Back To School 2015

2015

es t a c u d hool Es Children c s e r P d ie a e ife R L d d an n a l oo for Sch ol o h c S r - A fte ns A boun d O p ti o e y to K e h t n ti o n e a lt h e v e r P n ’s H e r d l i h C

August 2, 2015

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KEEPING TEENS ON TRACK:

National high school graduation rate still shows room for improvement

(BPT) - It’s graduation season, and across the country many families will revel in their graduate’s accomplishments. Nationally, there’s reason to celebrate, too; 81 percent of American high school seniors are expected to graduate this year, the highest rate ever, according to the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). But there’s sobering news as well. According to a StageofLife.com teen survey, nearly half of all high schoolers know someone who’s not graduating.

With nearly 20 percent of teens expected not to graduate this year, educators and administrators are not the only ones responsible for closing this graduation gap. For example, youth advocates like Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) are collaborating with corporate initiatives, such as the Taco Bell Foundation(TM), to provide teens a critical pathway towards high school graduation and beyond that will inspire them to reach their full potential and achieve their educational and career goals.

“We know that failing to graduate high school has a severe long-term impact on a young person’s ability 2

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to secure employment and affects virtually every aspect of his/her life,” says Dr. Damon Williams, chief educational and youth development officer at BGCA. “Our Club’s yearround programs at 4,100-plus locations across the country help ensure teens have the inspiration, tools and resources needed to stay on track to graduate high school on-time.”

The national high school dropout rate affects not only the one million teens who fail to graduate and their families, but also our nation’s economic standing as a whole. The American economy will lose nearly $159 billion in lost taxes and higher government expenditures over the students’ lifetimes, according to Williams.

Teens fail to graduate for a number of reasons, including failing coursework, falling into the wrong crowd and traumatic home or school events causing chronic absenteeism, according to America’s Promise Alliance. Yet when teens get the support they need, they are more likely to remain in or return to school; 41 percent of teens surveyed by the Alliance said encouragement from someone else inspired them to stay

in or return to school.

“As a company that gives many young Americans their very first job, we’re invested in supporting teens and young adults,” says Brian Niccol, chief executive officer at Taco Bell Corp. “We’re passionate about doing our part to instill in youth confidence to tackle the next big thing, to succeed, to be the best expression of themselves, to lead, to use their voice to go after a

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cause, and to have an impact in their communities-and this begins by supporting teens to ensure they graduate high school.”

For nearly two decades, Boys & Girls Clubs of America has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the nonprofit Taco Bell Foundation to help teens steer their path and equip them with the resources needed to succeed in high school. In 2014, Taco Bell Foundation expanded its partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs with a goal of providing a $30 million grant over five years to bring its Graduate for Mas program to Clubs across the country.

With the support of partners like the Taco Bell Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs’ programs help 1.4 million teens stay on track to graduate from high school, and 70 percent of Club seniors to be college-bound by 2018. Keeping just 10 Club members in school until graduation would add $2 million to the American economy over those members’ lifetimes, the organization estimates.

To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the organization’s academic success programs, visit www.greatfutures.org. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation’s Graduate for Mas program, visit the www.graduateformas.com.

August 2 2, 2015

Getting your kids organized this school year The Coat Spot Nothing can drive an organizational parent mad like a laundry room in disarray. Don’t allow shoes, backpacks and lunchboxes to simply land where they may.

Overhaul your laundry room to include a bench with multiple cubbies underneath for shoes, and hooks above it for jackets, backpacks and umbrellas.

You can find easy online blueprints that you can build with a few pieces of lumber and some simple tools. You’ll have an extremely organized laundry room before you know it.

Overcome Morning Madness Add sleepy kids and a deadline-driven environment and you’ve got the ingredients for a hectic morning.

Surely you’d like to send your kids off to Organize Your Home It may sound silly, but your home’s layout can actually make a difference between a smooth school day and a rough one.

Think about the logistics required to pull off breakfast, bathroom time and homework. A house with a smaller kitchen, only one bathroom and no designated spot for studying can lead to challenges both before and after school.

Get started now on equipping your home with the right tools to make this the smoothest school year ever.

The Homework Spot Do you have a family room or a quiet area of your home? You can designate this as a study area for your younger children. Give older children the option of studying in their room, if they’ve proven their ability to maintain good grades and on-time homework completion.

Having a dedicated spot for homework can help your children stay in a nice routine for finishing it. Choose a well-lit spot away from distractions such as TV, radios and even phones, for an optimal learning environment.

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as packing lunches, gathering lunch money, signing permission slips, ironing clothes and writing a to-do list. By the time 7 a.m. comes around, you’ll be sipping your coffee in peace while your children calmly wait for their school day to get started.

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Top tips for getting your child READY

FOR COLLEGE

(BPT) - Heading back to school can be stressful for a number of reasons, from new routines and lengthy shopping lists to preparing your students for the year ahead. It becomes even more stressful when you’re faced with the tough task of outfitting a college-bound teen for dorm life. But there’s no need to fret, the following tips will allow you to rest easy and have confidence that your child is prepared for the adventure ahead.

a jackets. Utilize these hooks in and tthe closet to organize scarves and hats, and by the door to keep keys, h umbrellas and backpacks at hand. u GeckoTech Hooks are easy to reG position and reuse, which means you p ccan move them - and your belongiings - around the room, to find the best organizational solution for your b new space. Plus, the hooks remove n ccleanly so you won’t have to worry aabout damaged walls during move out next spring. o

Plan-ahead packing Unlike typical back-to-school shopping, college preparation takes a lot more planning. Begin shopping for school supplies and clothes at least two months in advance to avoid last minute stress. Many schools help by providing a shopping list of must-haves for the dorm, including power strips, refrigerators and toiletry kits - which is a great place to get started. You can also encourage your teen to reach out to their new roommates in advance through social media to discover their likes and dislikes. This can help them learn what kinds of supplies and furniture each person is bringing, so they don’t end up with two microwaves or small refrigerators in what will likely be extremely limited space.

Many retailers even allow grads to create a college registry so family and friends know just what to get them. Soon-to-be college students can create an account and handpick specific gifts that range from dorm

Life Basics While purchasing the correct supplies is essential, it’s also imporp ttant to teach your child to become sself-sufficient. Show your teen how tto do laundry and insist that they do their own clothing, sheets and towels for the entire summer. By the time they get to college with a roll of quarters in hand, they’ll have the hang of it. College kids also need basic financial know how.t This summer, show them the basics of banking, including how to responsibly use an ATM and debit card, write checks, pay bills online and balance their account. You may also want to set a budget - late night pizza and movie nights can quickly add up - to ensure your teen is responsible enough to manage his or her own funds.

Sending your teen off to college can be an exciting and emotional time, but with these tips you can make sure they are well equipped to survive dorm life.

room essentials to tailgating supplies, bicycles and even pepper spray.

