Berthoud Resident Berthoud, CO 80513
440 Mountain Ave. Berthoud, CO 80513
Berthoud, 80513
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July 24, 2014
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
July 24, 2014
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New schedules for a new year By May Soricelli The Surveyor
Berthoud students will see significant alterations in their upcoming school schedules due to new district-wide implements which include the elimination of early-release Wednesdays and addition of the modified-block schedule for high school. “Any change is a challenge, but any time a person has to evaluate what they do and adapt to a different schedule challenge, it provides many positives,” said Chris Garcia, Berthoud High School principal. “More collaboration, reviewing lesson plans and planning for a different class period, in turn, makes a teacher an even more effective educator. We will all need to adjust and be open to the new schedule and communicate even more as stakeholders to make it the best experience that we can for everyone.” These changes originate from the Thompson School Board’s aim to meet the needs of the community by considering numerous concerns about schedule conflicts. “This topic has been discussed for as long as I have been on the board, three years now. It is no surprise to anyone that this is finally being implemented,” said Bob Kerrigan, school board president. Some of the concerns regarding early-release Wednesday involved the need for increased contact time between students and teachers. There was difficulty for students and teachers to have enough time to complete work, due to the shorter schedule days. Another issue brought forward was the concern community members had about seeing unsupervised children out of school during the day. The most commonly voiced concern over the years has been the issue of parents having difficulty finding child care in the middle of the week. “I think that removing early-release Wednesdays is a positive thing for working parents,” said Kellie Davidson, a parent of Berthoud students. “It was difficult to have the early-release day right in the middle of the week.” In place of the teacher work time on Wednesdays, six professional work days have been added to the school calendar. This will provide educators with a full day to receive training and meet with experts. “They are educators, so they are excellent learners and they want the opportunity to improve,” said board member Pam Howard. There will be no school for students during these six work days which are Sept. 19, Oct. 16, Jan. 5, Jan. 20, April 20 and May 22 for the 2014-2015 school year. “I believe our professional development day switch from Wednesdays to every six weeks will be a good thing for us; to be spending more in-depth time together on improving student performance, using appropriate data and progress monitoring our teaching,” said Garcia. “We will continue to work each week as a staff to provide the best education for our students, but this will allow for more normalcy during the school week for students and parents as well.” At the high school level, students will experience a brand new modified-block schedule which the district hopes will improve student opportunities and success. “First and foremost, it will allow for far more flexibility for students, allowing them greater access to the classes that they need and want to take. It also allows the district to fully align itself with new upcoming state graduation guidelines,” said Michael Hausmann, Thompson School District public information officer. The modified-block schedule consists of eight 50-minute classes per day three days per week. There will also be four 90-minute classes two days per week, which consist of the eight regular scheduled classes split into two days. This will be a substantial shift from the old schedule which was four 90-minute classes per day. The schedule will incorporate one 90-minute class per course per week to allow for lessons which include longer labs and other, more time-intensive course work. “One of the reasons the modified-block schedule was settled on was because we listened to the needs of educators. They are the ones in the trenches,” said Howard. Some parents are concerned that some of the changes may hinder student learning. “I am worried about the number of three- and four-day weeks. Many of the basics are covered in a five-lesson setup. I think having those broken up is going to be hard for both teachers and kids,” said Suzy Bullet, another parent of Berthoud students. This change allows students to maintain the same teachers for their classes, whereas in the past they would have new teachers for the second semester. Not having a transition period between students and teachers each semester could make the students’ learning environment more consistent. “We really think the continuity of having the same teacher will be best for the students and staff. It is important for teachers to have all year with the students, particularly for State of Colorado teacher evaluations because they get to know the students better,” said Howard. Another advantage is having the class every day, or at least four days a week, according to Garcia. “Especially for math and science, being a STEM school, and adding agriculture this coming year,” said Garcia. Kerrigan encourages parents and educators to continue to give feedback on the education process for the children. “We want to make sure that parents know they are appreciated and their input is needed. The people closest to the children are who matter most. Parents need to always know they have a voice, teachers have a voice. Parents have a significant role in their kid’s success. You have every right to contact your board members,” said Kerrigan.
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July 24, 2014
Berthoud Schools in the Thompson School District
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Back to School 2014 © is published by the Berthoud Weekly Surveyor. Editorial content is provided by Surveyor staff writers and the Thompson School District. For more information about advertising with the Surveyor, call 970-532-2252. All additional information regarding individual schools, fees, registration and testing dates, alternative education options and other resources can be found at thompsonschools.org or call 970-613-5000.
