Times-Call Back to School August 5, 2018

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SCHOOL LONGMONT / ST. VRAIN VALLEY | AUGUST 2018

MARKETING FEATURE

FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT | ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Continuing to advance excellence across our community

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ugust is always an exciting time in St. Vrain Valley Schools, filled with anticipation of the start of another outstanding academic year.

As I reflect on this past year, I am extremely proud of the immeasurable achievements of our students, teachers and staff. As we move forward together, we will continue to advance high-quality learning for all of our students.

Don Haddad, Superintendent

LEARNING NEVER ENDS For many in St. Vrain, the fall is not a beginning, but a continuation of the extensive learning that takes place all year. This summer, every school in our community was full of activity, including advanced learning opportunities, robust cocurricular activities and construction projects that support growth and enhance the quality and safety of our schools.

We hosted over 50 highquality academic programs and summer camps for our students, focused on STEM, innovation, literacy, technology, music, athletics, theater, financial literacy, computer science, cyber security and so much more.

Additionally, hundreds of students attended our Innovation Academy for a Smarter Planet. In partnership with mentors

from IBM and the University of Colorado, students entering first through sixth grade worked on highly interactive, complex community-related issues.

Students problem-solved and prototyped ideas designed to strengthen our community and make our world a better place.

Just as our students were highly engaged in numerous summer programs, our teachers and staff were focused on professional development designed to bolster their knowledge and skills. Over 1,400 teachers and staff enrolled in 144 courses offered in St. Vrain over the summer, emphasizing collaboration and accelerating student achievement through highquality instruction.

Education in St. Vrain never stops. The opportunity to engage in personal growth

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and learning throughout the year is giving our students, teachers and staff a strong competitive advantage that will empower our collective success.

BUILDING EXCELLENCE AND OPENING NEW DOORS This summer, through the generous support of our community in passing our 2016 bond initiative, many construction projects have made significant advancements. Mead High School, Erie High School and Silver Creek High School will all open with new, extensive wings of classrooms and innovative learning spaces. Alpine Elementary, Fall River Elementary, Legacy Elementary, Lyons Elementary, Niwot Elementary and Prairie Ridge Elementary will have redesigned entrances that enhance student safety and security. Main Street School is currently receiving significant upgrades and improvements to the learning environments. Two new schools, Grand View Elementary in Frederick and Soaring Heights PK-8 in Erie, will celebrate their grand openings and welcome over 1,000 students and their families to their new classrooms. In addition to the many school building construction projects, this fall we will open our new

Innovation Center, a state-ofthe-art facility that will serve every student in St. Vrain.

COMMUNITY STRONG We have so much to celebrate across our schools – none of which would be possible without the unwavering support of our community, including our parents, teachers and staff, business owners, elected officials and everyone who champions public education. It is through our strong partnership that we are transforming public education for our children and our community’s future.

This fall, I will be scheduling our annual open forums in each of our areas to share the many successes we have experienced and also to discuss our bold vision for continuing to advance public education in our community, state and nation. I hope to see everyone at one of these events so that we can personally thank you for everything that you do to support our students and schools. Together we are building a stronger future for our children and for Colorado.

Sincerely, Don Haddad, Ed.D. Superintendent St. Vrain Valley School District

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CONTENTS

SCHOOL AUGUST 2018

Contributing Writers Linda Thorsen Bond Emma Castleberry Adam Goldstein Sarah Huber Wendy McMillan Darren Thornberry

Set for success ........................................................................................................ 4 Diverse opportunities for learning, for life............................................................. 6

Editor/Designer Greg Stone

The most profound kind of learning doesn’t always take place in a classroom ..... 8 Plan, be positive, unplug ...................................................................................... 10

Marketing Consultants Ruth Garfield Abbie Lance Dale Sekular Francine Wahlgren

Shoes for school................................................................................................... 11 After-school fun is right around the corner.......................................................... 12 Finding help when your student needs it ............................................................. 15 School spotlight ................................................................................................... 16

Advertising Director Christine Labozan

Back to School is a marketing feature published by the Longmont Times-Call. ©2018 Prairie Mountain Media.