These retailers also often provide helpful registry guides so you don’t miss a thing. Creating a registry will allow you to start preparations early and shop throughout the summer for items that may not be purchased as a graduation gift, rather than darting out on a mad dash when it’s time to move.

Savvy storage If there’s one thing your teen will need to adjust to when going to college, it’s dorm life. The rooms are typically a small, bland 200-square foot space with very little storage.

And sharing with at least one other person is definitely not luxurious.

While preparing for life in such small quarters may feel like a messy

situation, it doesn’t mean your teen’s room has to look like one. With a little creativity and know-how, your teen’s home away from home will be an organized, cozy retreat.

For storing large items, look no further than under the bed.

Use extra-long containers to store clothing, shoes and other items that require easy and often access. To eliminate clutter, you can also turn empty suitcases from move-in day into storage containers. If you need more space, consider requesting a lofted bed to create more height for additional storage.

When closets and horizontal space run out, look to the walls. GeckoTech Reusable Hooks help provide added storage to dorm rooms, allowing your teen to easily organize items such as desk accessories, jewelry

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SCHOOL BUS SAFETY roadways this school year.

Safety Tips The National Safety Council recommends students and parents follow the following precautions when heading out for the bus stop: • Children should always board and exit the bus at locations that provide safe access;

Nothing says school is back in session like seeing the bright yellow buses out and about in your town.

The American School Bus Council estimates that 480,000 buses provide transportation for children every school year. In the most recent study of its kind, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 1,236 fatal school transportationrelated crashes from 2001 to 2010.

These numbers serve as reminders to stay safe at bus stops and on the

• Remind your child to wait for the bus to completely stop before approaching it from the curb; • Make sure your child walks where he or she can see the bus driver; • If your child’s school bus has lap or shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times.

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Share the Road Remember that school buses stop at all railroad tracks. They do this for the safety of your children, so give them the space to do so.

Also, when you see a school bus approaching you from the opposite lane, be on the lookout for flashing lights and an extending stop sign, which means the bus is slowing for a student drop-off. Be sure to come to a complete stop in your lane and don’t hit the gas until the bus has disengaged the stop sign and turned off the flashing lights.

• Unexplained injuries; • Changes in eating habits; • Frequent nightmares; • Frequent stomach aches or headaches; and • Declining grades or interest in school.

Actions to Take

Bullying Behavior The school bus is a prime spot for bullying because of the limited view the driver has of all the passengers.

Here are some signs of bullying, from the The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and what the department recommends doing about them.

• Encourage open, honest discussions with your child about the subject; • Set a meeting with your child’s teacher or principal; • Offer your child actions to take that are an alternative to fighting or verbal abuse; • Give your child positive and affectionate attention; and • Keep a close eye out for injuries or worsening attitudes toward school.

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What’s the

MAKERS MOVEMENT

about?

Reinventing the world one child at a time (BPT) - Can kids playing with Legos make the world a better place? Will children who build their own rocket ships or dollhouses go on to be the adult innovators of tomorrow, who take on the world’s challenges with technology and creativity? If 13-year-old Shubham Banerjee is an example of young makers, the answer to those questions may be a resounding “Yes!” After reading that most Braille printers cost more than $2,000, Shubham decided this price was “crazy” and set out to create a cheaper

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alternative. Using a Lego kit and parts from a local hardware store, he built a prototype Braille printer of his own. The price? About $350.

With financial and technology backing from Intel, Shubham founded his own company and is now working on a more advanced, low-cost Braille printer based on the postagestamp size Intel Edison computing platform.

Shubham’s story is amazing and inspiring - and less of an exception than you might think. His story is one of the many successes emerging from the Maker Movement. Makers come from all socio-economic backgrounds and are all ages. They use technology and creativity to reinvent the world around them, whether it’s adding motion-sensitive LED lights to Barbie’s outfit, creating a tweetable coffee pot or using sensors to create an app-enabled watering system for their houseplants. Many, like Shubham, are employing their skills as makers to

August 2, 2015

create their own career opportunities.

“The lesson for all of us is that making and exploring through play is not just about celebrating the gifted but about triggering and encouraging the talent living inside every child,” says Jay Melican, Intel’s maker czar. “Study after study supports that the best way to activate a curious mind is to make something. That might be an amazing high-tech invention or a messy science experiment. This shift to making represents the perfect storm of new technological materials, expanded opportunities, learning through hands-on experience and the basic human impulse to create.”

Affordable technology and the ability to share online has fueled the Maker Movement. New tools like 3D printers, robotics, affordable microprocessors like the Intel Galileo or Intel Edison development boards and new programming languages are enabling hands-on learning and

encouraging children of all ages to use these tools to move from passive receivers of knowledge to real-world makers. For the first time, students can take their powerful ideas to create real things, not just makebelieve models. Kids can solve real problems with their own inventions and easily explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) career opportunities.

The Maker Movement holds the promise to specifically inspire girls to pursue STEM studies and even careers. An Intel study, called MakeHers, found that the social-service aspects motivate female makers and that girl makers develop more interest and skills in computer science and engineering.

Parents and teachers of schoolage children may already unwittingly participate in the Maker Movement when children use tablets in the classroom, play coding games or build a soapbox car at home. Attending a Maker Faire is

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a great way to learn more about the world of Making and inspire kids of all ages.

Heralded as the “greatest showand-tells on earth,” the Maker Faire in San Mateo, California annually attracts more than 145,000 children and adults over just one weekend.

Hundreds of Maker Faires are held around the world throughout the year. They gather to make things, show off, challenge one another, laugh, play, invent, tinker, solve problems and inspire.

Excitement, rather than expertise, is the coin of the realm in this magical environment full of firebreathing sculptures, cupcake cars, bicycle-powered rock bands, soda and Mentos-propelled fountains and workshops in programming, soldering, welding, lock-picking, knitting, crocheting and robot making.

To learn more and to find a Maker Faire near you, visit makerfaire.com.

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PREVENTION THE KEY TO CHILDREN’S HEALTH Health experts list vaccinations, annual physicals as keys to good health in school-aged children

By Emma Castleberry, for Times-Call The name of the game for keeping school-aged children healthy is prevention. Vaccinations, annual physicals and early intervention are the best ways to ensure a child’s health, according to pediatricians and health care experts across the board.

Dr. Heather Isaacson, a pediatrician at Longmont Clinic, says vaccinations are a vital part of keeping children healthy, particularly as they enter new environments at the beginning of elementary, middle and high school.

“Anytime they’re changing schools, they need to have vaccines updated,” Isaacson says. “It really is dependent on the community having a high vaccination rate to keep the disease level low.”

A recommended schedule for vaccines from birth to 18 years can be found on the Center for Disease Control website, cdc.gov.

In addition to vaccinations, Isaacson stresses the importance of annual physicals and, of course, hand washing.

