Back to School by Times-Call Newspaper

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

Numerous summer achievements advance St. Vrain More than 27,000 students are preparing to return to classrooms across the district and embark on their next level of academic challenge and responsibility. This is an exciting time and as superintendent I want to extend a sincere welcome to each of our new and returning students and their families. We can’t wait to get started. Throughout the summer, district personnel have worked on a variety of initiatives to prepare for the new school year. Here’s a summary of some of the projects we’ve been attending to. • The Technology Services department installed 1,163 computers and upgraded another 10,000 operating systems at schools across the district. In addition, technicians installed more than 100 state-of-the-art “smart carts” in many classrooms in the district’s oldest schools. Each unit includes a laptop, a document camera, and a high definition projector and audio system. Two additional technology initiatives now underway are the development of an online school, which will provide a variety of online class instruction and the installation of a robust wireless system designed to ensure that all St. Vrain schools will be fully wireless by the end of the 2011 school year.

• The Learning Services department completed extended school year classes for hundreds of students. By students remaining enrolled in school throughout the summer – primarily engaged in intensive reading and writing – we are elevating the academic performance of all students. • Learning Services has been working with the Colorado Department of Education to complete a comprehensive alignment of academic standards. This initiative sharpens the focus on specific academic concepts at evHaddad ery grade level while fostering critical thinking, responsible citizenship, technology and practical life skills for success in the 21st century economy. • With regard to school facilities, our Director of Construction managed eight major school renovation and construction initiatives across the district. This summer alone, we’ve completed more than $11 million in voter-approved renovation and improvement projects. We’ve added new classrooms, science labs, upgraded security doors, wireless infrastructure and classroom data connection portals among other enhancements. We also broke ground on the construction of the new Frederick High School and have nearly completed pre-construction

planning for the new Elementary No. 26 in Erie. The high school is scheduled to open in fall 2012 and the groundbreaking for the new “Core Knowledge” elementary school is scheduled for late August. The elementary school will open in fall 2011. At no time in the past have students and families in our district had so many curriculum options to choose from. Every elementary school in the district has a complete selection of early childhood education programs and the district has added focus schools in International Baccalaureate, Science, Math and Technology, Arts and Music, Pre-Advanced Placement and Advanced Placement, to name a few. Thanks to voters, the 2008 Mill Levy Override and Bond have enabled the St. Vrain Valley School District to remain focused on improving the learning environment and keeping average class sizes low despite an unprecedented reduction in state funding. While many Colorado districts have eliminated teacher positions and programs, St. Vrain has managed to keep cuts away from students. We can also thank the successful mill and bond for increased student safety. With the community’s help, we’ve been fortunate to expand the school resource officer (SRO) program, hire additional campus supervisors and enhance safety features at schools throughout the district. We will remain dili-

gent in our commitment to strengthening and systemizing the district’s safety infrastructure and practices. During the summer, the Department of Human Resources received an extremely large number of applications for teacher and other staff positions. The number of highlyqualified and highly-experienced candidates is truly impressive and indicates the high level of interest professionals around the state have in working for St. Vrain. For every available position, we’ve had an outstanding selection of candidates. Throughout the next couple of weeks, I will visit every school and speak with hundreds of St. Vrain students. I’ll speak with them about goal-setting, leadership, hard work and acting with integrity. I’ll also take the opportunity to remind them of the highly qualified teachers and excellent resources and facilities the community has provided. Finally, throughout the coming year, the district will continue to strengthen its efforts to communicate with parents and other stakeholders, keeping you informed of our accomplishments and emerging challenges. As always, if you have questions or concerns about the district, I welcome you to contact me to discuss your ideas. Sincerely, Don Haddad Superintendent of Schools St. Vrain Valley School District

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August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

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Welcome back letter Stay stylish and on budget this year Get to know your library resources Overcoming text anxiety Pack your backpack right Advanced placement courses prepare students Technology in classrooms beneficial Must-have gadgets Boulder-based company helps kids create meals

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School district overview Successful prep for college admissions exams Private schools overview Kristi Ritter Specialty Publications Editor kkritter@times-call.com, 303-684-5275

Importance of cyber safety Pack a zero-waste lunch

Summer Stair Specialty Publications Associate Editor sstair@times-call.com, 720-494-5429

School bus safety Teen balances work and school

Contributing Writers Kate Frasure, Kendall Schoemann, Ali Wald

Know when to start preparing for school

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Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

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American kids are learning from their parents this back to school season – about value, smart investing and getting the most for every dollar spent. Developing wise spending habits is a good thing for kids, but does it mean they have to sacrifice their sense of style as they head back to school? Not necessarily, says children’s fashion expert, Jenny Cooper, head of J.Crew’s children’s line, called crewcuts, for ages 2 to 12. Children of top celebrities from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., have been spotted wearing crewcuts. “It is possible to get great style, quality and durability at familyfriendly prices,” Cooper says. “Parents should look at their children’s back-toschool wardrobe as an affordable investment, and follow a few basic rules when shopping.” • Look for sophisticated, classic styles rather than trendy clothes that may have less enduring appeal. Because something is classic doesn’t mean it lacks character and personality. Timeless style enables a wardrobe item to be usable and relevant for future seasons, whereas trendy togs are often “flash in the pan” items that may be cheaper and less durable. “Your son may

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outgrow his crewcuts by this time next year, but you’ll still be able to use the clothes next year to put his little brother in stylish, great-looking hand-me-downs,” Cooper says. • Look for quality. Choose garments made of durable, quality materials that have great details. It’s common for children to fall in love with certain articles of clothing that they wear over and over again, as any mom who’s washed the same shirt five times in a week knows. “It’s worth it to spend a little more on a few items that will look great no matter how much use and washing they get,” Cooper says. “We are obsessed with quality.” • Don’t forget fit. How often have you bought your child a pair of pants or a shirt in a particular brand, loved the fit, and went back and bought several more pairs in different styles and sizes of the same brand … only to find out that not all styles fit the same across the brand. “Fit should be consistent,” Cooper says, “so that items will look great and consistent across all ages.” • Build a wardrobe by mixing and matching key items. Just as you purchase a piece for your own wardrobe keeping in mind what it will pair well with, do the same for children’s clothes. A good pair of jeans,

Savvy school supply saving tips Students of all ages must purchase school supplies each year, and parents with more than one child in school might cringe at the costs of such supplies. Recognizing those concerns, OfficeMax, an industry leader in both office and school supply products, offers the following shopping tips to help savvy parents prepare their kids to start the school year on the right foot. • Take inventory. Unless kids threw everything in the trash on their way out of

school, chances are many of their supplies from last year are still lying around the house. While last year’s notebooks may not be reusable, locate pens, rulers and other supplies that are in good shape, and take inventory of what you can reuse and what new items should be purchased. • Make a list. Today’s school supplies are flashier than ever, essentially transforming the school supply aisle into something that would fit right in at the local toy store. Kids

smart-looking skirt and classic shirt or blouse can be worn for a variety of occasions, from dress-up to casual. “Try to keep a core of neutral-colored items – pants for boys, skirts for girls – that will go with whatever fun, playful thing your children want to wear on top,” Cooper suggests. “If you establish a good base, the rest of the choices they make will always look great.” • Remember, your children’s clothes need to fit their personality, not just their body. “Our aim is to create styles that kids would create themselves if they were little fashion designers,” Cooper says. “Styles should be fun, comfortable and unique.” • Accessorize for your kids, just as you do for your own wardrobe. For boys, a pop of color in the socks instantly gives a little guy a twist of personality. For girls, look for jewelry that looks like the real thing, rather than gumball jewelry, and don’t forget hair accessories to really crown a look. • Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of good shoes, whether they are dress shoes, casual shoes or sneakers. You child’s shoes should be durable enough to survive the season of tumble and fun, and goodlooking so that your child wants to wear them again and again.

