Raised in the Rockies School Choice 2023-2024 by Prairie Mountain Media

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RAISEDINTHEROCKIES.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

SCHOOL CHOICE What You Need to Know About Open Enrollment in Colorado

PLUS

Extracurricular Activities for Your Children PO Box 19199 Boulder CO, 80308

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BOULDER, BROOMFIELD & SW WELD COUNTIES

SCHOOL PROFILES FOR: • • • • •

ADAMS 12 FIVE STAR SCHOOLS BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT PRIVATE & CHARTER SCHOOLS PRESCHOOLS & DAYCARES

BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYON TIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECT BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYON INATION BEYOND BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATION IN AEXPECTATIONS WORLD OF INFINITE POSSIBILITY, YOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYONDARE IMAGINATION BEYONDAND... EXPECTATIONS B OUR STUDENTS GOING ABOVE MEASURE RE E BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IIMAG BEYOND EXPECTATIONS E BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BE EYON E TRAORD ORDINARY IN BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND OND ND M BEYOND LIMITATIONS L BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION TION ON B XPECTA AT TIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND E EX XTRA BEYOND IMAGINATION I BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE B BEYON TIONS BEYOND B EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND E EXP PECT BEYOND MEASURE M BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY RY BEYO NATION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIM MITA ATION YOND EXTRAORDINARY EX XT BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTA EXPECTAT ATION TIONS S BE MEASU URE RE E BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEY BEYOND I MAG BEYON D EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS B EYON E TRAOR ORDINARY D BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND ND N M BEYON OND N LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION N B XPEC CT TATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRA XTRA BEYON OND N IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEY BEYON TATIO TIONS N BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPE BEYON OND N MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYO NATIO O N BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITA ATION A YOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTATION EXPECTATIONS B MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAG YOUR BEYOND SCHOOL, YOURBEYOND CHOICE. BEYOND EXPECTATIONS MEASURE LIMITATIONS BEYON THE ST. VRAIN TRAORDINARY DISCOVER BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYONDADVANTAGE EXPECTATIONS BEYOND ME BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION B EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASUREWINDOW BEYOND LIMITATIONS OPEN ENROLLMENT | DECEMBERBEYOND 1 - 15IMAGI BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYON St. Vrain’s nationally recognized schools and programs offer a variety of pathways TRA YOND IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEA for families to choose from, ensuring the best match for their student’s needs interests. Open Enrollment is an opportunity when families can request their BEYOND NSandBEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION BEY student attend a school outside of their neighborhood school. Students who do EXPECTA YOND BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND not liveMEASURE within St. Vrain Valley Schools’ boundaries but want to attend a school EXTRA in St. Vrain can also complete the open enrollment form. BEYOND ION BEYOND EXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND Visit http://svvsd.org/enrollment scan the QR code to learn more. ITATIONS BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYONDorEXPECTATIONS BEYOND MEASUR YOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY BEYOND IMAGINATION BEY PECTATIONS BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND LIMITATIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDIN BEYOND IMAGINATION BEYOND OND EXPECTATIONS C BEYOND MEASURE BEYOND TIONS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY ORDINARY ORDINAR Y BEY BEYOND EYOND IMAGINA IMAGINATION BEYOND EXPECT 2

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

SCHOOL CHOICE

There is no better place to go to school. The Boulder Valley School District is focused on the right work that is making a difference for our students.

Want to be a part of something big?

Enroll Today November 2023

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 3

SCHOOL CHOICE NOVEMBER 2023 Contributing Writers Linda Thorsen Bond, Barbra Cohn, Kathleen Duff, Adam Goldstein, Sarah Huber, Julie Kailus, Ross Maak, Darren Thornberry, Shelley Widhalm Marketing Consultants Julie Casper, Pete Christiansen, Ruth Garfield, Thais Hafer Abbie Lance, Rich Hopkins Billy Magrini, Dale Sekular Francine Wahlgren Advertising Coordinator Jeanine Fritz

School of choice: An introduction to School Choice in Colorado Choosing private school

12 Sleep & sensory integration 13 Outdoor and nature-based learning 16 Finding the best charter school fit 18 Faith-based learning

Special Section Designer/ Coordinator Greg Stone

20 Personalized learning: The benefits of smaller classrooms

Publisher Jill Stravolemos

21 Individualized learning & tutoring 22 Local preschools and

FOR MORE FAMILY CONTENT AND RESOURCES VISIT RAISEDINTHEROCKIES.COM

their focus on social & emotional skills 24 Extracurricular activities: When school lets out, growth rolls on 26 Relocation: What to consider when buying a home near a school 28 Making positive choices for your children 31 Private, Charter & Preschool School Profiles 36 Adams 12 Five Star Schools School Profiles 38 Boulder Valley School District School Profiles 48 St. Vrain Valley School District School Profiles

Raised in the Rockies is a quarterly marketing feature produced by the Boulder Daily Camera, Longmont Times-Call, Broomfield Enterprise and Colorado Hometown Weekly. For advertising information or questions call 303.473.1400 or visit RaisedintheRockies.com. ©2023 Prairie Mountain Media.

EDUCATION

MAGNIFIED

Enrollment for 2024/2025 School Year Opens Dec. 1st Tuition-free K-8 public charter school Colorado and National "School to Watch” Longmont's premier science and technology school Offering full- and part-time preschool programs www.ﬂagstaffacademy.org 2040 Miller Dr., Longmont (303) 651-7900 4

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SCHOOL CHOICE

More than a school.

Dawson is a community. A community of K-12 educators, faculty, and parents who believe education should not only prepare students for academic success - it should prepare them for life. We recognize our students as individuals. We value their abilities and prepare them to bring their best to the world. This commitment is why Dawson students have 100% college acceptance.

Schedule a Tour

Visit dawsonschool.org or email admissions@dawsonschool.org

November 2023

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 5

| SCHOOL CHOICE specific subjects like arts, science or mathematics. They attract students from various districts based on interest rather than location.

SCHOOL of CHOICE

An introduction to School Choice in Colorado and its benefits for families and educators

olorado stands as a beacon of progress when it comes to school choice. For years, the state has fostered an environment where parents can select the best educational environment for their children, be it traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet programs or private institutions. But what exactly does school choice entail in Colorado, and what are

its benefits for families and educators?

THE LANDSCAPE OF SCHOOL CHOICE IN COLORADO

Colorado’s commitment to school choice is deeply rooted in its educational philosophy. The state believes that parents, as the primary educators of their children, should have the freedom to choose the most fitting school environment for

•

 2.5 years & up  focus on each child’s

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Private Schools: Funded through tuition, donations and private grants, private schools operate outside the public school system and often have religious affiliations or specific educational approaches.

•

Open Enrollment: Beyond the specific types of schools, Colorado also allows parents to enroll their children in any public school in the state, provided there’s space available and the family can manage transportation.

THE BENEFITS OF SCHOOL CHOICE

Proponents argue that school choice brings numerous benefits: •

Tailored Learning: Different children thrive in different environments. School choice allows for a personalized fit, ensuring each child gets the best education for their unique needs.

•

Competition: A competitive atmosphere among schools can drive up the quality of education as institutions strive for excellence to attract students.

•

Innovation: Independent operation, especially in charter schools, can lead to innovative teaching methods and curriculums, paving the way for educational reform.

their child’s unique needs. As a result, Colorado has an array of options:

 Small Classes

individual strengths, needs, passions, well‐ being, and culture

•

Traditional Public Schools: These are the standard option, funded by taxpayers and governed by school districts. Admission is typically based on geographic location. Charter Schools: Publicly funded but independently run, charter schools provide an alternative to traditional public schools. They often have specific educational philosophies or themes and operate with more autonomy. Magnet Programs: Operating within public schools, magnet programs focus on

School choice offers an exciting opportunity for families to find the best educational fit for their children. SCHOOL CHOICE

Enroll at

November 2023

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 7

| SCHOOL CHOICE

Choosing Private School Independent schools offer individualized education, smaller classes, unique opportunities

BY SARAH HUBER RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

rivate schools give parents the freedom to find “targeted solutions that work for their kids,” said Barb Bulthuis, executive director of Crossroads School in Longmont. She explained, “Our traditional public education model is factorybased: We run them through the factory and expect identical outcomes. But some kids need different options – the more options, the better for families.” Tim Breen, head of school at Watershed School in Boulder, noted, “Each independent school has its own unique philosophy, values and

www.kinesisdance.com 720-515-6268 635 S Broadway Boulder, CO 80305 8

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

Private schools often blend a mission-driven education with the creative arts and a commitment to academic excellence. (Photo: Watershed School).

approach to education, making it possible for students to find a school that will work best for them.” Moreover, students who attend private school “are more likely to participate in a leadership role in high school, college and beyond,” said Diana Emerson, associate director of marketing at Boulder County Day School. Private schools often blend a mission-driven education with the creative arts and a commitment to academic excellence. “Parenting is hard,” said Lauren Smith, school director at Shining Mountain Waldorf School in Boulder. “It’s a benefit when families come together around shared values and find a community that supports their

parenting and their own sense of well-being.” Private schools historically offer smaller class sizes and lower student-teacher ratios than public schools, “allowing for deep learning, deep connection and deep commitment to the success of each student,” Breen said. Connections between students and educators lead to a sense of belonging, said Emerson, adding, “Once a child feels like they belong, they can maximize their learning potential and grow into the leaders and changemakers that we know they can be.” Many private schools are based on a specific model of education, such as a classical approach, Waldorf educational philosophy

or Montessori method of education. At Shining Mountain Waldorf School, for example, Smith and her team are inspired by the Waldorf philosophy to “recognize in each student the whole human being with all the possibilities of individual expression and unfolding potential,” she said. All students are viewed as scientists, musicians, mathematicians, athletes and artists. “Our approach encourages students to bring their own self-expression to the content and develops them as individuals, helping them to connect with their purpose in life,” Smith said. Similarly, some parents turn to Waldorf to give their children an education soaked in nature. At Boulder Valley Waldorf School, learning takes place on the entirety of the school’s 38-acre campus in Niwot. “Young students can learn primarily through physical activity, imagination and imitation in a natural setting,” said Ruth Godberfford, director of admissions and advancement. “Students connect to the wider world as they grow into confident individuals able to realize their full potential and inspired to make a difference in the world.” As with the Waldorf focus on potential and purpose, Crossroads School, which accepts youth who have CONTINUED – See Page 10

Many private schools are based on a specific model of education, such as a Waldorf educational philosophy. (Photo: Gina McLaughlin/Jack Dempsey, Shining Mountain Waldorf).

SCHOOL CHOICE

November 2023

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 9

| SCHOOL CHOICE

Private school (continued)

The Montessori method focuses “on children’s holistic development and education. (Photo: Mountain Shadows International Montessori).

FIVE WAYS OUR INVESTMENTS SUPPORT BVSD STUDENTS 7,441

students have access to a safe space on their school campus that is dedicated to their well-being SIX WELLNESS CENTERS

170

students access four weeks of summer learning to prepare for their first formal year of schooling KINDER BRIDGE

students have access to knowledge and resources to help them make informed decisions about their futures CAREER READINESS ACADEMY

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educators accessed grant funding to provide resources and opportunities for their students ACADEMIC OPPORTUNITY FUND

5,000

students gain access to school supplies, backpacks and headphones at the beginning of the school year CRAYONS TO CALCULATORS BVSD

Our mission is to support Boulder Valley public school students with community funding and resources in order to meet critical needs and eliminate opportunity gaps.

LEARN MORE OR SUPPORT OUR WORK www.impactoneducation.org 10

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experienced academic or behavioral challenges, empowers students to flourish from a sense of purpose. “This is the beauty of what we can do (as a nontraditional school),” Bulthuis said, “A lot of our students struggle with anxiety, depression, were dealing with bullying, or they have high-functioning autism and are working on social skills. We can meet them where they are with our approach, which is individualized, highly relational and mastery-based.” At Watershed Schools, academic excellence and community engagement are emphasized, and the mission to “prepare students to take on the world’s greatest challenges” informs every aspect of the school day, Breen said. The two guiding questions in the classroom are, “What do we need to learn to truly understand this challenge in all its complexity?” and “How might we contribute to addressing this challenge?” He said, “When students graduate from Watershed, they are ready to take on the challenges of college work, and they are ready to make a difference in the world,” he said. College preparedness is likewise prioritized alongside character development at Dawson School in Lafayette. AJ Lambert, associate director of admissions, said, “We are college preparatory but uniquely integrate experiential learning, character education and relevant curricula into

College preparedness is likewise prioritized alongside character development. (Photo: Dawson School).

our program.” To that end, Dawson delivers a robust auxiliary program; learning opportunities include making jewelry, Shakespeare in the park, cyclocross, combat theater, forensic science and studying botany in Kauai. The Montessori method focuses “on children’s holistic development and education,” said Camilla Modesitt, interim head of school at Mountain Shadows International Montessori. As the only Association Montessori Internationale school in Colorado, Mountain Shadows “champions individualized learning, whole child education and empowering children through choice,” she continued. Unlike public schools, private schools come with a price tag, though most offer tuition assistance. Crossroads School, following its mission rooted in the Christian faith of its founders, caps its tuition at $150 per month. Schools such as Shining Mountain Waldorf School and Dawson School do not offer merit or athletic scholarships but instead, consider a family’s circumstances as part of their need-based tuition program. SCHOOL CHOICE

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Stunning new home on coveted Bellevue Drive. Tucked into the hillside w/ expansive foothills, city & plains views. Tons of natural light & outdoor living space. Unsurpassed finishes throughout. Open floor plan w/ formal living & dining rooms, magnificent chef’s kitchen w/ butler’s pantry & casual dining area, main floor master w/spacious luxury bath, second main floor bedroom suite.

195Bellevue.com $3,475,000 Bill Goodacre 303-880-4440

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ELDORADO SPRINGS

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SITTING ON 20 ACRES

Magnificent Engelmann Spruce log home on 5+ private acres abutting South Boulder Creek w/breathtaking views of Flatirons & Devils Thumb. Minutes away from Eldorado Canyon State Park & Mesa Trail. Exquisite handcraftmanship thruout inc. custom wood doors, kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, lighting fixtures. Antique reclaimed wood beams, wide plank white oak floors, four gas fireplaces.

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9018 JASON CT, BOULDER Awe inspiring White Hawk Ranch home set on 1.44 acres w/ sweeping views of the back range from Flatirons to Longs Peak. A transitional blend of architecture, its distinctive exterior offers curb-stopping appeal. Built to the highest, 21st century standards, this home offers quality materials & workmanship throughout.

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Located on the best street in Boulder! Neighborhood lined wit mature maple trees that burst with yellow, orange and red colo in the fall! Corner of 4th and Mapleton! One block to Sanita Trail and a short stroll to Pearl Street! Completely remodeled historic home with the original charm and character.

