RM Parent Magazine | August 2021 by RM Publishing

AUGUST 2021 • RMPARENT.COM

YOUR KID’S

LEARNING

STYLE

Last-minute day trips

Girlfriend get-togethers and getaways

Churn up some ice cream Commute to school safely G

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AUGUST 2021

Departments

Special Sections

PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Extraordinarily ordinary—Getting back in the routine feels fresh

WOMENS HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . 8 Girlfriend get-togethers and getaways—It’s on! Plan a NOCO trip with friends

Back-to-Schoo l Gu

BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE

ide

Back-to-sch ool

updates PAGE 4

List of

ADVERTISER PAGE 26

School district updates, start dates and news

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . . 10 Last minute free day trips—Experience a few more fun adventures this summer

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 Create your own ice cream—Mixing fun with science yields delicious treats

PROGRAM & ACTIVITY

GUIDE + BACK TO

SCHOOL GUIDE

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Feature

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 NoCo provides—School supply resources, online predators, rent assistance, new trail

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . 16

Commute to school safely—Bike, walk, bus, drive: safety first!

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 0 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Back to…. Normal?—So many changes

School District News GR-E 6 School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 District 6 to complete additional bond building project

18 SEVEN STYLES

Know your child’s learning style so that you can help support them as they navigate a new grade with new challenges.

Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Greetings from new PSD Superintendent Brian Kingsley, New hires, What was found in the Lincoln Middle School time capsule?

Thompson School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Board of Education Candidates Forum, Riverview PK-8 grand opening, Volunteer—Get Involved!

ABOUT THE COVER: Eli is a Colorado kid who loves fire trucks, cats, and ice cream. Photo by

Cheri Schonfeld, skysopendesign.com.

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perspective perspective

Generosity Extraordinarily ordinary learning, being and doing

Getting back in the routine feels fresh

young man approached me in a on parking t’s hard to believe that we’re working lot yesterday. back-to-school stories right now and that family I are staying info. over this issue“My is filled withand back-to-school there and if we could get five dollars we could It seems like we just finished planning our get a pizza. wesummer” could get ten we getlist “what to do If this series. Topcould of the two and that would cover us.” for district-by-district updates is our Back-toI had no idea whether story wasyour true. School Guide where you canhis learn how He looked as though he was living rough, district plans to operate this fall and catch up on though—gaunt, sunken cheeks, despairing eyes. some news. Without hesitation, I pulled out makes, my wallet And what a difference a year as they andThanks handedtohim bucks. I don’tare know I did it.learning— He wasn’t say. theten vaccine, schools openjust andwhy in-person threatening. He wasn’t over imploring. He be justthe seemed really need a with some guidelines and restrictions—will norm to across northern boost right then and interacting with him right there a couple of feet Colorado. I think just about everyone is pretty excited about learning in away, I just felt it was a moment. the classroom. It’s just better for most kids. It’s just not that I’m on a mission to givepretty away normal all of our money. I walk I’m so happy that we’re running content, such and drive by plenty of people who are asking for a little push. And as Lynn U. Nichols feature story about understanding what style of I’m not driven helpisothers by ayou sense guilt or even a feeling of helpful being learner yourtochild and how canofbest support her. It’s a very lucky enough to have it and these others don’t and so therefore it’s introduction to learning styles and the type of regular back-to-schoolmy socialwe obligation do it. Nor do I get ordinary, a big sense of satisfaction. I have story typically to run—extraordinarily as I’ve come to think of a hard time pinpointing why I feel compelled to help out sometimes, the world right now. whether a sidewalk for a neighbor a car, That’sscooping how much of the summer felt too. or Westopping got backtotopush doing some and other times not so much. of our regular stuff but with little twists. Lunch on the Rio patio was one Every fall, a neighbor of ours comes by his airwas compressor of those extraordinarily ordinary moments. Thewith fountain burbling, and blows out our sprinkler lines. He makes the rounds ourwent. It people were engaged in conversation, food and drinks cameinand corner of the neighborhood and gets everyone ready for winter. He all seemed so normal and yet it had a patina of freshness and excitement. doesn’t ask for anything. He just does it because he can. It is not a a We felt a little bit of the “can you believe that we’re sitting here enjoying transactional offer in any way. meal together?” Theresa Baer writes this month in we’ve her Learn andgetting Live column On the small-but-significant scale, enjoyed about teaching children to be generous and to volunteer. She offers reacquainted with our neighbors. While that dynamic seems toalso happen some ideas about where and how. The idea is to help children to be every year with the spring thaw (therefore ordinary), this year felt aware of others’ needswe andhad to missed understand havea few extraordinary because each that otherthey, last themselves, year, aside from something to offer. passing moments and one renegade evening in the alley with a chiminea. The goal them,the really all ofisn’t us, to notyet. justYou dostill generosity as an And let’s is notforforget, summer over have time to activity that we have come to understand as something that we should slip in some last-minute travel and small adventures to the neighborhood do because we’re luckyinenough to country. have something and those other park or a campground the high Lea Hanson has a list of free people are struggling. Where we’re really headed with this is for year. our day-trips around the area. May you can slip one or two in yet this children to see people who are just like they are, who just want to be And finally on the theme that I am beating death, Lynn U. Nichols happy just as they do and who don’t want to feel bad just as they don’t talks about girlfriend get-togethers and getaways. wantI to. Wethat want getcontinue beyond the them and extraordinarily us feelings. Weordinary don’t just hope youtotoo to experience drop money in acontinue can andtowalk by. into We stop. We normals. talk and engage with moments as we evolve our new people whoit are just month, like us. Make a great In the end, we want to be generosity, not just do generosity, though Scott the path to being generosity, it seems, lies through the path of doing generosity. ‘Tis the season, Scott

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OCTOBER 2019 • Volume 24, Issue 6 AUGUST 2021 • Volume 25, Issue 3

PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 PUBLISHER scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 EDITOR scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 EDITOR kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 CREATIVE DIRECTOR kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Emily Zaynard CREATIVE DIRECTOR emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com Emily Zaynard ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 DISTRIBUTION MANAGER greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Hartig ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com Susan Harting COVER PHOTO susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com Cheri Schonfeld, Courtesy of COVER- skysopendesign.com PHOTO Sky’s Open Design Cheri Schonfeld CONTRIBUTING WRITERS www.skysopendesign.com Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynn U. Nichols Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Randall Kaemingk, Lynn U. Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING Fort Collins, PO BoxCO 74080522 VoiceFort 221-9210 Fax80522 221-8556 Collins, •CO editor@rockymountainpub.com Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 www.RMParent.com editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com

Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published Publication of this paper does not consitute an enmonthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. dorsement of the products or services advertised. Publication of this paper does not consitute an enRMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisedorsement of the products or services advertised. ment for any reason. The opinions expressed by RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisecontributors or writers do not necessarily reflect ment for any reason. The opinions expressed by the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect ©2019 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. reserved. Reproduction without express written ©2021 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights permission is prohibited. reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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Womens health Girlfriend get-togethers and getaways It’s on! Plan a NOCO trip with friends

LY NN U. NICHOLS

s a busy mom, sometimes friendships come last, after work, after kids, and after spouses. Yet our female friendships are vital for our emotional health. When women hang out together, oxytocin is released in our bodies, lowering our stress and boosting our immunity. No doubt, hanging out will provide a few chances to laugh over something that happened or reframe a stressful moment in your life. A good laugh lowers your blood sugar and helps your brain manage stress hormones better. You don’t need any more proof to know that girlfriend time is valuable time. The beauty of girlfriend get togethers is that you don’t need a crowd, just a few good friends will do— especially those that encourage you to be your candid, relaxed self. Summer’s a great time to sneak in a night or weekend away with a friend, or even just a long afternoon. It’s also a good time to set regular plans, before the school year gets started and kids’ schedules start to dominate your life. Here are a few ideas to get you rolling! TAKE A CLASS TOGETHER Ask your best friend or a friendly neighbor to join you in taking a class of mutual interest. Maybe you always wanted to try pottery, jewelry making, painting, or cake decorating. Check out your city’s recreation classes, local library offerings, and other nonprofits, like the Creative District of Fort Collins, which connects you with a ton of small art, dance, music and theatre options. GET OUT OF TOWN, BUT NOT TOO FAR The perfect getaway for a night or weekend is Estes Park, offering ample activities from strolling and shopping and dining to hiking a 14er. The YMCA of the Rockies offers 8

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affordable cabins, lodge rooms and yurt accommodations. If you want, you can even make it a combined girlfriend/ kid adventure, where kids can enjoy the pool and grounds or take a fun class together as you sit on the sidelines and relax. Estes Park is an hour from Fort Collins and just about an hour and a half from Greeley. Another option is spending the night in a hotel in Boulder or Denver and hitting consignment shops and art districts. Exploring a city together is a great bonding experience and is bound to offer some good laughs along the way. You can also plan it around an event, like a concert or play. PLAN A WEEKLY DATE Let’s face it. Getting away from our kids helps us appreciate them more when we return, refreshed from some stimulating adult time. Yet, it’s so easy to let friendships slide and get replaced by the busyness of life. Having a set day and time on the schedule—whether it’s weekly or monthly—will help you stay committed. It can be anything, from a

yoga or Pilates class at the gym, a hike in the foothills, a shopping outing, or a happy hour. It doesn’t really matter what it is, just that you do it, regularly. While together try to simply enjoy each other, but likely your conversation will come around to the kids. That’s okay. It gives you a chance to bounce off parenting concerns or techniques, which can alleviate a sense that you are going it alone. Hearing yourself talk and reason, and getting reassurance and ideas back, gives you confidence to be your best parent. If you are not ready to commit to a regular get together, or you tend to be the more spontaneous type, take advantage of meetings that come naturally, like talking with another mom during soccer practice—even suggesting a walk around the park while the kids play—or making time after school pick-up to hang out and talk with moms on the lawn or playground. However you can, sneak in time with women friends. You’ll feel more balanced and relaxed for it, and life will simply be more fun.

