2017-2018 GUIDE TO
High School Options
Superintendent’s Message Dear Parents and Guardians, Thank you for your unwavering support of St. Vrain Valley Schools. Your outstanding dedication to the well-being and success of our students, teachers, staff and schools is a testament to our incredible community. Among our many high-quality programs, we are very proud of the outstanding portfolio of instructional options available across our high schools. Choosing a high school for your student is an important and personal step in charting their future path. Toward this end, St. Vrain offers a diverse and extensive selection of rigorous academic programs that give your student a choice in selecting a school that best aligns with their interests and educational goals. Our many high school options include instructional focus academies in aerospace and engineering, energy, biomedical engineering, business, medical and biosciences, leadership, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), and visual and performing arts. Other excellent instructional programs across St. Vrain include honors courses, Advanced Placement and AP Capstone courses, International Baccalaureate, CU Succeed Gold and Silver, P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School), our virtual Online Global Academy and the Career Development Center. Successful completion of many of these programs can result in a full year or more of transferable college credit prior to graduation. In the 2016-2017 school year, St. Vrain Valley students had the opportunity to earn 15,534 college credits, saving families approximately $9 million of in-state tuition at four-year universities. Student engagement is an important part of any comprehensive high school experience. Accordingly, St. Vrain offers a robust selection of co-curricular activities and enrichment options in every school throughout our district. Students can participate in the arts, music programs, athletics and many other high-quality activities that further support the development of well-rounded citizens who embody teamwork, leadership and strong character. This is a very exciting time in our schools as we continue to ensure student success and a strong competitive advantage for a globalized 21st-century economy. St. Vrain Valley Schools’ college preparatory and high-quality instructional focus programs – delivered through rigorous courses and engaging activities – ensure that your student will receive a world-class high school education. I encourage you to review our 2017-2018 Guide to High School Options and hope that you will attend some of our upcoming open house events. Take care, and as always, thank you for your continued support! Sincerely, Don Haddad, Ed.D. 303-682-7205 haddad_don@svvsd.org Twitter: @SVVSDSupt
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Table of Contents 3
Open House Schedule
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Instructional Focus Programs
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Graduation Requirements
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Erie High School
7
Frederick High School
8
Longmont High School
9
Lyons Senior High School
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Mead High School
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Niwot High School
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Olde Columbine High School
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Silver Creek High School
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Skyline High School
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St. Vrain Online Global Academy
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APEX Homeschool Program
17
Career Development Center
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Twin Peaks Charter Academy
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College Credit Opportunities
Open House Schedule November 28 Silver Creek High School, 6:00 p.m. November 29 Career Development Center, 3:00 p.m. Lyons Senior High School, 6:00 p.m. November 30 Frederick High School, 6:00 p.m. Niwot High School, 6:30 p.m. December 4 Skyline High School, 6:00 p.m. December 5 Erie High School, 6:00 p.m. December 6 Olde Columbine High School, 3:00 p.m. Longmont High School, 6:00 p.m. December 11 Mead High School, 6:00 p.m. December 13 Twin Peaks Charter Academy, 6:00 p.m. The 2017-2018 Guide to High School Options was produced in-house by St. Vrain Valley Schools’ Department of Communications. Funding for printing and distribution supported by:
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Instructional Focus Programs Available Content Specific Focus Programs International Baccalaureate The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is an internationally recognized, comprehensive curriculum that leads to a high school diploma and a prestigious IB diploma. Selective and competitive colleges and universities around the world recognize the IB Diploma. Offered at Niwot High School, IB course grades are weighted, and when the program is successfully completed, the student earns between 24 and 40 college credit hours. IB graduates are guaranteed admission to all Colorado state colleges and universities. STEM Academy The STEM Academy is a rigorous academic program at Skyline High School that exposes students to coursework in creative and advanced engineering, project design, workplace collaboration and leadership. Engineering Ph.D. fellows from the University of Colorado work directly with Skyline faculty and students. STEM graduates have the opportunity to earn guaranteed admission to the CU College of Engineering. Medical and BioScience Academy The Medical and Bioscience Academy at Longmont High School offers rigorous college-preparatory curricula that prepares students for admission to postsecondary programs in medicine, research and allied health sciences. In partnership with state universities, community colleges and community business partners, students will experience challenging coursework, interact with health science professionals, develop hands-on skills through internships and apply technology to reallife problems. Leadership Academy The Silver Creek Leadership Academy provides the foundation for world-class leaders. This four year program takes students on a journey beginning with: 9th Grade Foundations of Leadership, 10th Grade International Leadership, 11th Grade Community and Local Leadership, and culminating with the 12th Grade Senior Capstone Project.
