
Reservations are required for all Open Enrollment tours, dates & times can be found on the on the Summit website: sum.bvsd.org
La interpretación en español está disponible el:
Jueves 14 de noviembre, 12:40pm a 2:10pm
Jueves 12 de diciembre, de 12:40pm a 2:10pm
Solo en español: Martes 10 de diciembre de 8:15am a 9:45am
alignment with the mission of St. Vrain Valley Schools. Curriculum is taught by licensed St. Vrain educators and delivered in an online environment that advances academic excellence through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities. All curriculum is approved by the NCAA and all Advanced Placement courses are approved by the College Board. The school offers flexibility for families as they partner with educators to support and foster student development and social-emotional well-being in a rigorous academic setting.
Daily schedule: 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Student profile in percentages: Minority, 50.15%; Free and reduced lunch, 39.21%
Average student-teacher ratio:
Elementary 24.5/1 Middle School 25.5/1 High School 28/1
Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight
Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten
Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten (ATCPK) is a non-profit, Christian organization providing early childhood programs for ages 2 ½ through Kindergarten. Our preschool program curriculum is developmentally ageappropriate and provides a balance of child centered choices and teacher guided experiences in a Christian environment.
Ages Served: 2 1/2-6 years old
Principal/Head of School: Sara Godwin
Enrollment: 130
Capacity: 130
Annual Tuition: Varies based on program
Daily Schedule: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with extended day options
Open House/Visitation: January 9, 2025, 5-7 p.m. or call to schedule a tour
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Call for information
Address: 545 W. 10th Ave., Broomfield
Phone: (303) 466-8365
Website: broomfieldumc.org/ apple-tree-christian
Bixby School
Bixby School offers a progressive education where we know each student deeply and provide hands-on learning experiences in small classes with expert teachers who fuel and celebrate curiosity every day. Our beautiful, inspiring three-acre campus includes natural play areas and an indoor pool. We are a welcoming place for family and community, with year-round events and many social and volunteer opportunities.
Grades Served: Preschool through 5th Grade
Principal/Head of School: Nina Lopez
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details
Daily Schedule: Call for details
Open House/Visitation: Call or email admissions@bixbyschool.org for details.
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Call for information
Address: 4760 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder
Phone: (303) 494-7508
Website: bixbyschool.org
Boulder Country Day School
At BCD, no two days are the same. As we prepare our students for a world we can’t yet predict, we know that adaptability, resiliency, empathy, and courage are essential to every young person’s success. Here, you can expect to be challenged to find new ways to answer old questions, encouraged to try new things, and empowered to explore your place in the world. A proudly independent institution, BCD teaches PS-8th grade students to be independent thinkers. Together, we can change the course of tomorrow.
Grades Served: Preschool through 8th grade
Principal/Head of School:
John H. Suitor III
Enrollment: 290
Capacity: 408
Annual Tuition: $23,725$32,700
Daily Schedule: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Oct. 9 and Nov. 13
Address: 4820 Nautilus Court North, Boulder
Phone: (303) 527-4931
Website: bouldercountryday.org
Boulder Valley School District Early Childhood Education
Boulder Valley School District’s integrated preschool program welcomes children who qualify for the Colorado Preschool Program, Special Education, or who pay tuition, all in one classroom. Children learn through play. Our classrooms are set up as centers of discovery, and the children’s curiosity directs their learning. Teachers facilitate the children’s experiences while making sure they feel nurtured and safe.
Grades Served: Preschool
Address: Most BVSD elementary schools
Phone: 720.561.5075
Website: ece.bvsd.org
Boulder Valley Waldorf School
38-acre agricultural campus provides a peaceful yet stimulating environment for children from Preschool through 8th grade! For preschool and kindergarten, a play-based loving community is the perfect place for children to begin their educational journey. Teachers in the elementary grades present as role models whom children will naturally want to follow, fostering rapport and nurturing curiosity, imagination, and creativity. Students are active participants. Celebrating unique strengths and talents through a broad and diverse curriculum. In the middle school, children are now empowered to take that “front seat” in their own learning, with discussion groups.
Grades Served: Preschool through 8th Grade
Principal/Head of School:
Daniel Hindes
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details
Daily Schedule: Call for schedule
Open House/Visitation: bvwaldorf.org/contact-us
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A
Address: 6500 W. Dry Creek
Pkwy., Niwot
Phone: (303) 652-0130
Website: bvwaldorf.org
Crossroads School
The mission of Crossroads School is to assist students who have experienced academic and/or behavioral struggles in traditional schools to reach their potential through an individually distinctive, learnerappropriate program. Crossroads is committed to offering an environment that provides for growth and responsibility by creating individualized strategies for every student.