are mesmerized by the school supply aisle, so parents should make a list to avoid overspending. • Start shopping early. Many of today’s teachers post a class syllabus online well in advance of the first day of school. The syllabus typically lists the supplies and textbooks the class requires. With a vast and ongoing stock, OfficeMax boasts an extensive inventory of school supplies that help parents and students secure the materials they need throughout the year and save money. – Metro Creative Services

August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

Getting cozy with the library By Kendall Schoemann Longmont Times-Call

When you give a student a book, he will learn for a day. Show the student where to find the book and he learns everyday. As we rely more on technology as a source of communication and education, it is vital that students get to know their secret weapon, the library. Joanne Connelly, the librarian at Longmont High School for six years, says the art of reading is still very much alive. “Print libraries are not dead,” she says. “We have an excellent young fiction section.” So popular in fact that she is constantly restocking the library’s four copies of the Twilight series. Libraries are actually increasing in circulation, according to Judith Anderson, the director of Longmont Public Library. “We are seeing an overall increase in Internet and computer use,” she says. “It makes sense to borrow items in a time when people are trying to save money.” Not only are library books virtually free,

they are also all accurate. “The books on our shelves have all been reviewed,” Anderson says. “Everything here is prescreened.” In addition to an extensive book collection, libraries offer an array of unparalleled resources. Connelly says when it comes to research, what you do not know can hurt you. “The Internet can be a great compliment resource, but should not be the only source,” she says. We all have a go-to search engine and rarely stray from it, which is a common research mistake. The skill of finding, evaluating and effectively using information is vital for any child regardless of their future career. Developing good research habits starts in the library. Databases are a crucial element to libraries. They hold accurate, rare and specific information. The Longmont Public Library subscribes to 11 databases, some of which can be accessed from home with a library card. Databases are worth the small amount of time it takes to get used to them. “Students

Finding useful information online Here are some tips to help your child find accurate information online.

books, reference books available through the computer, are also a convenient way to get the same information from those heavy reference books at the library in an easier form.

If they use Google Search engines are good for getting a sense of the information. It is important to make sure they dig deeper than this to fully understand the material. Databases Check out your school and public library’s database collection. They are easy to use and have the best information. E-reference

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Elysia Figueroa, 4, reads "There's a Dolphin in the Grand Canal" while visiting the Longmont Public Library with her aunt, Hannah Figueroa. (Paul Litman/Times-Call)

will come in looking for specific information and I will direct them to the appropriate database,” Connelly says. “But then they will come back later and start from ground zero again.” Instead of going to the library just when an assignment warrants it, students should take time at the beginning of the school year to familiarize themselves with resource options. It is next to impossible for one librarian to teach her entire audience everything the library offers. “I think librarians should teach a comprehensive tutorial for every ninth grade student,” Connelly says. “And technology is changing so fast, I could teach a follow up course each subsequent year.” Until library 101 is offered at schools, it is up to students and parents to take advantage of this academic opportunity. “If the parent is comfortable going to the library, then the child will be,” Connelly says. “But if they are not, chances are their

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children will not be either.” Parents can start looking into their child’s library by going to it’s website, exploring the venue and asking the librarian questions. Once they know what is available they can better monitor their kids as they undergo the research process. Next to the endless amount of available websites, libraries might seem like archaic institutions filled with useless, dusty books, but the truth is, libraries are constantly changing and updating with technology. Understanding the library and making sure your children understand it will help close the gap of today’s ignorance. Libraries and the Internet are not in competition. They overlap in many areas and should both be used in understanding concepts fully. “Kids are not afraid of computers, they’ve grown up with them,” Connelly says. “Their downfall is that they think they can find everything on there.”

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Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

Relax! It’s just a test Longmont Times-Call

Test day is quickly approaching. Whether it be spelling, geometry or Spanish, tests can be undeniably nerve racking, and in some cases they can cause serious anxiety for your child. Lucky for you and most importantly your child, test anxiety can be left behind by putting a few simple tricks to use. The most important thing to have before going into a test is confidence. Bob Smith, CEO of Huntington Learning Center in Longmont says, “Many kids suffer from test anxiety strictly because they are not confident in their test taking skills.” In order to gain confidence, it is important to be prepared for the test. Brenda Everett, a counselor at Heritage Middle School in Longmont, suggests taking practice tests at home. Practice tests familiarize the mind for what’s to come. Try timed tests to make the test taking environment more realistic. “Get on the computer. There are model tests kids can take over and over,” she says. Model testing helps

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build the confidence your child will need when entering the classroom on test day. Schools are also making an effort to help build confidence in students. “We are working on some curriculum to be sure that kids know how to study and feel confident in preparing for tests,” Everett says about Heritage. If your child does not know test-taking skills, such as how to approach multiple choice questions or how to properly approach the reading comprehension section, this will cause nervousness. With test anxiety comes common symptoms such as sweating, getting emotional and sometimes not being able to recall information while taking a test, according to Everett. This usually happens because the test taker loses confidence when he or she comes

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across a tough question. When a child becomes anxious he or she may forget to employ a strategy, one of the most important things while taking a test. “The best test taking strategy is to know yourself as a test taker,” Smith says. “What kind of things do you do well on and not so well on?” If there is a question that’s troubling your child he or she should move on to a different question and go back to the tough one later. Smith says that doing the parts of the test that they are good at can help build their confidence and give them a running head start during the test. Another crucial aspect of being able to do well in a test environment is relaxation. “Things as simple as closing your eyes and deep breathing can help,” Everett says. “Kids can do these things without looking weird, which is very important to them.” Help your kids find the confidence they need in order to succeed by making sure they are prepared for test day. “Every parent should show engagement in their children’s work,” Smith says. If you have confidence in your child, he or she will also have confidence.

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Have your child’s back Longmont Times-Call

Whether it is decorated with power rangers or polka dots, or stuffed with soccer gear or school supplies, backpacks are undeniably useful in keeping up with busy children and their belongings. However, wearing a backpack incorrectly can have detrimental consequences on young spines. It is essential that backpacks are worn properly to avoid unnecessary back complications. Dr. Kevin Mikalaitis at Align Chiropractic in Longmont says he sees many injuries in children due to heavy backpacks. “When the child has to compensate for the additional weight, it causes pain, unnatural stress and muscle spasms,” he says. While a child is still growing, a postural imbalance caused by a heavy backpack can eventually lead to more serious skeletal issues. Christy Kocjancic, a sixth grade language arts teacher at Longs Peak Middle School, says she sees many students carrying heavy backpacks. “(Students) put everything in their backpacks,” she says. “I hear them complain about the weight, but they are unwilling to make them lighter.” According to Mikalaitis, identifying when back pain occurs is the first step in preventing future strain. “Identifying the triggers helps to find out what is causing the pain and how to avoid it,” he says. If a child leans forward when wearing a backpack, if they complain of pain or if they have trouble lifting it, the backpack is too heavy. Kocjancic thinks organization is key to lightening student’s backpacks. “Students should think about what they are bringing to class, utilize their lockers

and only pack what they need,” she says. She suggests packing supplies for morning classes in a backpack, putting everything else in a locker and switching materials midday. She also recommends having a binder or bag for the basics, like paper and pencils. The ideal backpack can be found regardless of a child’s taste. As long as it has the following basics, students can then customize it to their preference.

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Keep it Close A backpack should not be more than 4 inches below the waist and should be properly padded so sharp supplies do not poke out. Use Both Straps Straps are an important element of the backpack. The area the straps cover has various nerves and blood vessels that can be pinched by unpadded straps. Straps should be well padded, and adjusted so the backpack fits correctly on the child’s back, but not too tight that it pinches a nerve. Wearing both straps helps balance the weight of the pack evenly between the shoulders. If a child wears a single strapped bag, their posture will be affected. Body Weight A child should not carry more than 10 percent of his or her body weight. Experiment using the bathroom scale to show your child how much they can safely fit into their backpack at any given time. Aim for the Middle Regardless of the current trend, the backpack should rest in the middle of the back. Also, items in the backpack should be distributed as evenly as possible.