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Advanced Placement The College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a nationally recognized academic program designed to provide motivated high school students with weighted, dual-credit college-level courses. Students build study skills for a successful college experience. AP courses give students the opportunity to earn college credit, save on tuition, and graduate college in less than four years. AP courses are available at all high schools. Engineering and Aerospace Academy Erie High School is embarking into a new era of taking academic excellence to the next level through its Engineering Focus Program. Students are able to enroll in exciting classes which introduce the concepts of engineering design, automation, computer science and software design over their four years of high school. Students who complete three years of study prior to their senior year will enroll in a research and seminar capstone project. Their research is around an open-ended “real-life” problem which needs solving. Biomedical Sciences Program DNA analysis, identification of disease biomarkers, hands-on anatomy study...these are just a few of the specialized experiences now available to students enrolled in the Biomedical Sciences Program at Frederick High School. Developed through Project Lead the Way, this new program gives students a chance to lead their own experience through specialized course-work and real-world applications that prepare students for the rigors of advanced university study and STEM careers. Energy Academy The Mead Energy Academy is a unique program that offers a secondary public education devoted to the principles of energy. The program will require core courses of all students while offering a choice between academic college-bound course work and practical workforce-ready course work. Cross-curricular courses in math, science, social studies, language arts, business and more will be taught to support our energy focus.
CU Succeed Gold and Silver Programs St. Vrain offers college courses through the CU Succeed Program. The program provides students the opportunity to take college courses during high school hours while simultaneously earning college credits through the University of Colorado at Denver. Students take a qualifying course at a weighted grade and receive college credit at a fraction of the cost of most university courses. The CU Succeed Gold and Silver courses help position students for academic scholarships. Visual and Performing Arts The Visual and Performing Arts Academy at Skyline High School is the only grades 9-12 arts academy in the St. Vrain Valley School District. As the designated VPA school, Skyline is able to offer a wide variety of courses in the visual arts, theater, dance and music. Some of these unique course offerings include Voice Performance, Stage Technology, Advanced Dance and Drama courses, AP and Non-AP Music Theory, Music Technology, Digital Animation and Video Production. High School of Business High School of Business™ is designed much like a college business administration program. Offered at Longmont High School, students take approximately one course per semester, beginning with Principles of Business. The program continues with courses in various business functions concluding with an internship and a capstone course. In the capstone course, Business Strategies, students use what they have learned from the first five courses to open and run their own business. In addition, students can earn six credit hours from the University of Coloardo Denver and three credit hours from University of Northern Colorado.
Graduation Requirements Graduation Requirements – Class of 2022 As a member of the Class of 2022, students will graduate under the state’s new graduation requirements. In 2007, the Colorado Legislature passed a bill requiring the development of new state high school graduation guidelines, and last year the Colorado State Board of Education approved the revised state graduation guidelines. Colorado school districts must begin to implement the revised local high school graduation guidelines to meet or exceed the state guidelines with the graduating Class of 2020-21. Coursework and credit hours were already a rigorous focus of St. Vrain’s graduation requirements but are now part of a three-pronged approach designed to educate and prepare students to become wellrounded citizens who are prepared for success in the competitive global economy. In order to graduate, students must complete the following three components before leaving St. Vrain: •• Graduates will create and successfully complete an Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP). The ICAP will serve as their roadmap to graduation and postsecondary readiness. Elements of the ICAP include career and college interests, written postsecondary goals, service learning and work experience, college application(s) and/or resumes, academic progress and assessment scores. •• Graduates will be required to complete a minimum of 24.5 credits. The total credits of coursework has not changed from current graduation requirements. •• Graduates will need to demonstrate college and career readiness in both English and math through at least one measurable assessment option in each area. The district currently offers 11 acceptable options in both English and math.
ICAP
COURSEWORK AND CREDITS
Graduates will develop and successfully complete an ICAP. The following indicators will assist graduates in exploring successful completion of their ICAP:
Graduates will complete a total of 24.5 credits in grades 9-12 to graduate. Credits must include: English 4 Social Studies 3 Financial Literacy .5 Mathematics 3 Science 3 Physical Education 2 Practical Arts .5 Fine Arts .5 Health .5 General Electives 7.5
•• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••
Self-Awareness Career Awareness Postsecondary Aspirations Postsecondary Options Environmental Expectations Academic Planning Employability Skills Financial Literacy
Students can also earn credits through: Honors and Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Concurrent Enrollment, online courses, the Career Development Center, and focus academies in energy, engineering and aerospace, medical and biosciences, leadership, business, STEM, and visual and performing arts.
Learn more at stvra.in/graduation
Graduates will demonstrate college or career readiness in both English and math based on at least ONE measure listed in each concentration: ACCUPLACER - a computerized test that assesses reading, writing, math and computer skills. ACT - a national college admissions exam. It measures four subjects - English, reading, math and science. ACT COMPASS - a computerized test that helps colleges evaluate students’ skills and place them in appropriate courses. ACT WorkKeys - an assessment that tests students’ job skills in applied reading, writing, math and 21st century skills. AP EXAMS - test students’ ability to perform at a collegiate level. Districts choose which AP exams will fulfill this menu option. ASVAB - a comprehensive test that helps determine students’ eligibility and suitability for careers in the military. CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT - provides students the opportunity to enroll in postsecondary courses, while simultaneously earning high school and college credit. DISTRICT CAPSTONE - the culminating exhibition of a student’s project or experience that demonstrates academic and intellectual learning. Capstone projects often include a portfolio of a student’s best work. INDUSTRY CERTIFICATE - a credential recognized by business and industry. Industry certificates measure a student’s competency in an occupation, and they validate a knowledge base and skills that show mastery in a particular industry. INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) - IB exams assess students enrolled in the official IB Diploma Programme. Courses are offered only at authorized IB World Schools. SAT - a college entrance exam that is accepted or required at nearly all four-year colleges and universities in the U.S.
