The Newcomers Guide to Douglas County, Colorado

The

NEWCOMERS GUIDE Douglas County, Colorado

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School Days Here's a cheat sheet to the education options in the area.

The Douglas County School District is the third largest school district in Colorado.

Homeschooling in Colorado

Douglas County School District

DCSD has a Home Education page that lays out 3 different options for varied levels of home school: full time, dual enrollment, and home education enrichment programs. Search DCSD Home Education to find out details.

Students: 62,341 Teachers: 3,539 Graduation Rate: 90.8% Schools: 89

Parker High Schools Chaparral - Public A Grades: 9-12 Students: 2,009 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 19:1 Legend - Public B+ Grades: 9-12 Students: 2,228 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 21:1 Ponderosa - Public B+ Grades: 9-12 Students: 1,402 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 18:1 Colorado Early Colleges - Charter AGrades: 9-12 Students: 1,004 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 24:1

Arapahoe Community College Arapaho Community College (ACC) is a local college that offers classes to educate all ages of adults who are seeking an associate degree, a certificate, or a pathway to go on to a 4-year institution. There are locations in Littleton, Lone Tree, and Castle Rock.

Lutheran – Private AGrades: 9-12 Students: 1,076 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 17:1

Castle Rock High Schools Castleview - Public B+ Grades: 9-12 Students: 1,990 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 21:1 Douglas County - Public B Grades: 9-12 Students: 1,758 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 19:1 EDCSD Online - Public BGrades: K-12 Students: 67 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 6:1 Renaissance Secondary - Charter BGrades: 6-11 Students: 407 Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 23:1 AUGUST 2024 13

Talk the Talk A few important terms to learn in order to assimilate with other Coloradans.

Coloradans: People from Colorado usually drop the “o” and add the “an” to refer to themselves.

The Front Range: The eastern edge of the Rocky Mountain range which runs from southern Wyoming into central Colorado, flanked by larger cities like Fort Collins, Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

It is the end of the mountains, giving way to rolling hills and prairie land.

14ers (fourteeners): Mountain peaks that have an elevation of at least 14,000 feet. There are ninety-six 14ers west of the Mississippi River and fifty-eight of them are in Colorado. The highest is Mt. Elbert, at 14,440 feet.

Hiking g the th 14ers is a sport and hobby for many here.

Rocky Mountain Oysters: This is the more proper name for bull testicles, a cowboy delicacy deep fried in batter and rumored to taste a little bit like calamari, specially served at Colorado Rockies baseball games.

Nuggs: Nickname for the Denver Nuggets NBA basketball team.

Rox: Nickname for the Colorado Rockies MLB baseball team.

DTC: Denver Tech Center. A large business park conglomeration in the Greenwood Village area, southeast of Denver, where many businesses are located.

Gulch: A deep stream bed, either dried up or with water in it. Trees often grow along the gulch and the public trail system runs through many of the gulches.

LoDo: The LoDo area of Denver is the lower downtown section, alive with restaurants, shops, and galleries. LoDo includes 16th Street Mall, which is the center of tourism in Denver.

I-25 Corridor: The interstate 25 from Denver to Colorado Springs, the busiest part of the freeway.

Blucifer: Endearing reference to Denver airport’s DougCo: Short for Douglas County. Usually referring to the Douglas County School District.

JeffCo: Refers to the Jefferson County School District.

The Western Slope: This refers to the mountain area west of the Continental Divide beginning in Summit County, only an hour and a half from Denver. The Grand Junction area is a popular spot that lies in the western part of this region.

The Springs: This phrase refers to the city, Colorado Springs, and the surrounding areas, not to be confused with Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, or Manitou Springs.

Avs: Nickname for the Colorado Avalanche NHL hockey team.

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32-foot-tall, 9,000-pound blue mustang statue with blazing red eyes whose persona fits with the airport’s p legends and conspiracy theories.

Hike at Mini Inclines

Almost 50 miles north of the worldfamous Manitou Springs Incline resides its two little brothers. Both Castle Rock and Parker boast inclines for fitness junkies and casual hikers alike.