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August 8, 2010

Advanced placement courses show dedication of students Longmont Times-Call

Advanced placement courses and examinations are becoming more popular among high school students to test their skills, show their ambition and even earn college credit. In the St. Vrain Valley School District, AP courses have been offered since at least the early 1970s, when Longmont High School first started, according to Kahle Charles, director of curriculum for the district. The courses are available for junior and senior high school students. AP courses are a step up from high school honors classes that offer advanced college freshmen-level classes that will challenge high school students through a rigorous course work that develops their writing, thinking, study habits and problem solving skills. “AP courses are a unique learning experience that will help a student exceed in college,” Charles says. “And because we see the value of the AP courses, we are rapidly expanding this at each school.” Lauren Eker, assessment coordinator for the district, says they tested 24 AP subject areas, and administered 1,500 tests in the

2009-2010 school year. But there are more, and the district is hoping to offer additional courses in the future. Charles says the district’s goal is to ultimately offer AP courses online, which will help greatly with scheduling and availability. Eker says many students take more than one class at a time, with some students taking five or six throughout the course of their high school career. “Because they are such rigorous classes, it helps them prepare for the experiences and testing they are going to have in college,” she says. Enrolling in AP courses requires a student to visit a high school counselor, who can help coordinate the set up and testing. Earning college credit for the course also depends on the university or college the student is planning to attend. However, according to Charles, under the college board of 30 courses, 90 percent of four-year colleges in the United States provided credit for qualifying scores on the exam. Because the college boards set stringent guidelines for AP courses, they know that the students taking them have had a rigorous experience with the subject matter. “If earning credit for the course can

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knock out some of those credits in college, it will also help with the financial responsibilities of college and tuition fees,” Eker says. College admission offices will also look closely at AP courses and credits earned in high school as motivation and commitment on behalf of the student. “It demonstrates that a student is mature and ready for college,” Charles says.

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Longmont Times-Call Publication

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students to meet with their teachers for one-on-one instruction. With e-mail, however, today’s students can e-mail their professors whenever a question or issue regarding their study arises. In many cases, e-mail access has improved the line of communication between student and teacher, especially among students who might be too shy to ask a question in the classroom. • Technology has improved kids’ comfort level. Many moms and dads marvel at their kids’ ability to adapt to computers. But today’s kids are not all natural born computer whizzes. Instead, they merely grew up with the technology and therefore find it more natural to work with. This has helped improve children’s comfort levels in the modern classroom, where computers have become increasingly prevalent. Nowadays, many kids are familiar, or at the least acquainted, with computers before they enter kindergarten. As a result, once they do begin school and see computers in the classroom they’re less likely to be intimidated and more likely to feel right at home.

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Since the turn of the century, technology has changed just about every aspect of life. Perhaps nowhere is that more evident than in the increasing rate of cellular phone subscribers. According to CTIA-The Wireless Association, an international nonprofit representing the wireless communications industry, cell phone subscribers totaled a little more than 86 million in 1999. By 2008, that figure had ballooned to more than 262 million, a staggering increase in such a short period of time. The growth of cell phone subscribers is indicative of the growing reliance the world has placed on technology. Few people can envision the world before cell phones were so prevalent, even though such was the case as recently as 15 years ago. While some scoff at society’s apparent dependence on technology, technology has paid innumerable dividends in many areas of life, including the classroom. Students can now access more information much more quickly than their mothers and fathers could when they were students. Such readily available access has helped students and educators in a number of ways. • Interactive websites can help kids better understand coursework. The Internet has both its advantages and disadvantages with respect to kids. One clear benefit is the use of interactive websites to help children learn. For example, children can now visit a website, read a story for class and then answer questions pertaining to what they just read. When done with a given quiz or questionnaire, kids are then shown how they fared. In many cases, these post-quiz breakdowns show kids which questions they answered right and which they answered incorrectly. Such interaction allows information to sink in instantly, as opposed to waiting until the next day in class when the materials are discussed. Interactive websites are available for most subjects, including math and spelling. • Technology has helped improve the lines of communication between students and teachers. Thanks to e-mail, today’s educators are more accessible than ever before. This is especially important when considering today’s kids tend to be busier than ever before, with school and social commitments often making it difficult for

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Metro Creative Services

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

As a new school year approaches, don’t let your student be lost in the crowd without some new tech-savvy gadgets. Staples Public Relations Manager Karen Pevenstein offers up some exclusive back-to-school technology to help your student succeed in style. –Kate Frasure

Texas Instruments TI-Nspire with TouchPad The new calculator from Texas Instruments goes beyond regular math problems to help students see math and science in a new light. TI-Nspire technology allows students to view multiple representations of a problem. Available in Staples retail stores and staples.com. $129.99 Flip Video Ultra Camcorder For class projects or documenting memories, students can easily shoot and share video anywhere at anytime with this pocket-sized camcorder. Available in black, white, yellow and pink at Staples retail stores. $149.99 Staples Flexible Calculator This bendable calculator with unique translucent and tie-dyed designs can jazz up any math class and is flexible enough to fit into any schedule. Available in Staples retail stores. $3.99 Omnitech 2GB Swivel Flash Drive With colors from black and white to multi-colored dots and peace signs, the swivel designed flash drive is a stylish and fun way to store everything students need. Available in Staples retail stores and staples.com. $9.99

Omnitech 2GB Clip-On MP3 In between classes or on campus students can’t find themselves without this clip-on MP3 player that is completely hands free. Available in black, red and blue at Staples. $29.99

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August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

ZisBoomBah helps plan school lunches for students Longmont Times-Call

Hey moms and dads, are you sick of trying to figure out what to pack your kids for lunch? Are they sick of opening their lunch box and seeing PB and J everyday? Well, now you can let them choose what to eat with a click of a button. ZisBoomBah, a new Boulder- based company, gives kids the ability to play with their food and have a voice in what they eat through the website’s online tool PickChow! The interactive online tool is easyto-use and gets kids excited about making healthy decisions. The company makes their money through advertisements, allowing it to be free for all families. “Kids can use it for free and drag and drop foods on their virtual plate,” says Brandon Saranik, media spokesperson for ZisBoomBah. After creating the meal, an email will be sent to the parents with a menu and recipes. The online tool teaches children about the foods they’re choosing and choices they’re making. PickChow! was created using the USDA’s nutritional data-set, so while

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your child is creating his or her meal, you can be sure that it is healthy and of high nutritional value. “PickChow! teaches kids about food in a fun and competitive way,” Saranik says. A child has to create a five-star meal in order for the e-mail to be sent to his or her parents. This is Jane Reagan’s daughter’s favorite part about PickChow! “It’s like a game to her, if she’s at three stars, how can she get to five?” Reagan says of her daughter. “She starts to think about what foods can be exchanged for others to make the meal healthier.” Reagan believes that since her daughter has started using PickChow!, she has become more knowledgeable about her food choices. “(She) understands the different food groups and the importance of having all of them showing up in (her) diet,” she says. Now that Reagan’s daughter is creating her own meals, Reagan has come to realize there are foods she didn’t know her child liked. “It saves me time in that I have a better idea of what my child likes,” she says. “I may not have known if she wasn’t choosing.”

Kids can go to www.zisboombah.com and plan out their school lunches and send them directly to their parents. (Courtesy ZisBoomBah)

Another cool feature of the website is that when your child signs up at ZisBoomBah, he or she will get an Antvatar to take care of. The more nutritious the meal, the more coins your child will receive. The coins can buy clothing and accessories for their Antvatar. “The Antvatars and reward system gets kids more excited about creating a fivestar meal,” Saranik says. If you have that important business meet-

ing early in the morning and don’t have time to figure out what to pack your child for lunch, ZisBoomBah is the perfect solution. Put the power in your kids’ hands and let them choose what to eat while simultaneously learning how to make nutritious choices. It’s a win-win situation. PickChow! makes food fun for kids and your life a little simpler. Visit the website at www.zisboombah.com.