Grades Served: 6-12th Grade
Principal/Head of School:
Connie Nourse
Enrollment: 35
Capacity: 45
Annual Tuition: 1500
Daily Schedule: 8 am - 3 pm
Open House/Visitation: Call for appointment
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1
Address: 833 15th Ave
Longmont, CO
Phone: (303) 709-9881
Website: crossroadslongmont.org
Dawson School
Dawson, recognized as a 2025 Niche Best Schools winner and ranked the #2 STEM high school in Colorado, is the top private, college-preparatory day school serving Adams, Boulder, and Weld Counties. Our spectacular and safe campus is surrounded
Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight
by 700 acres of open space in Lafayette, Colorado We are more than a school; we are a community of educators, faculty, and parents who believe education should not only prepare students for academic success — it should prepare them for life. We have crafted an inclusive campus where students are known, recognized, and valued as individuals. We encourage their unique interests and provide a world-class education leading to a 100% college acceptance rate.
Grades Served: K-12
Principal/Head of School:
George Moore
Enrollment: 514
Capacity: 530
Annual Tuition: $32,000
Financial aid available.
Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m.3:30 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Open House October 25, October 26, and April 12. Tours are available at any time. Email admissions@ dawsonschool.org to schedule a tour
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Student-to-teacher ratio with an average class size of 15. Address: 10455 Dawson Drive, Lafayette Phone: (303) 665-6679 Website: dawsonschool.org
Flagstaff Academy Charter School
Flagstaff Academy Charter School, located in Longmont, is a tuition-free kindergarten through 8th grade public charter school. The school also offers a fee-based preschool program for three- to five-year-olds.
Grades Served: Preschool - 8th
Principal/Head of School:
Katie Gustafson
Enrollment: 680
Capacity: 967
Annual Tuition: Tuition-Free
Daily Schedule: 8:15 a.m.3:30 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Inperson tours November - May.
Explore Flagstaff Academy
enrollment event Nov. 12
Address: 2040 Miller Drive, Longmont
Phone: (303) 651-7900
Website: flagstaffacademy.org
Friends School
At Friends School, we value all learners. Our creative, academically-challenging, safe environment allows every student from preschool through 8th grade to be seen, known and loved. Small class sizes allow us to meet each student where they are as learners, helping them to know themselves and set their own path. A Friends School education promises an essential foundation for a life of success. Our vision is as clear today as it was when we started in 1987: Making the world better by challenging minds, nurturing spirits and honoring individuality.
Grades Served: Preschool through 8th grade
Principal/Head of School: Honor Taft
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details
Daily Schedule: Call for schedule
Open House/Visitation: Call to details or to schedule a private tour
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Call for details.
Address: South Campus (Preschool & Elementary) 5465
Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder; North Campus (Middle School & Teacher Prep Program) 3800
Kalmia Ave., Boulder Phone: (303) 499-1999
Website: friendsschoolboulder.org
High Peaks is a multiple-awardwinning “Friend of Core Knowledge” focus school that opened in 1995. Teachers use creative methods such as art projects, dramatizations, reading and writing workshops, and collaborative learning to bring the Core Knowledge Sequence to life. Core Knowledge uses a planned progression of specific content in world history, geography, science, language arts, and the fine arts. High Peaks also offers differentiated math opportunities based on specific student needs. Mission Statement: High Peaks integrates essential skills and authentic content within the framework of the Core Knowledge Sequence to foster academic excellence and continued growth. In an atmosphere of respect and collaboration among all members of the High Peaks Community, students will build self-esteem and a lasting love of learning.
Address: 3995 E. Aurora Ave., Boulder Phone: 720-561-6500 Website: hpe.bvsd.org
Principal: Christopher Basten Enrollment: 250
Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Holy Family High School
Holy Family High School offers a Catholic learning environment that stresses academic excellence, fosters mutual respect, demands responsibility,
and encourages self-growth. Founded in 1922, we celebrate our 101st year as a Catholic high school serving the front range
The people in the building change, and the building itself has changed, but what remains consistent is Holy Family’s mission to educate the Whole Person: Spirit, Mind, and Body
As a Catholic high school, we offer smaller class sizes, allowing us to connect personally and intellectually with each student in an intimate and inspiring academic setting.