“Washing your hands is critical – at school, before they eat lunch, before they have any snacks and right

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when they get home from school,” says Isaacson.

Dr. Andrea Mertz, a pediatrician at the Louisville office of the Boulder Medical Center, mentions that a little bit of selfishness can help maintain health, too. “[Hand washing] is the most effective tool we have for preventing infection,” says Mertz. “Also, talk to kids about not sharing things – drinks, water bottles, lip gloss.”

Mertz encourages parents not to skip any annual doctor’s visits, regardless of the vaccine schedule.

“Even if there aren’t shots, it is really important to do that yearly check-in and make sure things are going the way they should be,” says Mertz.

These annual visits can also be used to monitor a child’s dental health, says Jennifer Morse, Vice President at Salud Family Health.

“We want to make sure we’re looking at kids teeth as they’re growing,” says Morse. “We know if we can get to them early, we wont see cavities later down the road.”

At yearly physicals, a pediatrician will do an eye screening which can be used to identify, treat and prevent eye problems.

“The recommendation is that kids get their eyes screened through their pediatricians every year,” says Dr. Justin Kanoff, an ophthalmologist at the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado. “If the parents have any specific concerns about eye health, or if the pediatrician has concerns during the screening, they should see an ophthalmologist.”

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Another strategy for keeping school-aged children healthy is monitoring and limiting screen time.

Dr. Isaacson of the Longmont Clinic identifies the prevalence of electronics as a reason for children not getting enough sleep, which is vital for overall health.

“One of the big problems with sleep in kids today is the screens and electronics,” says Isaacson. “A lot of them are in the bedrooms and kids are on them when they should be sleeping,” says Isaacson.

At Salud Family Health, a major focus for physicians is reducing childhood obesity. Jennifer Morse, Vice President of Salud, connects the obesity trend with the prevalence of screen time.

“The more screen time you have, the less likely you are going to be engaging in social, interactive behaviors that are essential for childhood development and you’re also more likely to have a sedentary existence,” she says.

Counseling school-aged children on healthy lifestyle and monitoring their progress is the purpose of annual physicals. Morse says that parents should pursue this care on behalf of their children regardless of their financial situation.

“If you are perhaps uninsured or underinsured or have Medicaid, or if you have one of those insurances that aren’t as widely accepted, there are places in Boulder County where you can access care for children,” says Morse. “We don’t turn patients away based on their ability to pay.”

August 2, 2015

More Fruits and Vegetables What your child eats and drinks for snacks can either propel them or hold them back, especially in terms of school performance.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that the majority of snacks served to students should be fruits and vegetables, since most kids do not eat the recommended amount of five to 13 servings per day.

Keeping kids in

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Fruits and vegetables increase the amount of vitamins A and C and fiber in your child’s diet and are less costly than junk food.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the average cost of a serving of fruit or vegetable (all types — fresh, frozen, and canned) is 25 cents per serving. That’s a steal of a deal compared to a $1 candy bar or bag of chips.

Commit Early A snack food diet is hard to break if it has dominated your child’s eating habits throughout the summer. You can maintain a healthy variety of fruits and vegetables for snacking during the summertime in various ways: • Make fruit a regular evening occurrence. Instead of offering ice cream cones or cake after dinner, provide your kids with a variety of berries.

• Mini yogurt bars can be a charming way of encouraging your kids to eat more fruit. Set up a fruit station on your counter with strawberries, grapes and banana slices. Give your child a bowl full of yogurt and let them customize their snack.

• Salad makes for a healthful side item with a summer barbecue or cheeseburger. Opt for a bowl of leafy goodness over French fries and chips.

Turn Back the Trends Choosing plenty of fruits, vegetables and water during snack periods is important to providing good nutrition, supporting lifelong healthy eating habits, and helping prevent heart disease, cancer and obesity.

Kids have better things to do than get sick. That’s why parents trust the pediatricians at UCHealth. Our team of game changers cares for children through every age and stage.

Just as important is cutting back on the consumption of other foods found to be harmful if depended upon as too large a portion of a child’s normal diet.

University of Illinois researchers reported this year that pizza is the second-leading source of calories in America’s children, trailing only desserts. The study found that pizza consumption was associated with higher intake of calories, saturated fat and sodium.

FIRESTONE 303.833.8880 | LONGMONT 720.494.3133 | uchealth.org August 2, 2015

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BACK TO SCHOOL HEAD TO TOE Fun fall fashion trends for Colorado kids

By Julie Kailus, for Times-Call

Photos by FashionStock.com / Shutterstock.com

Kids fall fashion calls for a headto-toe makeover. What could be more fun? As you prepare for school days ahead, fashion that expresses a child’s individual personality starts with a hip haircut and ends with spunky shoes that will hold up in the halls.

“Before deciding on a hairstyle parents should think about the time it takes to style it and how often you need to maintain it,” says Pamela Morris owner of Boulder’s Jack & Jill Children’s Salon. “Longer hair keeps you warm in the colder months, and the shorter the haircut the more often you will have to maintain it. Typically your child will need a trim every six to eight weeks, including girls.”

However complicated, children somehow find a way to finagle the latest in haute hair fashion, and this fall that’s a flirty stacked bob for girls and the hipster comb-over for boys, Morris says. For kids who want to stick with longer locks, however, there are plenty of up-do styles that can keep hair manageable during a long school day. Gals like 10

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the easy braid, a la Elsa (of Frozen fame); high ponytails; messy buns; and fun floral accessories. For boys with longer hair, Morris says the “top knot” is trending, along with guy-style headbands that can carry hair from the classroom to the practice field.

What will highlight any head of hair? Glasses. Kids specs have come a long way, becoming a fashion accessory unto themselves. Kathy Johnson, optician and office manager at Longmont Vision Center, says the Ray-Ban look is back, especially for older children, and plastic rather than metal frames are more popular now. “With plastic, you don’t have the nose pieces, they grip better, and there are spring hinges.

Everyone wants that for kids if they get bumped,” Johnson says.

Frame colors run the gamut, with males typically sticking to black and darker tones, especially in the Wayfarer styles, and younger girls often going bold and bright. The key to glasses is making sure kids can try on various styles. “If they don’t like them, they are not going to wear them,” Johnson says of the age-old struggle over form versus function.

Of course any back-to-school wardrobe should be as hip as hair and vision accessories, right? Here

it’s fine to follow trends, but these days individual style is just as cool as being in the clothes club. If children do want to add some fresh separates to their school attire, Caroline Evascu of Nest children’s boutique knows what’s prevalent this fall. Tribal, animal and royal themes are making the grade. Think geometric patterns, sly foxes and crown accents. Following a red trend, flannel plaids are arriving in deep oranges and rust. Other cute fall pieces perfect for cooler temperatures include harem pants, faux fur vests and moto jackets, according to Evascu. Colorful leggings, trucker hats and turban-style wrap headbands are also all the rage.