Castle Rock - 200 steps Parker - 132 steps

Let's Get Physical Whether you’re into free weights, high-intensity interval training, spin classes, yoga, or infrared, we’ve compiled our favorite places to break a sweat.

Train

Infrared

Coached

at Pivotal Sports Performance

at Hotworx

at The Exercise Coach

Speed. That's the focus at Pivotal. Programs are tailored to help the athlete become more explosive, fast, and athletic as possible.

10315 S. Progress Way Parker pivotalsportsperformance.com

Infrared heat absorption while being virtually instructed through a 30-min isometric workout or 15-min HIIT session.

34 E Allen Street Castle Rock hotworx.net

Called the "ideal exercise atmosphere," this coach-led system has no weights or treadmills, just a personalized workout.

19878 Hilltop Parker exercisecoach.com

Big Box Planet Fitness 100 Founders Pkwy, Castle Rock planetfitness.com

Life Time Fitness 9250 Crown Crest Blvd. | Parker lifetime.life

Functional

Kick

Spin at Cyclebar

A CycleStar instructor leads the workout while a monitor tracks your stats and music blasts overhead.

7824 Park Meadows Dr Lone Tree cyclebar.com

3990 Limelight Ave

HIIT classes, boxing classes, kickboxing classes & group fitness classes.

10136 Parkglenn Way Parker 9round.com

Castle Rock orangetheory.com

Core Stretch

Dance

at Pure Barre

at Jazzercise

Pure Barre's comprehensive full-body fitness program was designed for women to find their "strong."

62 Founders Pkwy, Castle Rock purebarre.com

Combination of HIIT cardio, aerobic exercise, and dance fitness with strength training for the ultimate full-body workout.

10471 S Parker Rd Parker jcls.jazzercise.com

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Orange Theory

at 9Round Fitness

at Power Mixx Fitness

The Lagree model combines core, resistance, endurance, and cardio training to stimulate strength, flexibility, and balance to engage over 86% of your body’s muscles.

880 W. Happy Canyon Rd. Castle Rock powermixxfitness.com

Rec Centers Parker Rec 17301 Lincoln Ave Parker parkerrec.com

CR Rec 2301 Woodlands Blvd. | Castle Rock crgov.com

Yoga CorePower Yoga 18551 Mainstreet Parker corepoweryoga.com

Life is a Playground Don't subject your kids to the same old boring playground.

We asked our resident expert, Christy from Slides & Sunshine, for the best spots around!

CHRIST Y SCHAEFER

Elk Ridge Park 7005 Mira Vista Ln. | Castle Pines Your whole family will love Elk Ridge Park! It has a bit of everything, including a playground, trail scavenger hunt, fitness zone, and splash pad!

Tallman Meadow Park 12335 Canterberry Pkwy. | Parker Tallman Meadow Park is a beautiful spot to stop and play. The playground boasts a tall spiral slide, climbing wall, and separate toddler play area.

Surrounding the park are shade trees, flowers, walking paths, and fields for soccer and baseball.

Red-tailed Hawk Park 23701 E Hinsdale Way | Aurora The fully inclusive playground and splash pad at Red-tailed Hawk Park is a must visit. The music-themed equipment was chosen for kids of all ages and abilities, and includes a wheelchair accessible swing, zipline, and merry-go-round.

Deputy Zack S Parrish III Memorial Park 2020 Fiddle Rd. | Castle Rock Home to one of the largest play structures in Colorado, Deputy Parrish Park will take your kids’ breath away! Not only are there obstacles high off the ground, there are also climbing features, swings, a toddler play area, zipline, and more!

Hampden Run Park 3501 S Uravan St | Aurora Your future ninja warriors will love the high obstacles overhead at Hampden Run Park! Other unique aspects of this playground include a musical instrument area, disc-shaped swing, and wavy sidewalk for scooters and striders.

Philip S Miller Park 1375 W Plum Creek Pkwy. | Castle Rock Plan for a whole day when you check out the 300acre Philip S Miller Park! There are multiple play areas (which include a 40-foot hillside slide), splash pad, a large fitness zone, walking trails and a 200step incline.