Berthoud High School
950 Spartan Ave. • 970-613-7700 Principal Chris Garcia
970-532-2252 440 Mountain Ave., Berthoud, CO 80513
www.BerthoudSurveyor.com
Turner Middle School
950 Massachusetts Ave. • 970-613-7400 Principal Derrick Martin
Ivy Stockwell Elementary
175 Fifth St. • 970-613-6100 Principal Rick Bowles
Berthoud Elementary
560 Bunyan Ave. • 970-613-7500 Principal Camilla LoJeske
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
July 24, 2014
Thompson School BOE focused on increasing student achievement E
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very school day nearly 16,000 students come to Thompson schools, relationship among the members. We have more to accomplish in this area, sent by their parents and guardians; they all expect a great educabut I am grateful to all six of my fellow directors for their efforts to listen to tion. Your Thompson School Board made a number of each other and to come together to make decisions that will decisions this year that should make getting a great education make Thompson the school district all parents want for their in a safe and secure environment easier. children. We were able to offer a 4.17 percent ($3.3 million) pay inThis fall, I hope you will see the board learn from the great creases to staff across the board, with an emphasis on raising things happening in public education as we all learn what it salaries for new teachers so Thompson can recruit the best takes to educate students who will face a fast-changing funew teachers available. We also increased pay for substitute ture. Our graduates will need to know how to think creatively teachers and added dollars to extra-duty contracts; these were and not just know a good set of facts. areas that had not been adjusted for a number of years. We ought to work on ways to ensure that parents have a We improved our school schedules by removing earlystrong voice in their child’s education and are engaged with release Wednesdays, giving students and teachers more time our schools. together in our classrooms. I hope that we will find new ways to show teachers they are We worked closely with our two charter schools to assure respected and valued. We should also find new ways to assure they are delivering the same high quality education as all of education decisions are made at a local level as much as posour district-run schools; while allowing them the flexibility to sible. meet the needs of their community. My goal as board president is to establish a system which We increased transparency and expanded the time for ensures that decisions about educating students are made Bob Kerrigan public comment at school board regular meetings. It has been closest to where the children are being taught; by teachers, Thompson School tough at times, but we have all benefited from hearing from parents and the leaders of our schools. Board President more people. As we all prepare to return to school I know great things Recently, we began to establish a framework for accountwill be happening in the classrooms; we will also be working ability unique to Thompson so we are not relying on the state to tell us how hard in the boardroom to focus on our students and what they need to sucwe are doing in our district. We are starting with efforts to define the goals ceed. and priorities, setting measurable achievement targets for the entire district. Please join me in advocating for what it takes to make Thompson schools As we continue in that process this August, the board will determine the cycle the place where all students have equitable access to a great public education. to measure the progress toward our new higher achievement goals. Editor’s note: This piece was written and submitted by Bob Kerrigan on his Through all of this, the board has begun to establish a stronger working behalf and is not meant to represent the position of the board of education.
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July 24, 2014
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
WELCOME BACK! Registration and back-to-school information ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS: Students new to the district and students not preregistered at their school in the spring: Wednesday, Aug. 6, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (office closed during lunch hour from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) OR Thursday, Aug. 7, 1-6 p.m. New students: Bring proof of residence, birth certificate, immunization records, emergency contact information and previous school records.
TURNER MIDDLE SCHOOL: New students to the district: Monday, Aug. 11 – Students with last names A-L 7:30-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12 – Students with last names M-Z 7:30-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3:30 p.m. Bring proof of residence, immunization records, birth certificate, and report card from previous year. Returning students: Registration was completed in April 2014 (including incoming 6th graders). 6th graders report to the gym for their first day of school on Wednesday, Aug. 20. No backpacks or school supplies needed this day. All students’ first day of school is Thursday, Aug. 21. All students will receive a copy of their class schedule on Back to School Night, Monday, Aug. 18, 6-7 p.m. Schedules and student fee invoices will also be available for downloading through Parent Portal in August. Completed athletic packets and fee payments
may be dropped off in the front office beginning Monday, Aug. 11. First day of volleyball (7th/8th grade) and Cross Country (all grades) is Monday, Aug. 18. Information such as bell schedule, calendar, lunch information and athletic information packets for fall sports may be found on Turner’s website: www.thompsonschools.org/turner
BERTHOUD HIGH SCHOOL: New students to the district and transfer students from other district high schools: Call 613-7711 beginning Monday, Aug. 4, to schedule an appointment for registration and information. Available dates for these appointments are Thursday, Aug. 14, and Friday, Aug. 15, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Remember to bring previous school records to
your appointment. Returning students (grades 10-12): Registration for classes was completed in February 2014. Students will report for their first day on Thursday, Aug. 21. Parents and students will be able to access their schedules and invoices via Parent Portal beginning Aug. 18. Grade 9 registration was completed at middle schools in February 2014. The first day of school for freshmen and new students is Wednesday, Aug. 20. Back to School Night is Tuesday, Aug. 19, 5-7 p.m.