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@GOERIETIGERS
@ERIEHIGHSCHOOL
Erie High FOCUS
Academy of Engineering and Aerospace, AP Capstone Diploma PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Matt Buchler
1161 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
3180 County Road 5, Erie, CO 80516 303-828-4213 ehs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Tigers
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Home to St. Vrain’s only Academy of Engineering and Aerospace •• Erie High School offers the AP Capstone ™ diploma program •• Students can earn 65 hours of college credit by participating in these options: 18 College Board Advanced Placement courses, eight Front Range Community College courses and CU Succeed’s college credit program •• Erie High School offers four levels of Mandarin Chinese in cooperation with the Confucius Institute •• Students have received state and national recognition, including Boettcher Scholarships and National Merit Scholarship finalists •• Erie High boasts several successful athletic and performing arts programs, including a nationally ranked girls softball team and many state championships and recognitions in athletics, choral, Jazz Band, and visual and performing arts •• Home of the Erie Tiger Network, a nationally recognized student broadcasting program.
Advanced Placement (AP): 18 weighted grade courses Honors: 13 weighted grade courses Front Range Postsecondary College Credit Transfer: Eight courses
Co-Curricular Activities Girls Who Code, MESA Club, National Honor Society, Newspaper, Student Government, Yearbook, and elective courses such as Computer Programming, Multimedia, Music Technology and Studio Art
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Choir, Color Guard, Concert Band, Guitar, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Music Technology, Orchestra, Percussion and Small Ensemble Art: Animation, Ceramics, Computer Graphics, Digital Photography, Drawing, Jewelry, Multimedia, Painting, Photography, Sculpture, Studio Art and Web Design Theater and Dance: Annual theater and musical productions and competitive dance teams perform in a state-of-the-art auditorium
Megan Weigand Class of 2017 BOSTON UNIVERSITY | BIOLOGY
What teacher has had the biggest impact on your success so far? It is impossible for me to choose one teacher that has had the biggest impact on my success, so the two that have helped me the most are Ms. Todd and Ms. Gentert for always pushing and inspiring me. They truly cared about my success and made sure to check in personally as well as academically.
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Open House: December 5, 6:00 p.m.
FREDERICKHSWARRIORS
@FREDERICK_HS
Frederick High FOCUS
CU Succeed, Biomedical Sciences PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Brian Young
1020 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
5690 Tipple Parkway, Frederick, CO 80504 303-833-3533 fhs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Warriors
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Rigorous academics offered while maintaining strong interpersonal relationships among students and staff with a school culture and programming dedicated to partnerships and student well-being •• Students can earn high school credit and up to 68 transferable college credits from CU Denver – in addition to AP courses and courses through FRCC •• A STEM program featuring Interactive Media and Information Technology with threads of study including Java Programming, Video Production, Digital Art, Graphic Design and Music Technology •• Students participate in an advisory program, allowing time to plan and prepare for postsecondary opportunities, connect with teachers weekly and prepare an Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) •• An expanding Biomedical Science program designed to prepare students for various college and career pathways in the growing biomedical field through partnerships with CSU, the Innovation Center and local industry professionals – a Pathways in Technology Early College High School program is being developed •• Sources of Strength curriculum to enhance climate and culture by promoting the strengths of each individual student •• Mandarin Chinese classes with over 120 students from all grades •• Home to the district’s most modern, LEED certified, high school
Advanced Placement (AP): 15 weighted grade courses CU Succeed Gold program: 16 college credit courses Honors: Eight weighted grade courses Front Range Postsecondary College Credit Transfer: Four courses
Co-Curricular Activities MESA Club, National Honor Society, Student Government, Yearbook, and elective courses such as Computer Programming, Multimedia, Music Technology and Studio Art
Riley Juenemann Class of 2017
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, dance, football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Advanced Jazz Band, AP Music Theory, Choir, Concert Choir, Color Guard, Guitar, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Music Technology, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, Piano and Symphonic Band Art: Advanced Drawing and Painting, Digital Photography, Drama, Graphic Design, Jewelry, Multimedia, Sculpture, Stage Tech and Video Production Theater & Dance: Annual fall musical, two plays in the spring and an evening of one-acts, directed by seniors in May
TULANE UNIVERSITY | MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE
What teacher has had the biggest impact on your success so far? The teacher that has been most influential to me during my time at Frederick High School is Mrs. Smith. I’ve had the privilege to get to know her both inside and outside of the classroom through our Gifted and Talented program. Since my first year at Frederick High School, Mrs. Smith has always checked in with me to ensure that I was successful, but also challenged.
Open House: November 30, 6:00 p.m.