Grades Served: 9th-12th Grade
Principal/Head of School: Matt Hauptly
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details
Daily Schedule: Call for schedule
Open House/Visitation: Call for details or to schedule a tour.
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A
Address: 5195 W. 144th Ave
Broomfield
Phone: (303) 410-1411
Website: holyfamilyhs.com
Kohl Street Kids at the United Church of Broomfield
The Kohl Street Kids Preschool program focuses on social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. It incorporate a mixture of learning activities, some teacher-directed and some child-directed. There is a daily schedule, and the teachers base the curriculum on standard early childhood educational concepts The KSK BASE program specializes in school-age children that attend Kohl Elementary School. Hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. until school starts and from school dismissal until 5:30 p.m
Grades Served: Preschool-5th grade
Principal/Head of School:
High Peaks Elementary
Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight
Elizabeth Arneson
Enrollment: 50
Capacity: 50
Annual Tuition: Varies depending on need
Daily Schedule: Open 7 a.m.5:30 p.m.
Open House/Visitation:
Schedule with Director
Average Student/Teacher Ratio:
Address: 825 Kohl Street
Broomfield
Phone: (303) 466-8355
Website: broomfielducc.org/ kohl-street-kids
Mountain Shadows International Montessori School
Our mission is to provide an AMI Montessori environment in which children joyfully reach their full potential through the development of independence, academic excellence, respect for the environment, self and others, and moral responsibility to society
Grades Served: Toddlers6th Grade
Principal/Head of School:
Lauren Franchek
Enrollment: 86
Capacity: 120
Annual Tuition: Dependent on program.
Daily Schedule:
Half Day (8 a.m.-12 p.m.) & Full Day (8 a.m.-3 p.m.); Aftercare Option (3 p.m.5:30 p.m.).
Open House/Visitation:
Tuesday and Thursday tours at 9 a.m.; Tailored times as necessary
College preparation starts at Prospect Ridge Academy, a tuition-free K-12 public choice school in Adams 12 Five Star Schools district. PRA’s vision is to create academic, social and ethical leaders. Here, you will find a rigorous college preparatory program, with a strong math and science focus. You are invited to discover the PRA difference, our gifted and talented programming, the K12 science labs, athletics, the arts, our service leadership mindset and our academics. PRA is an AP School Honor Roll Platinum Badge recipient 2023 & 2024 with a 100% graduation rate. Come learn more about our dedicated staff and supportive K-12 community where every child is known.
Open House/Visitation: Tuesday, Nov. 19 and Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. To reserve your spot go to prospectridgeacademy.org/ page/visit-pra
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1
Address: 2555 Preeble Creek Pkwy, Broomfield Phone: (720) 235-6075
Website: prospectridgeacademy.org
September School
September School is one of the most unique high schools in Boulder. As a small school environment, it provides effective academic instruction with a low student to faculty ratio, where students can truly understand and succeed in their school subjects. This education is paired with support and guidance to help students thrive personally as they mature. The school helps students build a solid work ethic by allowing them to focus on areas they excel at and explore a range of topics that challenge them.
Early childhood education at Shining Mountain Waldorf School begins with a mixedage, play-based preschool and kindergarten where imagination and exploration create a foundation for learning in your child. As your child grows, and advances in grades, they experience an energetic mix of academic depth, artistic integration, project-based learning, dialogue, debate and meaningful experience. Small class sizes, close teacher-student
relationships and a rich array of arts and movements create an optimal learning environment for students to explore their passions and to be seen, inspired and empowered to change their world. Learn about how we prepare students to navigate the complexities of the digital world, promoting not only their online safety but also their overall wellbeing.
Grades served: Preschool through 12th grade
Principal/Head of School: Lauren Smith
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details Tuition assistance available
Daily Schedule: Call for schedule
Open House/Visitation: Visit website and click ‘take a tour’ Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Call for details
Founded in 1922, St. John the Baptist Catholic School has been forming students academically and spiritually for over 100 years. We offer an exceptional educational experience centered around the Catholic Faith and are committed to our students’ moral and ethical formation. The challenging curriculum and extraordinary attention from faculty create students who achieve academic excellence and are highly prepared for high school and beyond. St. John’s offers an extensive elective program, opportunities for service learning, and dynamic extracurricular programs that include athletics, a Science Fair, a Chess Club, a Theater Program, Math, Choir, Student Government and more!