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Contemporary farmhouse on 20 lush acres backing to Left Hand Creek w/ great views of Haystack & Flatirons mtns. One of a kind, modern estate, completely rebuilt and located just minutes from Boulder. Spacious bright design, main level master suite, pool, pool house, tennis court, lighted hockey/ sport court. Reclaimed Wyoming Snow fence siding, reclaimed beams, mixed hardwood flooring, soaring ceilings, 2+car attached garage, carport, barn & more!

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PRIVATE LAKE

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ANTHEM RANCH

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LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY! 55+ Anthem Ranch Community. Luxurious 2015 Montana model premier lot backs to open spac w/mtn views. Customized hom offers hardwood flrs throughout gourmet kitchen w/center islan light filled formal dining rm w/2-sided fireplace, expansive great rm w/triple sliding glass door opens to covered deck.

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Quick Guide and Featured Open Homes Looking for a home? View comprehensive listings of local open houses taking place this weekend from all across the area.

Boulder County’s Future Is Bright, But Challenges Are Ahead Good times in Boulder County and in Colorado will continue said local economic experts at the recent Boulder Economic Forecast. But they caution that 2018 may not reach the heights of 2017.

CSU Extension: Go Forth and Prune Warm days woo us to get out and get some fresh air. If you can’t resist, then take the time to prune some shrubs.

FEBRUARY 2-3, 2018

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4522 13th St., Unit 6G $825,000 Sunday, 1-4pm Michael Rebich RE/MAX of Boulder 303-478-3207

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2200 Bluebell Ave. $1,300,000 Sunday, 1-3pm Craig Peterson WK Real Estate 720-564-6008

460 Quail Circle $885,000 Saturday, 12-3pm Karolyn Merrill WK Real Estate 303-817-2827

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3092 Big Horn Street $1M + Daily, 11am-5pm Roz Giannasi Pinon Markel Homes 303-442-0309

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3092 Big Horn Street $1M + Daily, 11am-5pm Roz Giannasi Pinon Markel Homes

635 Paragon Drive $1,399,000 Sunday, 12-2pm Mike Moger WK Real Estate 303-859-4467

3092 Big Horn Street $1M + Daily, 11am-5pm Roz Giannasi Pinon Markel Homes 303-442-0309

635 Paragon Drive $1,399,000 Sunday, 12-2pm Mike Moger WK Real Estate 303-859-4467

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1984 Pikes Peak $529,900 Saturday, 11am-1pm Chad Martin ERA Tradewind Real Estate 720-526-8811

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Learning to change the world.

Learn more at shiningmountainwaldorf.org

November 2023

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 11

| SCHOOL CHOICE

Sleep & Sensory Integration A guide for parents

BY BARBRA COHN RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

oelle Vaughn MS, OTR, an occupational therapist at RISE Occupational Therapy in Boulder works with children with differences in sensory processing. “The majority of kids I work with don’t have a formal diagnosis because I work with very young kids

up to adolescent age. We’re still learning a lot about them. Most times, the parents of a newborn to three-year-old kids are looking into why daily routines like sleep are so challenging,” she says. Sensory processing differences can run in families. “Kids can be very similar to their parents. I talk a lot with parents about things that challenge them and strategies that help to see if some of

those things will help their child. “ Vaughn uses The Sensory Profile assessment that relies on parents’ observations of how their child responds to sound, things they see, movements, smells, tastes and textures in their environment. “We assess how kids process multi-sensory input from touch, oral stimulation, and proprioceptive activity, which involves muscular activity like pushing things, climbing, crawling, and jumping. We also evaluate the vestibular system which helps us to have body awareness and know where we are in space,” she says.

HOW CAN PARENTS SUPPORT SLEEP?

“Kids with differences in sensory processing often have challenges with daily activities like sleeping and eating because they may be deficient in adequate nutrients and neurotransmitters like

dopamine and serotonin. When there’s an imbalance a lot of areas are impacted. It may be helpful to keep a sleep and food log to make sure your child is getting enough calories and protein,” she says. “Sometimes kids get uncomfortable during the night if they don’t have enough iron. They may not make it through the night if they don’t have enough calories. We get a lot of good histamines and serotonin from muscular movement, so kids must be physically active during the day. Those chemicals help support the nervous system to relax more into sleep. Also, some kids have a fear of separation. Others are sensitive to the texture of their pajamas and blankets. Some fabrics can be calming and some can be arousing. Doing some good massage, deep pressure, sitting together and giving kids attention in that way also helps,” Vaughn says.

5 Tips to Ace College Entry Exams your prep on areas you would like to improve before the real thing.

ELIVINGTODAY.COM

ecause most colleges and universities require applicants to submit ACT or SAT results as part of admissions consideration, prepping for the test itself can be a critical component of that process. While it can oftentimes be hard to deal with the anxiety that comes with a rigorous test meant to show your mastery of certain subjects and concepts, such as reading and mathematics, consider these test prep tips to help boost your score while simultaneously lowering stress.

To allow yourself as much flexibility as possible, taking college entrance exams during your junior year of high school is encouraged. If you don’t get an ideal score, you can refine 12

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(Photo: Getty Images).

your approach and retake the exam with a better idea of what to expect.

TAKE A PRACTICE TEST Any test prep plan should start with a practice SAT or ACT exam. Taking practice tests under realistic conditions can help you gain a better understanding of the content of the test, improve your time management and help combat test anxiety. You can use your practice test as a baseline to set goals and focus the rest of

If you find studying on your own difficult or not as successful as you’d hoped, a prep course can put you through the paces and hold you accountable. Complete with homework and in-class practice, prep classes can range from small groups to larger classes taught by test experts. Some school districts even offer after-school programs dedicated to ACT or SAT prep.

GATHER SUPPLIES

To help reduce test day stress, gather everything you’ll need the night before. Check the list of banned items - cellphones aren’t permitted - to make sure you don’t accidentally bring something you’re not allowed to have. Ensure

your bag is packed with your admission ticket, valid photo identification, several sharpened pencils with erasers, an approved calculator (with fresh batteries) and a watch if allowed.

GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP AND EAT BREAKFAST

While it can be tempting to stay up late the night before the test to cram, you’re likely to perform better with a full night’s sleep. Sleep is important for retention, and eating a balanced breakfast before heading out the door can aid in your ability to focus. To make your morning easier, prep breakfast before bed to keep an early morning from starting even earlier. Remember, the college admissions process involves more than just test scores. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more education tips and information. SCHOOL CHOICE

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Thorne Nature Preschool is built on the belief that kids grow better in nature. (Photos: Thorne Nature Preschool).

Outdoorg

& N ature-based Learnin A growing movement BY JULIE KAILUS RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

s screen time hits epidemic proportions, parents are considering the undeniable benefits of children spending more time – including school days – outdoors. Boulder County has numerous options for outdoor classrooms and nature-based curriculums. Three leaders in the experiential learning style include Thorne Nature Experience, Flagstaff Academy and Bixby School. Thorne Nature Preschool, a licensed Lafayette preschool for children ages 3 to 6, is built on the belief that kids grow better in nature. The school’s mission? To help even the youngest children November 2023

learn, grow and reach their full potential through daily immersion in nature, all supported by caring, attentive teachers. According to Marketing Manager Carrie Riesberg, Thorne Nature Preschool has dual goals — fostering the development of the whole child and nature connection — to prepare young children to succeed in school and life. For the 2024 school year, Thorne Nature Preschool will move to the brand-new Lafayette Nature Center, the first custom-designed nature preschool facility in Colorado. “The center is only a pinecone’s throw away from our beloved nature classroom at Coal Creek, an idyllic natural space with abundant flora and fauna, natural beauty and year-round access to water exploration,” she says. Thorne Nature Preschool is a Colorado Universal Preschool program

provider and offers half- and full-day options, along with optional early care. Flagstaff School, a free public charter school in Longmont, is also known for its nature-based learning — part of a rigorous STEMfocused curriculum, strong emphasis on character education and commitment to

Students participate in field and stream ecology, geology walks, astronomy, wilderness hiking, and survival (including Leave No Trace principles), and engage in confidencebuilding activities on a ropes course. “The experiential aspect of moving middle schoolers to the mountains for three

“As screen time hits epidemic proportions, parents are considering the undeniable benefits of children spending more time – including school days – outdoors.” fostering a love of learning. Every fall, Flagstaff middle school students are transported to Pingree Valley, west of Fort Collins, for three days of science exploration and outdoor education at Colorado State University’s Mountain Campus and neighboring Sky Ranch camp.

days challenges students in so many wonderful ways,” says Executive Principal Katie Gustafson, who has been attending the outdoor education trip with Flagstaff Academy students since 2011. “Aside from the exposure to our wonderful Rocky Mountains, students build RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 13

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| SCHOOL CHOICE confidence and resiliency skills while bonding with their peers and teachers. There’s nothing more gratifying than hearing our students reminisce about their experience.” But outdoor education at Flagstaff Academy begins well before middle school. Students in preschool through eighth grade make weekly visits to the school’s greenhouse classroom and outdoor garden. This naturebased learning space provides students with hands-on experiences that correspond with the school’s science curriculum. The greenhouse includes an aquaponic system with a large community of fish, a seedling nursery where plants are cultivated for spring and summer planting, and an organic outdoor learning garden that is host to a number of beneficial insects. Boulder’s historic Bixby School, which opened in 1970 with 11 preschoolers, now enrolls more than 125 students in preschool through

Flagstaff Academy Charter School 8th graders enjoy the view after a hike to scenic Emerald Lake. (Photo: Flagstaff Academy).

fifth grade. Among Bixby School’s endearing core beliefs like respect and critical thinking are supporting children in developing responsibility for their choices and actions as well as fostering their intrinsic curiosity and joy of learning.

Many of these principles come naturally when kids work collaboratively in small classes while surrounded daily by Boulder’s majestic outdoor environment. Bixby also actively develops community partnerships that support nature-based

learning. Students are given an immersive outdoor experience at Cal-Wood, a local environmental education center, and the preschool recently worked with a family in the sustainable development field to make adobe bricks.

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Parents, Do Your Homework Before Finding Best Charter School Fit BY KATHLEEN DUFF RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

hen it comes to a successful transition from a traditional school to a charter school, it’s all about the homework. But not for the students. With the open enrollment window for schools of choice starting Dec. 1, it’s the parents who need to do their homework to ensure that children receive an education that best fits their needs, say local educators. Since 1994, state law has allowed Colorado students and parents to choose schools without being bound by school district lines. Among the choices, charter schools in Colorado offer a plethora of special emphases, including core knowledge, classical education, the arts and science and technology, among others. “I do think there is a misperception that charter schools are private schools. We are tuition-free public schools,” explained Joseph Mehsling, executive director of Twin Peaks Classical Academy in Longmont. The Kindergarten through 12th grade school uses a classical curriculum to encourage students to seek truth, beauty and goodness in both their acquisition of knowledge

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and their development of character. “Choice is a great thing, but it’s a burden. It’s a balancing act, too. For parents, I would say do your homework if you’re going to make a choice,” Mehsling said. That process includes touring schools, asking questions and researching curriculum offerings that make the most sense for their children. Mehsling encourages parents to visit, attend orientations and email school officials with questions. Communication and relationship-building are essential. “We are really being intentional and purposeful in letting them ask questions and figuring things out. If you hit roadblocks in getting answers from schools, maybe you shouldn’t make the transition.” He has developed a quick start guide for new parents with information on topics such as how lunch works and explaining the drive line for picking up kids. If students join the school mid-year, they are paired with “buddies” to help them acclimate to the new surroundings. The key, he said, is that his school believes that parents are the primary customers. Katie Gustafson, executive principal of Flagstaff

Academy in Longmont, agrees that giving parents access to charter schools is paramount to a better transition. Flagstaff, a Kindergarten through 8th grade public charter, encourages parents to visit during school hours so parents can observe how students and staff interact. “A lot of what charter schools do is build community. If there are summer play dates or end-ofyear concerts, we welcome parents to join. They can start meeting people and affirm that this is where my children belong.” Charter schools are looking to differentiate themselves and are happy to share what sets them apart,” Gustafson said. She emphasized that all children are welcome at charter schools. “In my experience in working in charter schools, parents are usually looking for something they are not finding in their neighborhood

schools when they are looking to enroll their child in a charter school,” Gustafson said. Flagstaff Academy’s mission is to develop students who are equipped to be wellrounded, ethical leaders in the world community with a foundation based on science and technology, according to the school’s website. “Neighborhood schools have a lot to offer. But I do think it’s important for everyone to know that charter schools exist because there are some needs for kids that are harder to meet (in traditional settings),” she said. Competition among schools, whether they be traditional neighborhood or charters, makes education as a whole better, she said. That competition leads to broader choices and opportunities for families. “We all have to strive and grow and provide the best possible education for each child.”

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November 2023

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Faith-based Learning

Catering to a child’s every need, whether it’s spiritual or intellectual

At Summit Classical Academy, instructors draw on Christian precepts for their pedagogy, incorporating faith, academics and a strong partnership with parents. (Photo: Summit Classical Academy).

BY ADAM GOLDSTEIN RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

faith-based education demands a balanced approach that caters to a child’s every need, whether it’s spiritual or intellectual. That’s according to Kristi Bower of Beautiful Savior Lutheran School in Broomfield, a faith-based organization that also offers teaching and care to students from the age of six weeks to 12- and 13-year-olds in the seventh grade. While a faith-based curriculum plays a crucial role in Beautiful Savior’s pedagogy, Bower says that the organization strives to incorporate a whole-child approach to its teaching to all of its students. “Our mission is to learn in faith, live in faith. How we go about doing that is through our academic studies and social/emotional learning,” said Bower, who’s been involved with Beautiful Savior and its teaching program 18

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for nearly 30 years. “We’re teaching our students good characteristics to live by.” Beautiful Savior isn’t the only faith-based educational entity that balances faith and a whole-child approach. Across Boulder County, faith-based schools have kept up with the latest in broader pedagogical wisdom; namely, that a student’s education isn’t limited to a single subject or a sole discipline. Parents looking to raise their children in a certain faith also know that their students are receiving guidance in all spheres of their lives, from social-emotional well-being to conflict resolution. “Our students do daily worship and religion, but we also work with them on topics like conflict management, it’s built to help with their social-emotional confidence,” Bower said. Beautiful Savior Lutheran School (bslcms. com) enrolls less than 100 students, which allows for a personalized, individualized approach to teaching the whole child. “Even with

children at the same grade level, we’re able to work at their ability level. That’s part of building the whole child.” Similarly, Holy Family High School in Broomfield (holyfamilyhs.com) balances its roots in Catholic teaching and faith with a focus on the whole child. Holy Family is a Catholic, archdiocesan, college preparatory, coeducational high school that serves students in grades 9 through 12. While the precepts of Catholicism play a strong role in the school’s teaching environment, so too do the current academic demands of secular college enrollment. And, according to Holy Family’s mission, developing students’ social and emotional skills are also priorities at the school. “Holy Family High School offers a Catholic learning environment that stresses academic excellence, fosters mutual respect, demands responsibility and encourages self-growth,” Holy Family representatives point out. “We are committed to educating

the whole person: spirit, mind and body.” At Summit Classical Academy in Broomfield (summitclassicalacademy.org), instructors draw on Christian precepts for their pedagogy, incorporating faith, academics and a strong partnership with parents to round out education for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. “Instead of merely imparting information, our approach focuses on teaching students how to learn, not what to learn,” said Brigette Modglin, board member at Summit. “Our goal is to instill in our students a sense of seeking God, and the way we teach not only fuels a passion for following Jesus but also nurtures a lifelong love for learning … Additionally, we believe in forging strong partnerships with parents, actively involving them in their child’s education to ensure student success.” Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten (broomfieldumc.org/appletree-christian) strives for that same combination of faith and learning for students of a young, foundational age. With a high stress on ageappropriate learning and effective academic standards, the staff at Apple Tree are also committed to fostering education in a Christian environment. “Our preschool program curriculum is developmentally age-appropriate and provides a balance of child-centered choices and teacher-guided experiences in a Christian environment,” Apple Tree representatives explain. “Our mission is to prepare God’s children for their lifelong journey of learning by instilling Christian values, developing positive social skills and encouraging academic success.” SCHOOL CHOICE

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Personalized Learning The benefits of smaller classrooms

BY JULIE KAILUS RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

ecognizing that each child learns differently, parents are increasingly drawn to schools that offer personalized learning paths, smaller class sizes and individual attention. There are numerous local educational environments building curriculum and culture around the all-important low student-to-teacher ratio. Many are seeing the payoffs in the form of stronger character-building, reduced behavioral issues, and even improved test scores. To learn how one smallclass program is seeing big benefits, we caught up with Gary McKee of United Church of Broomfield Kohl

Smaller class sizes allow their students and teachers to “dig deeper” than what’s possible in traditional class structures. (Photo: Kohl Street Kids).