While it’s easy for kids—and parents—to get sidetracked by all the exciting possibilities, there are a few helpful rules for back-to-school buying.

1) Look for layers.

Buy five pieces that can layer together in different ways for the changing season, such as a dress over leggings.

2) Make a color story.

Try to buy similar tonal “sets” each season so you can mix brands and price points.

3) Follow your kid’s lead.

Let children dress themselves,

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express their individuality and even wear fancy clothes if they like.

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Last, but certainly not least: shoes.

(Connoisseurs, you know exactly what I mean.) Toms and Vans, as well as Ugg, are the hottest fall footwear brands for the 6- to 12-year-old set, says Andrew Ruxton, assistant manager at Brown’s Shoe Fit Company. For a more functional, active choice, often a necessity in Colorado, New Balance, Saucony, Keen, Merrell, and See Kai Run are some smart options. For theme-obsessed tykes, Brown’s is even carrying a Stride Rite shoe featuring Elsa from Frozen, and good ole’ Spiderman for the boys.

However, choosing the right shoe is not predicated on fashion alone.

Velcro, lock laces or traditional lace-ups? The decision depends on the parent, the kid and the teacher, in many cases. Finding a good fit for growing kids is also critical. Ruxton says, “Parents should keep in mind space for growth spurts. Feet seem to never stop growing!”

From toe to head, there’s a lot to think about for fall fashion. But taken in stride, perhaps the real fun has just begun.

August 2, 2015

Smart Shopping Tips

Go shopping early. Make a list. Go to the store prepared. You already know those back-to-school shopping tips, right?

Here is a list of smart strategies that will help you save money while also making your kids happy with their updated wardrobes.

TAKE INVENTORY Treat your child’s closet like the stockroom at a major retailer.

• Grab a pencil and notebook, and make a complete list of all school-quality clothes your child possesses. Maybe some of her summer clothes will still work for the fall before the weather turns.

• Assess the list and make a new one of items needed.

• Go over your updated list with your child and welcome feedback on certain styles and types of clothing he or she would like to see in their school selections.

• Take your child shopping with you to help make tough decisions on which items to sacrifice when the budget starts running out. This will teach personal discipline and financial responsibility — two invaluable traits for any age.

CHECK THE RULES Schools have gotten more strict with wardrobe rules over the years. And with standards varying across states, districts and schools, it’s always a good idea to have a handle on what your student can and can’t wear.

There are certain articles of clothing that should be a given.

Student appearance can be regulated if it is vulgar, indecent, obscene, insulting or if it carries message that encourages inappropriate behavior, the Education Commission of the States states.

But this rule isn’t always cut and dry. According to a 2014 CNN report, a 5-year-old student in the Oklahoma City public school district was told to turn his University of Michigan T-shirt inside-out because it violated school rules.

The dress code only allows college shirts from Oklahoma institutions in an effort to deter gang activity. Even if you don’t necessarily agree with them, policies like this can be adhered to with just a little bit of research on your part.

TRUST YOUR TEEN

For high school students in need of new school clothes, you can enlist their help to make the shopping experience a bit easier on you.

Your teen may even ask if he or she can go shopping alone this year or with a group of friends. Set clear standards if you choose to allow this. Have your teen build a detailed list of wants and needs, and talk them through the importance of staying under or on budget.

You can even keep the majority of the budget yourself and have your teen pick out a few T-shirts or some tennis shoes.

Any shopping power you hand over can help teach your teen the importance of choosing quality, affordable items.

August 2, 2015

Times-Call—timescall.com

BACK TO SCHOOL

11

AFTER SCHOOL OPTIONS ABOUND Free time doesn’t have to mean wasted time

“Kids show up, and they are engaged in activities, they are getting play and team building.”

— Susan Zimmerman, District Coordinator, Community Schools

Rhema Zlaten, for Times-Call With the skills of a fighting warrior, Ninja Zone boys at Airborne Gymnastics in Longmont learn to fight like all of their video game action heros. Sometimes, dreams really do come true, transferring from virtual to reality. “[The class] incorporates moves like a fight video game but with no opponent,” Airborne Gymnastics owner and manager Pam Turner said. “So they learn parkour, and kicking and punching, but not at people or targets, and some street dance moves and gymnastic moves.”

After school options abound in the Longmont area, all focused on helping kids explore their passions.

The Ninja Zone class mentioned above is just one such offering at Airborne Gymnastics. The business also includes dance, casual and competitive gymnastics. Turner advocates for families to get their kids moving, even in addition to the physical education offered during school hours.

“Gymnastics is the basis for all sports,” Turner said. “There are so many techniques involved in gym12

BACK TO SCHOOL

nastics. It is a mental sport and so you have to learn.”

Even for the Pre-K crowd, Turner says gymnastics can help kids work on power, speed, strength, dexterity, balance and coordination, all skills that will serve them well in the school environment.

“Physical education in school is being cut right and left,” Turner said. “Then the kids who can’t sit still in school, they begin to think that learning isn’t fun at all. But if you can learn while moving, it puts the fun back into education.”

For students interested in exploring their creative side, Longmont boasts several locations for artistic expression. Inspiration Art Academy, run by art teacher veteran Cynthia Barnes, offers a focused space for children to explore many different types of art techniques.

Barnes teaches primarily by choice based art education, a method of teaching by artistic behaviors where kids primarily come up with their own ideas for art projects.

“Artists envision,” Barnes said.

“You observe. You engage and persist. You stretch and explore, and you have a community.”

For Barnes, teaching art means helping kids to get their ideas to happen, as well as focusing on how to help kids stick with something even when they are sick of the project or things aren’t going very well.

“These are things that are important for everything that we do,” Barnes said. “The point is not just to be a good artist, but to learn these skills. I don’t expect every kid to become a professional artist. I had thousands and thousands of students over those years [of teaching], and honestly, how many of those students are supporting themselves as s full time artist? But they are out there thinking more critically and problem solving.”

Barnes teaches in a center-based way. These centers may be about drawing, others about print making, textile, or murals, as well as features on short projects. Students are shown techniques, and they can choose to use those techniques or try something else on their mind.

Barnes also teaches several sewing classes throughout the school year.

“Every kid is going to the area they want to go to,” Barnes said.

“So I am not wasting their time.

Times-Call—timescall.com

And then at the same time, kids are seeing what other kids are doing, and there are lots of things happening in the room, which gives them more ideas and exposes them more.”

The St. Vrain School District also offers multiple options for before and after-school programming. Susan Zimmerman, the district coordinator for Community Schools, helps each school embrace their particular enrichment needs. Some schools will offer before and after day care, as well as wraparound times for Pre-school and Kindergarten. Other schools will primarily offer clubs and enrichment classes.

“Especially at a younger age, parents that are working need a place for their children to be where they are safe, where they are having fun, and where they are engaged,” Zimmerman said. “Kids that are involved with after school activities can be more connected to their school.”