Grades served: Preschool-8th Grade
Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight
Principal/Head of School:
Stacey Chavez
Enrollment: 240
Capacity: 315
Annual Tuition: $6,950
Daily Schedule: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Please contact our school office at schooloffice@johnthebaptist.org to schedule a tour today!
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Address: 350 Emery St., Longmont
Phone: (303) 776-8760
Website: school.johnthebaptist.org
St. Vrain Valley Preschool Program
The St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD) offers a preschool program with locations available in Longmont, Niwot, Lyons, Mead and Erie, as well as the Spark! Discovery Preschool serving families in the Carbon Valley Area. Registration continues for tuition based programs with opportunities for tuition assistance through Colorado Preschool Program (CPP) and scholarships. The program is free for children who qualify for Special Education Services. “Families can rest assured that their children will be loved and cared for by educated teaching staff who work hard at helping each individual student reach their highest potential,” says Director Shela Blankinship
Grades served: Preschool
Address: Various locations
Phone: 303.702.7815
Website: svvsd.org/preschool
Summit Classical Academy
Summit Classical Academy is a private school grounded in
a timeless Classical Christian curriculum. We are currently serving grades K-8 and will be adding a grade each year through 12th grade. We are dedicated to the spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical lives of our students and our families, and are a fiercely intentional Christian community, partnering with parents to foster a joyful love of learning and each child’s unique essence and gifts. We model the Warrior’s Creed and emphasize God’s truth, goodness, and beauty.
Grades Served: K-12 - Currently Serving K-10th Grade
Principal/Head of School:
Teresa Fraser
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details
Daily Schedule: Call for schedule
Open House/Visitation: Call for details
Address: 3031 W. 144th Ave., Broomfield
Phone: (720) 633-9300
Website: summitclassicalacademy.org
Summit Middle School
Summit Middle School, a four-time Blue Ribbon Award winner, was founded in 1996 as the first charter school in BVSD. Summit values scholarship, providing a rigorous academic curriculum within a caring community that supports student development and instills a lifelong love of learning. Summit is selected by families seeking challenging academics and thorough high school preparation. Summit requires English, Science, Math, Social Studies, and World Language daily, while also offering a variety of elective classes. Summit’s culture encourages character, creativity, community, and scholarship. Summit is a diverse and safe community where students are nurtured and
challenged.
Address: 4655 Hanover Ave., Boulder
Phone: 720-561-3900
Website: sum.bvsd.org
Principal: Adam Galvin
Enrollment: 360
Daily Schedule: 8 a.m.-3:05 p.m.
Sunflower Preschool
Since 1981, we have offered a small, hands-on, nurturing environment where children can learn through exploration and discovery. We are passionate about connecting children to nature and their inherent sense of wonder. Come tour today to see our multi-sensory environment, and the only Nature Explore Certified school in Boulder!
Grades Served: Preschool Principal/Head of School: Marisa Ellman
Enrollment: 30
Capacity: 30
Annual Tuition: $15,960 for full time, part time schedules available
Daily Schedule: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Please call to schedule a tour!
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 1:8
Address: 3340 Dartmouth Ave., Boulder
Phone: (303) 494-2012
Website: sunflowerpreschoolboulder.com
Temple Grandin School
Growth from strengths - that’s what we focus on at Temple Grandin School! Temple Grandin School is a nonprofit, independent school for neurodivergent middle and high school students that offers rigorous academic curriculum,
social skills coaching, and executive function support within a safe and nurturing learning community. We serve students with neurotypes including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and similar learning profiles; many TGS students are twice-exceptional. Our staff includes academic subject matter specialists and support team members such as school psychologists, behavior specialists, counselors, and more. TGS students graduate wellprepared for wherever life will take them next!
Grades Served: 6-12
Principal/Head of School: Jen Wilger
Enrollment: 22
Capacity: 32
Annual Tuition: $47,000.00
Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m.3:35 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Wed, Nov 13, 8am; Mon, Nov 18, 6:30pm; Wed, Dec 11, 5pm; Wed, Jan 15, 5:30pm. Inperson tours can be scheduled by emailing scheduling@ templegrandinschool.org.