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family activities

Last minute free day trips

Experience a few more fun adventures this summer LEA HANSON

ore and more, it seems as though once Independence Day passes, the start of the school year for our K-12-aged kids is just around the corner. And, as a result, we hit the gas on completing the checklist of summer adventures we said we’d do. But suddenly we feel out of time! For many of us, bigger trips and excursions aren’t possibilities anymore this summer. Campgrounds are full, flights are expensive, and school and kids’ activities begin soon. But lastminute day trips continue to be doable. Below find ideas for some day trips you and your family members are sure to enjoy. And to make the list even better, they’re all free. Benson Sculpture Garden: Loveland

http://www.cityofloveland.org/index. aspx?page=250

Bring a picnic lunch and spend time in the Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland, you may dwell on the freedom of youth, curiosity of life, and nature in its most primal state. There are 170 permanent sculptures situated throughout the park, which is attractive and captivating for visitors of any age. Denver Walking Tours

http://www.walkingtoursdenver.com/

This family-friendly walking tour winds through the heart of downtown Denver visiting the city’s sites and landmarks. Discover fun and lesserknown history. Experimental Expressions

http://www.walkerfineart.com/upcoming

Six artists navigate mediums and seek balance between their inner narratives and outer influences. Free visits to the gallery at 300 W. 11th Ave., #A, Denver 10

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Island Grove Park; the Gateway to the Poudre River Trail https://poudretrail.org/maps/

Island Grove Park in Greeley is the gateway to the Poudre River Trail. Its name comes from the original stand of cottonwood trees that grew along the river and was once used as a burial site by Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Sioux tribes. Tour the State Capitol

Park Hill Farm and Flea

http://parkhillfarmandflea.com/

This weekly market features food and fashion trucks, 40+ vendors and live music. Thursdays, 4-8, through September 30th. Located at Oneida Park, 2255 N Oneida St. Denver National Wildlife Refuges

https://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/ByState. cfm?state=CO

https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cgalegislativecouncil/tours-0

Learn everything there is to know about the history of the state—from rocks to people. The dome might be open too so if you have no fear of heights, it’s worth the walk up and look at the Rocky Mountains.

There are seven refuges open to the public and they are free to visit. The refuge system was created to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and natural areas. Each is home to a diverse ecosystem in which you can spot everything from bison to moose to hawks and bald eagles.

Tour the Swetsville Zoo

Turning Toward the Light

The “zoo’’ is a roadside area with whimsical animal sculptures, a “funky farm” with a “motley crew” who “don’t make noises, and they don’t run. They don’t eat anything. They’re just for fun,” writes author Kerry Davis in his book: The Swetsville Zoo: Kerry Tales.

An art exhibition by established artists Patricia Finley, Lydia Riegle, Janet Rundquist, and Cyncie Winter. Located at Lakewood Cultural Center, 480 South Allison Parkway, Civic Center South, Lakewood.

www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Reviewg33669-d209425-Reviews-Swetsville_ZooTimnath_Colorado.html

www.lakewood.org/Government/Departments/ Community-Resources/Arts-and-Culture/ Exhibitions-and-Public-Art/Exhibitions-at-LCC/ Turning-Toward-the-Light?

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learn and live

Create your own ice cream

Mixing fun with science yields creamy delicious treats TERESEA BAER

eep summer fun alive by making homemade ice cream. I remember using my grandparents’ handeddown manual ice cream maker with the rock salt and cranking until our arms ached, but it was so worth all the hard work! Technology has made the process easier with electric or simple freezer models now available, but did you know you can make ice cream in a resealable bag in just 10 minutes?! Give this idea a try for a fast, simple science experiment with a creamy delicious ending. VANILLA ICE CREAM IN A BAG ½ cup half-and-half 1 tablespoon white sugar ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract 4 cup ice cubes, or as needed ½ cup kosher, rock or table salt 1 gallon-size resealable bag 1 pint-size resealable bag STEP 1: Combine half-and-half, sugar and vanilla extract in a pint-size resealable plastic bag; seal tightly! STEP 2: Put ice, salt and the tightly sealed bag containing the cream mixture into a gallon-size resealable plastic bag and seal tightly.

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Coconut Lime Sorbet Courtesy of The Cooking Studio, Fort Collins SERVINGS: 1 quart

INGREDIENTS: One 8 oz. can cream de coco (ie: Coco Lopez cream of coconut) One 15 oz. can coconut milk 8–10 limes

STEP 3: Wrap the big bag in a kitchen towel to protect hands from the cold and gently shake the bag for 5–10 minutes until contents thicken into ice cream. Wipe salt from the top of the pint-size bag before opening to prevent salt from getting into the ice cream. To make different flavors, mix in chopped fresh fruit like strawberries with the liquid ice cream mixture. Don’t forget to add toppings like chocolate chips or crushed cookies if desired and let the kids scoop it right out of the bag for fun. Trish O’Neill, founder and owner of The Cooking Studio in Fort Collins, also recommended their popular Coconut Lime Sorbet recipe for families (see sidebar), saying “With only three ingredients, anyone can make it and it’s very fresh and tangy, and no dairy makes it a lighter dessert.” If you would like to focus more on the science of the activity, see the following ideas. Vary the recipe/process as follows: In Step 2, leave out the salt to see what

DIRECTIONS: 1. Juice the limes and put the lime juice in a bowl—set aside (if limes are small use 10, if they’re medium/large use 8) 2. Whisk together the cream de coco and coconut milk and then add the lime juice and mix until well combined 3. Get the frozen churning-bucket from the freezer and put the ice cream base into it, put it in the churner and put the whole thing into the machine. Turn it on and leave it churning until a soft sorbet is formed. Put into the freezer for an hour or overnight.

happens. Try using heavy whipping cream or milk in place of half-and-half. Take the temperature of the ingredients throughout the process. Questions to ask: How are the ingredients changing during this process? What role does the salt play in the process? Official lab worksheets can also be found for a few dollars at www.teachers payteachers.com/Product/Ice-Creamin-a-Bag-Science-Lab-Worksheets.

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community news NoCo provides

School supply resources, online predators arrested, rent assistance, new trail THERESA BAER

GREELEY CHILD ENTICEMENT OPERATION RESULTS IN ELEVEN ARRESTS A joint task force operation conducted in Greeley in June, in correlation with the Greeley Stampede visitor influx, resulted in 11 arrests for charges related to sexual exploitation of children. According to the media release, “The suspects were attempting to arrange sexual encounters with a juvenile after responding to ads that were placed on websites commonly perused by suspects seeking illegal sex acts.” As a result of the operation, the Greeley Police Department reminds parents to “monitor what your children are doing online and whom they are speaking with to prevent kids from becoming a victim.” Have discussions with your children about the dangers of online predators and ask your kids to speak to an adult if they feel they are being targeted. LARIMER EMERGENCY RENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Larimer County has Emergency Rent and Utility Assistance (ERAP) funds to help people stay in their homes by paying back rent and utilities. If you experienced financial hardships due to COVID 19 pandemic, you may qualify to receive payments and there is no need to pay it back. Funds are available through September 2021 and certain guidelines are required to receive payments. Larimer County partnered with Neighbor to Neighbor to process applications. Learn more and apply online at www.larimer.org/ erap#larimercounty or call Neighbor to Neighbor at 970-829-0296. SCHOOL SUPPLY RESOURCES & DONATION OPPORTUNITIES Several local organizations are supporting 14

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economically vulnerable students with backpacks and school supplies for the 2021-2022 school year. Learn more about donating or locating resources if your family needs assistance: CSU’s School is Cool program supports K-12 Poudre School District students with backpacks and supplies. Donations are accepted year-round online or by mail or you can bring in supplies. Visit https://schooliscool. colostate.edu to learn more or sign up to volunteer time August 3–5 to sort supplies, stuff or deliver packs. If needing assistance, make requests at your students’ particular schools. Greeley-Evans School District 6 will host the annual School Kickoff Community Celebration to provide high-quality backpacks filled with school supplies, community booths with resources and giveaways, free sports physicals and free sack lunches for every child, ages infant through 18. The event takes place Saturday, August 7 from 10am until 1pm at Island

Grove Regional Park, 501 N. 11th Avenue. Learn more at www.greeley schools.org/Page/15778. The Thompson Education Foundation (TEF) Help Kids Succeed program accepts donations year-round by mail or online. Learn more at www.thompson tef.org/help-kids-succeed. Make requests at the school where your child is registered during open school hours. If you have students in different schools, you must go to each school. CITY OF GREELEY MOSQUITO CONTROL Greeley area officials are reminding residents that water in city-owned parks, ponds and open spaces is treated to eliminate mosquitoes before they hatch, and crews spray for adult mosquitoes as needed every week until fall when temperatures get close to freezing. The population of the mosquito species typically carrying West Nile virus typically increases in late summer. Protect yourselves by wearing treated clothing, long pants,

long-sleeved shirts, socks and shoes when outdoors, especially from dusk until dawn when mosquitoes are most active, as well as applying bug repellant products with DEET. Residents can reduce mosquitoes by eliminating standing water on or near their property. To report mosquito issues, call the city’s mosquito contractor at 303-4285908 and to learn more about the program, visit greeleygov.com/mosquitoes. HELP END OVERDOSE DEATHS Join the Northern Colorado Harm Reduction Alliance and the Northern Colorado Health Alliance for their Annual Overdose Awareness Day events. As a way to Respect, Recover and Remember, attendees will enjoy breakfast burritos, remembrance activities, yoga, lawn games, massages and more. On Sunday, August 22 from 10am until noon, visit the Estes Park Marina Shelter at 1798 Big Thompson Avenue or the Fort Collins Eldora Park Shelter at 1420 E. Stuart Street. On Sunday, August 29, the event will take place at Greeley’s Island Grove East Shelter at 501 N. 14th Avenue from 10am until noon. Learn more at www.nocoover doseawareness.com. POUDRE LIBRARIES OFFERING PHONE-A-STORY You can now call the library 24/7 to enjoy a good story! The Poudre River