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@LHSTROJANWAY
@LHSTROJANWAY
Longmont High FOCUS
AP, Honors, Medical and BioScience Academy, High School of Business PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Rick Olsen
1,299 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
1040 Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-6014 lhs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Trojans
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• One of the state’s largest selections of AP and CU Succeed Gold courses •• Medical and BioScience Academy (MBSA) •• STEM education through engineering and computer science. •• High School of Business (HSB) Pathway Program •• Active partnerships with University of Colorado Denver, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University and the University of Northern Colorado •• 75 percent student participation in co-curricular activities •• Over 60 percent of Longmont High students are enrolled in AP, Honors and MBSA coursework •• Longmont High School Foundation and alumni award $200,000 in scholarships exclusively to Longmont High graduates each year •• Longmont High School has produced 69 National Merit Scholars and 16 Boettcher Scholars
Advanced Placement (AP): 23 weighted grade courses CU Succeed Gold: 11 weighted grade courses Honors: 15 weighted grade courses MBSA: Guaranteed acceptance agreement with CU Denver and Colorado State University; partnering with Longmont United Hospital HSB: Earn college credits through University of Northern Colorado’s Monfort College of Business
Clubs, Activities and Electives Leadership Forum, MESA Club, National Honor Society, Student Council, Yearbook, Forensics, Chinese, French, Spanish, Computer Programming, Video Production, Web Design and Robotics
Jake Drewes Class of 2017
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, football, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Acoustic Guitar, Advanced Jazz Band, AP Music Theory, Band, Bel Canto, Advanced Women’s Choir, Chamber Singers, Color Guard, History of Rock and Roll, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Mariachi, Men and Women’s Choir, Music Technology, Orchestra, Orpheus - Advanced Men’s Choir, Percussion, Steel Drums, String Orchestra and Symphonic Orchestra Art: Animation, AP Studio Art, Ceramics, Computer Graphics, Digital Photography, Drawing, Jewelry, Painting and Sculpture Theater and Dance: Three major theater productions annually
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER | NEUROSCIENCE OR STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY
What teacher has had the biggest impact on your success so far? I would say my band teachers, Sue Riffe, Chad Lemons, David Merrill and Darryl Abrahamson, have had a very large impact on my success in school. Music taught me discipline, integrity and teamwork. These teachers helped me bring these lessons to my other classes.
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Open House: December 6, 6:00 p.m.
@LYONSLIONSCO
Lyons Senior High FOCUS
CSU Online Partnership INTERIM PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Dennis Daly
417 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
100 McConnell Drive, Lyons, CO 80540 303-823-6631 lmshs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Lions
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• College coursework offered through a Colorado State University online partnership; concurrent enrollment options available with University of Colorado and Front Range Community College •• Scored in the top eight percent of all high schools on state testing scores in Colorado •• Rated as a top high school in 2017 according to U.S. News and World Report •• Outstanding athletics, band, choir and drama programs have received numerous state and district recognitions •• Approximately 88 percent of Lyons Senior High students participate in band, choir, drama and/or athletics •• Students are highly engaged, enthusiastic and positive •• Supportive community culture and school environment •• Over 90 percent of graduating seniors are accepted for and commit to two and/or four year college opportunities
CSU online partnership offers college credits Advanced Placement (AP): Seven weighted grade courses Honors: Four weighted grade courses
Co-Curricular Activities Mountain Bike Club, Chess Club, National Honor Society, Student Government, Yearbook, and elective courses such as Technology, Robotics, Music Technology and Studio Art
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, football, softball, track, wrestling and volleyball
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Mixed Choir, Show Choir, Guitar and Music Technology Art: Computer Graphics, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture and Video Technology Drama: Annual full-length theatrical production; bi-annual full-length musical production
CeAnn Udovich Class of 2017 UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS | MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
What’s a favorite memory from your time at St. Vrain? All of the sporting events. Whether it was a pep bus for basketball, volleyball, or track and cross country meets – cheering for sports was an easy way to enjoy time with friends and community members.
Open House: November 29, 6:00 p.m.
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@MEADHS
Mead High FOCUS
Energy Academy, AP Capstone Diploma PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Rachael Ayers
1,115 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
12750 County Rd. 7, Longmont, CO 80504 720-494-3940 mhs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Mavericks
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Home to St. Vrain’s Energy Academy, a unique program devoted to the principles of energy, in partnership with energy professionals, that prepares students for college studies, technical education, certification programs and the workforce •• Mead offers the AP Capstone™ diploma, along with 22 AP course offerings. This diploma designation signifies outstanding academic achievement and attainment of college-level academic and research skills. •• Highly educated, experienced and student-centered faculty - 86 percent of teaching staff has a master’s degree •• Over 75 percent of student body actively participate in co-curricular activities. Rich art, music and fine arts programs, along with state competitive athletic programs. •• Engaged, positive and civic-minded student body with strong ties to the local community •• Students honored with Boettcher Scholarships and National Merit Scholarship Awards •• Opened in 2009, Mead is a growing school community with a state-of-the-art campus
Advanced Placement (AP): 22 weighted courses Honors: 13 courses Concurrent Enrollment: Opportunities with Front Range and Aims Community College, AP Seminar and AP Research
Co-Curricular Activities Debate, Drama Club, Family Career and Community Leaders of America, Film Club, French Club, Future Business Leaders of America, International Thespian Society, Interact, MESA, Multicultural Club, National Honor Society, Posse Mentoring Club, Robotics, Student Council, Unified Sports, Newspaper and Yearbook
Daniel Cloke Class of 2017
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, dance, football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: AP Music Theory, A Capella/ Jazz Choir, Chamber Singers, Concert Band, Guitar, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Men’s Choir, Music Technology, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, String Orchestra, Symphonic Band and Women’s Choir Art: AP Studio Art, Ceramics, Digital Photography, Drawing, Multimedia, Painting, Sculpture and Web Design Theater and Dance: Drama, Stage Technology, two annual full-length theatrical productions and a bi-annual full-length musical production
AZUSA PACIFIC UNIVERSITY | COMPUTER SCIENCE
What teacher has the biggest impact on your success so far? The teacher who has had the greatest impact on my success so far is Mrs. Nichole Rue. She saw potential in me and challenged me when I wanted to take the easiest route. She pushed me and helped me grow into the student and person I am today.