See page 6 for calendar variances for several district schools and programs. Calendars are online at thompsonschools.org
School Calendar 2014-2015
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor July 24, 2014 Page 7
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July 24, 2014
Ivy Stockwell Elementary School
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elcome to another great year at Ivy Stockwell Elementary. As principal of Ivy, I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of the Berthoud community and to help contribute to an amazing Berthoud feeder system. As a Berthoud feeder (Berthoud Elementary, Ivy Stockwell Elementary, Turner Middle School and Berthoud High School), we continue to work together to make our schools the best they can be for our students. I am proud of all of our schools. Our community is also very fortunate to have a community that supports education. We have amazing parent groups that volunteer in all of our buildings and organizations that raise money to support our schools financially. We could not be the great schools we are without that community support. At Ivy Stockwell Elementary, we are very excited to enter the third year of our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) implementation. We have made great strides and are excited to continue this work. Over this past summer, we worked with the other two STEM schools (Edmondson Elementary and Big Thompson Elementary) to continue building and refining our STEM curriculum. The Ivy staff has volunteered Rick Bowles many days during summer break the past three years to Principal at Ivy Stockwell do this work. Elementary School For new families to Berthoud, we will hold registration on Aug. 6 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Aug. 7 from 1-6 p.m. We also want to remind parents that there will be a Back to School Night and Ice Cream Social on Monday, Aug. 18 from 4:30-6 p.m. Students are encouraged to bring in their school supplies. The gym will be set up with different informational booths and our Parent Teacher Organization will serve ice cream. Our official first day of school will be Wednesday, Aug. 20. We can’t wait to meet our new families and welcome back all of our returning students. Enjoy your final weeks of summer.
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Berthoud Elementary School
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s we approach the 2014-2015 school year I look forward with great anticipation to another year of interacting and supporting our community of wonderful families and amazing children. The Berthoud Elementary staff is committed to helping each child “learn and grow to be his or her best” (our mission statement) each year. Our goal is for students to keep the excitement they bring to this new school year as a motivation for taking charge of the learning they do each day, and to challenge themselves to learn all they can in preparation for future educational opportunities and life. Educating children is a complex process of understanding what our students need and how to best meet those needs. Through a strong academic focus, flexible skills grouping, a high level of staff collaboration, and looping practices, we feel that we are on the right track to facilitate the learning our students need. Students at Berthoud Elementary are the focus of all we do. We will continue to offer our students rich and meaningful learning opportunities in science, social studies, art, music and physical education throughout the year. Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has supported Camilla LoJeske school goals and plans many fun and educational events Principal at Berthoud for our students and families. Courtesy of our PTA, we Elementary School will add a climbing wall in our gym this year for extra challenges and fun in our physical education classes. Events to look forward to this year: Field Day, Tipi Week, Fall Carnival, Family Movie Nights, Science Seminars, Cursive Class, Student Council, Holiday Shop, Family Science Night, Battle of the Books, Jog-a-Thon, Spirit Days, School Assemblies, After School Clubs and Choir. Please remember our new families will need to register their children, and all of our families are invited to our Meet and Greet to drop off their school supplies and meet their teachers. Please see the information below. Fall registration: Aug. 6, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Aug. 7, 1 - 6 p.m. Meet and Greet: Aug. 18, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Thank you for being such a terrific community. We are looking forward to a dynamic year.