Public Library District is offering Phone-a-Story for all ages featuring a new story, song, or rhyme in English, Spanish and French each week. Call in and listen anytime, as many times as you want, to 970-829-1301 and follow the directions. Learn more at www.poudrelibraries.org. MIDDLE SCHOOL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County (BGCLC) partnered with Poudre School District (PSD) this summer to provide a comprehensive, workforce development program dedicated to serving

middle school students. Approximately 50 PSD students participated in the 9-week program intended to give them hands-on experiences and exposure to different career paths. Each week a different industry such as technology, energy, construction, healthcare, hospitality, etc. was featured. Students met experts in the field, toured locations and applied skills learned in hands-on simulation activities. The program was free for students, included meals, and ran Monday through Friday, 8am through 5pm. Stay informed about future opportunities by visiting www.begreatlarimer.org. NEW TRAIL IN SOUTHWEST WELD COUNTY The new Weld Legacy Trail officially opened last month, extending from the Southwest Services Complex at 4209 County Road 24 ½ in Firestone under Interstate 25 into St. Vrain State Park. Designed by the Weld County Department of Public Works, the near mile-long trail is “the culmination of years of planning and partnerships, along with several months of design work and renovations to make the trail more user friendly and resistant to flooding.” It features an 802-foot new section moving the trail away from a nearby spillway plus an 82-foot long pedestrian bridge. Learn how it came to be by visiting www.discoverweld.com. RMPARENT

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healthy living

Commute to school safely Bike, walk, bus, drive: safety first!

RANDALL KAEMINGK

t’s almost here! The school year is approaching fast and with so much to get ready it’s important to remember: safety first. School will look different for everyone this year with some schools adopting different schedules that switch between online and in-person classes. No matter what school looks like for your child this year, as a parent you can do your best to keep them safe. The most hazardous parts of the school day are actually at the beginning and the end: the commute to and from school. Whether your student is driving, biking, busing, or walking, travelling to and from school presents many potentially dangerous situations. BUSSING For children using the bus, going to and from the bus stop as well as boarding the bus can be difficult. If your child is riding the bus teach them the acronym SAFE: • Stay five steps away from the curb • Always wait until the bus is completely stopped to approach • Face forward in your seat on the bus • Exit the bus after it is stopped and look left-right-left for cars before crossing the street. When possible, walk your child to the bus stop and meet them there at the end of the day. BIKING Make sure children that are biking have and wear a helmet that fits correctly before sending them on their way. Additionally, make sure to teach them about obeying traffic laws, correct signaling, and using bike lanes. It is very helpful to do a few practice rides with your child before school starts so that they know the route well. If you need a

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Keep it safe helmet and cannot afford one, please go to sklarimer.org/bicyclesafety/ and fill out the form at the bottom of the page. WALKING Most likely your child will be a pedestrian at some point in the day. Whether at the bus stop, in the carpool line, at lunch, or even just to and from the car, sidewalk safety will be necessary. When walking, children should use the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is not a sidewalk available, they should walk on the edge of the street facing traffic. Teach children to identify and use crosswalks to cross the street. Again, children should look left-right-left for vehicles and bikes before crossing. It is crucial that children know not to play around the street and to always pay attention. It is good to make a rule of no electronic devices when commuting to and from school.

For information regarding safety look at the following resources: Poudre Valley School District: www.psdschool.org/programs-services/ transportation Thompson School District: www.thompsonschools.org/Page/3838 Colorado Department of Transportation: www.cdot.gov/programs/bikeped/ safe-routes SafeKids Larimer County: www.sklarimer.org

DRIVING If you are driving your children keep in mind to always be on the lookout for pedestrians. As more families are commuting at different times foot traffic is likely to be high in neighborhoods and near schools. Everyone should buckle up, every trip; even in carpools, so have a conversation with your neighbors and friends. Randall Kaemingk is a Health Educator at UCHealth.

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STYLES Lynn U Nichols

chool’s about to start. Do you know what kind of learners your children are? Some kids learn best by listening or reading. Others learn better by talking or seeing. And not every child learns in the traditional way that schools tend to teach. Knowing the best way your kids learn helps you support them as they navigate a new grade with new challenges. Add in solid homework routines and your kids will be primed for the new school year. TYPICAL CLASSROOMS AND EXTRAORDINARY KIDS Some kids were born for a traditional classroom that demands sitting still and listening, raising hands and participating, and cranking out worksheets. Others can get overlooked, the ones who might have a hard time conceptualizing a math problem on a worksheet but excel when you give them blocks or props to use to work it out. Or the children who memorize best while they move their body or learn best when they act out history lessons or science experiments. By working with your kids on your own, and advocating for them within the system, you can help your children succeed no matter their learning style. FIGURING OUT WHICH TYPE OF LEARNER YOU HAVE Depending on which expert you follow, there are typically seven learning styles:

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auditory/musical, visual/spatial, verbal/ linguistic, logical/reasoning, social/ interpersonal, solitary/intrapersonal, and physical/kinesthetic. Your child might lean heavily to one or possess traits of a few or even all types of learning. Here are a few signs of each and ideas on supporting their learning: • Auditory/musical: These kiddos perk up when you really get into reading, raising and lowering your voice. When learning, they tend to talk to themselves, sing, or hum. If this is your child, ask him or her to read back their notes or retell the teacher’s lesson. Also, when doing math homework, let them beat out answers with a drum or pencil. Since this type of learner can get distracted, ask the teacher to seat them outside the fray. • Visual/spatial: Does your child love to doodle in the sidelines of their paper? How about make observations about their surroundings? If your child is good at puzzles or taking things apart and putting them back together, you might have a visual/spatial learner on your hands. If so, take advantage of illustrations and pictures to help him or her absorb information—or allow them to sketch out concepts. Use color coding when setting up school folders. Visual/ spatial learners may like to make lists. “Some children do very well with to-do lists as they can see a concrete success when they cross things off.

For other children, to-do lists may feel overwhelming. Find what works best for your child,” says Andrea Holt, LMFT, CAC III, Marriage and Family Therapist with UCHealth’s Family Medicine Center in Fort Collins. • Verbal/linguistic: These kids love words. They have a great vocabulary and enjoy reading and storytelling. Use this to your advantage by encouraging them to make up stories or jokes around what they are learning (e.g. ‘Five is getting married to Eleven and having 16 babies’). • Logical/reasoning: You can also call these kiddos mathematical learners. They excel in math and science. They love finding patterns in things, categorizing, knowing how things work, and of course, enjoy working with numbers. Engage your logical learner by asking them to compare and contrast what they are learning, or physically figure a math problem with blocks or Legos. • Social/interpersonal: This child learns best in group activities, and they might shine as leaders. They are not always super talkative, yet they can be. They love participating with others. Help with homework by turning it into an interaction. Play teacher/student with them as the teacher, or make a game of the lesson at hand, using props like puppets. • Solitary/intrapersonal: Introspective children gauge the world first by emotions. They like to

Homework tips for success Getting kids to do homework is a common struggle for parents. Different solutions work for different kids. Here are some ideas to consider putting in place for the new school year.

Create a homework space and time Find a quiet corner where you can put up a desk that’s free of distractions. Have it well stocked and organized with paper, calculators, dictionaries and a computer. Also, set rules about play time and homework time. If possible, set them free a bit after school before making them sit down to do homework. Be as consistent as possible, from day to day, making a set Plan B for days they have soccer practice or music lessons. “Homework routines work because kids learn what is expected of them,” says Andrea Holt, LMFT, CAC III, Marriage and Family Therapist with UCHealth’s Family Medicine Center in Fort Collins. Stay involved Before your kids sit down to do their homework, engage. Ask them about their homework and make it relatable by tapping into their interests. Make sure they understand the assignment and let them know you are available if they have questions or want to talk something through. When they are done, review their work in a positive way, e.g. ‘Great job! You got all of them right except a few.

watch others and listen to see how the world works. They are good at being independent, playing and working alone. Bank on their ability to observe, and engage them with emotions, as in, ‘What do you think the first explorers thought when they saw the Grand Canyon for the first time?’ Encourage tools that tap into their introspection, such as keeping a journal, taking photos, or drawing. Help them find a private nook to read or do homework. • Physical/kinesthetic: These are your typical rough and tumble kids who like to get in on the physical action and learn by doing. If your child drums or shakes their legs, or has trouble sitting for long periods of time, he or she might be a physical learner. Turn homework into a physical game or experiment or let them physically act out lessons (e.g. dancing while they shout out time tables). Allow for plenty of breaks, maybe 15 minutes of math homework earns them 5 minutes of playing catch or riding their bike around the block. Let them fidget while they study, and make sure the

Can you take another look?’ Also, view grades regularly online to ensure your kids are staying on track. Resist doing it for them If your child doesn’t get a math problem, work through a similar one to teach the concept rather than solving the problem at hand. If they don’t know what the assignment is, ask them to recall how the teacher described it and build on that information. Be patient and try explaining ideas in a few different ways—by talking, drawing or acting it out. Promote communication with teachers If your kids don’t understand an assignment, or if they got a poor grade and are upset, encourage that they talk with the teacher about it the next day. This skill— advocating for themselves in the school setting—will serve them well throughout their academic life. If the issue isn’t resolved after a few tries, email the teacher of your elementary and middle school child. At school conferences, don’t hesitate to provide insights into how your child learns best.

area they do homework in is clutterfree. Whenever you can, turn learning into play. “Kids who are allowed ample opportunities for unstructured play learn how to negotiate relationships and how to think critically and problem solve,” Holt says. HOVER, IT’S REALLY OKAY It can be hard to be a parent of a nontraditional learner—one like a physical learner who has trouble sitting still in a classroom, or an auditory learner who gets distracted by his neighbor tapping a pencil on a desk. Add in a learning disability, and school might not come too easily. You might have to be that parent—the one who gets a 504 plan or individual education program (IEP) rolling with your school, which puts special accommodations or services in place for your child, that all teachers must follow. It might also involve finding out which school, and even which teacher, might best teach to your child’s unique learning style—a teacher

who goes beyond trying to fit your triangle child into a round hole. While you do all this, remember: Your child is smart, they just learn differently. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. BE YOUR CHILD’S ADVOCATE Don’t be shy to ask teachers to go above and beyond for your child to help them succeed. Maybe that computes to simple adjustments, like having your elementary child sit in the front row or having the teacher pull your child aside at the start of work sessions to explain the assignment in a different way. For older kids, it might mean letting an auditory learner record lessons on his or her phone or allowing them to listen to music while they take a test. Teachers are busy, but if they know you are paying attention and involved, it makes all the difference. You will have to be an advocate for your child, especially when they leave elementary school and enter middle school where the number of teachers and classrooms multiply. Having a handle on how your child best learns is an important place to start. RMPARENT

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Back to School I

t’s time for kids to head back to school. School districts share start dates, COVID-19 guidelines, registration information, calendars and other important news.