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 3:1
Address: 3131 Indian Road, Boulder Phone: (303) 554-7363 Website: templegrandinschool.org
Thorne Nature Preschool
Thorne Nature Preschool is built on the simple belief that kids grow better in nature. At Thorne Nature Preschool, young children learn, grow and reach their full potential through daily immersion in nature with caring, attentive mentors. With dual goals of fostering the development of the whole child and nature connection, Thorne Nature Preschool prepares young children to succeed in school and in life. Thorne Nature Preschool, based at the NEW Lafayette Nature Center, is for children ages 3 to 6. We have
Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight
half and full-day options available, along with optional early care. Thorne Nature Preschool is a provider of Colorado’s Universal Preschool program. Enrollment applications are accepted year-round.
Grades Served: Preschool, ages 3-6
Principal/Head of School: Lorene Wapotich
Enrollment: Enrollment applications accepted yearround. Visit website for more information.
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for details
Daily Schedule: Call for schedule
Open House/Visitation: Call or email to schedule
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A
Address: 300 Old Laramie Trail East, Lafayette
Phone: (303) 499.3647
Website: thornenaturepreschool.org/ rockies
TLC Learning Center
TLC Learning Center has provided inclusive early learning services to kids of all abilities and backgrounds since 1956. We offer year-round, highquality infant and toddler care, preschool, and therapeutic services to meet the diverse needs of children and families in Northern Colorado and serve children from eight weeks until they are ready for kindergarten. At TLC, we believe that inclusive education benefits every child, preparing them for success in school and beyond by fostering empathy, compassion, and a lifelong love of learning.
Grades Served: 8 weeks to Kindergarten ready
Principal/Head of School:
Kristen Gregory, Educational Services Manager
Enrollment: 75
Capacity: 100
Annual Tuition: Please call for tuition rates.
Daily Schedule: 7:30a.m.5:30p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Please visit our website to schedule a tour
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Ratio varies depending on needs of children
Address: 611 Korte Way, Longmont
Phone: (720) 684-9659
Website: learningwithtlc.org
Treehouse Learning
Treehouse Learning provides quality care, responsive learning experiences and whole-child development opportunities for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergartners. Family-owned and independently operated since 1997, we exist to help human beings thrive and co-create the world we want to see. Treehouse Learning’s mission is to provide a safe, stimulating environment to foster optimal, intentional early learning experiences, healthy social-emotional growth, and nurture the whole child. Our relationship-based and culturallycompetent curriculum is rooted in play, creative arts, movement
Grades Served: InfantKindergarten
Principal/Head of School:
Amy Carr
Enrollment: N/A
Capacity: N/A
Annual Tuition: Call for information
Daily Schedule: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Open House/Visitation: Call to schedule
Average Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A
Address: 175 N. 96th St., Louisville
Phone: (303) 666-1950
Website: treehouselearning.com
Twin Peaks
Classical Academy
Twin Peaks is a PK-12, tuition free, public charter school in Longmont, CO. We offer a unique choice in SVVSD with an exceptional classical education available to all students. A classical education is based on the tieless value of creating critical thinkers who seek truth, beauty, and goodness, while acquiring foundational skills and knowledge, in a teacher led classroom that lays the foundation for advanced study. The heart of a classical school is a comprehensive Latin mastery program, beginning in kindergarten. A classical school explicitly teaches character and values through the study of great works of literature.
Open House/Visitation: Our Open House will be Nov. 14th at 6 p.m. We will also resume weekly tours on Wednesdays after the Open House Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Elementary: 24.5/1 Middle School: 25.5/1 High School: 28/1 Address: 340 S. Sunset St., Longmont Phone: (303) 772-7286 Website: twinpeaksclassical.org
Vista Ridge Academy
Vista Ridge Academy is a preschool through eighth grade
private Christian school located in Erie, Colorado. Through our Christ-centered community and personally attentive teaching philosophy, we nurture the unique talents of each student as learners and leaders—aiming to grow confident minds, strong bodies, and loving spirits. Vista Ridge Academy is part of the Adventist education system, one of the largest Christian educational systems in the world, which emphasizes a wholistic approach to educating students academically, physically, and spiritually according to our core values.
The YMCA of Northern Colorado provides programs and offerings that help children learn, grow and thrive. From preschools to after-school care, we expand young minds, focus on developing character, help foster positive friendships, create a lifelong love for learning and have ridiculous amounts of fun. The Y has preschools located in Longmont, Johnstown and Loveland as well as after-school care and school day off camps in four school districts.