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
July 24, 2014
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July 24, 2014
Turner Middle School
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Bill Siebers created a foundation for new STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) offerings and programs. And this is a direction to e are currently preparing students for jobs that don’t yet ex- which I completely subscribe and will continue to foster. My previous tenure as principal involved creating new STEM programs and course offerist, using technologies that haven’t been invented, in order ings to get kids actively involved and engaged in their learning. to solve problems we don’t even know are problems yet.” Additionally, I believe the arts (STEAM) have a crucial role to play in — Karl Fisch, “Did You Know?” the cognitive development of kids. As a musician, I can speak directly to the benefits of music. My involvement in theater also brought out a cret is little surprise that this profound statement often creates fear ative element that would have been hidden away if not for this outlet. Rewithin the hearts of some educators. It’s normal to view the unmember: Invention is a highly touted 21st century skill. The arts known with a bit of suspicion. For myself, however, this are all about creating new ideas, inventing something, entirely statement fills me with excitement. We are in a much different new and unique. This provide students with a new angle and world now in terms of inculcating the necessary skills our chilperspective. In this way, technology and the arts are completely dren need in order to succeed in a 21st century world and job inseparable. market. So why am I so excited? I still firmly believe that it comes down to the essential three I’m thrilled to be in education during this critical juncture. “Rs”: reading, writing and ‘rithmetic. These skills are the prediThese new programs, courses, and approach to student learning cate to mastering the 21st century skills of critical thinking and will not only help to foster the necessary skills our children will problem solving, information literacy, collaboration, self-direcrequire, but they will also help close those learning growth gaps tion and invention skills. and maintain and accelerate growth. Perhaps, more importantBut the whole notion of learning and how kids learn has ly, students will find that they are more interested and invested changed. Learning can no longer be predominantly a passive proin their education. cess where teachers transmit information to children who then I’m not interested in simply getting kids to “adequate” absorb the information and store it in their memory. Learning growth. It’s all about pushing them well beyond that artificial Derrick Martin must entail an active process where students “do, do and do,” not boundary. And I know Turner has a group of teachers and staff Principal at only to learn how to achieve a desired outcome, but also to underwho certainly do not fear where education is headed. This is Turner School stand those processes and develop an intuitive understanding of a high quality, highly effective bunch, and they are ready and their own thinking and logic. willing to do whatever it takes. My job is to provide them with I am completely in tune with where Turner is at in terms of its “vithe necessary support to achieve this mission. tal signs.” This is a high achieving school. Student growth is lagging a I want to thank those in the Berthoud and Thompson School District bit. But this isn’t uncommon with schools that are high-performing. The community who have already welcomed me to Turner. I truly count myself state’s criteria for adequate growth often puts high performing schools in fortunate to be here. I can’t wait to get to know the community and the this kind of quandary. kids who will call Turner their school. But understand, high achievement and lagging growth is a good probIf parents and community members have any questions or concerns, lem to have. And, the fact that Turner is high performing is a testament please do not hesitate to contact me. I want to make myself as accessible to previous administrations, the wonderful teachers and staff who work as possible. there, and a community that has been wholly supportive of the school.
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Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Berthoud High School
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elcome back to another great year at BHS. Hello to all of you. Summer is nearly over and school is just around the corner as we begin preparations for the 2014-2015 school year. I am appreciative and encouraged to see the results of our preliminary AP, ACT and TSAP scores from last year. It was a big year of transition and our students rallied and did very well. We will continue to be guided by the three PBIS elements of being a Spartan: Achieve, Respect and Engage. We will encourage our students to live by these three principles and to be Bully Free to ensure the best learning experience for our students. Thanks again to Kelli Funk and our student accountability committee for all of their work and guidance and helping me throughout the year and to the Chris Garcia Berthoud BASH for another amazing fundraising event Principal at Berthoud for our schools. High School New this year, BHS will have a new eighth period bell schedule and we will no longer have early release Wednesday. Although the classes may feel shorter, students will see every teacher at least four days a week and we will have block days on Wednesday and Thursday. The block day periods will be 1, 3, 5, 7 and 2, 4, 6, 8. There will also be new bleachers for Max Marr Field for our soccer and football season and we are excited to see them completed. As well, we’ve added several fantastic new members to our staff. I look forward to seeing all of you again and meeting new people at Back to School Night on Tuesday, Aug. 20 from 5 - 7 p.m. Please don’t hesitate to call me at 613-7703, or email chris.garcia@thompsonschools.org if you have any questions, concerns, or comments. Go Spartans!