Greeley Evans School District 6

Administration Building 1025 Ninth Avenue Greeley, Colorado 80631 phone: 970-348-6000 email: school-communityrelations@ greeleyschools.org website: www.greeleyschools.org

Start dates • Grades 9th-12th: August 12th • Grades 1st-8th with last name A through L: August 12th • Grades 1st-8th with last name M through Z: August 13th • Kindergarten with last name A through L: August 17th • Kindergarten with last name M through Z: August 18th

COVID-19 updates and information

Latest COVID update: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Greeley-Evans 4 | RMPARENT

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School District 6 has followed health orders issued through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, as well as taken advice from local health officials including the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment. On May 31, the Third Amended Public Health Order 20-38 was released. Based on this latest order, the following changes were made to District 6 COVID19 protocols beginning, Wednesday, June 16: Face coverings will no longer be required for individuals 12 years of age or older who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Students age 11 and under will no longer be required to wear a face covering. Employees and students who are fully vaccinated will no longer be required to quarantine if exposed to COVID-19 but will be asked to monitor themselves for symptoms. Confirmation of having received a COVID-19 vaccine may be required to avoid quarantine. Unvaccinated students and staff will need to quarantine for a minimum of 7 days, if receiving a negative COVID-19

test on day 5, 6, or 7 from the known exposure, returning on Day 8. If not tested, the quarantine will be for a minimum of 10 days. Staff who must quarantine and who have exhausted their paid sick leave will be required to use personal leave for quarantines and isolation. Anyone testing positive for COVID-19 will need to isolate for 10 days, regardless of vaccination status. Individuals who are fully vaccinated and children ages 11 and under can make a personal choice to wear a facial covering. That choice will continue to be respected and supported by District 6. Social distancing is still encouraged. These protocols are subject to change before the start of the 20212022 academic year. COVID-19 vaccinations are now approved for everyone 12 years of age and older and are widely available in every community. For information about where to receive a COVID-19 vaccination, please visit: www.weldgov.com/ Government/Departments/Health-andEnvironment/2019-Novel-CoronavirusCOVID-19/Vaccine-Information.

Lunch prices

Thanks to an extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s school district reimbursement program, GR-E D6 will once again offer free meals to any enrolled student during the 202122 school year. Adult meals can be purchased for $2.60 (breakfast) and $4.00 (lunch).

Registration info

To register on the district website: • Use school site locator to find your boundary • Visit Kindergarten registration for information on 2021-22 Kindergarten • Visit Preschool registration for information on 2021-22 Preschool • Visit Open enrollment for information on applying for 2021-22 Open Enrollment

Virtual learning options

D6 Online Academy is a free, fullyonline public school run by GreeleyEvans School District 6 for grades Kindergarten through 12th grade. Your student will receive materials, technology devices, quality instruction and support by fully licensed D6 teachers and staff in a virtual environment. D6 Online Academy is enrolling now for grades Kindergarten through 12th grade for the 2021-22 school year. Students are not required to reside in the District 6 boundary to attend. To apply, visit Open Enrollment.

Buildings under construction

The Tointon Academy of PreEngineering, the new preschool-8thgrade academy, is named after Bob and Betty Tointon, who have been strong supporters of public education in Greeley and Evans. Construction of the school is being funded through the 2019 Bond Issue approved by voters. This is the first new non-charter school, that is not a replacement school, to be built in District 6 in 20 years. This new school is planned to open Fall 2022. Other bond projects currently underway or planned include the construction of a new Greeley West High School, construction of a new Madison Elementary School and

conversion to a Preschool-8 school, construction of the new Tointon Academy of Pre-Engineering, large renovations to McAuliffe STEM Academy and Chappelow Arts Magnet, construction of safe entry ways at all district schools, paint and new carpet at all schools, career and college preparation learning spaces at all schools, asbestos removal at select schools, and other repairs and renovations at select schools.

Poudre School District

2407 LaPorte Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80521 970-482-7420 info@psdschools.org www.psdschools.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ poudre_school_district/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ PoudreSchoolDistrict/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/PoudreSchools YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCbM7Ir2W3E2fe8MbpdJ_6tw

Start dates • Friday, Aug. 13: middle school/high school transition day for sixth and ninth-grade students • Monday, Aug. 16: first day for all students

COVID-19 updates and information

PSD does intend to start the school year with full-time, in-person education for all students. It is too early to say what PSD’s fall COVID-19 protocols will be.

Our most current information is on the COVID/Health and Safety webpages. We anticipate communicating with families around early August about our fall protocols. Health and Safey: https://www. psdschools.org/psd2020-21/healthsafety COVID: https://www.psdschools. org/psd2020-21/COVID19schoolstatus

Lunch prices

Thanks to an extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s school district reimbursement program, PSD will once again offer free meals to any enrolled PSD student during the 202122 school year. A la carte items will be sold at secondary schools. Families are encouraged to apply for Free and Reduced meals for the coming school year starting on August 1, 2021. Those who qualify for benefits are eligible for school fee/charge waivers.

Registration info

All middle and high schools are trying to get students to register online since this is an option. Middle and high schools do not offer a designated new student registration period like elementary schools do. Middle and high school families should register their students through PSD’s online system as soon as they move to the area or enroll in middle or high school. Registrars and counselors are generally back in late July/early August and will reach out to the newly registered families as they are able.

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Opens: fall 2022 For more information: www. psdschools.org/2016-Bond-Mill/NewSchool-Wellington

Thompson School District Thompson School District 800 S. Taft Avenue Loveland, CO 80537 970-613-5000 Website: www.thompsonschools.org Facebook: “Thompson School District” Twitter: @ThompsonR2J

Start dates • Monday, August 16: Transition day for kindergarten, 6th and 9th grade students. • Tuesday, August 17: All students attend school.

COVID-19 updates and information Registration infoRMATION

If you still need to register for the 202122 school year, here are some helpful links with more information about registration, School of Choice and some secondary options: • General school registration info, www. psdschools.org/schools/schoolregistration • Apply to Early Childhood Education, www.psdschools.org/programsservices/early-childhood-education • Kindergarten registration, www. psdschools.org/kinder • Earn college credit, work toward an associate’s degree or industry certification in high school, sites. google.com/psdschools.org/cte/ high-school • School of Choice second-consideration period, www.psdschools.org/schools/ school-options-choice

Virtual learning options

New option for 100-percent virtual learning in 2021-22: Poudre Global Academy Virtual (K-12) PSD Virtual sunsetted at the end of the 2020-21 school year. Those interested in a fully virtual model for the 2021-22 school year have the option of applying for School of Choice to the 6 | RMPARENT

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new Poudre Global Academy Virtual (PGAV). For more PGAV information, visit PGAV’s website.

New buildings/openings • Bamford Elementary Phone: 970-488-8500 Address: 6055 Travers Stakes St., Loveland CO 80538 Grade Levels: PreK – 5 Principal: Alissa Poduska Email: apoduska@psdschools.org Website: https://bam.psdschools.org/ Opens: fall 2021 Starting with about 275 students with anticipated maximum enrollment of 600 students. For more information: www. psdschools.org/2016-Bond-Mill/NewElementary-School-Southeast • TImnath Middle-High school Principal: Jesse Morrill Email: jmorrill@psdschools.org Grade Levels: 6-12 Opens: fall 2022 For more information: www. psdschools.org/2016-Bond-Mill/NewSchool-Prospect • Wellington Middle-High school Principal: Kelby Benedict Email: kbenedic@psdschools.org Grade Levels: 6-12

Thompson School District will be offering full in-person Monday through Friday instruction for the 2021-2022 school year. Families who prefer a virtual educational option for their student this upcoming year were able to register this spring for a slot in the district’s Thompson Connect Online program. TSD staff have continued to partner with officials at the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment to help coordinate the safety precautions that will be in place throughout district buildings. Per the latest public health orders, face masks will not be required for any staff members or students attending Thompson schools. Students and staff are encouraged to continue to wear one if they prefer. There are no current public health orders regarding social distancing; however, TSD will continue to maximize space as much as possible in school buildings. TSD encourages students and staff to get vaccinated and will continue to provide opportunities to do so. Please note that there is always the possibility that changes will need to be made based on additional direction from county and state officials. Please visit the TSD website at www. thompsonschools.org for the most current information.

Meal Prices

Thanks to an extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s school district reimbursement program, TSD will once again offer free meals to any enrolled student during the 2021-22 school year. A la carte items will be sold at secondary schools. Thompson School District invites parents and visitors to join students and staff members for a meal any day. Please contact the school in advance to reserve a meal. For more information on our Nutrition Services program or to see menus, please visit www. thompsonsdnutrition.org. Adults: breakfast, $2.95; lunch $3.95. A la carte items vary in price.