Street Kids Preschool. He explains that smaller class sizes allow their students and

teachers to “dig deeper” than what’s possible in traditional class structures.

“We can focus on each child’s individual strengths, needs, passions, well-being

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| SCHOOL CHOICE and culture,” McKee says. That means teachers can individualize activities and lessons to meet each child’s specific needs, something that’s not feasible in a standard school room. He explains that because all children learn differently — and at their own pace — they need a differentiated approach to learning. “This is essential to ensure all of our students receive a high-quality, meaningful education.” For example, Kohl Street teachers can pinpoint what skill each child is building during every activity using

developmentally appropriate teaching strategies. And there’s another benefit: fewer issues to detract from learning. He says this personalized approach helps boost children’s skills and self-confidence, ultimately reducing challenging behaviors in the classroom. “Our smaller class sizes and low teacher-to-child ratio allow us to nurture our students as well as educate them,” he says. “This undoubtedly has helped our students strengthen their developing skills and build a life-long love for learning.”

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BY ADAM GOLDSTEIN RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

very child is unique, and every student has their own approach to learning and processing information. While the educational system is built to accommodate learners of different styles and backgrounds, some students may face challenges or hurdles that call for a more personalized, individualized approach to instruction. That’s where tutoring can make a significant difference, and offer tangible benefits to any student navigating the classroom, whether in public, private or faith-based learning environments. From one-on-one private tutors to larger services dedicated uniquely to assisting students with specific needs, Boulder County offers plenty in the way of expanded, individualized instruction. Boulder Educational Testing,

November 2023

Kirsten and Charlie Wright, Boulder Educational Testing.

for example, is a service that focuses on tutoring and evaluations for students with dyslexia, learning disabilities, behavioral and socialemotional issues. Headed by psychoeducational diagnostician Charlie Wright and former school counselor Kirsten Wright, Boulder Educational Testing is a resource for identifying specific issues, and for creating a learning plan for an individual student’s academic success. Their services range from Kindergarten through 12th-grade students to college students to adult students. No matter the age, no matter the background, tutoring and targeted learning plans can make a significant difference in learning success.

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Local preschools and their focus on

Social + Emotional Skills

children learn how to get along and (teaching) very early coping and resiliency skills,” said Lisa Swainey, senior vice-president of community programs for the YMCA of Northern Colorado. “Being able to regulate their emotions is super important for little ones, so they know the proper ways to communicate their needs and wants and know the appropriate ways to conduct themselves in a large group setting.” YMCA operates the Inspire Preschool in Longmont, Johnstown and Cheyenne, Wyo., with plans to open two more in Loveland and Boulder, using a play-based

curriculum for a natural, organic learning process. Preschoolers are given choices throughout the school day to foster decision-making, with the teachers helping guide them through the process. “We teach them to be very mindful and recognize how others are feeling,” Swainey said about the preschool, which serves ages 2.5-6 years. “We teach the basics of sharing, sharing space and sharing toys.” TLC Learning Center, a nonprofit child care center in Longmont for ages 6 weeks to 6 years, follows a creative curriculum using play-based learning and the Pyramid Plus Program. The program teaches social-emotional skills to help children self-regulate and be safe with themselves and others—parents receive a toolkit to learn how to apply it at home, such as using redirecting statements instead of saying a flat “no.” “There are a lot of kindergarten readiness skills that are really critical for children. The big ones are creating routines for continuity and consistency … and being flexible when things change,” said Matt Eldred, executive director of the TLC Learning Center. “We also teach effective communication, such as

naming your emotion and ‘what do you do with that?’” Self-regulation is one of the important skills taught through St. Vrain Valley’s Early Childhood Program at its elementary schools. The program, which serves ages 3 to 4, follows a play-based, student-interest Creative Curriculum and PATHS Social Emotional Curriculum. “Teaching children calming strategies and how to label and manage their feelings is an important skill for students to have, learned through play and support from their educators,” said Shela Blankinship, director of Early Childhood Education at St. Vrain Valley School District. “Identifying the feelings of peers is also important. This co-regulation skill helps students learn how to join play with their peers and how to negotiate the wants and needs of others within that play.” Another skill the school focuses on is persistence, with staff providing guidance and lots of verbal prompts to encourage students to complete their tasks while scaffolding play to a higher level, Blankinship said. “Supporting children to keep trying and not give up will eventually minimize

Independent Thinkers

Socially & Emotionally m o al Competent p en

Global G b l Citizens t e

YMCA Inspire Preschool uses a play-based curriculum for a natural, organic learning process. (Photo: YMCA Inspire Preschool).

BY SHELLEY WIDHALM RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

o get ready for kindergarten, children need to learn a few essential social and emotional skills to be able to tackle basic reading, writing and math concepts. Local preschools like those in the Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley school districts and private schools like Inspire Preschool, Treehouse Learning and TLC Learning Center incorporate those skills through lessons and playbased learning. “We’re really working a lot on social skills, helping

We are...

Academically Prepared

www.bixbyschool.org 22

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LEFT: TLC Learning Center follows a creative curriculum using play-based learning and the Pyramid Plus Program. (Photo: TLC Learning). RIGHT: Treehouse Learning provides experiential education, following a whole-child, nature- and play-based curriculum that involves child-directed learning. (Photo: Treehouse Learning).

students’ feelings of frustration as they learn that working through the challenge of a task, they will eventually get there,” Blankinship said. The Early Childhood Department at Boulder Valley School District offers preschool at 25 sites for 3- to 5-year-olds, using a play-based program focused on teaching developmental and social-emotional skills. Students learn how to build their emotional literacy

by being able to recognize feelings, self-regulate and develop friendships with other children, including how to share and take turns. “Another huge thing we teach is problem-solving skills, teaching them different solutions when they have a problem,” said Theresa Clements, Early Childhood Education director at Boulder Valley School District. “For instance, if they want to play with a toy and someone else

has it, they could ask for a turn, use a timer or get an adult to help.” Treehouse Learning, which serves children ages infant to 6 years in eastern Boulder County, provides experiential education, following a wholechild, nature- and play-based curriculum that involves childdirected learning. “We view the socialemotional skills as a foundation, a basement of all other further learning—

communication, problemsolving, creativity and critical thinking,” said Amy May, owner and executive leader of Treehouse Learning. “We facilitate the environment and opportunities for children to learn using their whole bodies, playing and engaging with their entire environment, indoors and outdoors, in a way that allows them to build all these skills. … Nature perfectly designed children to learn through play.”

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When School’s Out, Growth Rolls On Try these unique extracurricular activities for your children

BY ROSS MAAK RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

hile the structure of a school day sometimes leaves little room for children to express themselves and let loose a little, the number of activities available outside the classroom is impressive. And just because it’s in a different setting doesn’t mean the learning and education stops outside the school walls. Extracurricular activities can be an important part of any child’s development, and choosing the right one can help their growth in many ways.

RELY ON THE Y

The YMCA has been around for nearly two centuries,

Left: Youth Hockey. (Photo: YMCA). Right: Climbing for Kids. (Photo: ABC Kids Climbing).

giving the organization plenty of time to learn and grow when it comes to opportunities for children outside of school. “We offer tons of

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extracurricular programs, ensuring kids have wellrounded opportunities to move, learn and grow,” said Andra Coberly, executive director of communications for the YMCA of Northern Colorado. “Our extracurriculars include after-school care and school day off camps, youth sports and youth hockey programs, swim lessons and swim teams, tumbling, and karate. We also have some teen programs as well, including Teen Day of Service and Teen Night Out.” When it comes to benefits, the list is endless. Coberly points to three specific areas where parents have an opportunity to see a difference in their children’s lives: affordable childcare, growth as people and, of course, fun. “Working parents need childcare before and after school,” Coberly said. “It’s essential. Without affordable childcare and activities when school is out, parents would not be able to provide for their families. This is the not-so-fun thing to talk about when you discuss extracurriculars, but it’s vital.” Coberly said learning how to shoot hoops, how to swim, how to catch a baseball, etc., are all nice benefits of what the Y has to offer, but it’s the development of character

during these activities that can make a difference. “They are learning how to make new friends, how to be kind, how to resolve conflict, how to try something different, how to trust new adults,” Coberly said. “They learn how to be good winners and how to lose with grace. “While school is incredibly structured, extracurriculars usually give kids a little more freedom to explore and take risks in a safe space. That helps them develop grit and resilience and gets them invested in what they are learning.” And finally, the Y offers children an opportunity to just chill out and be a kid. “Kids need fun and movement and creativity in their lives – don’t we all?” Coberly asked. “Extracurricular programs allow kids to simply be kids— silly, funny, giggly kids. That’s just the best!” The YMCA of Northern Colorado is located at 2800 Dagny Way in Lafayette and the Y also has locations in Boulder (2850 Mapleton Ave.), Longmont (950 Lashley St.) and Johnstown (165 Settler Way).

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

Are your kids climbing the walls? ABC Kids Climbing may be just the place to release some of that seemingly endless energy. President and Owner of Boulder’s ABC Kids Climbing Robyn Raboutou offers several opportunities for children ages 2½ to 19. She said ABC has 7,200 square feet built specifically to foster growth and development along with amazing climbing and athletic skills in kids. ABC Kids Climbing can be found at 1960 32nd Street in Boulder. “All kids have access to ABC’s state-of-the-art climbing facility through SCHOOL CHOICE

| SCHOOL CHOICE classes, teams, clubs, camps, and birthdays,” Raboutou said. “Our ABC Room is designed and equipped specially for kids ages 2.55 to foster physical and mental development through movement. “Adults may enjoy climbing our amazing routes during our all ages, open gym slots, too. This includes bouldering, top-roping and the training area. While this facility will produce a lot of fun and games for kids of all ages and abilities, it is also the home and training grounds of ABC’s elite team, which includes international champions and Olympic climbers.” There are numerous advantages for children interested in climbing, according to Raboutou. “This distinctive activity stimulates various aspects of their cognitive functions, fostering the growth of essential skills such as spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination and working memory,” Raboutou said. “Furthermore, climbing

delivers an exhilarating experience that captures children’s imagination with a sense of adventure and challenge. “Engaging in climbing allows kids to savor the thrill of perceived risk, ultimately fostering their self-assurance and autonomy.”

GET UP AND DANCE

Kinesis Dance provides another option for extracurricular activities for kids. “Kinesis offers weekly dance classes for students ages ranging from toddlers through adults,” said Cynthia Burdine, owner and artistic director of Kinesis. “Weekly classes offered in acrobatics, tap, ballet, creative movement, toddler time, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, Irish step and lyrical dance.” Burdine said she offers community school day off camps and summer camps and hosts community events like Winter Fest, Free Day of Dance and concerts. “Kinesis Dance is also the

Dance classes range from toddlers to adults. (Photo: Kinesis Dance).

home of our award-winning youth dance company, Frequency Dance Company,” Burdine added. As for benefits to your student, Burdine said there were many. “Dance boosts cardiovascular health, flexibility, strength and balance,” Burdine said. “Plus, it has stress-reducing mental health benefits. Dance is a great social activity where people can meet new friends

and like-minded folks. “Dancing brings the world so much joy and we are grateful to have a magical place for our community to dance.” So, tired and cranky parents, fear not. When your kids get out of the classroom and need to let off some steam, these extracurricular activities can help continue education and growth in fun and entertaining ways.

LearningWithTLC.org 303.776.7417

Pre-School – 8th Grade

TLC Learning Center

Nurturing success in ALL children since 1956.

Classical academics with a reverence for the natural world Playful environments produce prolific thinkers. The Boulder Valley Waldorf School creates a warm, safe, nurturing environment for children to thrive at every age. Explore our 38-acre campus and discover small class sizes, nurturing academics, and a social environment preparing students for high school and beyond.

bvwaldorf.org | 303.652.0130 November 2023

Year-round, inclusive childcare & preschool Focus on cognitive, physical, & social-emotional development Young Athletes & YogaKids programs NOW Low child-adult ENROLLING ratios PRESCHOOL UPK-approved STUDENTS! site CALL (303) 776-7417 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 25

| SCHOOL CHOICE SCHOOLS & NEIGHBORHOOD

What To Consider When Buying A Home Near A School

BY DARREN THORNBERRY RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

inding a home near a great neighborhood school is likely every parent’s dream. On paper it sounds perfect; however, there are pros and cons to buying a home in close proximity to a school. We present them here to help homebuyers make an informed decision about where to put down roots. Pam Metzger, CRP, GDS, from WK Real Estate’s Relocation Team was kind enough to share some insights with us. Some of the pros are obvious. When safe to do so, your child can walk or bike to school in just a few minutes. If they’re in high school and the campus isn’t closed, they could even come home for lunch. And the school facilities themselves may be attractive on weekends and after school:

playgrounds, running tracks and playing fields. “There are many positive social implications that can be realized living near a school, especially the strengthened neighborhood connections,” says Metzger. “Many families appreciate knowing other families in their immediate geographic circle. It’s more convenient to attend school events, see and greet neighbors, and cultivate a ‘village.’ Children are also able to develop strong social connections as their closest friends often become the ones they see every day at school.” And here’s a big pro on the safety side. “Many municipalities have laws that convicted sex offenders cannot live within a certain distance of a school property,” Metzger adds. “Some families see this as a benefit for safety reasons.” According to ojp.gov, at least 27 states and hundreds

of municipalities have enacted laws that bar sex offenders from residing near schools, parks, playgrounds and daycare centers. The specified distance from a school or other venue is typically 1,000 feet but varies from 500 to 2,500 feet, depending on the jurisdiction. The convenience of being so near a school has a flipside too. As Metzger points out, traffic, congestion and cars in neighborhoods and parking on the streets around schools can cause safety issues, and certainly be inconvenient for residents trying to get in and out of the neighborhood. Students parking on neighborhood streets may also run afoul of permitted parking areas. “For those that prefer peace and quiet, noise at schools can be a factor,” says Metzger. “Bells and loud announcements, children playing at recess, and noise from sporting or other school events can certainly be impactful, especially if you work from home. “If a home is in the attendance area for a highly sought-after neighborhood school, it usually only positively impacts the property value and marketability,” Metzger explains. “Colorado has open enrollment, so it’s not necessarily true that a less coveted school would have a

negative impact on property values.” And there are no guarantees for a spot in a school outside of the one for which a home is zoned. As a relocation director, Pam has introduced many families relocating to our area to local friends and contacts to connect with and ask questions about specific local schools and neighborhoods. WK Real Estate’s relocation department (wkre.com) provides a north metro area school guide to its relocating clients and they are happy to share that material.