TRADITIONAL COLLEGE PREP…

with a Contemporary Twist. “ At BCD, it’s cool to be smart.”

What do you want to learn today? Whether it’s learning skills for a new job, pursuing a passion, being able to help children with schoolwork, or just to stay engaged, there’s an online resource devoted to helping you! Log on today to find exciting opportunities in Longmont to ensure that you never stop learning!

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By Ali Wald

Our curriculum is a blend of old and new—tried and true methods and the latest and best instructional practices. We invite you to discover the BCD difference and call us for a tour.

Preschool – 8th Grade • www.bouldercountryday.org • 303-527-2931 BS-151509

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

St. Vrain Valley School District St. Vrain Valley is Colorado’s ninth largest school district encompassing more than 411 square miles including portions of Boulder, Weld, Larimer and Broomfield counties. The District serves 13 communities: Boulder, Broomfield, Dacono, Erie, Firestone, Frederick, Hygiene, Longmont, Lyons, Mead, Niwot, Peaceful Valley and Raymond. General information 303-776-6200 www.stvrain.k12.co.us Newsline, for updates and school closures, 303-682-7387

Alpine Elementary

Black Rock Elementary

Blue Mountain Elementary

395 S. Pratt Parkway Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-6200 www.ci.stvrain.k12.co.us

2005 Alpine St. Longmont, CO 80501 720-652-8140 http://aes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Deanna Frothingham October 2009 enrollment: 505

2000 Mountain View Blvd. Erie, CO 80516 720-890-3995 http://bres.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Cathy O’Donnell October 2009 enrollment: 781

1260 Mountain Drive Longmont, CO 80503 720-652-8220 http://bmes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Kristie Venrick October 2009 enrollment: 429

105 Lon 303 http PrePrin Oct

Erie Elementary

Fall River Elementary

Frederick Elementary

Hygiene Elementary

Ind

4137 E. County Line Road Erie, CO 80516 303-828-3395 http://ees.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Amanda Sauer October 2009 enrollment: 589

1400 Deerwood Drive Longmont, CO 80501 720-652-7920 http://fres.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Jennifer Guthals October 2009 enrollment: 543

555 Eighth St., Frederick, CO 80530, 303-833-2456 http://fes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Karen Musick October 2009 enrollment: 547

11968 N. 75th St. Longmont, CO 80503 720-652-8021 http://hes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Mike O’Donnell October 2009 enrollment: 425

133 805 http Prebilin Prin Oct

Mead Elementary

Mountain View Elementary

Niwot Elementary

Northridge Elementary

Pra

520 Welker Ave. Mead, CO 80542 970-535-4488 http://mes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Connie Brodt October 2009 enrollment: 520

1415 14th Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 720-652-8261 http://mves.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Nancy Pitz October 2009 enrollment: 368

8778 Morton Road Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-2828 http://niwotes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Mike Keppler October 2009 enrollment: 504

1200 19th Ave.Longmont, CO 80501, 303-772-3040 http://northridgees.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Lorynda Architeque-Sampson October 2009 enrollment: 413

663 ston http Prebilin Prin Oct

Coal Ridge Middle

Erie Middle

Heritage Middle

Longs Peak Middle

6201 Booth Drive Firestone, CO 80504 303-833-4176 http://crms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Brian Young October 2009 enrollment: 797

650 Main St. Erie, CO 80516 303-828-3391 http://ems.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Todd Bissell October 2009 enrollment: 494

233 E. Mountain View Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-7900 http://hms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Karrie Borski October 2009 enrollment: 423

1500 14th Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-5611 http://lpms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Mathew Buchler October 2009 enrollment: 467

620 Mea 970 http Gra Prin Oct

St. Vrain Valley School District Administration Offices

Statistical information Source: Department of Education 2009 October Count

Total enrollment: 26,724 Number of schools: 49 Elementary Schools: 25 Middle Schools: 9 Middle/Senior: 1 High Schools: 7 Adult Education: 1 Charter Schools: 5 Alternative School: 1 Student ethnic composition Source: Department of Education 2009 October Count

American Indian: 206 Asian: 997 Black: 322 Hispanic: 7,011 Caucasian: 17,112 2010-11 Budget The St. Vrain Valley School District general fund budget is $406,800,554, which includes $137,294.430 in reserves. Food services The quality food service program provides meals at a reasonable cost. School meal costs for 2009-10 are: • Breakfast: elementary, $1.25; secondary, $1.50; adults, $1.75 • Lunch: elementary, $2.25; secondary, $2.50; adults, $3 • Milk, $0.50 For students whose families qualify, a free and reduced cost program is available for meals. Weekly lunch menus are posted at schools, announced in school newsletters, published in local newspapers, televised on Comcast Cable Education & Local Access Channels and posted at www.stvrain.k12.co.us. Support Success The challenges that face students and staff in St. Vrain Valley schools Continued on 14

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August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

Burlington Elementary

Centennial Elementary

Central Elementary

Columbine Elementary

Eagle Crest Elementary

1051 S. Pratt Parkway Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-8861 http://bes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Janis Hughes October 2009 enrollment: 480

10290 Neighbors Parkway Firestone, CO 80504 720-652-8240 http://centenniales.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Keith Liddle October 2009 enrollment: 509

1020 Fourth Ave., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-776-3236 http://centrales.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Jim Hecocks October 2009 enrollment: 440

111 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-776-2840 http://columbinees.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Eddie Cloke October 2009 enrollment: 381

4444 Clover Basin Drive Longmont, CO 80503 303-485-6073 http://eces.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Ryan Ball October 2009 enrollment: 484

Indian Peaks Elementary

Legacy Elementary

Loma Linda Elementary

7701 Eagle Blvd. Frederick, CO 80504 720-652-8160 http://legacyes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Sean Corey October 2009 enrollment: 531

333 E. Mountain View Ave., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-772-4280 http://lles.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten though fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Dina Perfetti-Deany October 2009 enrollment: 443

Longmont Estates Elementary

Lyons Elementary

1335 S. Judson St., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-772-7240 http://ipes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Judy Orbanosky October 2009 enrollment: 481

Prairie Ridge Elementary

Rocky Mountain Elem.

6632 St. Vrain Ranch Blvd., Firestone, CO 80504, 720-494-3641 http://pres.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Kirsten McNeill October 2009 enrollment: 379

800 E. Fifth Ave., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-772-6750 http://rmes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Stephen Hoel October 2009 enrollment: 423

Mead Middle 620 Welker Ave. Mead, CO 80542 970-535-4446 http://mms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Josh Barnett October 2009 enrollment: 373

1601 Northwestern Road, Longmont, CO 80503, 720-652-8101 http://lees.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Brian Childress October 2009 enrollment: 488

338 High St. Lyons, CO 80540 303-823-6915 http://lyonses.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: Christa Keppler October 2009 enrollment: 269

Sanborn Elementary

Spangler Elementary

Altona Middle

2235 Vivian St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-3838 http://sanbornes.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade Principal: John Wahler October 2009 enrollment: 430

1440 Collyer St., Longmont, CO 80501, 720-494-3761 http://spangleres.stvrain.k12.co.us Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, bilingual Principal: Michelle Johnstone October 2009 enrollment: 414

4600 Clover Basin Drive Longmont, CO 80503 720-494-3980 http://ams.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades sixth through eight Principal: Joe Mehsling October 2009 enrollment: 611

Sunset Middle

Trail Ridge Middle

Westview Middle

Lyons Middle/Senior

1300 S. Sunset St Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-3963 http://sms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Dawn Macy October 2009 enrollment: 610

1000 Button Rock Drive Longmont, CO 80501 720-494-3820 http://trms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Tim Root October 2009 enrollment: 664

1651 Airport Road Longmont, CO 80503 303-772-3134 http://wms.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through eight Principal: Mark Spencer October 2009 enrollment: 624

100 S. Second Ave. Lyons, CO 80540 303-823-6631 http://lmshs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades six through 12 Principal: Greg Winger October 2009 enrollment: 441

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

Continued from 12 cannot be met without the support of parents and guardians, volunteers, and community leaders and businesses. More than 5,000 volunteers partner with our schools. Volunteers form partnerships with teachers, principals, school staff, and department staff to give selflessly of their time and expertise to supplement classroom learning and activities, fundraise for special projects, sponsor activities, participate as committee members and more.