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What is Common Core? Special to the Surveyor
State education chiefs and governors in 48 states came together to develop the Common Core, a set of clear college- and career-ready standards for kindergarten through 12th grade in English language arts/literacy and mathematics. Today, 43 states have voluntarily adopted and are working to implement the standards, which are designed to ensure that students graduating from high school are prepared to take credit bearing introductory courses in two- or four-year college programs or enter the workforce. Teachers have been a critical voice in the development of the standards. The Common Core State Standards drafting process relied on teachers and standards experts from across the country. Teachers were involved in the development process in four ways: 1. They served on the Work Groups and Feedback Groups for the ELA and math standards. 2. The National Education Association (NEA), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), and National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), among other organizations were instrumental in bringing together teachers to provide specific, constructive feedback on the standards 3. Teachers were members of teams states convened to provide regular feedback on drafts of the standards. 4. Teachers provided input on the Common Core State Standards during the two public comment periods. High standards that are consistent across states provide teachers, parents, and students with a set of clear expectations to ensure that all students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life upon graduation from high school, regardless of where they live. These standards are aligned to the expectations of colleges, workforce training programs, and employers. The standards promote equity by ensuring all students are well prepared to collaborate and compete with their peers in the United States and abroad. Unlike previous state standards, which varied widely from state to state, the Common Core enables collaboration among states on a range of tools and policies, including the: • Development of textbooks, digital media, and other teaching materials. • Development and implementation of common comprehensive assessment systems that replace existing state testing systems in order to measure student performance annually and provide teachers with specific feedback to help ensure students are on the path to success. • Development of tools and other supports to help educators and schools ensure all students are able to learn the new standards. For more information www.corestandards.org.
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Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Getting ready for kindergarten Special to the Surveyor Schools across the country are getting ready to once again open their doors and welcome new and returning students. The newest crop of kindergarteners will be among the fresh faces roaming the hallways and classrooms, and parents can take steps to make this transition go more smoothly. Although many children attend preschool, kindergarten typically marks a child’s initial foray into formal education. It can be a time of wonder, new experiences and rapid educational growth. Kindergarten also can stimulate nerves and fears about the unexpected. Preparing children for kindergarten requires a little finesse to make this significant milestone in a kid’s life that much more special. • Speak often about kindergarten. Talking openly and excitedly about kindergarten is one way to spur a child’s interest in school. As the first day of school approaches, bring it up in conversation and see how your youngster feels about kindergarten. Some children are anxious to begin this new chapter in their lives, while others are daunted by the prospect of starting school. Understanding how your child feels about kindergarten can help you more effectively deal with any apprehension he or she might have. • Schedule a tour. Some schools have programs in place to introduce incoming kindergarteners to the school and the curriculum. For others, you may have to request a visit to the school. Such visits can be helpful, especially if your child does not have an older sibling already in the school and is completely unfamiliar with the building. Sometimes just being able to see what the school and kindergarten classroom looks like is enough to assuage fears.
• Start adjusting kids’ schedules. Summer vacation and pre-kindergarten life may be about retiring to bed late and waking up much later than the start of a typical school day. But such schedules are no longer realistic once kids begin school. Help kindergarteners-to-be acclimate to their new schedules by gradually changing their bed times and wake times in the weeks leading up to the first day of school. Five-year-olds need between 10 and 12 hours of sleep each night. • Let kids choose some school supplies. Encourage youngsters to join you as you shop for school supplies, which may excite kids about school and help them feel more actively involved. That new backpack or folder your child picked out can be a source of pride and a security blanket for the first few days of school. • Encourage kids’ independence. A kindergarten teacher will be supportive and nurturing but will not be a substitute parent for the class. Children should be able to do certain things for themselves when entering kindergarten. Taking their jackets on and off, packing up their belongings, cleaning up toys and other supplies and following directions are just a few things Helppreschoolersfeelconfidentandhappyaboutkindergarten kids should be able to do on their own upon entering byadjustingtoaschoolscheduleasthefirstdayofschooldraws kindergarten. It may be tempting to do everything for nearer. your preschooler, but kids who are too dependent may struggle to acclimate to kindergarten. about the start of school. • Encourage kids to spend time with their peers. • Make note of the similarities between preschool Your child may benefit from spending time with other and kindergarten. Kindergarten may not be so different kids their age and sharing their expectations of kinderfrom preschool, and such familiarity can make the trangarten. Such dialogue can remove some of the unknown sition that much easier for youngsters. Some preschools of starting school. mirror the curriculum of the local elementary school • Don’t pressure kids at the last minute. There is no district, introducing students to the types of lessons way to cram when preparing for your kindergartener’s they eventually will learn in kindergarten. Make note first day of school. Rushing through flash cards or quizof these similarities in an effort to calm any jitters kids zing kids on the alphabet may just make them nervous may have about starting school.