RESEARCHING A SCHOOL See it in person. There’s no substitute. Go to the open house! The Colorado Department of Education (cde.state.co.us) publishes comprehensive annual school accountability reports. Sources like niche.com, greatschools.org and usnews.com compile information on schools and districts. When using these sources, it’s important to understand the specific metrics used to formulate each rankings or list.

A KIDS-ONLY Climbing Gym ! Built Just for Kids All Ages and Ab

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

AngiePaynePhotography

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ilities

SCHOOL CHOICE

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR

LADIES IN THE LUMBERYARD

ENGAGING STUDENTS IN

We believe schools should not just help students develop the skills and habits for future success, but should awaken their curiosity, expand their view of the world, and empower them to make a difference in their local, regional, and global communities. This is Watershed School.

The Ultimate 80’s Event! November 9th 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Join us for this Free Event!

Happy Half Hour 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Arrive early ......

GET READY TO SHOP!

Artisan shopping starts at 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Prize Giveaway Drawings start at 8pm. Must be present to win! All attendees will receive a gift bag but first 50 get a special gift. Start line at our front Lumber exit door and enjoy hot cocoa.

Free 80’s hair extensions, Miss Chainsaw Mama, Magician, Caricaturist, DJ, Henna and Body Art, Photo Booth and more!

Dress in your best 80’s costume! The Best costume wins a prize! First 50 attendees get a special gift! Food and cocktails provided! Door Prizes and Entertainment! Local Artisans selling their goods! Door prizes available. Must be present to win.

Bring a Donation for Project Warm Up and Receive an Extra Prize Drawing Ticket!

This event will be benefiting Project Warm-up of Northern Colorado.

TUITION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE Contact admissions@watershedschool.org to learn more. RESEARCH-BASED • FUTURE-FOCUSED • COMMUNITY-CENTERED

1 6 61 A L P I N E AV E . B O U L D E R , CO 8 03 0 4 | 3 03 - 4 4 0 -752 0 WAT E R S H E DSC H O O L .O RG

November 2023

PROJECT WARM of Northern Colorado

Project Warm-up of Northern Colorado will be accepting Joann gift cards, cash donations and your finished hand-tied fleece blankets for Colorado kids in foster care. Budget Home Supply will match all donations monetarily.

780 Boston Avenue - Longmont, CO • www.budgethomesupply.com

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| SCHOOL CHOICE

Making Positive Choices For Your Children A Spotlight on local businesses that are easy choices for school and home needs BY LINDA THORSEN BOND RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

t’s a good time of year to make choices that will have a positive impact on your children’s lives. There are some easy choices like the shoes they wear, upgrades to their living space, their dance and bodywear, helping students in need, and even maintaining the vehicle you haul them around in. In Boulder and Longmont some businesses stand out.

OUTFITTING DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS ACTIVITIES It’s a busy time of year at Boulder Body Wear as the holidays bring performances to Boulder and Boulder County. Amy Kenney said, “There are big productions in the works and studios are also preparing for seasonal and

Holy Family High School

97 %

Class of 2023 attending 2 or 4 year college

fall programs and showcases. We’re here for that! Dancers are looking for basics as well as multiple pairs or color of shoes to finalize their cast costumes. Next up will be the Nutcracker, and there are usually many performances

You Belong Here!

21 Athletic Programs

Average Class Size

726 Students

48 Honors & AP Courses

85 %

Faculty with Advanced Degrees

Open House Sunday, November 5, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

get better because everybody quality for wants to go their bucks see it. BBW than ever offers bulk before. pricing for “My dancers who store was need to buy raised multiple pairs in the of pointe Rockies,” shoes. They Kenney can save and said. “I keep their was born feet healthy. in Boulder Pointe shoes and raised are specific in Boulder, and one of the I danced biggest costs (Photo: Robyn Mastriona/ in Boulder for dancers. Boulder Body Wear). and Parents commit and accept went to CU. This business certain responsibility for started with Boulder and keeping their dancer healthy.” Boulder County, and now Boulder Body Wear has we’re a regional and national weekly specials starting every supplier, thanks to the people Thursday. With different ways here who are committed to to save every week, Kenney buying and shopping locally posts information about these and supporting people’s specials to their website, dreams and endeavors.” social media or the shop’s > 2850 Arapahoe Road, mailing list. She said that Suite 104, Lafayette, since the pandemic, she has 303.447.9100, boulder been sourcing responsibly and effectively and parents can bodywear.com

FINDING THE RIGHT SHOE STYLE & FIT

www.holyfamilyhs.com | 303-410-1411

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

SCHOOL CHOICE

| SCHOOL CHOICE DESIGNING A KID’S BED & BATH

Impact on Education is a nonprofit foundation supporting nearly 30,000 students and 4,000 educators across 56 public schools in Boulder Valley School District (BVSD). Their mission is to support Boulder Valley public school students with community funding and resources to meet critical needs and eliminate opportunity gaps. Impact on Education invests over $2 million each year in early childhood education, college and career readiness, academic opportunity, learning tools, and more. “Our commitment to creating opportunities for success, from preschool through graduation, supports young people furthest from resources,” said Allison Billings, Executive Director of Impact on Education. “BVSD has one of the widest and most persistent opportunity gaps in the state, so we prioritize our programs

and investments to serve low-income and historically marginalized students. Our work engages students and empowers educators to make sure students have access to the resources they need when they need them. Billings said, “We believe public education can help students reach their potential and that every student deserves access to an equitable and excellent education. Impact on Education has strong partnerships with district leadership that help identify where we can best support the students and educators across BVSD. And we work closely with our 56 schools, their school principals and Community Liaisons to implement our programs and investments.” To help Impact on Education, you can make a donation, spread the word or volunteer. > impactoneducation.org.

words for When it’s time to take parents. on your next She said, home project, “Designing there’s a store a kid’s in Longmont bathroom where you today is easy know you’ll with all the find all the different decking, cabinetry kitchen options that products, are available and lumber to help you need to keep things get the job organized. done right. With a For over 30 place for years Budget (Photo: Budget Home Supply). everything it Home Supply is easy for kids to clean up has served Northern Colorado after themselves and keep and in 1999 they opened their their area neat and tidy. A 80,000 sq. ft. store to provide well-organized bathroom even more choice and value to can help to reduce the stress customers. of those hectic morning/ Vernetta Angelo explained evening routines. Cabinets that Budget Home Center was today include options such opened in a 10,000-squareas hampers, wastebaskets, foot location at 724 Main St. roll trays, grooming centers, in Longmont in 1984 by the tall linen cabinets with door Vernon Family. “Eight years racks, mirrors with side pulllater, we relocated to a space outs and vanity wall cubbies. three times the size on 9th Drawer storage is also a mustAvenue,” she said. “In 1999, have.” we opened our newly built Suzanne Southard, Kitchen 80,000-square-foot store on and Bath Designer, suggested, Boston Avenue. Since the “Kids love color and always beginning, we have supported have a favorite. Why not local nonprofits, Our Center, Habitat for Humanity and the perk the bathroom up with some color? Maybe some Boy Scouts are three of our interesting shapes on a wall in favorite causes. In 2014, we their bedroom or playroom? remodeled our store after the This can lift spirits and make 2013 flood and rebranded to them feel recharged, special Budget Home Supply. We will and proud of their own be celebrating our 40th year space.” > 780 Boston Ave, of family business in 2024.” Longmont, 303.678.8800, Lead Designer Carmen Gibson has encouraging 303.775.0146.

Brown’s Shoe Fit Longmont has been fitting the community since 1946. The knowledgeable staff specializes in fitting comfort footwear for the entire family. Brown’s carries a wide variety of footwear including athletics, casual, European comfort, work boots and multiple widths when available. Brown’s also carries a great selection of comfort aids and supports to help alleviate foot pain. Jason Wetzel, managing

member, talked about getting the most from personalized fitting for children’s shoes. He said, “Our employees are trained to measure children’s feet, to ask parents what they are looking for and to find something suitable for each individual. I recommend that the parents bring in the socks that each child will wear with the new shoes so that we can get the size right and fit them properly for adequate growing room so the shoes function properly and kids can play

hard and run well. It’s good to bring in the winter weight socks if that’s how they will wear the shoes, so we can fit them with the proper size. A new development in athletic wear is the New Balance Boa lacing system. Wetzel said it comes out of the outdoor industry and is a good alternative closure because kids do not have to tie the shoe and it is not Velcro. It’s easy to use and durable. He said Keen also has waterproof shoes and boots that are more

(Photo: Catherine Wessling/Impact on Education).

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUCCESS

November 2023

outdoor- inspired. There’s a low top shoe that still functions as a sneaker but is waterproof so it is good in an outdoor environment. Brown’s also carries athletic shoes from Saucony, Solomon and La Sportiva. For snowwear, Kamik, a Canadian shoe company, has great waterproof winter boots for men, women, kids and even infants. > 373 Main St., Longmont, 303.776.2920, brownslongmont.com RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 29

| SCHOOL CHOICE

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE AFTER SCHOOL DROP-OFF AND ACTIVITES

You might think that winter is a slow time for a car wash, but you would be wrong. Breeze Thru Car Wash is busiest when snow and sludge are on the ground, according to Steve Phillips, Marketing and Communications Coordinator. He said, “When there’s so much road grime and mag chloride on the road, taking care of your vehicle is important. Something you might not know is that when bird droppings or bugs land on your car, the acidity will eat through your clear coat and paint, so you need to get it off as soon as possible. A really good thorough wash helps so that things like that don’t stick to your vehicle. Your car’s surface is helped by consistent washing.”

The family-owned business started in Fort Collins and now has 12 locations in Northern Colorado and Wyoming. There are two locations in Longmont, on Main St and on Ken Pratt Boulevard. There are many wash packages that are convenient and affordable, plus FREE vacuums so you can relax while you enjoy a wash that’s Easy, Quick and Fun. With washes starting at just $10 per wash, there’s a wash for everyone. Many people in Longmont love the Wash Pass because it is truly unlimited so you can wash your car as many times as you want for one price. There are three tiers for exterior washes, Deluxe, Bubble Bath, and Premium Shine. Phillips recommends the Super Interior Cleaning that includes interior windows, interior wipe down, extensive vacuuming, floor mat cleaning and any bug

T CHA I M

E SCH DL

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L SUM OO

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 Summit website:

sum.bvsd.org La interpretación en español está disponible el:

Jueves 16 de noviembre, 12:40pm a 2:10pm Jueves 7 de diciembre de 12:40pm a 2:10pm Solo en español: Martes 5 de diciembre de 8:15am a 9:45 am

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

(Photo: Breeze Thru Car Wash).

removal. Phillips said, “Purchase your wash pass online or stop by any Breeze Thru location to enroll today. We install a small tag on your windshield. With low monthly prices like ours, it’s easy to see why our customers love our Unlimited

Wash Passes. Find the perfect wash pass for your car today, then get ready to relax and enjoy your convenient, affordable, East, Quick & Fun car wash!” > 2025 Main St.,720.491.3727; 1213 Ken Pratt Blvd, 303.834.8387; breezethrucarwash.com

Winner of the 2009, 2015 & 2021 National Blue Ribbon for Excellence High Peaks Elementary school is consistently one of the highest academic performing elementary schools in both the Boulder Valley School district and the state. For more information or for a list of our open enrollment events, check out the QR code or visit our website: https://hpe.bvsd.org/

Address:

3995 Aurora Ave. Boulder CO 80303

Phone:

710-561-6500

FITTING FAMILIES IN

LONGMONT SURROUNDING AREA SINCE 1946 AND THE

373 Main St., Longmont, CO • 303-776-2920 Monday-Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-5, Closed Sunday • brownslongmont.com facebook.com/brownsshoefit.longmont instagram.com/brownsshoefitlongmont

SCHOOL CHOICE

Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight North, Boulder Phone: (303) 527-4931 Website: bouldercountryday.org

Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten Apple Tree Christian Preschool and Kindergarten is a non-profit, Christian organization providing early childhood programs for ages 2 ½ through Kindergarten. Our preschool program curriculum is developmentally age-appropriate and provides a balance of child centered choices and teacher guided experiences in a Christian environment. Grades Served: 2 1/2-Kindergarten Principal/Head of School: Sara Godwin Enrollment: 108 Capacity: 110 Annual Tuition: varies based on program Daily Schedule: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with Early Drop Off beginning at 8 a.m. and Enrichment until 3:30 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Wednesday, January 10 5-7 p.m. Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 for Toddlers. 8:1 for 3-year-olds; 12:1 for 4-yearolds; 14:1 for Kindergarten Address: 545 W. 10th Avenue Broomfield Phone: (303) 466-8365 Website: www.broomfieldumc. org/apple-tree-christian

Beautiful Savior Lutheran School Beautiful Savior Lutheran School is a small private Christian school whose mission is to Learn in Faith, Live in Faith. Beautiful Savior serves students from 6 weeks through 7th grade with the plan to open up 8th grade in the next year. Grades Served: Infants through 7th grade Principal/Head of School: Sonya Acker Enrollment: 91 Capacity: 170 Annual Tuition: Kindergarten-7th Grade: $5.500-$6.600 Daily Schedule: Mon.-Fri., 8:15 a.m.-3:15 p.m.; Before Care: 7:30 -8:15 a.m.; After Care 3:15-5:30 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Address: 6995 W. 120th Ave., Broomﬁeld Phone: (303) 469-2049 Website: bslcms.com November 2023