The focus of each program is to enrich and engage, not just to babysit.

“Kids show up, and they are engaged in activities, they are getting play and team building,” Zimmerman said. “There might be arts and crafts and their might be sciences.

Depending on what each school’s academic focus is, we tailor those activities to that school. Sometimes we will do one time events, like a pottery class, or a sports activity, or a 26-week language class, or science classes or cooking classes. It really depends on the community and the school and what they are looking for.”

August 2, 2015

Finding Balance After School There is a fine line between too much and not enough extracurricular activities for your child. Once you find the right balance, the positives are overwhelming.

Indicators of successful participation in school extracurricular activities include consistent attendance, academic achievement and aspirations for continuing education beyond high school, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Take It Easy Too much scheduled time can be stressful, especially for young children. Consider your child’s age and your family’s schedule when signing up your kids for activities.

Quantity does not beat out quality, so make sure you’re putting your kids in the functions in which they show the most interest.

If you have multiple children, you

know the challenge associated with managing overlapping schedules or varying locations. All of this should be factored into your decisions.

You can overcome some of these issues by selecting activities where you have someone with whom you can carpool.

If there are after-school activities available that take place mostly at the school, those also can be great if you’re looking to minimize driving.

Most importantly, remember that the main point of your children being involved in extra activities is that they have fun. Putting too much pressure on them — or yourself — can turn what is supposed to be an enjoyable experience into a stressful hassle.

Many sports can be enjoyed outside of school during the summertime to help prepare your student for a strong in-school athletic experience. Here is a list of popular sports, some of which may not be available in your area.

Spring & Summer Sports Baseball Softball Soccer Fishing

Athletics Extracurricular activities build leadership qualities and teamwork skills.

Golf Tennis Biking Fall & Winter Sports Basketball Football Volleyball Hockey Skiing Snowboarding Ice Skating

AWARD WINNING K–12 tuition free public school with dedicated and supportive faculty and community.

Now ENroLLiNg for faLL 2015

JOIN US FOR 2015–16!

Preparing children for success in kindergarten and beyond.

• Children eight weeks – six years • Year round programs • Low adult-child ratios in each classroom • A diverse and inclusive learning environment • Proven, research-based curriculum we offer half and full-day, full-year programs that meet the needs of working families, as well as the needs of children eager for more time in a school environment.

for information, call Cindy at 303-776-7417 611 Korte Parkway, Longmont www.learningwithtlc.org

August 2, 2015

CONTACT US TODAY FOR ENROLLMENT INFORMATION. www.twinpeakscharter.org 303.772.7286 340 South Sunset Street, Longmont

Times-Call—timescall.com

BACK TO SCHOOL

13

PRESCHOOL educates and readies children for school and life

“Academic work is important, but [preschool] is more about the socialemotional development...”

— Cathy Stoecker, director, Sonshine Daycare and Preschool

By Rhema Zlaten, for Times-Call This summer, when the color of the week is red, the preschoolers at Junior Jets Child Development Center in Longmont taste a wide variety of red vegetables. After planting seeds and starter plants in their organic garden and watching each vegetable grow, they will learn to prepare and yes, even eat, their vegetables. It’s a partnership with Boulder Country called Farm to Preschool, and this sensory-based learning technique is getting preschoolers who are normally fueled primarily by fries and chicken nuggets to learn about healthy eating.

“It is cool that they can touch the seeds, and the plants, and try new foods,” Junior Jets director Beth Cushing said. “And we are talking 14

BACK TO SCHOOL

about if they like [the vegetables] or not. And once we get to harvesting, we will be cooking and eating.

The kids are really excited and they are enjoying it. If they don’t have a garden at home, where do they get food? It is great for them to see it in the planing stages, and watch the garden grow.”

For Cushing, a 30-year veteran of preschool education, the early childhood age is a very important time for preparation for school and for life.

“Unfortunately many children don’t have that good of a foundation for school,” Cushing said. “It is more than education. They need that academic piece, but they need that social-emotional piece. They need to learn how to follow directions, solve problems, express their feelings and know how to figure things out.”

Several competencies help preschoolers starting kindergarten to flourish, from starting to read, to being able to distinguish between lower and upper case letters.

“You also want children to know how to function in a group, how to take turns and wait,” Barnes said.

“They also need to know how to put on their clothes and shoes and

how to calm themselves down if they get frustrated or upset.”

Cathy Stoecker directs the Sonshine Daycare and Preschool housed at LifeBridge Christian church.

She has also been working with children for nearly three decades, and she considers the Pre-K years as a deeply formative time for each person.

“Academic work is important, but [preschool] is more about the social-emotional development, getting along with others, problem solving, listening, obedience, serving others, respect and the character that we are trying to teach our children,” Stoecker said.

At Sonshine Daycare and Preschool, teaching time focuses on getting kids ready for kindergarten.

There’s also different themes during the year, a letter each week, and sight word practice. The kids also participate in crafts and sensory learning experiences through centers and stations. The kids experience a lot of physical activity, and even some rest time built into the day.

Stoecker also works to bring in a wide range of community members to come in and speak about how different facets of the Longmont community work.

Times-Call—timescall.com

“You’ve got to have a balance b between fun and serious,” Stoecker ssaid. “We want it to be a positive tthing for our kids to go into school, aand for them to be successful in ttheir older school years.”

The St. Vrain School district also offers many options for preschool o eeducation. Shela Blankinship works aas the early childhood coordinator aand child find facilitator for the district. d “Early childhood education ggives our young children, who have vvery social tendencies, the chance tto interact with peers of their age, aand not only get exposed to the soccialization piece but also academic ttypes of experiences in a really eengaging and hands-on fun-loving way,” Blankinship said. w Preschool in the St. Vrain Valley sschool district typically starts for 3- or 4-year olds, who are at least 3 3

by October 1 of the fall they wish to start school. An essential component to preschool involves children learning how to self-regulate and monitor their own behaviors.

“Kindergarten has much more structured time frames,” Blankinship said. “We are teaching them to attend and regulate in a realistic way. We try to engage them; not that they are just sitting down for 15 minutes. We have lots of brain breaks. We also integrate music into our learning times. They are learning how to get along and be with other kids, how to use their manners, and how to ask for help.”

The kids will experience both small and big group experiences, all essential components to their future academic careers. “[Preschool] is based on engaging play activities and getting them involved so that they want to learn,” Blankinship said. “So if they are learning numbers or recognizing letters, they will hop out to recess and count, or they will see letters all over the classroom. I really do believe that preschool gives children pre-reading experience, and expanded vocabulary.”