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Further benefits of the 529 account include the ability to transfer the beneficiary to a qualified family member in the event of child number one earning a full ride scholarship, attending a lower cost school, or forgoing college all together. The account is owned by the parents (or grandparents) and not the child, helping to ensure the funds are directed toward their intended purpose, and the investments grow tax free prolove summer time. The days are long, the garden is growing at full steam, and vided distributions are made for qualified post-secondary education expenses (Please the sounds of youthful enterprises fill the air from nearby parks and municisee IRS publication 970 for information on the tax benefits for education: www.irs.gov/ pal pools. Usually about mid-July I find myself reconciling the successes and pub/irs-pdf/p970.pdf ). failures of my gardening endeavors, with hopes of laying out a better plan for the next Not all accounts are created equal year. Each state offers a 529 plan, but participants are not limited to their state of For parents with school-aged children, the waning days of summer bring planning residence, and some states, such as Colorado, offer tax deductions against for the next school year into focus and, for many, the opportunity to reflect state income taxes as incentives for funding the accounts. on how seemingly fast time moves. At first the back-to-school lists are short: As with any investment decision, parents need to carefully consider the crayons, paper, a ruler, and a back pack to carry items in. Over time the exfees associated with the underlying investments as well as the quality of penses multiply as quickly as children grow, and before long college comes choices available. Plans may be direct sold (meaning participants purchase into focus, and with it the reality that higher education is costing signifithe product directly through the plan) or broker sold (which may come with cantly more every year. higher fees and expenses). It is no secret that college tuition has increased over the last few decades. It’s never too late to start What is astounding is the 6-7 percent inflation pace at which the price of Undoubtedly it is better to begin college savings during the first year of an education has grown. Worse yet, if the current trends continue, parents a child’s life, as demonstrated by the growth of monthly savings over 5, 10, hoping to cover or partially offset expenses are in for serious sticker shock if 15 and 20 years. adequate steps aren’t taken. But what if your child is already well into their high school years? While While it’s hard to predict if college tuition rates will continue to advance it may be too late to fund 100 percent of future expenses, there is still time at the frenetic pace of the past few decades, it is a sober reminder that careto set aside some funds in an effort to defray the total outlay. Given college ful planning and saving now will help offset or even eliminate the need to Jason Brooks, is a 4-5 year commitment, parents of sophomores, juniors and seniors will take out a second mortgage. CFP AIF have 2-8 years of tax deferred growth potential before tuition bills are due. Traditionally, the most common savings vehicles were the Coverdell Secondly, if you live and pay income taxes in Colorado, the 529 plan again Education Savings Accounts (ESA), U.S. savings bonds, and Uniform Gift offers state income tax deductions for contributions without a time requirement before to Minor Accounts (UGMA/UTMA). These accounts provide parents a means for savdistribution. Which means you can fund a 529 plan, pay tuition the same year, and ings, but come with significant disadvantages such as limited savings capacity (ESA still get the offset. is capped at $2000 annually), ownership issues (UGMA/UTMA are the property of the Putting a child through school is a major investment in his or her future, and child ), or limited growth potential (Savings bonds current yield is 0.50 percent). planning for their needs must be on the minds of every parent as they prepare for the Because of these concerns, and with the ever increasing college expenses, states coming year. Taking action now will help ensure your investment grows to his or her began to offer new savings vehicles to better plan for future needs. fullest potential. Enter the 529 plan For more information on saving for college please visit www.savingforcollege.com. A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged saving and investment vehicle sponsored by a state, For specific information regarding Colorado’s 529 savings plan please go to: www. state agencies, or educational institutions, and designed to encourage saving for future collegeinvest.org. college costs. Annual non-deductible funding is capped at the gift tax exclusion level Jason M Brooks CFP®AIF® is the president of Indelible Wealth Group, LLC in Ber(currently $14,000 single/$28,000 married filing jointly), and total funding cannot thoud, a fee based Registered Investment Adviser firm in Colorado and California. He exceed the amount necessary to provide for the qualified education expenses of the does not provide tax, accounting or legal advice. Please consult your own independent beneficiary. This means a married couple could fund up to $140,000 at account inceptax or legal advisor as to any tax, accounting or legal statements made herein. tion, then repeat the process in the sixth year.