Registration Information

Online registration for new students is available on the Thompson School District website at www. thompsonschools.org/Page/9500.

Virtual Learning Options

Thompson Connect Online serves as the district’s online educational option for families who prefer a virtual educational setting for students in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For students choosing this online option, all instruction will be remote, meaning the work will all be online. No in-person attendance is required. However, there will be synchronous (“real-time” or “at the same time”) instruction using Google Meet and asynchronous instruction (recorded or independent work with digital content) each day.

while enrolled in a regular school. The Thompson Online Campus affords access to a variety of classes including credit recovery, core and comprehensive.

New Buildings/Openings

Riverview PK-8, home of the Riverview Raptors, is Thompson School District’s newest school. Riverview PK-8 is located in Johnstown and opens August 2021 for the 2021-2022 school year. The school was designed with strong academic programming, innovation, collaboration, social-emotional learning, the arts, and athletics in mind. Riverview PK-8 has the flexibility to offer a variety of elective course options based on student enrollment, student interest and community input.

Weld RE-4 School District Weld RE-4 School District 1020 Main Street, Windsor CO 80550 970-686-8000 www.weldre4.org

START dates and times

August 11, 2021: Learning Model School starts. All Weld RE-4 students, in all grades, will attend school daily, in-person in a pre-COVID-like schedule. School start and dismissal times are as follows: • Elementary: 7:55am-2:45pm • Middle School: 8:35am-3:55pm • High School: 8:40am-3:50pm

COVID-19 updates and information

Weld RE-4 will continue to work closely with public health officials and local healthcare partners. Masks will be optional. The expectation is that staff or students will be treated respectfully whether they choose to wear a mask or not. While we will provide information to staff and students about opportunities to be vaccinated, the district will not request, collect, or store staff members’ or students’ personal COVID-19 vaccination records. Should a student or staff member test positive for COVID, or show symptoms commonly associated with COVID, they will be asked to isolate and stay home from school and away from schoolsponsored events (including athletics) until they are advised by a medical professional that they can return to school/work. While we will not be conducting regular temperature checks, students who exhibit symptoms in school will be given a mask to wear while they wait in the health room to be picked up from school. Staying home when sick will be essential to limiting exposures and transmission. We will not initiate quarantines for healthy/non-symptomatic staff and students that have been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID. We will continue enhanced cleaning protocols put in place last year in each of our buildings as well as circulating outdoor air and enhancing ventilation in our schools. Hand sanitizer will be available

Thompson Online Campus

The Thompson Online Campus provides an online educational experience for students enrolled in Thompson School District. The Thompson Online Campus is comprised of two programs that used to be known as Thompson Online (TOL) and Secondary Options for Achievement Resulting in Success (SOARS). Students taking classes through the Thompson Online Campus may be enrolled in one or both of the programs identified above. Students may also be enrolled in the Thompson Online Campus part time (as little as one class) BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

| RMPARENT | 7

and frequent handwashing encouraged. This information may be adjusted to align with changing public health circumstances as necessary in the immediate future or after school starts. When updates are necessary, we will let you know with as much notice as possible.

Meals

Thanks to an extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s school district reimbursement program, Weld R-E4 will once again offer free meals to any enrolled PSD student during the 2021-22 school year. Students will eat meals in the cafeteria. A la carte items will be available for purchase at middle and high schools.

Technology

Chromebooks will be issued to secondary students during the first week of school.

Visitors/Events

Schools will welcome visitors to their building aligned with their typical school-year procedures. Indoor and outdoor school events will have no capacity limits.

Facility Rentals

Facility rentals will resume for the 202122 school year.

¡Preparándonos para regresar a la escuela!

Mientras nos preparamos para dar la bienvenida al personal y a los Activities estudiantes de regreso a la escuela Field trips will resume, and athletics en agosto, estamos compartiendo and activities will resume as normal in información sobre lo que puede accordance with CHSAA regulations. esperar al comenzar el año escolar. Esta información se basa en lo que Transportation sabemos hoy y puede ajustarse para In 2021/22 we will transport elementary alinearse con las circunstancias school students who live beyond a 1-mile cambiantes de salud pública según radius from school, middle school students sea necesario en el futuro inmediato who live beyond a 1.5-mile radius from o después del comienzo de la escuela. school, and high school students who live Cuando sea necesario realizar beyond a 2-mile radius from school. Route actualizaciones, se lo haremos saber information will be shared with families directly, the week prior to the start of school. con la mayor antelación posible. 8 | RMPARENT

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Modelo de aprendizaje

Las clases de escuela comienzan el 11 de agosto de 2021. Todos los estudiantes de Weld RE-4, en todos los grados, asistirán a las clases de escuela todos los días, en persona, en un horario similar al anterior a COVID. Los horarios de inicio y salida de clases son los siguientes: • Primaria (Elementary): 7:55am-2:45 pm • Escuela secundaria (Middle School): 8:35am-3:55pm • Escuela preparatoria (High School): 8:40am-3:50pm

Salud y seguridad

Weld RE-4 seguirá funcionando estrechamente con los funcionarios de salud pública y nuestros socios locales de atención médica. Las máscaras serán opcionales para quienes quieran usarlas. Nuestra expectativa es que el personal o los estudiantes sean tratados con respeto, ya sea que elijan usar una máscara o no. Si bien proporcionaremos información al personal y a los estudiantes sobre las oportunidades de vacunarse, el distrito no solicitará, recopilará ni almacenará los registros personales de vacunación de COVID-19 de los miembros del personal o de los estudiantes.

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School Calendars 2021-22 Special Dates, School Holidays, School Not in Session

Greeley-Evans School District 6 Aug. 12 1-12 Classes begin Aug. 17 K Classes begin Sept. 6 Labor Day Sept. 27 No school for students Oct. 11 No school for students Nov. 22-26 Thanksgiving break Dec. 17-Jan. 3 Winter break Jan. 17 K-12, No school for students, Holiday Feb. 7 K-12, No school for students Feb. 21 K-12 No school for students, Holiday Mar. 14-18 Spring break Mar. 28 No school for students Apr. 25 No school for students May 19 Last day of school for students May 20-22 High school graduations

Poudre School District Aug. 13 Middle/High School Transition Day Aug. 16 K-12 Classes begin Sept. 6 Labor Day Sept. 17 No school for students Oct. 14 K-5 No school for students Oct. 15 K-12 No school for students Nov. 8 No school for students Nov. 24-26 Thanksgiving Break Dec. 20-Jan. 3 Winter break Jan. 17 K-12 No school for students, Holiday Feb. 21 K-12 No school for students, Holiday Mar. 14-18 Spring break Apr. 15 K-12 No school for students May 16 K-12 No school for students May 19-21 High school graduations May 25 K-12, Last day of classes

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Thompson School District Aug. 16 K, 6 & 9 Transition day Aug. 17 K-12 Classes begin Sept. 6 Labor Day Sept. 24 No school for students Oct. 8 No school for students Oct. 14 No school for students Oct. 15 No school for students Nov. 22-26 Thanksgiving break Dec. 20-Jan. 4 Winter break Jan. 17 K-12 School not in session, Holiday Feb. 18 No school for students Feb. 21 K-12 School not in session, Holiday Mar. 3-4 No school for students Mar. 14-18 Spring break Apr. 15 K-12 School not in session May 13 No school for students May 18 12, Last day of school May 26 K-11, last day of school, half day May 28 High School graduation

Weld RE-4 District Aug. 11 K-12 classes begin Sept. 6 Labor Day Sept. 27 K-12 No school for students Oct. 28 K-5 No school for students Nov. 19 K-12 No school for students Nov. 22-26 Thanksgiving break Dec. 17 K-12 No school for students Dec. 20-Jan. 3 Winter break Jan. 17 K-12 School not in session, Holiday Feb. 10 K-5 No school for students Feb. 11 K-12 No school for students Feb. 21 K-12 School not in session, Holiday Mar. 21-25 Spring break Apr. 15 K-12 No school for students Apr. 18 K-5 No school for students May 19 K-12, last day of school May 22 High school graduation

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greeley district 6 news

District 6 to complete additional bond building projects

Greeley-Evans School District 6 has received approval from the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee to complete additional building projects with proceeds from the bond sales in 2020. Three additional projects will be added to the list of construction currently underway or planned in District 6 after voters approved a $395 million bond issue in November of 2019. The construction projects added to the bond projects include: • The construction and renovation of the former Colorado Department of Transportation Building at the intersection of 14th Avenue and 2nd Street. Jefferson High School will move to this new building once it is completed. • Additional classrooms at Meeker Elementary School to remove portable classrooms.

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• Additional classrooms at Billie Martinez Elementary School to remove portable classrooms.