August 2, 2015

St. Vrain Valley Schools Student Calendar AUGUST 11-13, 2015

FEBRUARY 15, 2016

Presidents’ Day

New Teacher Orientation

AUGUST 14, 17, 18, 2015

FEBRUARY 26, 2016

Non-Student Contact Days

Non-Student Contact Day

AUGUST 19, 2015

APRIL 4-8, 2016

First Day of School for Students

Spring Break

SEPTEMBER 7, 2015

MAY 20, 2016

Labor Day

Fri. Afternoon Graduation St. Vrain Online Global Academy

OCTOBER 16, 2015

Non-Student Contact Day

NOVEMBER 23-27, 2015 DECEMBER 21, 2015

Winter Break

Non-Student Contact Day

JANUARY 15, 2016

MAY 27, 2016

Martin Luther King Day

FEBRUARY 12, 2016

Non-Student Contact Day

MAY 30, 2016 Professional Learning Community Day /Late Start

MAY 26, 2016

JANUARY 18, 2016

Sat. Morning Staggered Graduation Mead HS, Skyline HS

MAY 25, 2016

DECEMBER 22, 2015-JANUARY 1, 2016

Non-Student Contact Day

MAY 28, 2016

Memorial Day

Last Day of School for Students

Non-Student Contact Day

Sat. Morning Graduation Erie HS, Frederick HS, Longmont HS, Lyons Middle/Senior, Niwot HS, Silver Creek HS

MAY 24, 2016

Life Skills ACE Completion Ceremony

Thanksgiving Break

MAY 28, 2016

Fri. Morning Universal High School Graduation Celebration (Held at Silver Creek High School)

MAY 27, 2016

Fri. Evening Graduation Olde Columbine High School

All students in all schools begin the school day 2.5 hours later than normal.

All teachers/staff will be engaged in collaborative professional development.

• September 2, 2015 • October 7, 2015 • November 4, 2015 • December 2, 2015 • February 3, 2016 • March 2, 2016 • April 13, 2016 • May 4, 2016

Imagine a classroom that allows your child to blossom while preparing him or her for a lifetime of academic success and engagement.

Our classrooms include imagining, moving and creating. Experienced teachers continue to make us one of the most innovative schools in the county.

Exceptional in-school & after-school programs on 38-acre farm Pre-K through 8th Grade

Call to schedule your personal tour!

August 2, 2015

6500 W. Dry Creek Pkwy, Niwot www.shepherdvalley.org 303.652.0130 Times-Call—timescall.com

BACK TO SCHOOL

15

A letter from St. Vrain Valley Schools Superintendent...

Greetings,

I hope you had a wonderful summer and that you are as excited as I am to begin the 2015-2016 school year.

In reflecting on the past and in anticipation of another outstanding year, I would like to recognize and thank our excellent teachers and staff; St. Vrain is home to the nation’s most dedicated and talented professionals. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to our entire community of wonderful and caring parents, supportive businesses and corporate partners, dedicated city and town officials, and an exceptional School Board of Education, all of whom strengthen our schools and optimize opportunities for our students to achieve and succeed.

Throughout the summer, many outstanding members of our operations and maintenance team have worked tirelessly to enhance our school and department facilities. A few examples include: extensive renovations at Indian Peaks, Rocky Mountain and Columbine Elementary Schools. Additionally, we are remodeling our Career Development Center and strengthening safety throughout our district through the implementation of security cameras in all of our high schools and middle schools; our next phase of implementation of security cameras includes all of our elementary schools. These and other projects are key to the continued success of our students and would not have been possible without the tremendous support of our community.

I am also excited to share with you some of the new high-quality instructional programs being implemented throughout our schools. These include: the expansion of Longmont High School’s Medical and Biosciences Academy, an Aerospace and Engineering Academy at Erie High School, Frederick High School’s Biomedical Science Academy, a comprehensive Energy Academy at Mead High School, and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program at Longmont Estates Elementary School. These and many other instructional opportunities throughout our schools represent one of the most robust portfolios of instructional programming in the United States.

Further, in support of high-quality learning throughout St. Vrain Schools, designed specifically to prepare our students for an extremely competitive global economy, we are continuing the implementation of our Learning Technology Plan (svvsd.org/techplan). Towards this end, we have achieved full implementation of our 1:1 iPad mini initiative at the middle school level and will continue our implementation plan at four high schools; next year we will complete the remaining high schools, with all of the elementary schools to follow. As a result of our advances in this area, the U.S. Department of Education selected our district to be featured as a national leader in the area of instructional technology.

Again, thanks in large part to our excellent teachers and staff, St. Vrain Valley students and schools have continued to experience great success.

Some examples include: numerous John Irwin School of Excellence Awards, Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Awards, Colorado Centers of Excellence recognition, and Colorado Schools to Watch Awards.

Additionally, many of our students have earned various prestigious awards including the College Board National Merit, Boettcher, Gates Millennium, Daniels Fund, and Presidential scholarships; and, several of our high schools were recognized as being among the best in the 2015 U.S. News & World Report rankings. Many students have also excelled in the performing and visual arts and athletics, earning numerous individual and team honors. I am very proud of our students for their achievements!

I believe wholeheartedly that outstanding schools are a prerequisite to a flourishing community. A vibrant economy, public safety, successful businesses and corporations, high property values, and a quality service industry are all strengthened greatly by a premier education system. In this regard, the St. Vrain Valley School District is very proud to be an integral part of our outstanding community.

At Longmont Salud Family Health Center, we provide Back to School physicals to help your child prepare for the new school year.

Our other services include: Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Immunizations, Laboratory, X-Ray, Ultrasound, Health Education, Family Planning, Pregnancy Care & Delivery, Behavioral Health Services, Pharmacy, Dental Services.

Salud accepts Medicaid, Medicare, CHP+, and most private insurance plans.

Salud also offers a sliding fee scale. Enrollment assistance is available.

Se Habla Español

As our students and schools continue to excel, we are experiencing tremendous growth in enrollment. This past year we became the seventh largest district in Colorado with approximately 32,000 students. This year we expect another increase in enrollment by approximately 800 students; this is a positive trend that is projected to continue for many years. We have been planning accordingly and recognize the need to build new schools as well as add to existing schools in every geographical area of our district. I will keep you informed as we finalize the details of our exciting, comprehensive build-out plan.

Again, thank you for your unwavering support as we remain committed to providing the highest quality of academic and cocurricular programs for our students. I am deeply grateful to everyone throughout our community and look forward to another exciting and successful school year.

To schedule an appointment call: 303-MYSALUD (697-2583) Longmont Salud Family Health Center 220 E. Rogers Road, Longmont, CO 80501 www.saludclinic.org

16

BACK TO SCHOOL

Times-Call—timescall.com

Sincerely,

Don Haddad, Ed.D. Superintendent, St. Vrain Valley Schools Follow us on Twitter: @SVVSDsupt August 2, 2015

Featured Longmont Charter Academies...

Carbon Valley Academy

Carbon Valley, a K-8 charter school, opened in fall 2005 in Frederick. The school uses a Core Knowledge curriculum and ability grouping. Spanish is offered, beginning in kindergarten.