It’s never too late to save
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Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
How to help your kids in the classroom Special to the Surveyor Parents often play a crucial role in helping their kids do well in school. Numerous studies have shown the positive impact that parental involvement can have on a student’s academic career, and those studies have inspired many educators to encourage their students’ parents to take a more active role in their children’s education, including helping them with their homework. Parents can help kids with their homework in various ways, but that very involvement alone can help to establish a groundwork in which kids understand there are specific rules regarding their homework and that these rules will be enforced. Even parents who might not be able to help kids with their calculus homework are already helping by simply creating an environment in which kids know they are expected to do their homework every day and that mom and dad will be there to make sure they do. But enforcing rules about homework is not the only way parents can help their kids in the classroom. The following are a few simple ways parents can support their children’s academic efforts as well. • Contact teachers. Contacting
teachers is now easier than ever before. Many teachers recognize the benefits of involving parents in their youngsters’ education, and as a result these teachers go to great lengths to make information about their classes available, whether it’s by posting a class syllabus online or emailing parents about upcoming assignments or examinations. Whereas the parents of yesteryear used to wait until parent-teacher conference sessions to learn how their child was performing in the classroom, today’s parents can email their children’s teachers for updates or questions if they notice their child is struggling with a particular subject.
• Help your child choose his or her coursework. The competition to get into a good college is stiff, and many of today’s high school students recognize that reality. Unfortunately, some students bite off more than they can chew. High school students don’t have the flexibility with regard to their coursework that they will have in college, but that does not mean their schedules are entirely up to someone else. When the time comes for kids to pick their courses, parents should sit down and help kids choose a schedule that’s challenging but not overwhelming. • Emphasize education over extra-
curricular activities. Parents often marvel at the ease with which their children juggle busy schedules. While students might be deft at balancing academics with a host of extracurricular activities, many adults feel that today’s kids are overburdened, and parents who feel that way should not hesitate to take some tasks off their youngsters’ plates. Parents should stress to their children that education takes precedence over their extracurricular activities, paying careful attention to kids’ academic performances during those times of the school year when their children’s schedule seems especially busy. During such times, parents also can contact children’s teachers and ask that teachers let them know if their youngsters’ academic performance begins to suffer. • Limit distractions. Time to unwind is important, but parents should keep a watchful eye on just how much time their kids are unwinding. Too much time spent online or in front of the television can compromise academic performance. Establish limits as to how much time kids can spend online, watching television and playing video games, and enforce those limits so kids have time to focus on their academics.
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
July 24, 2014
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July 24, 2014
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Berthoud High band marches to a new beat By Bob McDonnell The Surveyor
Summer is no vacation for Rick Grotsky. Berthoud High School’s new band teacher spent his summer hosting band camps and meeting with his future students. Grotsky labels himself as the school’s music director, being the only music teacher at the school. He teaches band, choir and orchestra at Berthoud High, but his job is to “make kids feel successful,” he said. Grotsky graduated from Rocky Mountain High School in Fort Collins in 1994 and received all of his education locally for his teaching certification. He taught for five years at St. Joseph Catholic School in Fort Collins. From there, he went to Jackson Elementary in Greeley, and right before coming to Berthoud, Grotsky spent two years at Greeley’s Northridge High School. He said his goal for Berthoud’s music programs is not change, but growth. Currently, Berthoud High School has about 40 students in band and 10 to 15 in the orchestra, according to Grotsky. Berthoud’s enrollment is 626 as shown on localschooldirectory.com. Having 15 percent of the student population is a “good result” Grotsky said, but he wants to engage even more students in music. Grotsky wants to have more offerings of music classes. One example is a music theory class. In the past, the new teacher found that this type of class draws in students. The class is not intended for those in the band or orchestra but as an elective.