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: 130 Capacity: 150 Annual Tuition: Preschool: $23,638 / Kindergarten through 5th Grade: $26,365. Tuition Awards are available. At Bixby School, we believe that our community is enriched by families and students from many different backgrounds. A Bixby education should be accessible to as many families as possible. Daily Schedule: Preschool: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Before and After Care Available, 7:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.) / Kindergarten through 5th: 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Before and After Care Available, 7:15 a.m to 5:45 p.m.) Open House/Visitation: Nov. 15 at 10:00 a.m. in-person. Meet Bixby Kindergarten: Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. in-person. Please RSVP via admissions@bixbyschool.org Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 5/1 Address: 4760 Table Mesa Dr Boulder Phone: (303) 494-7508 Website: www.bixbyschool.org

Boulder Country Day Preschool

Boulder Country Day School BCD is a top rated preschool through IB middle school in Boulder, Colorado where every child has the opportunity to discover their own unique excellence. We believe that students should be engaged through experiences offered in an atmosphere of encouragement, joy and high expectations. We understand that children taught by inspiring and creative teachers, who care deeply about each child’s progress and development, are more likely to ﬂourish. Grades Served: Preschool through 8th grade Principal/Head of School: John H. Suitor III Enrollment: 370 Capacity: 408 Annual Tuition: $21,100-$29,075 Daily Schedule: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Nov. 2, Nov. 4, Nov. 14 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

Preschool starting at 2-1/2 years old located in the Gunbarrel neighborhood of Boulder. Grades Served: Preschool through Pre-Kindergarten Principal/Head of School: John H. Suitor III Enrollment: 72 Capacity: 77 Annual Tuition: $21,100-$25,775 Daily Schedule: 3 or 5 days a week from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Nov. 2, Nov. 4, Nov. 14 Address: 4820 Nautilus Court

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: 155 Capacity: 170 Annual Tuition: $12,950-$16,300 Daily Schedule: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 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, learner-appropriate program. Crossroads is committed to offering an environment that provides for growth and responsibility by creating individualized strategies for every student. Grades Served: 6-12 Principal/Head of School: Connie Nourse Enrollment: 30 Capacity: 40 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

Boulder Valley Waldorf School 38-acre agricultural campus provides a peaceful yet stimulating environment for children from Preschool through 8th grade! For preschool and RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 31

Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight Phone: (303) 651-7900 Website: ﬂagstaffacademy.org

Dawson School Dawson is a private, collegepreparatory day school serving Adams, Boulder, and Weld County families. We have a spectacular and safe campus surrounded by 700 acres of open space in Lafayette, Colorado. We are more than a school. We are a community. 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 experience where students are known and recognized as individuals. We value their abilities, encourage their unique interests, and deliver world-class education. This commitment is the reason our students have 100% college acceptance. Grades Served: K-12 Principal/Head of School: George Moore Enrollment: 511 Capacity: 530 Annual Tuition: $29,000.00 Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Open House October 27 and 28. 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 Dr 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, Executive Principal Enrollment: 775 Capacity: 967 Annual Tuition: Tuition Free Daily Schedule: 8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Open House/Visitation: In-person tours November - May Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Address: 2040 Miller Drive Longmont 32

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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: 200 Capacity: 225 Annual Tuition: $16,769$29,373 with scholarships and Personalized Affordable Tuition Daily Schedule: Preschool: Half Day 8:45-12:00 M-F; Extended Half Day 8:45-1:00 M-F; Full Day 8:45-3:00 M-Th; 8:45-1:00 F. Elementary: 8:30-3:15 M-Th, 8:301:30 F. Middle School: 8:45-3:45 M-F. Open House/Visitation: Preschool: 11/16, 4:15pm; 1/11, 4:15pm; 4/18, 9:00am Elementary: 11/6, 5pm, 12/5 5pm, 1/10 5pm: Middle School: 10/18 5pm, 11/8 5pm, 1/9 5pm - or private tour Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Preschool - 7:1; Elementary and Middle School - 10:1 Address: SOUTH Campus (Preschool/Elementary) 5465 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder; NORTH Campus (Middle/TPP) 3800 Kalmia Ave., Boulder Phone: (303) 499-1999 Website: friendsschoolboulder.org

High Peaks Elementary

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: 9-12 Principal/Head of School: Matt Hauptly Enrollment: 726 Capacity: 850 Annual Tuition: $15,960 (affiliated Catholics), $16,960 (unaffiliated Catholics and non-Catholics) Daily Schedule: 8:00 a.m. - 2:20 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Sunday, November 5, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., or by appointment. Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 Address: 5195 W. 144th Ave. Broomﬁeld Phone: (303) 410-1411 Website: holyfamilyhs.com

Kohl Street Kids Kohl Street Kids strives to provide quality childcare that meets the needs of each individual family, in a safe and healthy environment. This is a program where we stress the importance of having good listening and cooperation skills. School children need to be given words of encouragement, help with boosting their self-esteem and treated with respect, in order to mature into their role of caring young adults. Children today have to face many difficult issues and pressures … making them feel valuable and important needs to be a priority for us all. Grades Served: Preschool-5th grade Principal/Head of School: Elizabeth Arneson Enrollment: 44 Capacity: 64 Annual Tuition: depends upon days / program Daily Schedule: open 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Open House/Visitation: to be scheduled with director Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Address: 825 Kohl Street Broomﬁeld Phone: (303) 466-8355 Website: broomﬁelducc.org/kohlstreet-kids

Mountain Shadows International Montessori As Colorado’s only Association Montessori International accredited school, Mountain Shadows International Montessori celebrates each child’s individuality and helps them discover how they can best contribute to our world and culture. All children are naturally curious and love to learn; we support this innate drive by providing environments that meet children’s developmental needs, having a staff of loving and wellprepared adults, and building a community of families that actively support our mission. Grades Served: 12 months to 12 years Principal/Head of School: Camilla Modesitt SCHOOL CHOICE

Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight Enrollment: 55 Capacity: 120 Annual Tuition: 15,000 - 36,000 depending on program Daily Schedule: 8:00 - 3:00 Open House/Visitation: www. mountainshadows.org Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Address: 4154 63rd Street Boulder Phone: (303) 530-5353 Website: mountainshadows.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. Grades served: 6th-12th grade Principal/Head of School: Kate Hise Enrollment: N/A Capacity: 66 Annual Tuition: Middle School: $20,664, High School: $26,404 Daily Schedule: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Call to schedule a tour Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 Address: 525 Canyon Blvd., Boulder Phone: (303) 443-9933 Website: septemberschool.org

Shining Mountain Waldorf School Early childhood education at Shining Mountain Waldorf School begins with a mixed-age, playbased 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: 210 Capacity: 250 Annual Tuition: $11,425-$22,800. Tuition assistance available. 30% on average receive tuition assistance. Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Visit website and click ‘take a tour’ Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1; Early Childhood: 2:15 Address: 999 Violet Ave., Boulder Phone: 303.444.7697 Website: shiningmountainwaldorf.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-9 Principal/Head of School: Teresa Fraser Enrollment: 106 Capacity: 125 Annual Tuition: $8300-$9300 Daily Schedule: Mon-Fri 8:303:30 Open House/Visitation: November 10th 1:30 - 3:00 & December 1st 1:30-3:00 Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Address: 3031 W 144th Ave Broomﬁeld Phone: (720) 633-9300 Website: summitclassicalacademy.org

Summit Middle School

Summit Middle School, a fourtime 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.

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(303) 709-9881

November 2023

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 33

Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight away from our beloved nature classroom at Coal Creek, an idyllic natural space with abundant ﬂora and fauna and year-round access to water exploration.

Temple Grandin School

Temple Grandin School (TGS) is a nonproﬁt, independent school for neurodivergent middle and high school students that focuses on growth from strengths. Our socioacademic programming 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 of our 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: Jennifer Wilger Enrollment: 22 Capacity: 32 Annual Tuition: $42,000.00 Daily Schedule: 8:30a-3:35p Open House/Visitation: Next Open House is on Wed., Feb. 7 at 5:30pm. In-Person 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. The Preschool offers a unique early childhood education experience for children to learn, grow, and reach their full potential, through daily immersion in nature with caring, attentive teachers. 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. We’re excited to announce that starting in August of 2024, Thorne Nature Preschool will be based out of our new nature center! The Lafayette Nature Center will be home to the ﬁrst custom-designed nature preschool facility in Colorado. The center is only a pinecone’s toss 34

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

Grades Served: Preschool, ages 3-6 Principal/Head of School: Lorene Wapotich Enrollment: Enrollment applications accepted year-round. Visit website for more information. Capacity: 30 students per day Annual Tuition: $6,773-$19,864 Daily Schedule: Half Day: 9 a.m.1:30 p.m.; Full Day: 9 a.m.3:30 p.m., Optional Early Care: 8:30 a.m.-9 a.m. Open House/Visitation: Call or email to schedule Average Student/Teacher Ratio: 5 children to 1 paid staff member Address: 300 Old Laramie Trail East, Lafayette Phone: (303) 499.3647 Website: thornenaturepreschool.org/rockies

TLC Learning Center TLC has nurtured and supported the cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development of children for over 67 years. We offer high-quality, inclusive infant and toddler care, preschool and pediatric therapy services to provide comprehensive early childhood education and therapeutic services to assist each child in reaching their highest potential. We are a Level Four Colorado Shines infant, toddler, and preschool program that serves children with a variety of needs and from a wide range of backgrounds, combined with on and off site therapeutic services that complement our educational curriculum, while being tailored to the needs of each child. Grades Served: 6 weeks to kindergarten ready Principal/Head of School: Lisa Stratton Enrollment: 75 Capacity: 90 Annual Tuition: varies depending on age and schedule Daily Schedule: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Please call to schedule a tour Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Ratio varies depending on needs of children, but never exceeds more than 15 children for every two teachers. Address: 611 Korte Pkwy., Longmont Phone: (303) 776-7417 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 socialemotional growth, and nurture the whole child. Our relationshipbased and culturally-competent 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

Capacity: 1200 Annual Tuition: 0 Daily Schedule: 8-3 Open House/Visitation: November 15th, 2023 6p.m. Average Student/Teacher Ratio: Address: 340 South Sunset Street Longmont Phone: (303) 772-7286 Website: twinpeaksclassical.org

Watershed School A progressive independent school in Boulder, the Watershed School is committed to a program and school culture that inspires and educates students to become highly capable, healthy, wise and engaged citizens prepared to take on the world’s great challenges. Our students engage in work that matters—work that is important to the student and has a positive impact beyond the walls of the school. Grades served: 6th-12th Grade Principal/Head of School: Tim Breen Enrollment: 114 Capacity:120 Annual Tuition: $32,550 Daily Schedule: Mon.-Fri., 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Open House/Visitation: Call to Schedule Address: 1661 Alpine Ave., Boulder Phone: 303.440.7520 Website: watershedschool.org

YMCA of Northern Colorado Twin Peaks Classical Academy Twin Peaks is a PK-12, tuitionfree, public, charter school in Longmont, CO. We offer a a unique choice in SVVSD with an exceptional classical education available to all students. A classical education is based on the timeless 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. Grades Served: PK-12 Principal/Head of School: Joseph Mehsling Enrollment: 900

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, coming in 2024, Loveland as well as after-school care and school day off camps in four school districts. Grades Served: Preschool5th Grade Principal/Head of School: Chris Coker Enrollment: 1,000 Capacity: 1,500 Annual Tuition: Up to $14,880 Daily Schedule: Varies by location Open House/Visitation: Call to schedule a tour Address: 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette Phone: (303) 664-5455 Website: ymcanoco.org SCHOOL CHOICE

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Adams 12 Five Star Schools FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT | ADAMS 12 FIVE STAR SCHOOLS THRIVING STUDENTS,THRIVING FUTURES

n Adams 12 Five Star Schools, we know if our students are thriving in school, they’re more likely to thrive after they graduate. 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.

•

Taking pride in and feeling connected to the district’s positive culture.

•

Knowing every student by name, strength and

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 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 Phone: (720) 972-5280 Website: centennial.adams12.org Principal: Geneanne Payne Enrollment: 384 (includes PS) Capacity: 432 (Preschool: 96) Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: White: 29.6%, Hispanic: 64.3%, African American: <1%, Asian: 1.8%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 36

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

Chris Gdowski, Superintendent need.

Blueprint, a comprehensive long-range academic programming and facilities plan. The district’s Long Range Planning Advisory Committee (LRPAC) leads the works on Blueprint. Committee membership includes parents, staff and community members. Within LRPAC, there are three subcommittees focusing on different aspects of Blueprint. •

Relevant and Responsive Academic Programming prioritizes and designs academic and applied learning opportunities to ensure all students are prepared to successfully pursue and thrive in a future of their choosing.

•

Facility Renewal, Rebuild, Reimagine prioritizes facility investments that support the district’s

I encourage you to take a look at this year’s Five Star FOCUS magazine (adams12. org/focus), which features personal stories of these goals coming to life in the Five Star District.

Planning Beyond 2023-2024 In support of the continued implementation of ELEVATE, Adams 12 Five Star Schools is in the midst of developing

3.3%; Free and reduced lunch: 74.7% Open House/Visitation: Please email the principal, Geneanne Payne, at geneanne.m.payne@ adams12.org or call (720) 9725283 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 Phone: (720) 972-5780 Website: coyote.adams12.org Principal: Dr. Michael Keppler Enrollment: 384 Capacity: 456

Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: White: 70.5%, Hispanic: 12.7%, African American: 1.0%, Asian: 7.0%, Native American: 0%, Native Hawaiian/Paciﬁc Islander: 0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 5.9% Free and reduced lunch: 10.68% 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,

academic vision and that provide desirable and outstanding learning environments. •

Profiles of Thriving Schools identifies the enrollment and resource conditions that foster an equitable and extraordinary learning experience for all students.

It’s anticipated that during the 2023-2024 school year, Blueprint will be finalized, including any funding plan necessary for its successful implementation. We’re excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for our students this year and beyond. Sincerely, Chris Gdowski, Superintendent Adams 12 Five Star Schools

Broomfield Phone: (720) 972-7880 Website: meridian.adams12.org Principal: Jason Gooding Enrollment: 589 (includes PS) Capacity: 672 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: White: 63.4%, Hispanic: 19.5%, African American: 1.6%, Asian: 6.6%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 8.3% Free and reduced lunch: 15.9% 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 SCHOOL CHOICE

Adams 12 Five Star Schools thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

programs and student opportunities.

Address: 12401 Perry St., Broomfield Phone: (720) 972-5520 Website: mountain.adams12.org Principal: Peggy Heath Enrollment: 544 (includes PS) Capacity: 576 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: White: 57.5%, Hispanic: 28.8%, African American: <1%, Asian: 6.0%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 6.8%; Free and reduced lunch: 34.71% Open House/Visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.

K-12 SCHOOL 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.