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Open House: December 11, 6:00 p.m.
@NIWOTHS
Niwot High FOCUS
International Baccalaureate (IB) PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Eric Rauschkolb
1,221 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
8989 E. Niwot Rd, Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-2550 nhs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Cougars
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Nearly 40 percent of student population enrolled in IB or Pre-IB programs •• Roughly 20 percent of student population enrolled in an Advance Placement (AP) class •• On five AP tests, the average student score was 4 plus •• 2017 top-ranked public high school in Washington Post’s annual ranking of “America’s Most Challenging Schools” •• Over 90 percent of graduates attend a college or university •• Niwot High most recently had seven National Merit Semifinalists •• Average ACT score of 24 compared to the state average 20.6 •• Since 2000, Niwot High has won nine athletic state championships •• Girls’ track and field has won the state championships three out of the last four years •• Girls’ gymnastics won the state championship in 2015 •• Performing arts groups have performed on Broadway and at Disneyland and Disney World •• Computer Science and Engineering Pathways - Project Lead the Way courses include Intro Programming, Intro App Development, AP Computer Science and Intro Engineering
International Baccalaureate: 20 weighted grade courses Advanced Placement (AP): 12 weighted grade courses Honors/Niwot Pre IB: Six weighted grade courses
Co-Curricular Activities Coding Club, Film and Photography Club, National Honor Society, Student Government, Wellness Club, Yearbook, and elective courses such as Music Technology, Multimedia, Computer Programming and Studio Art
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, dance, football, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Chamber Singers, Color Guard, Concert Choir, Evenstar, Guitar, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Music Theory, Sedalia, String Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Symphonic Orchestra and Treble Choir Art: Animation, Ceramics, Drawing, Digital Photography, Jewelry, Painting and Sculpture Theater and Dance: Annual productions in upgraded auditorium
Eva Kitlen Class of 2017 BROWN UNIVERSITY | NEUROSCIENCE AND ENGLISH
What’s a favorite memory from your time at St. Vrain? One of my favorite memories from my 13 years at St. Vrain is competing in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in seventh and eighth grade. I loved having the opportunity to study linguistics and etymology in depth and this sparked my interest in writing and studying the role of language in society.
Open House: November 30, 6:30 p.m.
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@OLDECOLUMBINELONGMONTCO
Olde Columbine High FOCUS
Alternative High School PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Deniece Cook
130 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 720-494-3961 ochs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Eagles
Highlights
Special Programming
•• For over 20 years, Olde Columbine High School has been an excellent alternative high school within St. Vrain Valley Schools •• Olde Columbine offers a St. Vrain Valley Schools high school diploma with the same graduation requirements in a small, community-oriented environment •• Diversity and creativity are welcomed and honored
•• The Discovery Program serves as the foundation of school culture and is utilized to develop a strong sense of community and a support system for all. The program teaches positive social skills, behavior management strategies, culture development and experiential activities. •• Work study, e-credit and shifting to a block schedule allows students to earn credit at an accelerated pace in order to make up lost credits •• Alternative Cooperative Education is a career and technical education program that is designed to build general employment skills •• The Teen Parenting Program offers specialized classes for teen parents and expecting teens, while providing students the opportunity to use a campus nursery that cares for infants and toddlers up to 18 months of age •• Being in the same building allows OCHS students direct access to all of the career and technical programs offered at the Career Development Center
Life Skills, Fun and Social Interaction •• Career, Volunteer and Diversity Day events; team-building ropes courses •• Governance, a bi-monthly meeting conducted by students, provides the opportunity to experience the democratic process and to have a voice •• Expanded exploration of post-secondary opportunities and development of Individual Career and Academic Plans (ICAP) through the Advisory program
Gustavo Quiroz Class of 2017 POSTSECONDARY PLANS: AUGUSTE ESCOFFIER SCHOOL OF CULINARY ARTS
What’s a favorite memory from your time at St. Vrain? My favorite memory of my time in St. Vrain is when I got motivated and decided to finish school and graduate. When I did that, I chose to attend Olde Columbine High School where I got the support I needed. It was the greatest time I’ve had in all my time in St. Vrain Valley Schools.
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Open House: December 6, 3:00 p.m.