Erie High

Frederick High

Longmont High

Mead High School

3180 WCR 5 Erie, CO 80516 303-828-4213 http://ehs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12 Principal: Steve Payne October 2009 enrollment: 699

600 Fifth St. Frederick, CO 80530 303-833-3533 http://fhs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12 Principal: Pete Vargas October 2009 enrollment: 859

1040 Sunset St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-6014 http://lhs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12 Principal: Rick Olsen October 2009 enrollment: 1,209

12750 WCR 7 Longmont, CO 80504 720-494-3940 www.stvrain.k12.co.us/schools/mhs/ Grades nine through 11 Principal: Jim Sundberg October 2009 enrollment: 330

Niwot High

Silver Creek High

Skyline High

Adult Education

8989 E. Niwot Road Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-2550 http://nhs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12, Principal: Dennis Daly October 2009 enrollment: 1,309

4901 Nelson Road Longmont, CO 80503 720-494-3721 http://schs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12 Principal: Sherri Schumann October 2009 enrollment: 1,077

600 E. Mountain View Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 720-494-3741 http://shs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12 Principal: Patty Quinones October 2009 enrollment: 1,251

820 Main St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-678-5662 http://ae.stvrain.k12.co.us Interim Coordinator: JoAnn Dawe October 2009 enrollment: 201

Olde Columbine High School / Career Development Center

Carbon Valley Academy

Flagstaff Charter Academy

4040 Coriolis Way Frederick, CO 80504 303-774-9555 www.carbonvalleyacademy.org Pre-kindergarten through grade 11 Principal: Jere Pearcy, elementary; Terry Walsh, secondary October 2009 enrollment: 440

1841 Lefthand Circle Longmont, CO 80501 303-651-7900 www.flagstaffacademy.org Kindergarten through grade eight Principal: Andrew Moore October 2009 enrollment: 675

Imagine Charter School at Firestone

Although parents make up the largest group of volunteers, senior citizens, business professionals, civic group representatives, and students also volunteer on an ongoing basis. School district leadership 2010-11 School Year • Superintendent of Schools: Don Haddad, 303-682-7205 • Chief Operations Officer: Rick Ring, 303-682-7405 • Assistant Superintendent for Student Achievement: Connie Syferd, 303-682-7328 • Area 1 Assistant Superintendent: Amy Weed, 303-682-7508 • Area 1 Assistant Superintent: Mark Mills, 303-702-7558 Assistant Superintendent of Humane Resources: David Burnison, 303-682-7237 • Chief Financial Officer: Terry Schueler, 303-682-7201 • Director of Communications: John Poynton, 303-682-7404 Board of Education District A: Rick Hammans, Vice President, 303-823-9019 District B: Debbie Lammers, Secretary, 303-652-8939 District C: Bob Smith, Assistant Secretary, 303-7762412 District D: Dori Van Lone, Treasurer, 303-665-9634 District E: John Creighton, President, 303-682-0907 District F: Rod Schmidt, Vice Member, 303-774-7913 District G: Mike Schiers, Member, 720-353-2828

1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501, 720-494-3961, 303-7723333 (CDC) http://ochs.stvrain.k12.co.us Grades nine through 12 Principal: Deniece Cook October 2009 enrollment: 105

5753 Twilights Ave. Firestone, CO 80504 303-772-3711 www.imaginefirestone.com Pre-kindergarten through grade eight Principal: Ralph Garbart October 2009 enrollment: 547

St. Vrain Community Montessori School

Twin Peaks Charter Academy

1055 Delaware Ave., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-682-4339 Pre-kindergarten through grade three Head of School: Katie Torres October 2009 enrollment: 109

340 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501, 303-772-7286 www.twinpeakscharter.org Kindergarten through eighth grade Principal: BJ Buchmann October 2009 enrollment: 631

August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

A new twist on prepping for college admissions exams Walk into a typical high school classroom and you’ll see the same story: A few kids will quickly pick up every concept, a few kids will struggle to understand the lesson and many will fall somewhere in between. Historically, all would receive the same lesson plan, no matter what their aptitude and ability. A more modern approach, shaped by growing research on effective learning, requires teachers to adjust how and what they teach according to each students’ learning needs, rather than expecting all students to absorb the same curriculum. While this student-centric approach, called differentiated instruction, isn’t new to middle and high school classrooms, it is now being used to prepare students for admissions exams. What is differentiated instruction and why does it work? Differentiated instruction is learning through customized lesson plans. Instead of having a single lesson plan for the entire class, a teacher will have multiple plans, targeted to each student’s learning needs.

Through Kaplan Test Prep’s program, these customized plans are developed for each student after they take a practice test at the start of the course and adapt as they progress through the program. What is blended learning and why is it better for students? Blended learning refers to the practice of using a mix of instructional methods. Often electronic learning is combined with a traditional classroom experience or tutoring to marry the practicality of online learning with the depth of in-person instruction. Why is this approach to test preparation more effective? “If students are learning according to their abilities, in ways they like to learn and seeing immediate feedback through technology, they work harder and tend to perform better on tests,” says Justin Serrano, senior vice president for Kaplan Test Prep. The company pioneered the test prep industry more than 70 years ago, helping high school students prepare for exams.

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Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

Independent Schools

Junior kindergarten through grade six Head of School: Dr. Vanessa Ewing Enrollment: 87 Type: Private

Alexander Dawson School

Catalyst Education of Colorado

10455 Dawson Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 303-665-6679 www.dawsonschool.org Kindergarten through grade 12 Headmaster: Brian Johnson Enrollment: 420 Type: Collegiate based private school

Aspen Christian School 316 15th Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-5866 http://aspenchristianschool.org First through eighth grade Principal: Lloyd Petersen Enrollment: 12 Type: Private Christian

Bixby School

4760 Table Mesa Drive Boulder, CO 80305 303-494-7508 www.bixbyschool.org Pre-kindergarten through grade five Principal: Pat Baker Enrollment: 160 Type: Private

Bloom! Montessori School 701 James St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-8173 bloommontessori.com Ages 2 through 6 Director: Abigail Miller Enrollment: 12 Type: Montessori

Boulder Country Day School 4820 Nautilus Court N. Boulder, CO 80301 303-527-4931 www.bouldercountryday.org Age 3 through grade eight Head of School: Michael Shields Enrollment: 320 Type: Private

Boulder Jewish Day School

7415 Lookout Road Longmont, CO 80503 303-449-5569 www.bjds.org Pre-school through grade five Head of School: Shoshana Krongold Bilavsky Enrollment: 50 Type: Private Jewish Community School

Bridge School

6717 S. Boulder Road Boulder, CO 80303 303-494-7551 www.bridgeschoolboulder.org Grades six through 12 Head of School: Dick Weeks Enrollment: 30 Type: Private

Broomfield Academy 7203 West 120th St. Broomfield, CO 80020 303-469-6449 www.broomfieldacademy.com

2575 Park Lane, Suite 100 Lafayette, CO 80026 303-604-6512 www.catalystedu.org Grades nine through 12 Head of School: Ed Porritt Enrollment: 26 Type: Private non-profit

Children’s House of Weld County: Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten 3801 Godding Hollow Parkway Frederick, CO 80516 303-651-3215 www.childrenshousewc.com Preschool through kindergarten Director: Susan Halkin Enrollment: 70 Type: Montessori