P-8 SCHOOLS 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: Preschool-8th Grade Address: 3461 Preble Creek Pkwy., Broomfield Phone: (720) 972-7300 Website: thundervista.adams12.org Principal: Teresa Benallo Enrollment: 794 Capacity: 900 Daily schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: White: 72.9%, Hispanic: 12.5%, African American: <1%, Asian: 8.0%, Native American: 0.0%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 5.9%; Free and reduced lunch: 5.1% Open House/Visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment,

Grades Served: Kindergarten12th Grade 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: 1,456 Capacity: 1,600 Daily schedule: Elementary, Middle and High 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: White: 66%, Hispanic: 13%, African American: <1%, Asian: 14%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 6% Free and reduced lunch: 10.5% Open House/Visitation: For information on Open Enrollment Sessions, visit the PRA website.

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HIGH SCHOOL Legacy Legacy High School provides opportunities, expectations and support for each

Address: 2701 W. 136th Ave., Broomfield Phone: (720) 972-6700 Website: legacy.adams12.org Principal: Sara Marx Enrollment: 2,230 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: 61.7%, Hispanic: 24%, African American: 1.4%, Asian: 6.1%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: <1%, Two or More Ethnicities: 6.3% Free and reduced lunch: 21.52% Open House/Visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.

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Address: 2800 W. 135th Ave., Broomfield Phone: (720) 972-5200 Website: westlake.adams12.org Principal: Terrell Price Enrollment: 909 Capacity: 1,175 Daily Schedule: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: White: 60.9%, Hispanic: 26%, African American: <1%, Asian: 3.9%, Native American: <1%, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.0%, Two or More Ethnicities: 7.9%.; Free and reduced lunch: 28.6% Open House/Visitation: Please call the school for more information on enrollment, programs and student opportunities.

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.

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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!

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September School is a private high school and middle school in Boulder, providing relationship-based education. We offer a supportive community fostering individual development and reawakening the love of learning. Our students are empowered to be critical thinkers, lifelong learners, and responsible citizens.

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RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 37

Boulder Valley School District FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT | BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT BVSD IS THE PLACE TO BE

ear Prospective Students and Families, Thank you so much for considering the Boulder Valley School District. Whether it was our outstanding reputation for educational excellence, our steadfast commitment to welcoming and supporting every student or the wonderful schools that act as centers of our community – BVSD has so much to offer. 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

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Alicia Sanchez

Rob Anderson, Superintendent student. The best part in BVSD, you really cannot go wrong. All of our schools are outstanding. You don’t have to take our word for it. Niche has once again ranked BVSD as the best Denver Area school district and three of our schools are now in Colorado’s top 20 according to US News and World Report. While we are proud of

environment for all students. Address: 655 Sir Galahad Drive, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7300 Website: sae.bvsd.org Principal: Joel Rivera 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 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. Our 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. Our 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. Our school prides itself on providing a nurturing and supportive learning 38

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

these accolades, our track record of preparing students for success speaks for itself. BVSD students attend the best colleges or universities in the country and are leaders in their industries and our communities. In fact, we are proud to now have three alumni who have been to space as NASA astronauts, including Jessica Watkins (Fairview ‘06), Jack Fischer (‘92) and Scott Carpenter (Boulder High ‘43). There is no question – BVSD is an excellent launchpad for students who want to achieve their dreams. What truly defines the Boulder Valley School District is our commitment to Excellence Through Equity. We believe that we haven’t fully succeeded until every last BVSD student has those same opportunities to strive.

That is why we have developed GradPlus, our program that aims to ensure every student graduates from high school in BVSD with more than a diploma. We are working to expand opportunities for students to earn college credit, industry certifications, work experience and bilingual certification while in high school. This will ensure all students have the skills and confidence to keep learning and remaining flexible throughout their careers – so they’re ready to compete in an ever-changing, evolving future. Learn more about why BVSD is the Place to Be at www.bvsd.org/the-place

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.

actively participate in music, studio art, physical education, and library as well as a large number of community-building events. Learning at Birch gets students engaged with hands-on projects, inquiry-based learning, and reallife 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.

Address: 2500 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder Phone: 720-561-3500 Website: bce.bvsd.org Principal: Tanner Dayhoff Enrollment: 312 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 caring, curious, and resilient kids through rich learning experiences. Teachers create safe, welcoming classrooms and celebrate that children’s learning styles vary. 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

Birch

Sincerely, Rob Anderson Superintendent Boulder Valley School District

Address: 1035 Birch St., Broomfield Phone: 720-561-8800 Website: bie.bvsd.org Principal: Tanya Santee Enrollment: 332 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 at Aurora 7 Birch 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

Boulder Community School of SCHOOL CHOICE

Boulder Valley School District 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 oneon-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: 41 November 2023

Coal Creek

Coal Creek is an elementary school, serving 330 students PreK-5. We have a caring, kind, and dedicated staff who work hand in hand with hardworking students and a supportive parent community. Our staff members go above and beyond to ensure that each student feels valued, appreciated, and motivated to do their very best. From the moment you step foot in our school, you’ll immediately sense the warm and welcoming atmosphere that permeates every corner. Our JAM program – an innovative initiative that combines art, music, and physical education schoolwide. This unique approach not only fosters creativity and self-expression but also promotes teamwork and a sense of unity among our students. Our school takes great pride in our 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 our 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

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

Creekside

Creekside Elementary School at Martin Park, located in south Boulder, is a dynamic neighborhood school hosting an international student population. Creekside is proud and grateful to be in a new school building designed to foster the 4Cs of 21st-century learning: collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. Our bright, beautiful building allows student choice in types of workspaces and furniture in order to individualize learning and build a community of original thinkers. Creekside offers high quality PK-5 education. Our preschool program is play-based and focuses on Kindergarten readiness. 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 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 childcentered, 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.

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. Address: 1897 Sumac Ave., Boulder Phone: 720-561-5461 Website: cve.bvsd.org Principal: Eric Hamilton RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 39

Boulder Valley School District Enrollment: 436 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. 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. 40

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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, before- and 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). Address: 1220 Eisenhower Drive, Boulder Phone: 720-561-6700 Website: eie.bvsd.org Principal: Brady Stroup Enrollment: 304 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.

Emerald

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! Address: 275 Emerald Street, Broomfield Phone: 720-561-8500 Website: eme.bvsd.org Principal: Samara Williams

Enrollment: 405 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.

Fireside

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: Christa Keppler 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 cre-

ativity, 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 socialemotional 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.

Foothill

Foothill Elementary is an awardwinning 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. Address: 1001 Hawthorn Ave., Boulder Phone: 720-561-2600 Website: foe.bvsd.org Principal: Sennen Knauer Enrollment: 440 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. - 3:35 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. SCHOOL CHOICE

Boulder Valley School District 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 given the rare opportunity to engage fully in their learning. The Gold 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 studentteacher ratios and long-term relationships foster a strong familylike 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

offers an accredited preschool program. 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

November 2023

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

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.

Jamestown Heatherwood Elementary School is a quaint, neighborhood school nestled within an inclusive, caring community. The school has a long and proud reputation for high academic achievement while supporting the whole child through a balanced education program. Academics are only one measure of our thriving school. The Heatherwood community values social and emotional growth and our highly esteemed arts, music, and physical education programs. Students are engaged in meaningful opportunities to learn and develop as they become responsible, respectful, and contributing community members. Heatherwood Elementary School also

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.

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-toteacher ratio allows individualized learning and creative and flexible educational approaches. Students work in small, multi-age groups.

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 Website: koe.bvsd.org Principal: Geoff Sandfort Enrollment: 290 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50

p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.

Lafayette

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.

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 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 41

Boulder Valley School District 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 social-emotional learning in all classrooms. Parents support our school in a multitude of ways, from volunteering at school to organizing fun and wellattended 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!

Mesa

Address: 400 Hutchinson St., Louisville Phone: 720-561-7200 Website: loe.bvsd.org Principal: Jeffrey Miller Enrollment: 453 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.

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.

Mapleton Early Childhood Center

Mapleton Early Childhood Center welcomes learners ages 3-5 to our beautiful historic building on Mapleton Hill in Boulder. Children come to us from a diverse array of neighborhoods, and we meet each child at their unique place in the learning journey. Our high quality, play-based preschool program promotes progress in all developmental areas and helps every child become a creative, confident thinker and ready learner. We focus on socialemotional, physical, language, and cognitive development, as well as early learning standards in literacy, mathematics, science and technology, social studies and the arts. More information about how to apply for Boulder Valley School District preschool and Colorado Universal Preschool Program can be found on our website. Address: 840 Mapleton Ave., Boulder Phone: 720-561-6200 Website: mpe.bvsd.org Principal: Theresa Clements Enrollment: 6 preschool classrooms and licensed for up to 121 students 42

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Mesa is a Welcoming School. From the moment you arrive, you notice genuine warmth among teachers, students, and families. It is the strong sense of community 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. There is something for every student, and the teachers at Mesa strive tirelessly to foster the growth of each and every student.

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.

Escuela Bilingüe Pioneer

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 wellrounded 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 wellprepared for their educational journey. Address: 101 E. Baseline Road, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7800 Website: pie.bvsd.org Principal: Anabel Rafoul 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 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 afterschool 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 SCHOOL CHOICE

Boulder Valley School District 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

Principal: Marina Orozco-Ngu Enrollment: 407 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 8:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.

Whittier International

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 higherorder 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.

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 social-emotional 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. Address: 956 16th St., Boulder Phone: 720-561-5416 Website: uhe.bvsd.org November 2023

PK-8 / K-8 SCHOOLS Aspen Creek PK-8

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. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Eldorado PK-8 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 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 K-8

Since 1991, Horizons K-8 has offered a relationship-based and engaging program where stu-

dents 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. Studentled family conferences, portfolios, and performance-based 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, multiage classes and instruction that balances academic and socialemotional learning continue to be a hallmark of the Horizons program. Address: 4545 Sioux Drive, Boulder Phone: 720-561-3600 Website: horizonsk8school.org Principal: Jasmine Graves BlackClemons Enrollment: 348 Daily Schedule: 8:15 - 3:30 grades K-4, 8:10 - 3:35 grades 5-8 Monday - Thursday and 8:15 - 12:45 Fridays

Meadowlark School

Serving Students in Grades PK-8 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, 3rd-4th, 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 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 43

Boulder Valley School District staff work in collaboration with students, families, and the community to support the whole child in social-emotional, physical, and academic growth. Address: 2300 Meadow Sweet Lane, Erie Phone: 720-561-5403 Website: ml8.bvsd.org Principal: Brent Caldwell Enrollment: 725 Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Monarch PK-8

Monarch PK-8 is a welcoming community school serving students in preschool through eighth grade. 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, playbased 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. Address: 263 Campus Drive, Louisville Phone: 720-561-4000 Website: mo8.bvsd.org Principal: Robin Techmanski Enrollment: 705 Daily Schedule: 8:05 a.m. - 3:05 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:05 a.m. to 3:05 44

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K-12 SCHOOLS 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 small-school 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 postAP 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. Address: 800 Merlin Drive, Lafayette Phone: 303-453-4600 Website: peaktopeak.org Principal: Elementary School- Melissa Christensen; Middle SchoolClara Quinlan; High School- Kyle Mathews Enrollment: 1450 Daily Schedule: Elementary: 8 AM-3 PM & Secondary: 7:55 AM3:10 PM

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Angevine

Angevine Middle School is a student-centered middle school with an emphasis on academic achievement and social emotional development. Our greatest joy 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.

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.

Casey Boulder Universal 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

Casey Middle School is a dynamic learning community of students, parents, and faculty from an array of cultures. Casey promotes both challenging academics and a socially and emotionally nurturing environment that values the uniqueness of each student. Key SCHOOL CHOICE

Boulder Valley School District 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. Address: 2205 Norwood Ave., Boulder Phone: 720-561-5441 Website: cem.bvsd.org Principal: Liz Tucker Enrollment: 619 November 2023

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 social-emotional 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.

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 indepth 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 antibullying group that celebrates differences. Address: 290 Manhattan Drive, Boulder Phone: 720-561-6300 Website: mam.bvsd.org Principal: Dr. Kristen Lewis Enrollment: 430 Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Nevin Platt

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 project-based 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-grade-level 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. Address: 6096 Baseline Road, Boulder Phone: 720-561-5536 Website: npm.bvsd.org Principal: Brooke Daerr Enrollment: 508 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 Awardwinning 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. Address: 1500 Knox Drive, Boulder Phone: 720-561-3400 Website: shm.bvsd.org Principal: John White Enrollment: 495 Daily Schedule: 8:20 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.

Summit

Summit Middle School, a fourtime 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 acaRAISED IN THE ROCKIES 45

Boulder Valley School District demics 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.

HIGH SCHOOLS Arapahoe Ridge

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.

Graduation is paramount for all students! Arapahoe Ridge High School is an alternative education campus that is an “alternative” to the neighborhood high schools in BVSD. Our student enrollment consists of juniors and seniors with a few sophomores.Sophomores typically start the second semester. Class sizes average between 15-20 students. As an alternative high school, we provide students with half-time schedules for required academics and a Career Internship Program for elective credits, which allows students to work, volunteer or have an apprenticeship. Transportation to our campus is offered via school buses that are available from all the sending home high schools within BVSD. Students may access RTD for FREE during the 2023-24 school year. In addition, there are opportunities for concurrent enrollment with Front Range Community College while your student is still in high school, the cost is covered by BVSD. For enrollment consideration for 2023-24, please fill out the “Open Enrollment” tab which is available until August 30th, 2023. ARHS will contact you for a face-to-face meeting where you and your student can make the decision to either join us from out of district or remain at your neighborhood school. For enrollment during the school year simply fill out an “Administrative Transfer” under the enrollment tab in Infinite Campus. ARHS will contact you for a face-to-face meeting where you and your student can make the decision to either join us from out of district or remain at your neighborhood school. Administrative Transfers occur during the school year starting September 15th and run through April 15th.

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 MiddleSenior 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 MiddleSenior 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. 46

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Address: 6600 E. Arapahoe Rd., Boulder Phone: 720-561-5231 Website: arh.bvsd.org Principal: Dr. Joan Bludorn Enrollment: 265 Daily Academic Schedule: Morning Session: 8:55 - 11:41 Wednesday Late Start: 10:00 11:41; Afternoon Session: 12:40 - 3:26; Wednesday Late Start: 1:45-3:26

Boulder

Founded in 1875 as part of the University of Colorado, Boulder High is the oldest established high school in Colorado. Students regularly access University of Colorado classes and libraries, the Conference on World Affairs, and cultural community activities from our 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. Its AVID program creates an environment where all students are afforded the opportunity to succeed. The visual and performing arts departments have an excellent reputation and produce cutting edge performances and work. The pottery, photography, and video production studios and Millennium lab are state of the art. Boulder High has one of the district’s largest English Language Development programs, serving students from 30 countries. It also offers five world languages: Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and Latin. Address: 1604 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder Phone: 720-561-2200 Website: boh.bvsd.org Principal: Dr. Alana Morales Enrollment: 2075 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m

Boulder Preparatory High School

Boulder Preparatory High School is a college-preparatory program serving students who are looking for a small-school 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-ofpromise. Address: 5075 Chaparral Court, Boulder Phone: 303-545-6186 Website: boulderprep.org Principal: Lili Adeli Enrollment: 119

Boulder Technical

Education Center 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, handson 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, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice & Crime Scene Investigation, Emergency Medical Services, Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy, 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 Social Media: @TECBoulder Boulder TEC Assistant Principal: Ming Scheid Enrollment: 408 Daily Schedule: AM Session: 9:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 10:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m.; PM Session: 12:45 p.m. to 3:25 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 1:45 p.m. to 3:25 p.m.