These projects are being paid for with a portion of the $64 million in bond premium that was realized after District 6 sold $250 million in bonds after the election. A bond premium occurs when the investor is willing to pay more than the maturity value of the bond in exchange for securing a long-term fixed interest rate. That means District 6 can complete additional building projects at no additional cost to taxpayers. Prior to the bond initiative, District 6 purchased the CDOT property in August of 2019 for future expansion. It is located adjacent to property the district already owns at the Billie Martinez Elementary School site. The District

is currently interviewing architects to design the new Jefferson High School, including an expanded Construction Trades Career Pathway Program on the site. The project is estimated to cost $30 million, including soft costs such as furniture and equipment. The current Jefferson High School will undergo minor renovations that were planned in the 2019 bond issue and the school will eventually be the new home of the Fred Tjardes School of Innovation, which is currently located in downtown Greeley at the intersection of 8th Avenue and 5th Street. That school is now located in a rented building, and the lease expires in June of 2022. The additional classrooms at Martinez and Meeker elementary schools were approved upon the recommendation of a demographer

who conducted a boundary study for District 6. The Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee agreed the additions will help further reduce the number of portable classrooms in District 6, an important goal of the 2019 bond issue. Right now, the district is on track to eliminate nearly 50 percent of the portable classrooms in the district by the time the bond projects are completed. The combined Martinez and Meeker projects are estimated to cost about $18 million. The Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee is composed of 16 Greeley and Evans community members and meets every quarter to review bond projects and consider additional projects to be paid for by bond premium. The committee also holds special meetings as needed, and recently toured some of the current bond projects under construction. Other bond projects currently underway or planned include the construction of a new Greeley West

High School, construction of a new Madison Elementary School and conversion to a Preschool-8 school, construction of the new Tointon Academy of Pre-Engineering, large renovations to McAuliffe STEM Academy and Chappelow Arts Magnet, construction of safe entry ways at all district schools, career and college preparation learning spaces at all schools, asbestos removal at select schools, and other repairs and renovations at identified schools. Additional renovations are also being completed at District 6 charter schools. For more information about the 2019 bond projects, visit www. greeleyschools.org/bond. TIME TO COMPLETE THE 2021-2022 REGISTRATION CHECKLIST Families with children who will be attending non-charter schools in Greeley-Evans School District 6 can now complete the online 2021-2022

Fall Registration Checklist at www. greeleyschools.org/FallRegistration. Parents and guardians are urged to complete this online registration checklist before the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year. The checklist includes an annual data update for each student, application for meal benefits, a review of the new parent-student handbook, athletics and activities registration and a link to registration events at individual schools. The website also includes information about start dates for students at various grade levels. Families who have not yet registered their students for the 2021-2022 school year can complete the registration online at www. greeleyschools.org/Admissions. Registration questions can be directed to the District 6 Admissions Office at admissions@greeleyschools.org or by calling (970) 348-6062 between the hours of 9am and 3:30pm.

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poudre school district news Greetings from new PSD Superintendent Brian Kingsley mitments and core values: visionary district leadership, inclusive district culture and instructional excellence. Moving forward as a community, it will take all of us working in tandem to effectively allocate our time, people and resources in ways that align with the goal of achievement for all students. I am excited to move forward together. With appreciation, Brian Kingsley Superintendent SCHOOL OF CHOICE If you missed the first period of consideration for School of Choice, the second period is now open. Families have a wide array of wonderful PSD schools from which to choose. Visit the school options webpage on the PSD website to learn more. Register online at olr.psdschools. org. Even if you opt to send your child to a school outside your neighborhood through School Choice, you must still register your child at your neighborhood school. Dear PSD community, Thank you! As your new superintendent, I want my first official words to convey my gratitude and humility for the ability to partner with you. My family and I are incredibly excited to be in Northern Colorado and become a part of the PSD community. I look forward to listening, learning and leading with you. I can’t wait to meet you and hear your thoughts. Poudre School District is strong–the product of your service, deep engagement and commitment to ensuring that we Educate... Every Child, Every Day. We have a significant responsibility to work as a team to ensure that our young people have the opportunities they deserve to grow into their best selves. Education is, after all, all about connections– 26

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those among students, teachers, staff, coaches, families and community members–that enrich and elevate the lives of others. Public education changed my life trajectory and filled me with hope, love, confidence and a sense of belonging. It was where my beliefs solidified regarding the role of education in people’s lives. With our staff, I will promote collaboration and communication among all stakeholders in this community. We will strive to build and deliver exceptional educational experiences every day for all students. With empathy and transparency, I will work with you, side by side, to make sure that our goals for students become a reality. This work will be rooted in three equity-centered com-

MEALS Thanks to an extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s school district reimbursement program, PSD will once again offer free meals to any enrolled PSD student during the 2021-22 school year. VIRTUAL OPTION For the 2021-22 school year, Poudre Global Academy Virtual will replace Poudre School District Virtual (PSDV), the district’s current 100-percent online option that sunsets at the end of this school year. PGA Virtual is one of two tracks—the existing hybrid and 100-percent online—offered through Poudre Global Academy. Families may apply now, during the School of Choice second-consideration application period. For more PGAV information, visit PGAV’s website.

Brett Larsen Is the district’s new interim executive director of Human Resources.

Brandon Carlucci will step into a new role as athletics director for Poudre School District.

Josh Richey has been hired as the interim principal for Boltz Middle School.

NEW HIRES EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Know a preschooler who could benefit from going to school in PSD and connecting with professional, compassionate educators? To learn about the application process and more, visit the Early Childhood Education webpage.

WHAT WAS FOUND IN THE LINCOLN MIDDLE SCHOOL TIME CAPSULE? In front of an anticipating crowd, Lincoln Middle School students revealed several items from a 2001 time capsule after it was pried open by school staff. Inside the dust-covered copper

container, they discovered a green-andgold Lincoln jacket, a copy of TIME magazine, a 2001 yearbook, newspaper clippings, a note from Student Council and more, last sealed away two decades earlier. https://www.psdschools.org/ news/lincoln-time-capsule.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE ONLINE Register online at olr.psdschools.org. Even if you opt to send your child to a school outside your neighborhood through School Choice, you must still register your child at your neighborhood school. WOODWARD INC. DONATES MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT TO PSD Exemplifying a unique partnership, Woodward Inc. will donate a Makino vertical mill and an Okuma Genos lathe to Poudre School District’s Futures Lab. The donation, valued at nearly $500,000, will provide PSD students access to the same state-ofthe-art manufacturing machines used on the shop floor at Woodward, while also providing an off-site training center for Woodward’s machinists when the equipment is not in use by PSD students. RMPARENT

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thompson school district news Board of Education Candidates Forum 3550 Barkwood Dr., Johnstown Tour the school and learn more about this amazing new community. For more information: : https:// www.thompsonschools.org/riverview

nterested in becoming a TSD Board of Education member? Please join us for a special forum that will provide you with more information about the district and the upcoming school board election. Wednesday, August 4, 2021, 4:30-5:30pm, TSD Administration Building, 800 S. Taft Ave., Loveland There will be opportunities to:

• L earn facts and figures about the district

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•U nderstand the steps needed to become a candidate • Ask questions

For more information, please call 613-5013.

RIVERVIEW PK-8 GRAND OPENING Please join us for the grand opening celebration of the Riverview PK-8 School campus. August 12, 2021, Open House: 5-7pm, Ceremony: 5pm

VOLUNTEER—GET INVOLVED! The education of Thompson students is a vital partnership between schools and families. Whether you are volunteering with individual students or the classroom teacher, making a one-time presentation or serving on a committee, you are an active partner affecting the lives of children. Parents, guardians and family members who wish to volunteer in their children’s schools–including chaperoning field trips–must register online and clear a background check. Click to register and get involved! https://www.thompsonschools.org/ volunteer. Questions? Contact the district volunteer office at vital@ thompsonschools.org or call the volunteer coordinator or principal at your school. TUITION PAYING PROGRAM Thompson School District offers a half-day, four-day-per-week tuition

paying program at all Early Childhood sites. This program is open to children who will be 3 or 4 years of age by October 1 of the current year. There are a limited number of slots available and by application only. For an application and/or more information on the tuition paying program, please call the Early Childhood office at 970613-5761. HEAD START PROGRAM The Head Start Program provides services to children who are 3 or 4 years old as of October 1 of the current year. Children are enrolled in classrooms with developmentally appropriate curriculum and provided with nutrition, health and family support services. To be eligible, children must meet federal income and program guidelines. COLORADO PRESCHOOL PROGRAM The Colorado Preschool Program provides services to children who

are 3 or 4 years old as of October 1 of the current year. This program is funded by the state of Colorado to prepare children for success in school. To be eligible, children must have risk factors such as eligibility for free or reduced-price meals, a history of frequent moves, an impact from drug and/or alcohol abuse, etc.

SPECIAL NEEDS Special Needs service options are available to children who meet federal and state guidelines for special education help in developmental areas. Children who meet these guidelines are eligible for services as of their third birthday. Services will be provided in a classroom setting.

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AUGUST 2021

EVENTS CALENDAR Please check websites for the status of the following events as cancelations or postponements may have been announced after our publication date.

Family Fest / Bears Bash UNC Athletes, community food trucks, small businesses and the Greeley Tribune provide games, bounce houses, shopping, food, prizes and more. UNC Nottingham Field, 17th Avenue and Reservoir Road, GR. 10:30am–1:30pm. https://events.greeleytribune.com/family-fest.

LIBRARY & BOOK EVENTS

SATURDAYS Family Fun Saturdays Fun STEM projects and activities for the family every week. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 2–4pm. www.mylibrary.us.

THROUGH AUGUST 8 HPLD Summer Reading Adventure Choose individual/family, group/class options, select your reading challenges, then earn badges/rewards for reading. High Plains Library District, GR. https://highplains.beanstack.org/reader365. THROUGH AUGUST 15 PRPLD Summer Reading Challenge: Tails and Tales Combining the love of animals and stories, summer fun comes roaring back this year. All ages. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. www.poudrelibraries.org/src. AUGUST 1 THROUGH 31 Story Stroll: All Are Welcome Interactive self-guided story stroll experience featuring All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold. Each stop on the path features another portion of the story. All ages. Front Range Community College, Larimer Campus, FC. Weekdays 8am–7pm; weekends 9am– 4pm. www.poudrelibraries.org. MONDAY, AUGUST 2 Teen Zine Workshop Curious about zines and how to make them? Make, share and trade zines at this monthly workshop. Supplies provided. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4–5:30pm. www.mylibrary.us.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 Bilingual Virtual Cooking Class Secrets on how to make the perfect Panes del Mundo: Tamales de moras con crema y chocolate / Breads of the World: Berries & Cream and Chocolate Tamales. All ages. Register to receive your list of ingredients and meeting link. PRPLD Zoom meeting. 10am–1pm. www.poudrelibraries.org. Greeley Fencing Club Presentation Learn the basics of the sport of fencing and see live sparring demonstrations. All ages. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3–4:30pm. www.mylibrary.us. MONDAY, AUGUST 9 Teen Cooking Challenge: Zucchini Bread with Take & Make Kits Pick up your kit at the library and participate virtually to bake a scrumptious loaf of zucchini bread. Ages 12–18. Registration required. Clearview Library Zoom meeting. 4:30–5:30pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5316330. PAWS for Reading Outdoors Register for an outdoor visit with a licensed therapy dog. Registration required. Centennial Park Library grass area north of building, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30–7:30pm. www.mylibrary.us.