@ERICKFINNESTEAD
Silver Creek High FOCUS
Leadership Academy PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Erick Finnestead
1,370 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
4901 Nelson Road, Longmont, CO 80503 720-494-3721 schs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Raptors
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Over 90 percent of graduates attend a two-year or four-year college/university •• Student honors include: Gates Millennium Scholars, Boettcher Scholars and National Merit Scholarships; appointments to the armed forces academies •• College and Career Center to assist students and families in their transition after high school, including Naviance resources •• Project Unify in collaboration with Special Olympics •• All-state musicians, vocalists and three annual theatrical performances •• Expanding curricular opportunities in science, business, entrepreneurship and computer science
Advanced Placement (AP): 18 weighted grade courses Honors courses: offered throughout 9th and 10th grade Silver Creek Leadership Academy: A four-year program emphasizing leadership through service, academic rigor, enhanced experience in technology and information literacy, real-world learning opportunities and personal growth
Co-Curricular Activities Art Club, Big Brass Band, Fiddle Group, Math Club, Raptor Leadership Club, Raptor Magazine, Student Government, Yearbook, National Honor Society and many more
Geneva Notario Class of 2017
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, track, cross country, dance, football, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Advanced Jazz Band, Bella Voce, Chamber Choir, Color Guard, Concert Band, Concert Choir, Guitar, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Orchestra, Percussion, Symphonic Orchestra and Women’s Ensemble Art: 2D & 3D Design, Advanced Drawing, Advanced Painting, AP 2D Studio Art, Ceramics I and II, Crafts, Digital Photography, Drawing, Painting, Photo I, Studio Art and Studio Photo Digital Literacy: AP Computer Science Principles, App Development, Computer Science, Intro to Computing, Intro to Programming, Music Tech, Video Production and Website Design
CORNELL UNIVERSITY | CELLULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS
What teacher has had the biggest impact on your success so far? Mr. Tucker, my eighth grade U.S. History teacher at Sunset Middle School. He was the first teacher to push me beyond my limits and show me and the world that we are all capable of so much more than we know.
Open House: November 28, 6:00 p.m.
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@SHS_PRINCIPAL
Skyline High FOCUS
STEM Academy, Visual Performing Arts Academy and P-TECH PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Heidi Ringer
1,480 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
600 E. Mt. View Ave., Longmont, CO 80504 720-494-3741 shs.svvsd.org MASCOT
Falcons
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Home of St. Vrain’s STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and VPA (visual and performing arts) academies with nearly 500 accepted students •• Falcon Tech is a Pathways in Technology Early College High School or P-TECH school. Students graduate in four to six years with a high school diploma from St. Vrain Valley Schools and an Associate of Applied Science degree from Front Range Community College. Students also receive mentorships and internships from IBM and are sought after during job interviews with IBM upon graduation. The AAS degree is at no cost to the students. •• University of Colorado College of Engineering guaranteed admissions agreement for qualified STEM graduates •• Strong business partnerships throughout the community provide resources, expertise and opportunities for students •• Race to The Top Grant recipient which includes access to the Innovation Center where students can work on research and development projects that will prepare them for future careers in STEM •• Skyline offers four world languages including Chinese, French, Italian and Spanish
Advanced Placement (AP): 17 weighted grade courses Honors: 8 weighted grade courses Front Range Postsecondary College Credit Transfer: 12 courses P-TECH: Earn a tuition-free Associate of Applied Science after completion of a high school diploma; includes internship and mentorship programs
Co-Curricular Activities Art Club, Computer Club, Newspaper, National Art Honor Society, Yearbook, National Honor Society, Peer Tutoring, Robotics Club, Student Council, and elective courses such as Business and Accounting, Computer Programming, Instrumental Music, Musical Theater, Music Theory, Studio Art and Vocal Music
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross country, dance, football, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball and wrestling
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Bel Canto Choir, Concert Band, Falconnaires, Guitar, Jazz Band, Jazz Choir, Men’s Choir, Mixed Choir, Music Technology, Orchestra, Percussion, and Piano and Composition Art: AP Studio Art, Ceramics, Computer Graphics, Drawing, Graphic Design II, Jewelry, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Video Production Theater & Dance: Beginning and advanced courses in Stage Technology, Dance and Drama
Lindsey Hamblin Class of 2017 UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO | CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
What teacher has had the biggest impact on your success so far? Mr. Frick helped me discover who I wanted to be, inspired to me to pursue high goals and opened my eyes to the world around me. He has definitely been the teacher with the most impact in my life.
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Open House: December 4, 6:00 p.m.