Band competition awards adorn a wall in the school’s band room, illustrating the band’s past successes. Grotsky points out that many awards list the local band making it to the semifinal round of competitions. The last time the Berthoud band was a finalist happened in 2005 and he wants to see if the band can attain this level again. By “staying focused and on task,” Grotsky feels the band will become more competitive and able to attain more honors. Also, he says that past band teacher Paul Faris will be an assistant at BHS to work with the music students. Grotsky’s philosophy is that students should not Photo by Bob McDonnell only be great musicians, but New BHS band teacher Rick Grotsky stand by pictures of past BHS bands. also great people. instrument in as a member of the Colorado Big His overall goal as an Swing Big Band, along with his friend, and Bereducator is to leave a legacy. He wants students thoud businessman, Eric Weedin. to “continue their involvement in music after high When not teaching or playing music, Grotsky school.” Having them pass on what they learn at enjoys family time with his wife and four children. BHS and to have “music resonate with them” is He also likes to watch movies. part of this legacy. Look for Grotsky and the Spartan band at the Dedication and passion for music guide Grotsky. first football game this year. Saxophone is another of his passions. He plays the
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
July 24, 2014
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Using newspapers to teach kids in the classroom
reports the facts without giving an opinion. This can prove a valuable lesson for kids to learn, promoting reading comprehension and teaching kids to Few resources are as inexpensive yet inherently question the source of their reading materials in an valuable as the local newspaper. For as little as the analytical way. loose change in their pockets, readers can get all • Encourage kids to read their favorite sections of their local news, as well as learn what is going on the newspaper. Kids are kids, and they may not be overseas and, for sports fans, what happened during interested in the front page stories or most of what’s last night’s games. included in section A. However, there are sections For educators, newspapers can be a valuable in every newspaper that can appeal to kids, and teaching tool as well. Younger kids typically aren’t teachers and parents alike should encourage their avid readers, but newspapers are often reader-friendkids to read those sections that interest them. The ly, with concise articles that aren’t as long-winded as entertainment section might have stories about kids’ chapters in a book. Teachers hoping to instill a love favorite movies, while young sports fans are likely to of reading in their pupils can put the local newspaper enjoy articles about their favorite teams and players. to work in a variety of ways. The goal is to get kids excited about reading, and • Teach kids the “5Ws (and the H).” Most adults many parts of the newspaper are filled with articles recall the lesson of the “5Ws (and the H).” The 5Ws kids can enjoy. and the H are Who, What, When, Where, Why and • Use the local section as a teaching tool. Kids How. Newspaper articles are typically built around may or may not be interested in what’s going on in the rule that encourages reporters to answer these the world’s financial markets or even the nation’s six questions in the first several paragraphs of an capital. But the local section is something kids can article. Teachers can give their students the newsoften relate to, with stories about people and places paper and tell them to identify the 5Ws and the H. they’re familiar with in their own towns. Human Students are likely to embrace the reader-friendly interest stories about local residents doing good nature of news articles, and might just pick up their Newspapersareavaluableresourceparentsandeducatorscan deeds or about local businessmen and women setmom or dad’s newspaper around the house as a reuse to instill a love of reading in their kids and students. ting trends might give kids a greater sense of pride sult. in their community. • Teach the difference between editorials and hard The local newspaper is a wonderful tool for edunews stories. When using the newspaper as a teachcators to use with their students. If there’s not one already, teachers should ing tool, teachers can give students two different articles, one news and one contact their local school board or even their local paper to see if an agreement editorial. Before explaining the difference, ask kids to identify the differences. can be worked out where teachers can provide their students with the local Chances are, kids will pick up on the main difference, that an editorial is an newspaper every day. opinion piece that uses facts to support an idea, while a news story simply Special to the Surveyor
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July 24, 2014
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Digital learning continues to transform learning experiences Special to the Surveyor Technology is an important part of many people’s daily lives. Devices like computers, tablets, smartphones, and video games are now so widely used that it’s hard to imagine a life without email, the Internet or text messages. Even children are proving adept at using technology, which can be a valuable tool for educators attempting to reach today’s youngsters. Digital learning is learning facilitated by technology. Not only can digital learning be done in the classroom, but also it can extend to home life as children continue to explore lessons through hands-on interaction with digital devices. According to data from Project Tomorrow’s “Speak Up” study, an initiative of the nation’s leading education nonprofit organization, students are frustrated with the lack of technology in their schools and by the lack of sophisticated use of that technology. The study indicates that students want more of the following: • social-based learning; • tools that increase untethered learning; • development of and connection to a personal network of expert resources; and
• a digitally rich learning environment. Students acclimated to technology at home are not content to merely rely on textbooks or CDs in the classroom.
They’re more interested in interactive, Webbased tools that enhance communication and collaboration.
As a result of this shifting landscape, parents should expect to see more lessons and homework involving interactive technology. To make this transition go more smoothly, teachers and parents can work together to ensure kids are making the most of the exciting developments in education. The following are just a handful of the changes that figure to come about as a result of the transition to digital learning. • lesson plans, assignments and tutoring opportunities available online for continued reference; • learning-centered chat rooms for peer-topeer interaction and sharing of materials; • Digital content in the way of high quality academic materials available through interactive apps and not stagnant PDFs or text materials. Software may range from video lectures to learning games. • Increased availability of teachers and professors. Students and parents will be able to reach out to educators beyond school hours if assistance or further clarification of assignments is needed. • Supplemental material that comes at the pace of the student, rather than the pace of an entire classroom. Interactive and adaptive software enables students to spend more or less time on lessons to achieve the best level of learning. • Digital communication with educators, including online conference scheduling. • Smartboards, tablets and laptop use more heavily integrated into classrooms. Digital learning and technological advancements are changing rapidly and helping to reshape the classroom and how kids are learning.
Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
July 24, 2014
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