Cornerstone Preschool

Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-3864 http://gatewaymontessorischool.net Pre-school through kindergarten Director: Linda Gottschalk Enrollment: 41 Type: American Montessori Society certified

Goddard School 1095 Olympia Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-3501 www.goddardschool.com Infant through kindergarten, after school Director: Debbie Bethel Type: Early childhood development

Hillside School 6717 S. Boulder Road Boulder, CO 80303 303-494-1468 www.hillsidelearning.org Grades one through eight Director: Kathy Sherman Enrollment: 28 Type: Program for students with learning differences

1000 W. 15th Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-3081 www.bethlehem-lutheran.net/cornerstone Ages 3 to 5 Director: Andrea Becker Enrollment: 48 Type: Christian

Jarrow Montessori School

Desiderata School

Living School

500 Coffman St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-678-9335 www.desiderataschool.com Kindergarten through grade 12 Head of School: Larame Spence Enrollment: 50 Type: Private

Eastern Sun Academy 6717 S. Boulder Road Boulder, CO 80303 303-443-3302 www.easternsunacademy.org Kindergarten through grade five Head of School: Steven Sachs Enrollment: 85 Type: Contemplative education

Faith Baptist School 833 15th Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-5677 http://fbslongmont.org Kindergarten through grade 12 Administrator: Dan Perryman Enrollment: 163 Type: Private Christian

Friends’ School 5465 Pennsylvania Ave. Boulder, CO 80303 303-499-1999 www.friendsschoolboulder.org Pre-school through grade five Head of School: Polly Donald Enrollment: 172 Type: Independent private school

Gateway Montessori School 1500 Ninth Ave.

3900 Orange Court Boulder, CO 80304 303-443-0511 www.jarrow.org Pre-kindergarten through grade six Head of School: Barb Truan Type: Montessori 1852 Arapahoe Ave. Boulder, CO 80302 303-449-0866 www.livingschool.org Ages 5 and older Head of School: Dawn Maggio Enrollment: 8 Type: Co-creative democratic school

Longmont Christian School 550 Coffman St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-3254 www.longmontchristian.org Pre-kindergarten through grade 12 Principal: Donnie Bennett Enrollment: 278 Type: Private Christian

Messiah Lutheran School 1335 Francis St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-3466 www.mlcslongmont.org Pre-kindergarten through grade five Preschool Director: Joli Robbins Interim Principal: Don Wischmeyer Enrollment: 60 Type: Private Christian

Mount Zion Lutheran School 1680 Balsam Ave. Boulder, CO 80304 303-443-8477 www.mtzionboulder.org Toddlers through grade two EC Director: Cheryl Wu Enrollment: 50 Type: Private Lutheran

Mountain Shadows Montessori 4154 63rd St. Boulder, CO 80301 303-530-5353 www.mountainshadows.org Pre-school through grade six Executive Director: Frank Vincent Enrollment: 88 Type: Montessori

Mountain Peak Private School 1833 Sunset Place, Ste. E & F Longmont, CO 80501 720-494-1622 www.mountainpeakschool.com Pre-school through grade six Director: Bobby Tabert Enrollment: 63 Type: Private

Our Savior’s Evangelical Lutheran School 1219 W. 17th Ave. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-1688 www.OurSaviorsOn17th.org Age 3 through grade eight Principal: Dane Mattes Enrollment: 24 Type: Parochial school

The Patchwork School in Louisville 1428 Main St. Louisville, CO 80027 720-271-6729 www.thepatchworkschool.com Preschool through grade three Directors: Michele Beach and Elizabeth Baker Enrollment: 50 Type: Independent alternative

Pleasant Hill Academy 421 21st Ave., Ste. 203 Longmont, CO 80501 303-682-5309 Kindergarten through grade 12 Director: Linda Rittner Enrollment: 100 Type: Private nonprofit

Primrose School of Longmont 1335 Dry Creek Drive Longmont, CO 80503 303-774-1919 www.primroseschools.com Infants through preschool and kindergarten, before and after school program Director: Carrie Dickerson Enrollment: 180 Type: Private Preschool

Rocky Mountain Christian Academy 9447 Niwot Road Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-9162 www.rmcaonline.org Early education through grade eight Headmaster: Brett King Enrollment: 430 Type: Christian Classical

Running River School 1370 Forest Park Circle Lafayette, CO 80026 303-499-2059 www.runningriver.org Kindergarten through grade eight Director: Nancy Monson

August 8, 2010

Enrollment: 40 Type: Private

Enrollment: 145 Type: Private

Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic School

Shining Mountain Waldorf School

1317 Mapleton Ave. Boulder, CO 80304 303-447-2362 www.shjboulder.org Kindergarten through grade eight Principal: Mary Bartsch Enrollment: 420, includes early learning center Type: Private Catholic

St. John the Baptist Catholic School

350 Emery St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-8760 www.johnthebaptist.org Preschool through grade eight Principal: Julie Rossi Enrollment: 385 Type: Catholic

St. Stephens Christian School

1303 S. Bross Lane Longmont, CO 80501 303-776-1072 ext. 5 www.ststephenslongmont.com Preschool and Pre-kindergarten Director: Kathy Fulton Enrollment: Ratio of 1 to 6 Type: Private Christian

September High School

1902 Walnut St. Boulder, CO 80302 303-443-9933 www.septemberschool.org Grades nine through 12 Principal: Dan Fox Enrollment: 45 Type: Non-Profit Alternative/Private

Shepherd Valley Waldorf School

6500 W. Dry Creek Parkway Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-0130 www.shepherdvalley.org Pre-kindergarten through grade eight Principal: Linda Abelkis

999 Violet Ave. Boulder, CO 80304 303-444-7697 http://smwaldorf.org Preschool through grade 12 Interim Director: Beverley Amico Enrollment: 275 Type: Waldorf school

Should the day ever arrive when school uniforms are mandatory, that day would mark the end of a long-running debate. Parents on both sides of the debate make valid points as to the advantages and disadvantages of school uniforms. Parents undecided about the issue should consider the following pros and cons before making a decision. • Pro: School uniforms will save parents money. The premise here points to parents spending a lot of money each year on school clothes for children, money that would be saved. • Con: Those opposed to school uniforms note that those uniforms are expensive and don’t offer the versatility of normal wardrobes because they cannot

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 18

Sylvan Learning Center 1834 N. Main St., Unit 9 Longmont, CO 80501 303-485-3218 www.educate.com Pre-Kindergarten through adult Director: Brianna Weber and Bart Moyers Type: Supplemental education

Tara Performing Arts High School 4180 19th Ave. Boulder, Co 80304 303-440-4510 www.tarahighschool.org Grades nine through 12 Administrator: Gregory Fisher Enrollment: 40 Type: Private/Waldorf school

Vista Ridge Academy 3100 Ridge View Dr. Erie, CO 80516 303-828-4944 www.vrak12.org Kindergarten through grade 12 Principal: Carol Schneider Enrollment: 115 Type: Private Christian

Watershed School 205 Canyon Blvd. Boulder, CO 80302 303-440-7520 www.watershedschool.org Grades six through 12 Head of School: Jason Berv Enrollment: 62 Type: Private non-profit

Pros and cons of school uniforms Metro Creative Services

Longmont Times-Call Publication

be worn outside of school. • Pro: School uniforms help kids establish themselves on merit rather than money and wardrobe. • Con: Those against school uniforms argue that school uniforms actually deter and discourage students from expressing their individuality. • Pro: School uniforms might help deter violence at schools. By making school uniforms mandatory, this might help reduce instances of gang-related violence as students will no longer be afforded the opportunity to tailor their daily wardrobe to match their gang affiliation. • Con: Opponents of school uniforms typically feel that this argument punishes students who are not in or associated with gangs.