O’Brien Park 10795 Victorian Dr. | Parker One of the most popular parks in Parker got a new look! The park has a softball field, basketball court, playgrounds, an outdoor pool & picnic areas.

Discovery Park 20115 Mainstreet | Parker There is no playground at Discovery Park, however, it is the perfect spot to cool down during the summer at the large splash pad! During the winter, ice skating is available at the Parker Ice Trail at Discovery Park.

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Taking Care Of Business Adulting: the assumption of tasks, responsibilities, and behaviors traditionally associated with normal grown-up life.

Driver’s License Office

Grocery Stores

The Department of Revenue gives new Colorado residents 30 days to transfer their driver’s license and 90 days to transfer their vehicle. Renew license online if you meet the following:

There are several large grocery store chains in the area, including King Soopers (a Kroger brand), Safeway, Trader Joe's, Costco, and Walmart Supercenters. For the healthy eaters, you can find Sprouts, Whole Foods, and Natural Grocers. For specialty favorites, try The Local or Tony's Meats and Market.

• US Citizen and have a social security number on file.

• Age 21 - 65 years old • Current license is valid or expired less than a year • Name on current license has not changed • No tests are required or pending actions on your record or overdue tickets

Register to Vote Visit coloradosos.gov. Click on “Elections and Voting” then “Voters” to manage your voter registration. Register at least 8 days before the election (or a voter may register in-person on election day at voter service centers). You can visit www.douglas.co.us/elections to find out where ballot drop boxes are located.

Pay Your Tolltag

Taxes

The ExpressToll tag system allows for an all-electronic toll collection system available on E-470, Northwest Parkway, and CDOT's Express Lanes. Customers' tolls are automatically deducted from a pre-paid toll account and they will pay the lower toll rate. Without the ExpressToll account, you will receive a toll statement from license plate toll cameras.

Colorado is a tax-friendly state compared to many in the country. The property tax rates are some of the lowest in the country, although offset somewhat due to the high cost of homes. Colorado’s income tax has a flat rate of 4.5%, so everyone pays the same rate, regardless of their income.

Mail Forward your mail through usps.com under “Quicktools” then “Change My Address.”

Vehicle Registration Prior to registering a vehicle in Douglas County, an emissions inspection may be required. Proof of current Colorado automobile insurance is required. For locations and more information, go to www.douglas.co.us/ motorvehicle/information-for-new-residents

Meet Your Neighbors Meeting your neighbors is a lot easier — and less awkward — to do right when you’ve moved in. You don’t need to go door to door, but do make a point of introducing yourself the first time that you run into a new neighbor. Here are some tips for getting to know your neighbors after you’ve moved in: Smile and say hello, get involved in the community, ask questions, spend time outside, lend a hand and ask for help, invite neighbors to your home.

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If You Know, You Know Colorado particulars that locals know and you’ll come to experience soon enough.

#Culture Coloradans take casual to a whole new level with T-shirts and joggers or workout clothes being the norm seen in public. Jeans and a “nice” T-shirt is considered dressing up for dinner. Even at the symphony or fancy event you will see a huge range in formality. Colorado casual usually means wear whatever you want. If you like to dress up, that’s accepted too!

#Elevation With the capital city of Denver being nicknamed the Mile High City, elevation is a big deal in Colorado. Denver sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. Leadville, CO, sits nearly 2 miles above sea level at 10,152 feet. You’ll see elevation signs on restaurants, towns, parks, and even Denver’s city magazine named 5280. Be aware of altitude sickness!

Colorado is known for its legalization of cannabis in 2012, but Douglas County residents voted not to adopt the legalization. It is illegal in Douglas County to sell or distribute marijuana, to use it in public places, and to grow it outdoors.

#Get Used to Disappointment Even with an estimated 300 days of beautiful sunshine per year in our area, the weather can be very contrary. Events are often cancelled due to snow in the winter or lightning in the summer.