High academic standards, a structured learning environment, a passionate teaching staff, effective school leadership and a positive school culture are the cornerstones of Carbon Valley.

Address: 4040 Coriolis Way, Frederick, CO 80504 Phone: 303.774.9555 Website: carbonvalleyacademy.org Administration: Tony Carey Executive Director, Julie Johnson (Principal) Enrollment: 356 Daily schedule: 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Student profile in percentages: Minority, 22.19; Free/reduced lunch, 20.55 (2013)

Flagstaff Academy

State TCAP scores: Subject

Grade

Unsat.

PP

Prof.

Adv.

Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Math Math Math Math Math Math

03 04 05 06 07 08 03 04 05 06 07 08 03 04 05 06 07 08

15 0 7 ---13 3 2 ---10 0 2 ----

23 23 20 ---53 43 34 ---28 17 27 ----

58 73 68 ---33 50 63 ---43 53 39 ----

5 3 5 ---3 3 0 ---20 30 29 ----

Flagstaff Academy, a K-8 public charter school is an academically rigorous school with a Core Knowledge foundation and a strong focus on science and technology. The school focuses on the individual learner, subject mastery grouping, progressive levels of difficulty and ongoing assessment for advancement.

The school offers inquiry-based science, integrated technology and a strong focus on character development and ethical leadership. Spanish is offered as a foreign language, and music and art electives are offered in all grades.

Address: 2040 Miller Drive, Longmont, CO 80501 Phone: 303.651.7900 Website: flagstaffacademy.org Administration: Wayne Granger, (Executive Director), Robin Lowe (Executive Principal), Terri Long (K-5); Charlie Warren, (6-12) Enrollment: 933

Daily schedule: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Student profile in percentages: Minority, 17.58; Free/reduced lunch, 10.06 (2013) Average student-teacher ratio: K-5, 26:1 6-8, 22:1 State TCAP scores: Subject

Grade

Unsat.

PP

Prof.

Adv.

Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Math Math Math Math Math Math

03 04 05 06 07 08 03 04 05 06 07 08 03 04 05 06 07 08

3 2 3 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 3 1 1

5 8 9 5 7 1 18 18 24 20 13 7 9 8 17 16 23 8

73 78 83 74 73 71 67 68 58 64 54 66 39 40 38 39 28 26

19 11 5 20 21 26 14 12 15 15 33 26 52 49 43 41 48 63

Twin Peaks Charter Academy

Established in 1997, Twin Peaks Charter Academy (TPCA) is an award winning, K–12 tuition free public school with a strong emphasis on academics and achievement, character education, and parent involvement. Core Knowledge (K–8) coupled with Classical Education and a college preparatory approach (9–12) sets achievable high expectations through the sequential, cumulative building of knowledge and skills. TPCA offers numerous AP and Honors courses, world languages, advanced science and math, liberal arts, visual and performing arts, technology, PE, and CHSAA athletics, including lacrosse.

Address: 340 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO 80501 Phone: 303.772.7286 Website: twinpeakscharter.org Principal: Mic Finn, Director; Danielle Feeney, Principal K–5; David Yu, Principal 6–12 Enrollment: 1,031 Daily schedule: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Student profile in percentages: Minority, 43.1; Free/reduced lunch, 36.69 (2013) August 2, 2015

Average student-teacher ratio: K–5: 24.3–1, 6–8: 23.7–1, 9–12: 13.5–1 State TCAP scores: Subject

Grade

Unsat.

PP

Prof.

Adv.

Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Reading Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Writing Math Math Math Math Math Math Math Math

03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

5 7 14 3 9 4 6 3 3 2 5 2 0 0 0 0 2 6 9 5 16 13 34 37

21 15 18 14 17 14 25 37 42 31 32 31 33 18 41 66 24 18 25 26 31 20 31 40

58 74 57 66 60 62 66 51 50 57 46 56 42 52 50 31 38 42 36 39 28 30 16 20

14 4 11 17 14 19 3 9 5 10 16 10 25 30 9 3 36 34 31 30 25 37 19 3

Times-Call—timescall.com

SUCCESS BEGINS HERE

• Preschool programs for 3 and 4-year-olds

• Tuiition, Special Education and CPP spots

• Two, three and four half-day programs

• Wraparound child care available in some locations

stvra.in/preschool • 303-702-7815 • @SVVSD

FREEPRESCHOOL* *for qualified students

BACK TO SCHOOL

17

Featured Longmont Private Education...

Messiah Lutheran Early Learning Center

Bright Horizons West Longmont

A quality program of Christian education for children age 2 years and 6 months through Jr. Kindergarten.

Early childhood development through full and part-time early education and preschool.

Preschoolers explore advanced use of language, math, and science, creative expression, and outdoor learning.

In addition to the daily curriculum, enrichment activities such as gross motor skill development, music, art, movement and STEM education are also included.

In Kindergarten Prep children are prepared to succeed in school and life through reading and writing skills, math and science concepts, large and small muscle skills, and social and emotional development.

Grades served: Preschool, Kindergarten Prep, Kindergarten, School Age Address: 1011 Dry Creek Drive, Longmont, CO 80503

Kindergarten develops expectations and practices in concert with state curriculum standards so children make an easy transition into the local school system.

Phone: 303.682.0102 Website: brighthorizons.com/ wlongmont Director: Melissa Assistant Director: Anette

Before and after school care, backup care for school holidays, and summer day camp is offered for school-age children.

Enrollment: Currently Enrolling Daily schedule: 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

The preschool program is designed to allow children many opportunities to learn about the world around them.

Special emphasis is placed on Biblical learning, socialization, and learning through actual experience. Part of the time is spent in free choice activities.

These may vary, but will include: Dramatic play, book corner, block center, manipulative toys and games, science, sensory development, math, and computers.

Pre-K and Jr. Kindergarten build on preschool skills with age appropriate activities.

Grades served: Preschool (Ages 2½-3), Pre-K (Age 4), Jr. Kindergarten(Age 5) Address: 1335 Francis St, Longmont, CO 80501

FRONT RANGE EYE PHYSICIANS Comprehensive Eyecare Specialists - Adults & Children

SERVING LONGMONT FOR OVER 30 YEARS Our Services Include: • Eye Exams • Glaucoma Care • Cataract Surgery • Cornea Specialty Mohammad Karbassi, M.D.

Dale S. Johnson, M.D.

Sara S. Heffler, O.D.

Board Certified And Subspecialty Trained

• Laser Vision Correction • Contact Lens Fitting • Large Selection Of Frames & Sunglasses

303-772-3611

www.frontrangeeyephysicians.com 205 S. Main St. Suite D, Longmont

Find Your Way Back to Success ADHD Testing - New IVA-2 • The most up-to-date computerized testing • Provide reports/recommendations to give to your chhild’s school • Data to clarify memory and learning issues Neuroptimal Neurofeedback - 12 Sessions Optimize Brain Function.