Educational excellence, a community effort

Almost two years ago, voters sent a clear message –

We must invest in our future! We’re now seeing the impact of community support: • Technology initiatives and upgrades district-wide • Enhanced resources to prepare students for success • Increased advanced placement and honors-level courses • 21st century instructional Focus School programming • Smaller average class sizes • Repairs and renovations to aging schools • Added instructional space throughout the District • New schools to ease overcrowding The community is the foundation of our school system. Working together we can give our children expanded opportunities in safe, high performing 21st century schools. -Don Haddad, Superintendent

St. Vrain Valley School District

( 3 0 3 ) 7 7 6 - 6 2 0 0 | w w w. S t V r a i n . K 1 2 . c o. u s BS-151897

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

The importance of cyber safety

Know what to post in online forums By Summer Stair Longmont Times-Call

With a world full of text messaging, online social sites and blogs, people can stay in touch within an instant. Jeremy LaCrosse, vice principal at Westview Middle School in Longmont, says the biggest concern with constant technology is that people will begin not feeling real and will forget it is a public space. To help combat cyber bulling and to teach kids at an early age what is acceptable online, WestView Middle School has implemented a program called Digital Citizenship where kids learn about Internet safety, proper web etiquette and how to be good citizens when online. The most important part about being responsible is knowing what is acceptable. Here are some tips for parents and students alike to consider when on the Internet. • Before posting something online, ask your self if it is something you would want on the front of the newspaper, LaCrosse says. If it is posted online, anyone can see it.

This doesn’t just include other students, but teachers, parents and people you may not even know. It can even be viewed by future employers. People should also ask themselves if what they are posting is respectable. With cyber bullying popping up all over the news, students should consider if what they

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have written is something they would say to the person’s face. “It is easy to start thinking of others as not real when you are sitting behind a computer,” LaCrosse says. • Parents and kids can also act out different scenarios to bring the message home. LaCrosse says to have kids think about if they posted something negative about another student how they would feel and what they would say when confronted by that individual. If the confrontation would not be positive, don’t post the information. • Reading something aloud before posting it permanently online is also a good idea. “Reading it aloud just makes it seem more real,” LaCrosse says. • Always remember anything that goes online is there forever. If it is something you don’t want grandparents, parents, friends or employers seeing, don’t post it. • Discuss the importance of privacy settings and what they are there for. “You never know who you are quite talking to,” LaCrosse says. “People may not be representing themselves as to who they really are.” • Talk about what kind of personal information is appropriate to have on a social network profile and what kind of information is OK to give to people you are talking to. Private information that should never be given out include home, work or school addresses, as well as phone numbers, social security numbers or full names.

• Posting pictures is common practice, but again, do not post anything you would not want people to see. It is also a good practice not to post embarrassing pictures of friends and family members without their permission. “A picture is worth a thousand words, and without a description it can be taken out of context really quickly,” LaCrosse says. • Talk about cyber bullying. “I think this is a new dynamic to it all ... it is a new twist to pick on somebody,” LaCrosse says. “It is also more of a scary way to do it because it is not done face-to-face so it is easier to say things.” A good rule to follow here is if you wouldn’t want someone to say it about you, then don’t say it about someone else. • Parents should also stay out of online bullying or fighting. Try and get the kids together and discuss a resolution to the problem before it gets out of hand. “Parents have a huge role here as a role model and need to show how they (kids) should behave,” LaCrosse says. “What you are doing and saying says a lot to your kids.” While time spent on computers and cell phones is increasing, talking about it and helping kids realize the appropriate etiquette, problems will be prevented and solved and keep everyone safe. “The biggest thing to remember is the Internet is a public place and we need to behave like it is a public place,” LaCrosse says. “Sometimes we forget that.”

August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

Pack a zero-waste lunch

By Summer Stair

Longmont Times-Call

There used to be a stigma associated with carrying a lunch pail to school, and many kids gravitated toward paper bags because they were simply cool. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the case any more as lunch pails, color-coded containers and reusable water bottles not only let kids show off a little bit of their personality, but it indicates their green status and shows they care about the Earth. To get started on packing your own earth friendly, zero-waste lunch, Kary Schumpert, environmental educator with the Environmental Education Department for Eco-Cycle in Boulder County, gave the following tips and ideas. â&#x20AC;˘ Being green doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you have to go out and buy all new items. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It can be pretty economical and can be things already at home,â&#x20AC;? Schumpert says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t discount what you already have.â&#x20AC;? Any plastic container works. You can even reuse containers that once held items such as yogurt or cottage cheese. If it has a lid and can be washed out, it works. â&#x20AC;˘ Instead of using a napkin that will be thrown away, pack a cloth napkin or a piece of fabric that can be washed and reused. Schumpert recommends little kids creating

napkins out of fabric that has their favorite character or color on it. â&#x20AC;˘ Forgo plastic silverware, and pack some from home. Schumpert acknowledges that many parents are concerned it will be lost and that is why she recommends buying a separate set, or picking up pieces at yard sales and thrift stores to save money. â&#x20AC;˘ A thermos can be a great addition to a lunch kit because it can hold and keep items hot, such as soup or pasta. And, thermoses are often included when you buy a lunch pail. â&#x20AC;˘ Buying a reusable water bottle is easy when it comes to packing beverages for lunch. From stainless steel to colored bottles to popular cartoon characters, the options are endless. â&#x20AC;˘ To eliminate confusion in the home and in the classroom, some use a system to keep containers together, such as color coordinating, stickers and most importantly putting initials or full names on containers. Now that you have the basics to create and pack a zero-waste lunch, you can now sit back and experience the benefits. Not only are you helping out the Earth by eliminating trash, but you can save money by no longer having to buy prepackaged items but in bulk instead.

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Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

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School buses are essential modes of transportation, taking thousands of students to and from school every day. While school bus accidents are rare, riders should still practice safety aboard and around the bus. In the early days of education, students were educated in local schools within walking distance. If they needed to travel, it was by horse-drawn wagon. As the nation’s roadways began to evolve, so did the methods of getting children to school. Eventually school buses became the norm. In an effort to prevent injuries, representatives from 48 states met in 1939 to establish safety standards for school buses. Since then, several meetings, known as the National Conferences on School Transportation, have taken place to modify safety procedures and standards. In addition to safety procedures regarding ridership, school buses are built with certain standards in mind. Mirrors, lights, braking systems and the like are regulated to provide the utmost safety to passengers. While catastrophic accidents involving school buses are rare, buses are built to handle much more than the occasional run-ins with passenger cars and light trucks. Maintaining school bus safety is a team effort. Students need to do their part while riding the bus. Here are the safety precautions that should be followed. • Walk to the bus stop, don’t run. • Always use caution when crossing roadways. • Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If no sidewalk is present, walk in the opposite direction of traffic to be aware of on-coming traffic. • Don’t fool around at the bus stop. Accidents can happen when individuals are unaware of their surroundings or distracted. • Stand at the bus stop in a safe location. Do not enter the street. • Arrive at the bus stop early so there is

no need to rush and be distracted. • Wait for the school bus to come to a complete stop and for other traffic to halt before approaching the bus. • Promptly take a seat, and remain seated throughout the entire ride. If there are safety belts present, use them. • Do not distract the bus driver with loud yelling or music. • Don’t throw anything around the bus. • Keep the aisle clear to avoid tripping hazards. • Follow the driver’s instructions in the event of an emergency. • Remain seated until the bus has stopped at a particular drop-off location. • When exiting the bus, take three steps away from the bus so that visibility of the driver is improved. • Watch for traffic when crossing the street. Always cross in front of the bus. • If something is forgotten on the bus, don’t try to run back and retrieve it. The driver may not expect a student to be returning to the bus.