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 SCHOOL CHOICE

Boulder Valley School District 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 to provide students a college experience within the high school setting. We have fully implemented the BVSD 1:Web Initiative for all students, supporting them in a variety of ways with technology. Students receive a Chromebook to be used throughout their high school career. Our Eagles are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, theater, music, and clubs. We work together to make our school one in which all students can succeed and accept new challenges. Address: 1 Eagle Way, Broomfield Phone: 720-561-8100 Website: brh.bvsd.org Principal: Ginger Ramsey Enrollment: 1648 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.

Centaurus

Centaurus High School is a college-preparatory high school with an award-winning Engineering Academy and International Baccalaureate Diploma program. Our Advanced Placement courses, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), fine arts, November 2023

International Baccalaureate, Engineering Academy and exceptional extra-curricular programs ensure that each of our students is prepared for the most rigorous academic majors at the university level. Graduates from these programs have been accepted to nationally ranked schools to further their studies in a variety of fields, including engineering, pre-law, pre-medical, international policy studies, journalism, and art. Centaurus’s student focused support systems and strong sense of 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. Address: 10300 South Boulder Road, Lafayette Phone: 720-561-7500 Website: ceh.bvsd.org Principal: Daniel Ryan 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.

view as the third best public high school in CO (2022). Fairview is one of very few high schools to receive the Colorado John Irwin Schools of Excellence Award. The John Irwin Award is given to schools that demonstrate exceptional academic achievement over time in Math, English Language Arts, and Science. By most measures, Fairview ranks in the top 1% out of all high schools in the nation. 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. Address: 1515 Greenbriar Blvd., Boulder Phone: 720-561-3100 Website: fah.bvsd.org Principal: Dr. Scarlet Chopin Enrollment: 1854 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Wednesday; Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.

Justice

Address: 329 Campus Drive, Louisville Phone: 720-561-4200 Website: moh.bvsd.org Principal: Greg Doan Enrollment: 1516 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Wednesday Late Start: 9:35 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.

New Vista

Fairview

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 Fair-

ties 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.

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 collegelevel 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. Address: 805 Excalibur St., Lafayette Phone: 720-277-6480 Website: justicehigh.org Principal: T.J. Cole Enrollment: 102 Daily Schedule:

Monarch

Our Vision: 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 opportuni-

Since 1993, New Vista High School has been a highly regarded, nontraditional 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. Address: 700 20th St., Boulder Phone: 720-561-8700 Website: nvh.bvsd.org Principal: John McCluskey Enrollment: 330 Daily Schedule: 8:45 a.m.-4:05 p.m. RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 47

St. Vrain Valley School District FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT | ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

ear 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 instructional options available across all of our schools. 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 co-curricular 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 highquality, 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

PRESCHOOLS Spark! Discovery Preschool Spark! Discovery Preschool offers fulltime and part-time preschool for children ages 3-5 and full-day childcare options for students in Firestone, Frederick, and Dacono. Spark! engages students in highquality, early learning experiences, in partnership with families and the community, that develop a strong foundation, enrich the whole child, and inspire lifelong learning. Staff develop positive and caring relationships with each student and family, and are committed to inspiring creativity, innovation, problem solving, and discovery in the classroom. As a STEM preschool, instruction focuses on integrated units of inquiry, the design-thinking process, and an emphasis on 21st-century learning, appropriate technology, as well as the integration of language, literacy, and mathematics. Fullday childcare is available Monday through Friday and follows the preschool calendar. Summer 48

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Don Haddad, Superintendent 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 Elevation and Technology Center. Our graduates have enrolled in a record number of concurrent enrollment college-level courses, giving them a head start on their childcare is also available. Address: 555 8th St., Frederick Phone: 720-652-7906 Website: sdpk.svvsd.org Principal: Paige Gordon Enrollment: 293 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. *Subject to change for the 24-25 school year. Childcare (M-F): 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 45.36; Free/reduced, 26.28% Average student-adult ratio: 8/1

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Alpine Alpine Elementary is proud to be an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School integrating

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, All-State 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 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) practices. The IB Programme engages students in rigorous inquiry to study topics that are of importance to the world in which we live, and expands students’ global understanding through Spanish language instruction. STEM incorporates the use of a designthinking process and technology to foster innovation and problem solving. Alpine provides childcare and enrichment opportunities such as a world-class robotics program, 100 Mile Club, and Allegria choir. Address: 2005 Alpine St., Longmont Phone: 720-652-8140 Website: aes.svvsd.org Principal: Amber Marsolek Enrollment: 418 Daily Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 54.55%; Free/reduced, 55.02% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

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 well-rounded 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 worldclass education. Thank you for your outstanding support in championing the growth and development 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 School District

Black Rock 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. Black Rock’s highly-qualified staff models strong collaboration, which promotes a safe and encouraging learning environment, and instills high standards of academic rigor. Black Rock has implemented a weekly Design Challenge for all students to use higher level thinking strategies to solve problems. The school boasts one of the most involved parent communities across St. Vrain Valley Schools, supporting the school through volunteering and relationship building. Address: 2000 Mountain View Blvd., Erie Phone: 720-890-3995 SCHOOL CHOICE

St. Vrain Valley School District Website: bres.svvsd.org Principal: Sherry Carter Enrollment: 607 Daily Schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 29.98%; Free/reduced lunch, 9.72% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Website: bes.svvsd.org Principal: Erica Bowman Enrollment: 334 Daily Schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 52.69%; Free/reduced, 51.50% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Blue Mountain

Centennial

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.

Centennial Elementary’s vision is to provide a safe, consistent, and engaging environment so students 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.

Address: 1260 Mountain Dr., Longmont Phone: 720-652-8220 Website: bmes.svvsd.org Principal: Stephen Hoel Enrollment: 553 Daily Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 24.37; Free/reduced lunch, 10.31% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Burlington 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. From studying ecosystems in the school’s greenhouse and pond, participating in design thinking projects, STEM, and robotics, to 100 Mile Club and performing a musical each year, students participate, learn, and excel in highly engaging activities before, during, and after school that span a wide range of interests. The Burlington community takes pride in living our motto: “Trailblazers Together! Explore! Create! Lead!” Address: 1051 S. Pratt Parkway, Longmont Phone: 303-776-8861 November 2023

Address: 10290 Neighbors Pkwy., Firestone Phone: 720-652-8240 Website: centenniales.svvsd.org Principal: Shirley Jirik Enrollment: 468 Daily Schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 32.91% Free/reduced, 32.91% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Central 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. Address: 1020 4th Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-776-3236 Website: centrales.svvsd.org Principal: LuAnn Tallman Enrollment: 340 Daily Schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:00

p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 25.29%; Free/reduced, 26.18% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Columbine Columbine Elementary School is a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) focus, preschool through fifth grade neighborhood school. Columbine incorporates technology and inquiry-based design thinking into daily lessons. Rigorous instruction supports student achievement in all subjects and prepares students for 21st-century learning. The Columbine staff fosters positive relationships with students and parents, which has developed a strong sense of community throughout the school. Columbine offers a variety of extracurricular activities that foster meaningful relationships, academic achievement, and individual pride for students. Address: 111 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-776-2840 Website: columbinees.svvsd.org Principal: Julia Cooper Enrollment: 239 Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 85.77%; Free/reduced, 83.26% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Eagle Crest 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, they 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: 435 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 40.46%; Free/reduced, 40.46% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Erie 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 STEMfocus 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: Lauren Eker Enrollment: 390 Daily Schedule: 8:55 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 28.72%; Free/reduced, 18.72% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Fall River 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 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 49

St. Vrain Valley School District performance.

staff, parents, and the community.

Address: 1400 Deerwood Dr., Longmont Phone: 720-652-7920 Website: fres.svvsd.org Principal: Quinn O’Keefe Enrollment: 515 Daily Schedule: 8:55 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 35.53%; Free/reduced, 22.91% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Address: 475 Highlands Circle Erie Phone: 303-702-8040 Website: hles.svvsd.org Principal: Ryan Ball Enrollment: 355 Daily Schedule: 9:00-3:30 Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 32.39%; Free/reduced, 8.73% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Address: 1335 S. Judson St., Longmont Phone: 303-772-7240 Website: ipes.svvsd.org Principal: Kathi Jo Walder Enrollment: 251 Daily Schedule: 9:10 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 90.04%; Free/reduced, 81.67% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Hygiene

Legacy

Grand View

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 mission of Hygiene 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.

Legacy Elementary develops students’ academic and social skills through connections to the community. Legacy Elementary is committed to excellence and growth. The school partners with parents, towns, and businesses to create civic-minded students. Academic work focuses on higher order thinking skills incorporating explicit instruction using Thinking Maps and Icons of Depth and Complexity. Legacy Elementary’s extracurricular activities include: Robotics, Chess Club, Show Choir, and student council. Community engagement creates extensive opportunities and encourages local involvement supporting all children.

“Together As One,” Grand View Elementary empowers all learners to grow as scholars, innovators, and leaders. Grand View integrates innovation and design thinking into daily learning, while also ensuring students’ academic, emotional, social, artistic, and physical progress. Every day, students look forward to becoming problem finders and problem solvers who participate in engaging instruction, hands-on technology, creativity, and positive behavior support. Grand View offers robotics, choir, art club, student council, 100 Mile running club, and activities before-and afterschool. Grand View is building a community in the school “As One.” Address: 6601 Aggregate Blvd. Frederick Phone: 303-702-8000 Website: gves.svvsd.org Principal: Francesca Craver Enrollment: 444 Daily Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 33.11%; Free/reduced, 26.58% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Highlands This new 70,000 square-foot elementary school 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. Our focus around design thinking promotes a culture of wonder, creativity, and innovation in all students. One of our conditions for learning is to develop and value ongoing partnerships between students, 50

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Address: 11968 N. 75th St., Longmont Phone: 720-652-8021 Website: hes.svvsd.org Principal: Renee Collier Enrollment: 338 Daily Schedule: 9:10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 19.82%; Free/reduced lunch, 22.49% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Indian Peaks Indian Peaks Elementary is committed to academic excellence. The school offers a variety of enriching programs, from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and Robotics to the Mariachi Band and Lego Club. 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. Engaging events such as STEM and game nights bring families together to have fun and celebrate learning. Indian Peaks is an amazing place to learn.

Address: 7701 Eagle Blvd., Frederick Phone: 720-652-8160 Website: legacyes.svvsd.org Principal: Sean Corey Enrollment: 434 Daily Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 31.34%; Free/reduced, 27.42% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Longmont Estates 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 Move-

ment 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: 326 Daily Schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 27.30% Free/reduced, 37.42% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Lyons

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 community-based 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 include a Trout Hatchery, Production Garden, Drone Data Collection, and Redstone Historical Museum where students develop data literacy, computer science, and presentation skills. Through leadership activities, students develop intrinsic motivation, problem-solving, and healthy risktaking. Address: 338 High St., Lyons Phone: 303-823-6915 Website: lyonses.svvsd.org Principal: Andrew Moore Enrollment: 265 Daily Schedule: 8:05 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority,12.45%; Free/reduced, 14.72% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 21/1

Mead 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 SCHOOL CHOICE

St. Vrain Valley School District 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 help children re-energize and focus on learning. Address: 520 Welker Ave., Mead Phone: 970-535-4488 Website: mes.svvsd.org Principal: Betsy Ball Enrollment: 833 Daily Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 27.37%; Free/reduced, 19.09% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Mountain View 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. Address: 1415 14th Ave., Longmont Phone: 720-652-8261 Website: mves.svvsd.org Principal: Jennifer Piccone Enrollment: 343 Daily Schedule: 8:20 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 67.64%; Free/reduced lunch, 68.22% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Niwot Niwot Elementary, located approximately one mile east of the historic town of Niwot, offers preschool through fifth grade with a focus on differentiated instruction to meet the needs of November 2023

all students, no matter their interests or abilities. Niwot is proud of their academic excellence, innovative 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.” Address: 8778 Morton Rd., Niwot Phone: 303-652-2828 Website: niwotes.svvsd.org Principal: Nancy Pitz Enrollment: 421 Daily Schedule: 9:10 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 13.30%; Free/reduced lunch, 8.31% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Northridge Northridge Elementary is a diverse and inclusive 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, socialemotional learning, healthy living activities, and targeted direct instruction to ensure growth and academic achievement. Address: 1200 19th Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-772-3040 Website: northridgees.svvsd.org Principal: DeAnn Dykes Enrollment: 304 Daily Schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 84.87%; Free/reduced lunch, 76.32% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Prairie Ridge Prairie Ridge Elementary is a neighborhood school where students thrive as they ‘Imagine, Believe, and Achieve’ by collaboratively investigating, exploring and solving problems. Prairie Ridge learners set and meet

challenging goals as they build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, and engage in activities which 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 Prairie Ridge 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: 424 Daily Schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 32.78%; Free/reduced lunch, 30.90% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Red Hawk Red Hawk is built on the foundation of strong relationships and a focus on serving and supporting our team, 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: 612 Daily Schedule: 9:05 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 16.99%; Free/reduced lunch, 8.66% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Rocky Mountain Rocky Mountain Elementary, a STEM-focus school, prepares students to be successful in the

21st century. Rocky Mountain offers biliteracy programming, provides rigorous and engaging instruction, and delivers a wide range of learning opportunities. The staff at Rocky Mountain believes in fostering positive relationships with students and parents. Rocky Mountain offers a learning environment that continuously recognizes students for demonstrating positive behavior and encourages students to ‘Be Brave, Work Hard, and Have Fun!’ Address: 800 E. Fifth Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-772-6750 Website: rmes.svvsd.org Principal: Kenny Wildenstein Enrollment: 330 Daily Schedule: 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 87.58%; Free/reduced lunch, 83.33% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

Sanborn Sanborn Elementary focuses on individual student growth. The staff is dedicated to delivering high-quality educational opportunities for students in a positive and equitable learning environment. Sanborn instills a passion for lifelong learning, while also developing perseverance, empathy, and respect for all. Sanborn offers additional opportunities for students including Robotics, Student Council, 100 Mile Club, Drama Club, and our ‘Dragon’s Den’Community Schools Program. At Sanborn, we work collaboratively to ensure every student achieves academically, socially, and emotionally. Address: 2235 Vivian St., Longmont Phone: 303-772-3838 Website: sanbornes.svvsd.org Principal: Lori Peeples Enrollment: 267 Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 41.57%; Free/reduced, 60.30% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 24.5/1