St. Vrain Online Global Academy FOCUS
Virtual High School (Grades 9 - 12) PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Joann Dawe
101 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 720-494-3975 svoga.svvsd.org
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• St. Vrain Online Global Academy (SVOGA) offers students a regular high school diploma in a virtual setting •• Graduates have been accepted to and attend four-year universities throughout the country including Ivy League schools •• Academic success is achieved utilizing high-quality instruction and curriculum provided by FLVS Global School •• 24/7, 365 days per year accessibility to courses and teachers •• Course scheduling flexibility and individualized instruction •• Blended classroom environment for both Algebra 1 and Geometry •• PSAT and SAT weekly classes •• Dave Ramsey’s Foundations in Personal Finance and Mawi Asgedom’s Leadership Skills Development course offerings •• Computer Science and Technology programming offered including Introduction to Information Technology, Computer Programming and Web Design •• Curriculum meets all St. Vrain Valley Schools’ graduation requirements •• Offers four world languages including Chinese I, II and III, French I and II, Latin I, II and III, and Spanish I, II and III
Advanced Placement: 15 weighted grade courses Honors: 10 weighted grade courses Concurrent Enrollment: Opportunities with Front Range Community College and University of Colorado Boulder
Co-Curricular Activities Beta Sigma Delta Math Club, Book Club, Chess Club, Creative Writing, Fine Arts, History Club, International Club, Latin Club, Model UN, National English Honor Society, National Honor Society, Newspaper, Peer Tutors, Science Club, Science Honor Society, Spanish Nuts at Practice, Speech and Debate, STEM Club, Student Ambassadors, Technology Club, Video Production, Virtual Science Fair and Yearbook. All co-curricular activities at their school of residence.
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Students may participate in athletics at their school of residence provided they meet CHSAA eligibility.
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Guitar, Music of the World, and additional opportunities available at a student’s school of residence Art: Art History and Criticism, Creative Photography and additional opportunities available at a student’s school of residence Theater and Dance: Theater, cinema film production and additional opportunities available at a student’s school of residence
Maisa Nammari Class of 2017 UNIVESRITY OF COLORADO | LINGUISTICS
What teacher has had the biggest impact on your success so far? I would say while not necessarily a teacher of a certain subject, my principal, Joann Dawe, made a great impact on my success by encouraging me and spurring me on. I have dealt with some difficult chronic illnesses in the past few years, but her constant support and belief in me is a huge reason why I am graduating this year and why I am looking forward to college and beyond.
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@APEXHOMESCHOOL
@APEXHOMESCHOOL
APEX Homeschool Program FOCUS
One-day Enrichment Program PRINCIPAL
ENROLLMENT
Sherri Schumann
136 Students (HS)
CONTACT INFORMATION
New Location Pending 720-442-2820 apexhomeschool.org MASCOT
Wolfpack
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Enrichment classes and curriculum resources in a K-12 environment to support parents who choose to be their student’s primary educator •• Students attend one full day per week for seven hours •• Highly qualified licensed teachers who are passionate about supporting homeschooling and bringing students the best of both worlds •• Small class sizes with multi-grade ranges •• High school counselor available for college guidance •• Curriculum library with hundreds of resources parents can check out for home use, most at no cost •• Courses in academic disciplines including science, math, social studies, language arts, foreign language, STEM, art, music and theater •• STEM courses in graphic design, computer technology, programming and engineering •• Access to ITBS, PSAT and SAT testing and test prep courses •• Parents remain the student’s primary educator and are responsible to set the course scope and sequence, graduation requirements and present the student’s diploma upon graduation. Students do not graduate or receive a diploma from St. Vrain or APEX
Concurrent Enrollment: Front Range Community College; Dual Credit Career Development Center: Technical and vocational education
Co-Curricular Activities MESA Club, National Honor Society, Student Government, Yearbook, and elective courses such as Computer Programming, Multimedia, Music Technology and Studio Art
Ben Gillett Class of 2017
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality APEX students can participate in sports at their local St. Vrain high school to develop sportsmanship, fitness and skills.
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Choir, Orchestra and classes in beginning through advanced Guitar Art: 2D and 3D Art, Graphic Design, Photography and participation in the district art show Theater: Four musical productions each year, technical theater and film making classes. Received several awards from the National Youth Arts, Rocky Mountain Region for production of Lion King Jr. Dance: Collaboration with Longmont Dance Theater Academy’s PBIP Program to support high-level dance students
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY | COMPUTER SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS
What’s a favorite memory from your time at St. Vrain? Through APEX, I discovered my love for musical theater and photography, had opportunities to pursue leadership roles, and made many long-lasting relationships with fellow students and with my teachers. My participation in the APEX program was also a gateway to taking classes at Front Range Community College, which served as a stepping-stone between my high school and college careers.
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@SVVSD.CDC
Career Development Center FOCUS
Career and Technical Education (CTE) PRINCIPAL
Deniece Cook CONTACT INFORMATION
1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-3333 cdc.svvsd.org
Highlights
Programs with Concurrent Enrollment Options
The Career Development Center (CDC) provides students with nine career pathway opportunities. We provide quality educational programs aligned with St. Vrain’s graduation requirements, as well as postsecondary and workforce readiness competencies. Students gain valuable technical skills as well as a seamless transition to further education or employment through concurrent enrollment and or industry certifications. In addition to concurrent enrollment (dual college and high school credit) offered in some programs, students attending the CDC have the opportunity to participate in authentic work experiences such as project-based learning, job shadowing, clinical experiences or a capstone internship with local business and industry. Any high school student (some programs do not accept ninth-grade students) from St. Vrain Valley Schools may attend the CDC. Transportation is provided to and from each home high school and CDC.