The strong sun melts snow quickly, so do your sledding soon after it falls. Dress for daily weather changes and check for bans before starting a fire. One of the welcomed local weather patterns is afternoon showers on many hot summer days.

Many neighborhoods in our area are organized by HOAs (Home Owners Associations). Members pay monthly dues toward garbage and snow removal as well as access to their clubhouse or rec center. The fees also cover amenities like a pool, tennis court, or golf course. HOAs can also fine you for infractions to their codes.

Being part of the old wild west, Colorado maintains a strong western and riding culture.

The Colorado Horse Park, Denver Stock Show, Elizabeth Rodeo and Douglas County Fair and Rodeo help foster the cowboy culture.

Yee haw!

#Worth it Being the 5th wealthiest county in America (Kiplinger.com), Douglas County residents’ median income is nearly double that of the country. Living here, you’ll be paying some of the highest mortgages and rental fees in the country.

But there’s so much to enjoy. Taking part in the great outdoors on the Cherry Creek Trails is a local perk, and seeing rabbits, deer, and hawks is a regular occurrence. Our gorgeous natural setting along with tidy sidewalks and roads, well-done public places, and safe, friendly neighbors make for a great place to live. Others agree! The city of Parker was ranked No. 2 by Money.com on its Best 100 Places to Live in America list and Castle Rock has been on the list 5 times in the last decade. We are also the 2nd healthiest county in America, according to the Healthy Communities rankings by U.S. News and World Report.

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It Just Hits Different Foodies rejoice; we have some of the best cuisine options to tempt your tastebuds.

La Petite Crêperie

Manna

Derek Scheuerman's café is the definition of quaint. The Crêperie offers authentically French cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.

Savory or sweet crepe, you can't go wrong.

19751 Mainstreet | Parker parkercrepes.com

Destroying the stereotype of hospital food. Manna, located in Castle Rock Adventist Hospital, serves innovative dishes that reflects Colorado's growing season. This is truly a destination restaurant.

2350 Meadows Blvd | Castle Rock mannasbounty.com

Junz A long-time favorite of residents, Chef Jun Makino is known for his unique blend of Japanese and French cuisine. The comfortable atmosphere and diverse menu make for a genuinely pleasant experience.

11211 Dransfeldt Rd. | Parker mannasbounty.com

Scileppi's at The Old Stone Church Family-owned Italian restaurant turning out pasta, pizza & other staples in a church dating to 1888.

210 Third St. | Castle Rock scileppis.com

This is were the locals go for authentic Mexican fare. Consistantly one of the best restaurants in Colorado, it's also one of its best kept secrets.

7272 E. Highway 86 | Franktown adrianasmexicanrestaurantco.com

Crave is a staple for foodies i and casual diners alike for their outrageous and delicious burgers.

This is a can't miss and easily one of the best burgers in town.

3982 Limelight Ave | Castle Rock craverealburgers.com

Tribe at Riverwalk

Parker Garage

Tribe is an exciting new restaurant concept offering fresh seafood, steak, and wild game with a modern twist. And try the breakfast potatoes.

115 Wilcox St. | Castle Rock tribehospitalitygroup.com

Modern eatery in a historic brick landmark building offering locallysourced American fare.

19420 Mainstreet | Parker parkergarage.com

G-Que Barbecue

Adriana's

Crave Real Burgers

Award winning barbecue with mouthwatering pork, brisket, ribs & more in a casual setting. G-Que puts Colorado on the BBQ map.

8433 Park Meadows Center Dr Lone Tree gquebbq.com

Hickory House Known mainly for their ribs, Paul Dioguardi brought his awardwinning BBQ to Parker, where he has established himself as a local favorite. And don't forget they pride themselves on their pig roasts!

10335 S Parker Rd. | Parker hickoryhouseribs.com

Fogo de Chão The Brazilian Steakhouse is a little further away, but we had to include our all-time favorite. The most amazing meats are served the Gauchos' way, right at your table off skewers. Bring your appetite for this experience, and don't forget the Guaraná!

8419 Park Meadows Center Dr. Lone Tree o fogodechao.com AUGUST 2024 21