Helps with: ADHD, Learning, Memory, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Fatigue, Stress.

Dr. Kimberly Brayman, Licensed Psychologist

Most insurances accepted. 10% Off if you mention this ad

Call 303-485-6381

or email doctor.kimberly.brayman@gmail.com to set up your appointment.

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Phone: 303.776.3466 Website: mlcslongmont.org Director: Kirsten Danile Enrollment: 20 Capacity: 50 Average student-teacher ratio: 1:8 Tuition: Registration: $75; Tue/ Thu (Preschool Class) $170/ month; Mon, Wed, Fri (Pre-K Class) $220/month; MonFri (Jr. Kindergarten Class) $250/month Daily schedule: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Open house/visitation: Back to School night, August, 17 6 to 7 p.m.

Shepherd Valley Waldorf School

Preschoolers and kindergarteners enjoy a playbased curriculum with an emphasis on movement and sensory integration. Children learn mathematics, literacy and science through practical activities indoors and outside in nature. In the elementary and middle school grades, our unique approach to education guides students with a remarkably rich Waldorf curriculum of mathematics, sciences, language arts, history, geography, German, Mandarin, eurythmy (expressive dance), physical education, handwork, woodworking, painting and instrumental music. Students embrace rigorous learning that addresses the intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. Experienced teachers and students work together on diverse subject areas, making connections that foster a life-long love of learning.

Times-Call—timescall.com

Grades served: Preschool/ Kindergarten to eighth and Parent-Child program Address: 6500 W. Dry Creek Parkway, Niwot, CO 80503 Phone: 303.652.0130 Website: shepherdvalley.org Outreach/Admissions Director: Ruth Godberfforde Enrollment: 99 Capacity: 125 Annual tuition: $4,600 to $14,600 (parent/child program is $198 per session) Daily schedule: pre-K/K-8 is 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., afterschool until 5:30 p.m.

Open house/visitation: Nov. 19, Jan. 17/Tours available by request August 2, 2015

Rocky Mountain Christian Academy

Come see where love of learning comes from.

Rocky Mountain Christian Academy provides an integrated classical and Christian curriculum. Teachers nurture each student and create a learning environment that fosters character development. Parents are our partners to create a community that is vibrant and supportive.

The well-rounded curriculum includes art, music, and physical education, as well as Latin and formal Logic.

Average student-teacher ratio: Preschool 8:1, K-8 12:1

Grades served: Preschool to eighth

Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Address: 9447 Niwot Rd., Niwot, CO 80503

Open house/visitation: Campus tours every Tuesday from 9 to 11 a.m. To RSVP, call 303.652.9162 or email admissions@rmcaonline.org

Phone: 303.652.9162 Website: rmcaonline.org Principal: Sylvia Robinson

At Bright Horizons, we provide an exceptional place for children to thrive. Our individualized, flexible curriculum and experienced teachers inspire children at every age and stage.

Annual tuition: Preschool and 1/2 day Kindergarten $2,190$5,190, Full Day K-8 $5,990

• Flexible scheduling for full-, part-time and drop-in care • Supportive and strong parent community • Experienced, certified teachers

Two Longmont Locations East Longmont | 919 Deerwood Dr brighthorizons.com/elongmont West Longmont | 1011 Dry Creek Dr brighthorizons.com/wlongmont

Enrollment: 185

TLC Learning Center

An early childhood education and pediatric therapy center serving the community with infant and toddler care, preschool, and pediatric therapies. At TLC children with and without special needs are educated side by side in fully inclusive classrooms.

Programs include infant and toddler care which can transition into preschool. The environment is deliberately diverse, literacy rich, and project-based utilizing The Creative Curriculum, The Storybook Journey and STEM programming.

The unique pediatric therapies program provides evaluation and treatment for children up to 12 years old in a variety of settings, including centerbased, the hospital, and natural environments such as the home, daycare or community.

Ages served: 8 weeks to 6 years Address: 611 Korte Pkwy, Longmont, CO 80501 Phone: 303.776.7417 Website: learningwithtlc.org August 2, 2015

GYMNASTICS DANCE | |TUMBLING TUMBLING&&TRAMPOLINE TRAMPOLINE GYMNASTICS | DANCE NINjA ZONE | |CAMPS FITNESS | BIRTHDAY PARTIES ROCK CLIMBING CAMPS| ADULT | ADULT FITNESS | BIRTHDAY PARTIES

OPEN HOUSE Tour Our Facility & Meet Our Teachers

Executive Director: Matt Eldred Capacity: 76 Tuition: $75 Registration Fee Half Day Preschool: $341/month for 2 days, $475/month for 3 days, $668/month for 5 days Full Day Preschool:$573/month for 2 days, $797/month for 3 days, $1,122/month for 5 days Toddler: $612/month for 2 days, $852/month for 3 days, $1,199/ month for 5 days Infant: $663/month for 2 days, $923/month for 3 days, $1,299/ month for 5 days Daily schedule: 7:30 – 5:30 M-F, including before and after school care. Half day programs are 8:30 - noon.

Open house/visitation: Tours are held weekly. If possible, please call to join a tour.

Times-Call—timescall.com

SATURDAY, SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 AUGUST 16

9:30-11AM

Children of all ages are invited! *Must be accompanied by a parent.

See what we have to offer: Dowhat Circuits onZone theis all about ••See the Ninja Gymnastics • Do Circuits on theEquipment Gymnastics Equipment Bounce our Trampolines onTrampolines ••Bounce on our Tour Dance ••Tour ourour Dance StudiosStudios ••Scale the the Climbing Scale 25’ Wall Climbing Wall F Faallllcclalass sseess bbegin i n Auggust ust 218th.

4th

1816 Boston Ave., Longmont

303-651-1456

Visit our website for all class offerings.

AirborneGym.com AirborneGym.com

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EXCELLENCE.SVVSD.ORG

@SVVSD

STVRA.IN/LINKEDIN

ADVANCING excellence FOR STUDENTS, SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY

St. Vrain is consistently recognized for its excellent schools. These recognitions include the John Irwin School of Excellence Award, the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award, the Colorado Centers of Excellence Award and the Colorado “School to Watch” Award.

St. Vrain was awarded a $1.4 million physical activity grant from the Colorado Health Foundation to be used in professional development and supplies for classroom movement.

In 2013, the Colorado Association of School Boards named St. Vrain’s board as the “All State Board of Education”. This achievement was followed by St. Vrain Valley Schools being selected by the U.S. Department of Education as one of the country’s top leaders in education technology.

St. Vrain received a Race to the Top district award for $16.6 million, focusing on STEM education. The grant bolstered STEM education within St. Vrain Valley Schools and allowed the district to develop the Innovation Center, a facility where students can apply their STEM knowledge to real world projects.

Leadership St. Vrain was the recipient of the 2014 International Association of Public Participation Award for parent engagement.

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Times-Call—timescall.com

August 2, 2015