Spring Activities to Promote Vocabulary Skills: • Use descriptive language when talking about the weather and seasons with your child (hot, cold, rainy, wet, sunny, cloudy, etc.) • Use action words to describe what your child is doing when playing outside (run, jump, hop, splash, skip, hide, etc.) • Go for a walk and talk about the senses (“What do you see in the sky?”, “What does that flower smell like?”, “How does the grass feel?” etc.)

For more writing strategy resources go to csrckids.org 32

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LIBRARY & BOOK EVENTS

SATURDAYS Family Fun Saturdays Fun STEM projects and activities for the family every week. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 2–4pm. www.mylibrary.us. THROUGH AUGUST 8 HPLD Summer Reading Adventure Choose individual/family, group/class options, select your reading challenges, then earn badges/rewards for reading, attending events and completing activities. High Plains Library District, GR. https://highplains.beanstack.org/reader365. THROUGH AUGUST 15 PRPLD Summer Reading Challenge: Tails and Tales Combining the love of animals and stories, summer fun comes roaring back this year. All ages. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. www.poudrelibraries.org/src. AUGUST 1 THROUGH 31 Story Stroll: All Are Welcome Interactive self-guided story stroll experience featuring All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold. Each stop on the path features another portion of the story. All ages. Front Range Community College, Larimer Campus, FC. Weekdays 8am– 7pm; weekends 9am–4pm. www.poudrelibraries.org. MONDAY, AUGUST 2 Teen Zine Workshop Curious about zines and how to make them? Make, share and trade zines at this monthly workshop. Supplies provided. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4–5:30pm. www.mylibrary.us.

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 Bilingual Virtual Cooking Class Virtual class where Mexican baker Eliceo Lara, will share his secrets on how to make the perfect Panes del Mundo: Tamales de moras con crema y chocolate / Breads of the World: Berries & Cream and Chocolate Tamales. All ages. Register to receive your list of ingredients and meeting link. PRPLD Zoom meeting. 10am–1pm. www.poudrelibraries.org. Greeley Fencing Club Presentation Learn the basics of the sport of fencing and see live sparring demonstrations. All ages. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3–4:30pm. www.mylibrary.us. MONDAY, AUGUST 9 Teen Cooking Challenge: Zucchini Bread with Take & Make Kits Pick up your kit at the library and participate virtually to bake a scrumptious loaf of zucchini bread. Ages 12–18. Registration required. Clearview Library Zoom meeting. 4:30–5:30pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5316330. PAWS for Reading Outdoors Register for an outdoor visit with a licensed therapy dog. Therapy dogs sit calmly while children read aloud to them, allowing children to become more relaxed and confident about reading. Registration required. Centennial Park Library grass area north of building, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30–7:30pm. www.mylibrary.us. AUGUST 9 THROUGH 14 Teen Book Box Registration only. Pick up box this week which contains a free book and other book/monthly theme items. Create a review, or a book-themed project and photos will be shared on Clearview’s teen Instagram account. Ages 12–18. Clearview Library, WS. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5321560. WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, AUGUST 11 THROUGH OCTOBER 1 We Dream in STEAM: Data Detectives Pick up a kit at library and attend weekly online series (each session builds on the last) where together, participants look at and analyze data from epidemics throughout history. Ages 9–12. Registration required. Clearview Library Zoom meeting. 4–5pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5318803.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11 Kids Crafterschool: Tie-Dying One bandana per child and supplies provided. Kids also encouraged to bring own white cotton item for more tie-dying. Wear clothes that can get messy. Registration required. Grades 3–5. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3:30–4:30pm. www.mylibrary.us. Virtual Author Visit: Lynne Kelly Clearview Library District will host Lynne Kelly, award-winning author of Song for a Whale. Registration required. Clearview Library Zoom meeting. 6–7pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5319554. THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Y is for Yoga Build literacy skills and healthy minds and bodies through books, songs, rhymes and yoga! Registration required. Ages 0–6. Overlook Park, 10007 Co Rd 72, Severance. 10–10:30am. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5351388. Teen Tech Each month, explore new technologies, build robots, experiment with mad science and create masterpieces. Ages: teens. Registration required. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St. GR. 4–5pm. www.mylibrary.us. PAWS for Reading Outdoors Sign up for a 15-minute outdoor visit with a licensed therapy dog. Therapy dogs sit calmly while children read aloud to them, allowing children to become more relaxed and confident about reading. Registration required. All ages. Near the bookmobile garage/ grassy area on north side of Windsor-Severance Library. 6–7pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 Family Cooking Challenge: Peaches with Take-Home Kits Pick up your kit and learn online about this month’s challenge to complete a recipe as family using peaches. All ages. Registration required. Clearview Library YouTube channel. 4–4:30pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5328411. SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 Chalk Fest A festival of color—decorate the library parking lot with chalk! All ages. No registration required. Windsor-Severance Library, parking lot and book-drop drive-through lane, WS. 10:30–11:30am. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5316327.

MONDAYS, AUGUST 16, 23, 30 & SEPTEMBER 6 Youth Ukulele Lessons Learn the basics of strumming, chords and rhythm. Ukuleles provided (or bring your own). Ages 10–18. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4–5pm. www.mylibrary.us. THURSDAY, AUGUST 19 Getting Crafty: Camping Craft Celebrate American Adventures Month by creating a camping site craft. Registration required to receive kit and Zoom link. Ages 6–12. Clearview Library Zoom meeting, 4:30–5pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5318751. Teen Craft-a-Thon: Botanical Lanterns Learn to create a lantern of your own design using simple art supplies. Registration required. Ages 12–18. Windsor-Severance Library, near bookmobile garage/grassy area on north side. 6–7pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5316329. THURSDAY, AUGUST 26 Create ‘n Donate Gather with friends to make something to donate to our community! Examples include handmade blankets and a cat scratching hanger. Registration required. All ages. Riverside Library Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 4–5pm. www.mylibrary.us.

CONNECT TO NATURE

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS The Gardens Read and Seed in English Garden story, movement/song plus natureinspired activity. Ages 2–4 with adult. Registration required. Free/members; $8/ non-member child; $11/ non-member adult (includes gardens/butterfly house.) Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10:15–11am or 11:15am–Noon. www.fcgov.com/gardens/read-and-seed. SATURDAYS The Gardens Read y Seed en Español ¡Es tiempo de explorar en los Jardines! Garden storytime, movement/song plus a hands-on, nature-inspired activity. Ages 2–4 with adult. Registration required. Free/ members; $8/non-member child; $11/ nonmember adult (includes gardens/butterfly house.) Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10:15–11am or 11:15am–Noon. www.fcgov.com/gardens/read-and-seed.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 Campfire at the Cabin: Wild Cats Cozy evening by the campfire, complete with nature stories and s’mores! Easy 2-mile round-trip hike to learn about native wild cats like mountain lions and lynx in the area. All ages. Registration required. Coyote Ridge Natural Area, meet at the cabin (details online), FC. 7:30–9pm. www.fcgov.com/events. THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Junior Naturalists: Wildfire and Recovery What happens when a natural area burns? Walk through the fire’s path and learn how fire works and why it’s important. Ages 8–12 with parent/guardian. Registration required. Bobcat Ridge, 10184 Cty Rd 32C LV. 10am–Noon. www.fcgov.com/events. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 Toddler Tracks Discover flowers, bugs, tracks and more in slow-paced exploratory walk. Bring library card to check out books from the Book Bike Ages 1–3 with parent/guardian. Red Fox Meadows Natural Area, 1810 S. Taft Hill Rd., FC. Registration required. 10–11am. www.fcgov.com/events. SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 Skygazing Volunteers from the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society provide telescopes and share their knowledge about the stars, planets, galaxies and more. Registration required. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. 8:30–10:30pm. www.fcgov.com/events. FRIDAY, AUGUST 20 Campfire at Nix: Wild Cats Cozy evening by the campfire with nature stories and s’mores! Learn about native wild cats like mountain lions and lynx in the area. All ages. Registration required. Nix Farm (Natural Areas Office), 1745 Hoffman Mill Road, FC. 6:30–8pm. www.fcgov.com/events. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 Astronomy & Skygazing Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing. Telescopes provided. Registration required. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. 7:56–9:45pm. www.fcgov.com/events.