PK-8 SCHOOLS 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 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 51

St. Vrain Valley School District socially, emotionally, and academically, teaching them to not only problem solve and become engaged community members, but to also be kind and accepting of all. Students and families are empowered to be a partner in annual goal setting, and students are encouraged to do their personal best. 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 20 electives throughout the school year in addition to their core classes. Address: 705 Austin Ave., Erie Phone: 720-242-6225 Website: aspenridgeprepschool. org Principals: Charla Salmeron (Head of School); Rachel Miller (Principal); Bridget Shahinian (Assistant Principal) Enrollment: 547 Daily Schedule: 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 19.01%; Free/reduced, 8.23% Average student to teacher ratio: 25/1

Flagstaff Academy Flagstaff Academy Charter School is an awardwinning preschool through eighth grade tuition-free public charter school located in Longmont. The school offers a Core Knowledge-based curriculum for grades kindergarten through 8th 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 home to the leading Restorative Practices program in the region, providing a strong focus on character development and ethical leadership. Address: 2040 Miller Dr., Longmont Phone: 303-651-7900 Website: flagstaffacademy.org Principals: Katie Gustafson (Executive Principal), Gael Lester (Asst. Principal K-5), Kate Salgado (Asst. Principal 6-8) Enrollment: 772 Daily Schedule: 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 33.94%; Free/reduced lunch, 16.19% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25/1 52

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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 problemsolving. 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. Address: 5753 Twilight Ave., Firestone Phone: 303-772-3711 Website: firestonecharteracademy.org Principal: Jessica Cervantes Enrollment: 637 Daily Schedule: 8:10 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 26.06%; Free/reduced lunch, 18.37% Average StudentTeacher Ratio: 25/1

Soaring Heights 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: 1,242 Daily Schedule: 8:15 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 22.79%; Free/reduced lunch, 8.94%

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: Katie Torres Enrollment: 256 Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 18.36%; Free/reduced lunch, 9.77% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25/1

PK-8 SCHOOLS Timberline As an integrated STEM-focus school, Timberline PK-8 is proud to offer students an innovative and rigorous educational experience enhanced by opportunities to participate in two unique pathways of coursework supporting student success: Pathway to FalconTECH and Pathway to the Seal of Biliteracy. The PK-8 environment allows staff to build and maintain strong relationships with students and families in addition to providing smooth transitions from elementary to middle school. The structure of a PK-8 school enhances collaboration within and across grade levels as teachers are able to integrate curriculum, connecting learning across a wider range of disciplines and ages. Address: 233 E. Mountain View Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-772-7900 Website: tpk8.svvsd.org Principal: Audrey Seybold Enrollment: 791 Daily Schedule: 8:20 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percent-

ages: Minority, 88.12%; Free/reduced,79.77% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25/1

K-8 SCHOOLS Carbon Valley Academy Carbon Valley Academy (CVA) provides a Core Knowledge based curriculum, layered with STEAM elements, in a tuition-free charter school for students in grades K-8. Highly qualiﬁed, innovative teachers ensure that students’ personal academic achievement is a priority. A variety of specialized classes, such as Modern Band, Music and Art Studies, Technology, Physical Education, Mixed Media Art, and Spanish enrich the educational experience at every grade level. CVA focuses on the whole child through a well-rounded character development program. The administrative team supports the school through its focus on community, communication, culture, and consistency. Address: 4040 Coriolis Way, Frederick Phone: 303-774-9555 Website: carbonvalleyacademy. org Administration: Janet Wyatt (Executive Director), Catherine Linhardt (Principal), Sara Asher (Dean of Community Relations) Enrollment: 265 Daily Schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 50.19%; Free/reduced lunch, 41.51% Average StudentTeacher Ratio: 25/1

Thunder Valley 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 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 SCHOOL CHOICE

St. Vrain Valley School District

Minority, 65.02%; Free/reduced, 57.21%

Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25/1

PK-12 SCHOOLS Twin Peaks Charter Academy

Address: 340 S. Sunset St., Longmont Phone: 303-772-7286 Website: twinpeaksclassical.org Principals: Joseph Mehsling (Executive Director), Amber Coniff (Elementary Principal), Alycia Burns (Middle School Principal), and David Yu (High School Principal) Enrollment: 807 Daily Schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 40.89%; Free/reduced, 36.43% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: Elementary School: 24.5/1 Middle School 25.5/1 High School 28/1

Middle Schools Altona Altona Middle School provides an innovative and rigorous standardsbased education for students while developing characteristics in each student to become future leaders. Based on the school structure, students are allowed to excel at their own pace and explore a variety of interests in the compreNovember 2023

Address: 4600 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont Phone: 720-494-3980 Website: ams.svvsd.org Principal: Jeremy LaCrosse Enrollment: 771 Daily Schedule: 8:25 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 28.66%; Free/reduced, 21.40% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25.5/1

Coal Ridge 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 which include sports, music programming, and academic clubs. ID GE M DLE SC RID

OL HO

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 deliberate use of technology, and focus on character education, provide a unique and distinctive choice in St. Vrain. TPCA has some of the highest School Performance Scores and PSAT/SAT scores in the district as measured by the state of Colorado, demonstrating the timeless value of a classical education.in

hensive elective program. 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. In addition, Altona is 26th out of 956 middle schools in Colorado as ranked by the U.S. News and World Report.

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Website: tvk8.svvsd.org Principal: Catrina Estrada Enrollment: 832 Daily Schedule: 8:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages:

Address: 6201 Booth Dr., Firestone Phone: 303-833-4176 Website: crms.svvsd.org Principal: Liza Nybo Enrollment: 801 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 38.83%; Free/reduced lunch, 31.84% 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 course-

work 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 academic and social and emotional skills. Classroom instruction includes solid 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 more than 30 activities, athletics, and clubs. Address: 650 Main St., Erie Phone: 303-828-3391 Website: ems.svvsd.org Principal: Andrea Smith Enrollment: 731 Daily Schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 24.08%; Free/reduced lunch, 13.68% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25.5/1

Longs Peak Longs Peak is a fifth through eighth grade school where students are empowered to thrive, embrace their uniqueness, and become their best selves. Recognized as a Center of Excellence by the Colorado Department of Education and a 2020 School to Watch, Longs Peak prioritizes rigorous academics with a focus on STEM, offering advanced core content, robotics programs, and valuable partnerships with Longmont High’s Medical and BioScience Academy and Business Program. The Eighth Grade Academy eases the transition to high school, offering courses in Business, Career Research, and Gateway to STEM. Beyond academics, Longs Peak offers a range of athletic opportunities. Longs Peak is committed to ensuring students are College Ready, Career Ready, and Ram Ready for a brighter future. Address: 1500 14th Ave., Longmont Phone: 303-776-5611 Website: lpms.svvsd.org Principal: Karin Blough Enrollment: 396 Daily Schedule: 7:55 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 70.45%; Free/reduced lunch, 76.26% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25.5/1

Mead

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, standardsbased 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 extra-curricular activities. Mead Middle offers a variety of electives and co-curriculars including STEM, CSI, robotics, NJHS, and art. Students engage in the music program with classes in choir, band, and orchestra. Address: 620 Welker Ave., Mead Phone: 970-535-4446 Website: mms.svvsd.org Principal: Joshua Barnett Enrollment: 559 Daily Schedule: 7:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 30.23%; Free/reduced lunch, 22.72% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25.5/1

Sunset 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: Anthony Barela Enrollment: 377 Daily Schedule: 7:35 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 53

St. Vrain Valley School District Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 57.03%; Free/reduced lunch, 56.76% 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 problemsolving. 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: 524 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 65.46%; Free/reduced lunch, 64.69% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25.5/1

Westview 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 54

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Phone: 303-772-3134 Website: wms.svvsd.org Principal: Mark Spencer Enrollment: 653 Daily Schedule: 8:20 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 28.48%; Free/reduced lunch, 33.69% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 25.5/1

MIDDLE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS Lyons Lyons Middle Senior is an exemplary school focused on community connections, academic excellence, and student engagement and leadership. U.S. News & World Report ranks Lyons as a top middle and high school in the region and the #1 6-12 comprehensive school in Colorado. The Science and Leadership Program fosters leadership skills in high school students who partner with the community to facilitate learning focused on environmental education. Students earn college credits through AP courses and a partnership with CSU Online. Students benefit from smaller class sizes and have full access to coursework through the Career Elevation and Technology Center and Innovation Center. Over 88% of students participate in cocurricular activities or athletics including fine arts and robotics programs. Address: 100 McConnell Dr., Lyons Phone: 303-823-6631 Website: lmshs.svvsd.org Principal: Chris Frank Enrollment: 374 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 16.04%; Free/reduced lunch, 18.72% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: Middle School 25.5/1 High School 28/1

High Schools Erie 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: 1,756 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 22.72%; Free/reduced lunch, 10.99% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

Frederick Frederick advances 21st-century learning through technology and student focused instruction with the support of dedicated teachers and staff. Students can earn 65 college credits through the largest CU Succeed Gold program, concurrent enrollment, CSU, Front Range Community College, AIMS Community College and Advanced Placement classes. Home to the Biomedical Sciences Academy, which partners with Colorado State University, FHS also 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 17 competitive varsity sports programs and 30 afterschool activities. Students also 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: 1,413 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 43.10%; Free/reduced lunch, 34.47% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

Longmont

Longmont High offers 26 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including an AP Capstone Diploma. LHS has one of Colorado’s largest CU Succeed Gold programs offering an official CU transcript in 13 college courses. The Medical and BioScience Academy (MBSA) prepares students for competitive postsecondary 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. Both pathways culminate in a senior-year capstone/internship. TrojanTECH partners with Front Range Community College and local business leaders, allowing students to earn a fully funded, fully 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. Address: 1040 Sunset St., Longmont Phone: 303-776-6014 Website: lhs.svvsd.org Principal: Jeffrey McMurry Enrollment: 1,263 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Proﬁle in Percentages: Minority, 43.63%; Free/reduced lunch, 44.34% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

Mead Mead High offers 23 Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students can earn the prestigious Capstone Diploma while earning college credit. Mead also has a strong partnership with Front Range Community College, CSU Online, and CU Denver in which students earn concurrent enrollment credit. Mead has been recognized by Newsweek as one of the nation’s top schools. Home of Mead Energy Academy, students explore individual interests related to science, innovation, technology, and career opportunities in the energy industry. 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 studentled newspaper. Mead’s highly SCHOOL CHOICE

St. Vrain Valley School District engaged faculty ensures that each and every student will experience success. Address: 12750 County Road 7, Longmont Phone 720-494-3940 Website: mhs.svvsd.org Principal: Brian Young Enrollment: 1,119 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 27.70%; Free/reduced lunch, 24.58% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

New Meridian High School New Meridian High School, St. Vrain’s alternative high school, offers a high school diploma aligned with district graduation requirements in a small, community-oriented environment. Students access rigorous coursework such as Advanced Placement Psychology, 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 places a strong emphasis on collaboration and enhancing student leadership skills in a nurturing and empowering environment. Through strategic graduation planning and diverse course offerings, students can 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, 52.53%; Free/reduced lunch, 59.60% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

Niwot 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), world languages, computer science, 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 November 2023

schools, #7 for college readiness, and #11 overall. In 2022, students earned over $26 million in scholarships. NHS offers over 40 co-curriculars, while athletics have won 34 team state championships and 171 individual championships. Address: 8989 E. Niwot Rd., Niwot Phone: 303-652-2550 Website: nhs.svvsd.org Principal: Eric Rauschkolb Enrollment: 1,356 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 38.42% Free/reduced lunch, 25.74% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

Silver Creek U.S. News & World Report ranks Silver Creek as the best high school in St. Vrain. Boulder Weekly, 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. Students become mentors and engage in their communities. The RaptorTECH program partners with Front Range Community College, Cisco, Seagate, Comcast, and Peak Resources Inc., allowing students to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity at no cost to the student. SCHS offers 24 Advanced Placement (AP) 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: 1252 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 27.80% Free/reduced lunch, 21.41% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

Skyline High Skyline was the first IBM P-TECH school in the western United States. In collaboration with several local business partners (IBM, CGI, ANM and St. Vrain Valley Schools’ DTS) and Front Range Community College, students in FalconTECH graduate

with a St. Vrain diploma and an Associate of Applied Science Degree at no cost. Skyline’s STEM Academy offers a variety of courses, and students can earn acceptance to CU Boulder’s College of Engineering and a STEM Certificate. The Visual and Performing Arts Academy (VPA) offers classes in visual arts, music, drama, and stage technology, including several concurrent enrollment options. Students receive a VPA Certificate upon completion of a capstone project. Address: 600 E. Mountain View Ave., Longmont Phone: 720-494-3741 Website: shs.svvsd.org Principal: Heidi Ringer Enrollment: 1355 Daily Schedule: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 70.92%; Free/reduced lunch, 61.62% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

St. Vrain Virtual High School St. Vrain Virtual High School offers a traditional St. Vrain high school diploma in a unique setting. The school offers a rigorous, complete high school curriculum, in a small, personalized environment. All core classes are available at the honors level and 15 Advanced Placement classes are offered. All curriculum is approved by the NCAA and all Advanced Placement courses are approved by the College Board. Students achieve academic success using high-quality instruction onsite, and curriculum provided by Florida Virtual School and eDynamic Learning, along with on-site staff who provide blended learning opportunities and one-on-one support. Address: 1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 Phone: 720-494-3975 Website: svvhs.svvsd.org Principal: Stacey Struessel Enrollment: 107 Daily schedule: N/A Student profile in percentages: Minority, 11.21; Free and reduced lunch, 19.63 Average student-teacher ratio: 28/1

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: 729 Daily Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 18.24%; Free and reduced lunch, 10.29% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: 28/1

St. Vrain LaunchED Virtual Academy K-12 LaunchED Virtual Academy offers a fully-accredited 100% online education for students in 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 socialemotional well-being in a rigorous academic setting. Address: 619 Bowen St., Longmont Phone: 303-702-8800 Website: LaunchED.svvsd.org Principal: Julie Read Enrollment: 348 Daily Schedule: 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Student Profile in Percentages: Minority, 49.43%; Free and reduced lunch, 47.13% Average Student-Teacher Ratio: Elementary 24.5/1 Middle School 25.5/1 High School 28/1

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 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES 55

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Equity matters at Boulder Valley Achieving equity for all students

To achieve excellence for every student, we recognize that we must focus on equity. That is why equity is at the center of our "All Together for All Students" strategic plan. We believe that the strategic initiatives we have launched will ﬁnally address the core themes that have led to our decades of achievement and opportunity gaps, ultimately ensuring excellence for all of our students.

Making a difference in children’s lives Boulder Valley teachers, community and staff are united towards student success. Our staff are focused on a student-ﬁrst mentality universally held across the district, and have an opportunity to make a positive impact on students’ lives every day.

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