•• Automotive •• Health Sciences •• Interactive Media •• ProStart (Culinary) •• Welding
Available Programs •• Agriscience •• Automotive Technology •• Engineering Technology and Machining •• Health Sciences (Certified Nursing Assistant, Dental Assistant and Sports Medicine) •• Horticulture (Greenhouse Management) •• Interactive Media •• Welding and Fabrication
Serena Zwart-Schafer Class of 2016 COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY | AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION
What is a favorite memory from your time at St. Vrain? My fondest memories were made within the ag program at the CDC. There is no better place to develop technical skills and meet people with similar interests and motivation than within the specialized departments of the CDC. I will always look fondly upon my time within the St. Vrain Valley School District’s FFA Chapter and remember all the amazing opportunities this program gave me.
Open House: November 29, 3:00p.m.
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@TWINPEAKSCHARTERACADEMY
@TPCAK12
Twin Peaks Charter Academy FOCUS
College Preparatory High School EXEC. DIRECTOR
ENROLLMENT
Joe Mehsling
145 Students
CONTACT INFORMATION
340 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-7286 twinpeakscharter.org MASCOT
Timberwolves
Highlights
Programs with College Credit Options
•• Rigorous academics with a robust offering of Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses, world languages, advanced science and math, liberal arts, visual and performing arts, physical education and technology •• Build strength in character through our Six Pillars of Character: Responsibility, Respect, Trustworthiness, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship •• Challenges students to understand and apply knowledge to identify solutions and become responsible leaders •• Classical education founded on the “tried and true” methods of teaching •• State-of-the-art campus with technological resources, expanding athletics and new nine-acre outdoor multi-sport complex •• Five-time winner of Colorado Department of Education’s John Irwin School of Excellence Award •• College representatives from over 40 schools visit annually plus scheduled junior year college field trips •• Founded by parents in 1997, Twin Peaks Charter Academy is a parentgoverned, parent-involved charter school with a dedicated and caring faculty •• Small school atmosphere with an emphasis on community •• Proud member of CHSAA and the Mile High League
Advanced Placement: 14 weighted grade courses Honors: 8 weighted grade courses
Co-Curricular Activities Chess Club, Fencing, Geography Bee, History Day, National Honor Society, Speech and Debate, Student Government, Service Learning Projects, Spelling Bee, Robotics, Running Club, Theater and Yearbook
Athletics for Character, Discipline and Collegiality Basketball, cross country, lacrosse, track and field, and volleyball
Visual and Performing Arts Music: Choir, Jazz Band and Symphonic Band Art: Digital art, drawing, painting and sculpture Theater and Dance: Beginning and advanced theater classes, annual full-length musical and drama productions
Joseph Wanninger Class of 2017 DORDT COLLEGE | MECHANICAL ENGINEERING AND SECONDARY EDUCATION
What’s a favorite memory from your time at St. Vrain? A favorite memory of mine is the senior night game at Skyline High School. At this game, there were fans from both Twin Peaks and Skyline there to support me. It was truly amazing to see fans from different schools coming together to support the same team. I think that is something that is unique about St. Vrain and it is one of my favorite memories during my time in the district.
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Open House: December 13, 6:00p.m.
College Credit Opportunities Earn College Credits While in High School Advanced Placement (AP) The College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a nationally recognized academic program designed to provide motivated high school students with weighted, dual-credit college-level courses. Students will build study skills for a successful college experience. AP courses give students the opportunity to earn college credit, save on tuition and to graduate college in less than four years. AP courses are available at all high schools. Concurrent Enrollment Options (PSEO) Available at all high schools, the Concurrent Enrollment Program provides an opportunity for juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credit. This option is available to students who have completed a minimum of 11.5 credits toward graduation. CU Succeed Gold and Silver Programs St. Vrain offers college courses through the University of Colorado’s CU Succeed Gold and Silver Programs. The programs provide students the opportunity to take college courses during high school hours while simultaneously earning college credits through the University of Colorado Denver. Students take a qualifying course at a weighted grade and earn college credit at a fraction of the cost of most university courses. The CU Succeed Gold and Silver courses help position students for academic scholarships.
International Baccalaureate (IB) The IB Diploma Programme at Niwot High School is an internationally recognized, comprehensive curriculum that leads to a high school diploma and a prestigious IB diploma. Selective and competitive colleges and universities around the world recognize the IB Diploma. IB course grades are weighted and when the program is successfully completed, the student earns between 24 and 40 college credit hours. IB graduates are guaranteed admission to all Colorado state colleges and universities. Students who graduate with an IB Diploma begin their college careers as sophomores and are positioned for academic scholarships. Honors Honors courses prepare students for the rigor of Advanced Placement courses by introducing the writing and critical thinking skills necessary for advanced coursework. Honors courses are available at all high schools, open to freshmen and sophomores and receive a weighted grade. Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) P-TECH is a new model of education connecting high school, college and the world of work through college and industry partnerships. Offered at Skyline High, it is a model that allows students to earn a high school diploma as well as an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Front Range Community College at no cost to the student. Included with this program are significant internship and mentorship opportunities with IBM and other industry partners giving students a head start on the other side of completing the program. Students begin in ninth grade for a program that can be completed in four to six years.
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St. Vrain Valley Public School RE-1J 395 S. Pratt Parkway Longmont, CO 80501
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