MUSEUM EVENTS

THROUGH AUGUST 14 Message for the Future: Greeley’s Time Capsules Exhibition features a selection of items from both the 1967 Civic Center time capsule and the 1970 Welcome Wagon Newcomers’ Club time capsule. Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St GR. https://greeleymuseums.com/locations/ greeley-history-museum. Gadgets Galore! History Exhibit Engage with history and explore the Museum’s unique collection through the lens of technology. Loveland Museum, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. Tuesday-Friday 10am–5pm; Saturday 10am–4pm. www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org. THROUGH SEPTEMBER 5 Life in One Cubic Foot Exhibit Experience the diversity of animals/plants within “biocubes” with photos, videos, hand-on activities. Free with general admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. www.fcmod.org. FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 THROUGH NOVEMBER 13 Exhibit Opening: How We Hold It— Containing Our Lives Exhibit highlights the beauty, artistry and diversity of vessels and containers from around the world. All ages. Free during First Friday Art Walk. Global Village Museum, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 5:30–8pm. www.globalvillagemuseum.org. Exhibit Opening: Color and Pattern: The Spirit of West Africa Exhibit showcases beads and textiles from West Africa. All ages. Free during First Friday Art Walk. Global Village Museum, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 5:30–8pm. www.globalvillagemuseum.org. TUESDAY, AUGUST 10 History Brown Bag: Young Chautauquans Perform Several local youth will present historic characters at this event. Limited to 30 attendees. Greeley History Museum 714 8th St GR. Noon–1pm. https://greeleymuseums.com/locations/ greeley-history-museum.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Adult + Kid Combo Art Class: Creatures Experiment with air dry clay and colorful bendable wire to make amazing little creatures. Ages 5–12 with parent/ guardian. $40/non-members, $32/ members. Registration required. Beet Education Center at the Loveland Museum, 201 E. 5th St., LV. 10am–Noon. 970-962-2410, www.lovelandmuseum gallery.org/adult-kid-combo-art-classes/#. AUGUST 14 & 15 FCMoD BioCount Pop-Up Use a BioCube to complete your own biodiversity observation. Free with museum admission; timed tickets required. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. 10:30am–12:30pm. www.fcmod.org. SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 Free Family Day at Windsor History Museum Discover what architecture tells about the past and get a prize, plus design a museum building that represents you. All ages– activities customized by age. Registration required. Windsor History Museum, 100 N 5th St., WS. 1–4pm. 970-674-3500 www.recreationliveshere.com/calendar. SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 Nocturnal Animals Workshops Why are some animals most active at night? Experience how nocturnal animals like black-footed ferrets use their senses to explore the world around them. Ages 8+. Pay what you can $5-20. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10–11am or 2–3pm. www.fcmod.org. SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 Visit with CSU Bug Zoo See live/mounted specimens of spiders, roaches and other crawlies, and learn how to identify bugs in our local ecosystem. Free with museum admission; timed tickets required. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. 10am–2pm. www.fcmod.org. Foley Art Workshop: KaBoom! Zing! Screeeeech! Explore the art of adding sound to postproduction cinema, learn the history of sound in film, discover the tools used, and build your very own sound-creation tool kit. Ages 8+. Pay what you can $5-20. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 2–3pm. www.fcmod.org.

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ENTERTAINMENT

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22 Odell Brewing Summer Music Sets Free live music on outdoor patio. Odell Brewing Company, 800 E. Lincoln Ave., FC. 5–7pm. www.odellbrewing.com/ locations/fort-collins.

FRIDAYS, AUGUST 6, 13, 20, 27 Neighborhood Nights Free outdoor movie night plus summer fun and games hosted by the City’s Recreation department. Various Greeley parks. Fun/ games 7pm; movie begins at dusk. www.greeleycalendar.com.

THROUGH AUGUST 22 Shrek the Musical Tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. All ages. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Dr. Johnstown. Times vary. 970-744-3747 www.coloradocandlelight.com.

AUGUST 6 THROUGH 8 Rent Set in New York City, this Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winning musical is about falling in love, finding your voice and living for today. $18. Ages 13+ recommended. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. Times vary. 970-221-6730, www.lctix.com.

AUGUST 3 & 5 Metro Summer Kids Movies: Emoji Movie All ages. $2. MetroLux 4 Theatres, 6085 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 10am. 970-593-1881, www. thepromenadeshopsatcenterra.com/events.

AUGUST 10 & 12 Metro Summer Kids Movies: The Croods: A New Age The Croods: A New Age. All ages. $2. MetroLux 4 Theatres, 6085 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 10am. 970-593-1881, www. thepromenadeshopsatcenterra.com/events.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 5 Thursday Night Live: Whippoorwill Free live summer concert presented by Bohemian Nights and New Belgium Brewing. New location for 2021 only. All ages. New Belgium Brewing, 500 Linden St., FC. 7–9pm. www.bohemiannights. org/thursday-night-live. Loveland Summer Concerts: Coral Creek Free concert featuring nationally acclaimed Colo-Caribbean Newgrass band plus kids’ activities and food trucks. All ages. Foote Lagoon Amphitheater, 500 E. Third Ave., LV. 6:30–9pm. www.rialtotheatercenter. org/loveland-summer-concerts. THURSDAYS, AUGUST 5, 12 & 19 Windsor Summer Concert Series August’s lineup: Funkiphino (Funk), Trouble in the Heartland (Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band), That Eighties Band (80s). Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. 6:30–8:30pm. www.recreationliveshere.com/219/ Summer-Concert-Series. FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 Movies in the Park: Shrek (G) Free outdoor movie night. Boardwalk Park, 100 N 5th St., WS. 8:30pm. 970-674-3500, www.recreationliveshere.com/movies.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Loveland Summer Concerts: Hazel Miller & The Collective Summer fun and live music featuring Hazel Miller: original, Jazz, blues, R&B and popular music. All ages. Foote Lagoon Amphitheater, 500 E. Third Ave., LV. 6:30–9pm. www.rialtotheatercenter.org/ loveland-summer-concerts. AUGUST 13 & 14 Toughest Monster Trucks Tour See several of the nation’s best monster trucks including Bigfoot, Dirt Crew, Quad Chaos and more competing in nail-biting races, wheelies and a free-for-all freestyle! The Ranch Event Complex, 5280 Arena Circle, LV. Friday 7:30pm, Saturday 1pm, 7:30pm. www.treventscomplex.com/events. SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 Garden Concert Series: Carpe Diem String Quartet Monthly socially distanced outdoor concert series through October. Seating limited to 100 people. Various FC locations. Times/ticket prices vary. www.offthehookarts.org/gardenseries.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 19 Loveland Summer Concerts: Bonnie & Taylor Sims Summer fun and live music featuring mandolin and flat-top guitar musicians. All ages. Foote Lagoon Amphitheater, 500 E. Third Ave., LV. 6:30–9pm. www.rialtotheatercenter. org/loveland-summer-concerts.

SATURDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER Yoga in The Gardens on Spring Creek Embrace natural outdoor setting of botanical gardens. Registration required. All skill levels. Ages 13+. $15/class. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9–10am. 970-416-2486 www.fcgov.com/gardens/yoga.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 Bach is Back: Brandenburg Concertos Fort Collins Symphony presents Johann Sebastian Bach’s six lively and colorful Brandenburg Concertos. All ages. $35/ adult; $8/student or child. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 5–8pm. www.lctix.com/bach-is-back.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 Thompson Education Foundation (TEF) Golf Tournament All proceeds benefit TEF’s Dr. Stan Scheer Memorial Student Opportunity Fund. Mariana Butte Golf Course, 701 Clubhouse Dr., LV. 7:30am. www.thompsontef.org/golf-tournament.

ACTIVE-ITIES

TUESDAYS, AUGUST 10, 17, 24, 31 Lory Summer Trail Series 5K–12K Fun series of races that give newer trail runners an opportunity to race and experienced racers a chance to sharpen their speed on shorter, quicker courses. Pizza/beer provided after. $25/race or $80/series. Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr., Bellvue. 6pm. https://gnarrunners.com/summer-trail-series.

WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1 Yoga in the Park Presented By: Sun Breath Yoga. $15. Spring Park, 2100 Matthews St., FC. 5:30–6:30pm. www.sunbreathyoga.com.

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 12th Annual NoCo Sloshball Tournament Partake in this goofy sport combined of kickball, softball, kegs and costumes! A portion of proceeds go to Animal Friends Alliance. Ages 21+. $30/person. Loveland Sports Park, 950 N. Boyd Lake Ave., LV. 10am. www.mybigdaycompany.com/sloshball. ONGOING RECREATION & FITNESS Estes Valley: https://evrpd.colorado.gov/ recreation Fort Collins: www.fcgov.com/recreation Greeley: https://greeleyrec.com Loveland: www.lovgov.org/services/parksrecreation Windsor: www.recreationliveshere.com

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Dreaming of Summer? Book your campsite or lodging early! CAMPING • LODGING • RESTAURANT

970-881-2450 • BeaverMeadows.com info@beavermeadows.com • Red Feather Lakes 40

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time out Back to…. Normal? So many changes

LEA HANSON

s we pack up our quarantined lives, we face changes that seem big and small. And, if you’re anything like me, most of these changes seem big, no matter how small they are. When I enter a place of business without a mask, I still feel like I accidentally forgot my pants. And when my child asks if she needs to wear one, I tell her it’s up to her—even though in my head I’m thinking pleasewearitpleasewearit. Online school won’t be an option for most of our families this year, so I’m on edge thinking about how it’s going to feel sending my daughter off to the old brick and mortar in a few weeks. Last year, I cried a little picking up her Chrome Book and this year I’ll probably cry a little wondering if she’ll actually be there for more than a few weeks at time. In real life, I study generational demography (that means studying the social structures that make a generation… well, a generation) and one of the things that each generation has is a “shared traumatic event.” Clearly, for our kids, their generational shared traumatic event will be the COVID-19 pandemic and the way that all plays out in their lives as they get older is yet to be known. It worries me! Will kids be more fearful of public places? Will there be more hypochondriacs? If there are, how will that impact their lives as they get older, go to college, get jobs? How will they interact with strangers? Start dating? Oh my. When I think of the changes organizations, schools, workplaces, businesses, etc. need to make to prepare for real life again, I think, “What even IS real life?” Many aspects of our lives have changed and may never be the same. And many things will—and have already—snapped right back to how they 42

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used to be with not much disruption. One of the main changes that will need to made is the one big one I fear will be overlooked: emotional and interpersonal adjustments. Kids at school are going to have fears that would have seemed silly or even unheard of before. And teachers will have to deal with that. Some kids won’t ride the bus or be able to join sport teams due to family expectations about contact and closeness—how will that affect kids’ development of team and camaraderie? Will kids who got COVID be treated differently by

the kids who didn’t? The list goes on and on. My general approach to life and work is to trust the process and know that things emerge. We might not know now what the end result is, but we can usually see the next right step. And then the next. Eventually, the end emerges and it all feels okay… but we had no idea what to expect when we began the journey. Even though I know it’s probably going to end up fine, it troubles and worries me not to yet know how that will play out. But, such is life….?

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