August 8, 2010

Longmont Times-Call Publication

Struggle to find balance between work, school BS-151980

By Kate Frasure Longmont Times-Call

Erica Meier helps customers at Ziggiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coffee House. (Paul Litman/Times-Call)

Arranging her schedule to be done with class by 12:45 p.m. daily, Meier plans to work about 25 hours a week in her time out of class. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to work Saturday mornings, so I can save most of the evening time for friends.â&#x20AC;? Meier says. The most difficult thing she thinks she will encounter is time management, working enough hours to save money for college and finding a good balance. To find that balance, Steele says the most important thing is to not work to make hours and keep in mind school comes first. She suggests students work a maximum of 15 hours a week and no more. Steele also suggests to have students check in with their school about working for credit. At Skyline, the skyward bound program offers students half a credit for every 15 hours they work at a part-time job. Students can earn up to two credits during their high school career.

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As adults, many still struggle to find balance between work and personal lives. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a trait that started in many people as teenagers, when after-school jobs as baristas, retail sales associates and grocery store clerks left them struggling to find balance between work, school and friends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A huge part of why students choose to work depends on their future,â&#x20AC;? says Julie Steele, Skyline High School counselor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They may want to go on a trip or just plan for college.â&#x20AC;? Steele finds many students in her office trying to manage their class schedule around their work schedule. She believes students miss out on sports and other activities when they work a part-time job, but she also feels a job helps kids focus on time management and teaches them self-discipline. Longmont High School senior Erica Meier will be playing soccer this fall, in addition to juggling school and work. Meier plans on working at Ziggiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coffee House to help pay for the 40 percent of college that her soccer scholarship to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas does not cover. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have a calendar with all my schedules on and I will have school and soccer during the day and work later in the evenings,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;School work always comes first though.â&#x20AC;?

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www.ImagineFirestone.com â&#x20AC;˘ 303-772-3711 Imagine is a tuition-free public charter school

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

Preparing your child for school

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Bridge School is reinventing education for the 21st century. Find out how we use meaning to transform your student’s life.

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Open House August 11 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Mountain Shadows is the only Montessori school in Colorado to meet the highest standards of excellence to be accredited by AMI* *Association Montessori Internationale for ages 2 ½ through 12.

• Primary Program: ages 2-1/2 through 6 • Half-Day Program: 8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon, ages 2-1/2 through 4 • Full-Day Program: 8:30 a.m.-2:50 p.m., ages 2-1/2 through 6 • All-Day Program: 7:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m., ages 2-1/2 through 6 • Elementary Program: ages 6 through 12 • Elementary I Program: 8:20 a.m.-2:50 p.m., ages 6 through 9 • Elementary II Program: 8:20 a.m.-2:50 p.m., ages 9 through 12 • Extended-Hours Program: ages 6 through 12 7:15 a.m. through 5:30 p.m.

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Many parents feel early enrollment in school is a good first step for kids’ academic careers. But some experts warn that too much, too soon may not be the way to lay the ground work of a successful academic career. Some believe that waiting until a child is age 6 for formal education provides the best opportunity for learning advantages. According to a British study published in The Cambridge Primary Review in October 2008, the consensus was that formal schooling should be delayed until children reach 6. The findings offered that trying to teach literacy and math at a young age is counterproductive. If children under 6 are in school programs, they should continue to learn through play-based initiatives. An early start in school isn’t necessarily a good start. Children may show the maturity and the social readiness to attend school, but they may not have the capacity to grasp concepts outside of their play-based way of learning. Forcing information on a child who is not ready could set him or her up for aversion to school. Parents who have little choice but to enroll children in daycare/pre-school programs because they work should look for curriculums that feature the following: • Emphasis on play-based learning, with

more time geared to kids being kids. • Access to a computer. • Opportunities to go outside and play when weather permits. • Interaction with books so parents can read with their children. • Limited focus on grades and performance. • Activities that involve the family. • Small class sizes. • A relaxed atmosphere with the time and space to explore physical and social environments.

Mountain Shadows Montessori… Where children laugh, learn, and succeed. Children at Mountain Shadows Montessori School know they are special. Our teachers recognize the uniqueness of each child and work with each to build mastery in specific subjects, while helping identify new areas of interest for exploration. Each child is nurtured to develop a love of learning from an early age. Primary-aged children receive individual lessons presented by their teacher in classrooms of 30 students or less with a teacher ratio of 1:10. Elementary teachers collaborate with their students, both individually and in small groups, to learn creatively, set goals, and monitor their accomplishments. Every child is given time, respect, and space to work independently, developing critical foundations fundamental to living a happy, successful life.

Call today to visit our beautiful 12-acre campus and engaging classrooms.

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August 8, 2010

The necessity of insurance at college

We make your child’s transition towards this milestone a loving & wonder filled experience. Our small classes allow for nurturing attention.

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1303 S. Bross Ln. Longmont, CO 80501 Pre-K Class Melody Alme (303) 579-6496 3yr Old Class Jennifer Arndt (303) 702-1812

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If you or your child is college-bound this fall, don’t forget to review your insurance. Doing your homework now could save you money and headaches in the future.

Vehicle Coverage There’s potential to save money on your auto insurance if your student is taking her

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Personal Property Coverage Make sure the student’s possessions are protected in case of theft, fire and other damage while they’re at school. “While most items will be covered under the parents’ homeowners policy, you can’t assume Mom and Dad’s policy will completely cover a college-bound son or daughter – especially if they own expensive, hightech electronics,” says Charles Valinotti, senior vice president of QBE Regional Insurance. Because insurance companies vary in their definitions of who and what is covered, Valinotti recommends talking with your insurance agent to determine the best solution for your family.

Longmont Times-Call Publication

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Simon Jarratt/Corbis

car to school with her – or even if she’s not. • Make sure policies are up to date with the student’s current school address. • Look into discounts if the student leaves his car at home. If his dorm is more than 100 miles from your driveway, where the car is kept, you may be eligible for discounts. • If your student leaves his car at home and won’t be using it while he’s in school, consider reducing coverage. • Remember, your insurance company’s good student discount may apply for college students, too.

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Before/After School Child Care and Enrichment Programs Community School Programs provide a balanced menu of before and after school educational, enrichment and recreational programs and activities. Open to grades K-5, our licensed programs offer students a multitude of enrichment classes, fun before and after school options, and exciting choices on late start days. Call your school for more information.

Community School Program Locations: Alpine Elementary Black Rock Elementary Blue Mountain Elementary Burlington Elementary Centennial Elementary Central Elementary Eagle Crest Elementary Erie Elementary Fall River Elementary

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St. Vrain Valley School District Community Schools

District Community School Office (303)682-7384 BS-151899

Longmont Times-Call Publication

August 8, 2010

LOOK NO FURTHER For Back to School Start your back-to-school shopping at Twin Peaks Mall! You need it … We have it… Shirts, shoes, jeans, sweaters, khakis, jewelry, watches, belts, tees and much more!

WIN FANTASTIC PRIZES! Visit each of the participating Twin Peaks Mall retailers from August 8th -15th to Enter for a Chance to Win Fantastic Prizes just in time for Back to School! *All winner’s will be drawn on Monday, August 16th *Do not need to be present to win *One entry per person at each location *Must be 18 yrs of age or older *Visit www.twinpeaksmall.com for rules and regulations

Look for Enter to Win boxes in participating stores, such as, GameStop, MasterCuts, Dillards, Sears, Sunglass Hut, PretzelMaker/TCBY and many more! Visit www.twinpeaksmall.com for a list of participating stores.

Mark your calendars for upcoming events: August 28 & 29 September 6 September 15 October 15 September 18 October 21-24 & 28-31 October 30

Colorado Dahlia Society in the north court Labor Day – Store Hours 10am-6pm Bring in a photo of your hometown hero for our Heroes wall and an item to include in our gift boxes to be shipped to our troops in honor of Veteran’s Day She-Market event for women located in the west parking lot. Browse over 40 booths, receive free samples and raffle for prizes in this one-day event! “Prison of Terror” haunted house sponsored by the Boulder County Sheriff’s Department

Halloween Safe Trick or Treat and Costume Contest sponsored by the Boulder County Sheriff’s Department