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BACK TO SCHOOL | TIPS

One of the most important things that families can do to foster their child’s success is to engage in their learning.

Set for Success Tips from Longmont professionals to make this school year a successful one.

By Sarah Huber

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o set students up for success, add a doctor visit, subtract anxiety and tweak the summer routine before school starts.

HOP IN EXCITED The involved parent is always a boon to his or her child.

“Parents are their student’s first and most important teacher,” said Dina PerfettiDeany, area assistant superintendent at St. Vrain Valley School District. “One of 4

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the most important things that families can do to foster their child’s success is to engage in their learning. Building collaborative partnerships between students, families, teachers, counselors and principals ensures open communication and supports the overall academic growth and well-being of the student.”

St. Vrain Speech Language Pathologist Monica Robinson encouraged parents to “foster their child’s success” with positive conversations about setting goals and making

friends. “Remind them that we may have been summer monkeys, but we need to hop back into school behavior,” she said. “Let them know you’re excited for and with them.”

SCHEDULE, SCHEDULE, SCHEDULE Dr. Grishma Shah, pediatrician at Salud Family Health Centers in Longmont, said regular bedtimes are crucial for students of all ages.

“About two weeks before school starts, reset the summer

schedule,” she said. “Limit screen time before bed,” as light from electronics can disrupt sleep, “and shift bedtime earlier by 15 to 30 minutes per night. Wake up at the time they need to wake for school.” Shah said preschoolers need at least 11 hours of sleep, while elementary students need 10 to 11 hours per night, and teenagers require about nine hours per night.

Robinson added, “It doesn’t work to pull the iPad out of their hands as they’re walking into school. Start the schedule early.” Some parents have their children complete workbooks or keep a reading log to prepare for school. “Getting back into that mindset pays off,” she said.

As with a sleep routine, a healthy breakfast, ideally with protein, enhances concentration. Shah urged parents to load lunch boxes with nutrient-dense choices.

“Children should have minimally processed foods,” she said. “They need dairy each day for calcium, as well as three servings of fruit and two portions of vegetables.”

MINIMIZE ANXIETY, BOOST HEALTH To maintain health through cold season, standardize “nutritious food to boost the immune system, adequate sleep and physical activity,” Shah said. “Again, limit screen time, which cuts into physical activity, and make sure kids wash hands and sneeze into their elbows.”

Shah recommended that parents vaccinate and schedule annual wellness exams. If necessary, connect the school nurse with the pediatrician to discuss medications, allergies

or other areas of medical concern.

“A child’s pediatrician is the child’s medical home,” she said. “We try to meet the needs of the whole child in the context of the whole family.

Aside from physical heath, we are available to help meet emotional needs and can offer resources and anticipatory guidance.”

Since school readiness is correlated with anxiety, parents can lead children to imagine or recall what they like about school and how they’ll work through challenges. Shah said, “Let them know they’re not alone.

When you normalize the experience and acknowledge what the child may be feeling, just being heard can be soothing.”

Some schools provide

classroom walk-throughs before the first day, Robinson said. Meeting the teacher or role playing may also calm fears.

to focus. Additionally, regular eye exams can diagnose serious conditions that have no symptoms and are only treatable in young children.

EYE HEALTH FOR GOOD GRADES Since “as many as one in 20 U.S. students cannot see well from one eye,” vision screenings are crucial to school success, Shah said.

Robinson emphasized, “Being able to read necessitates being able to see.”

Dr. Anjali Sheth, a glaucoma specialist and cataract surgeon at Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado, said, “Sight can be monitored easily and routinely and can change how well a child does in school.” Parents can watch for symptoms of squinting, eye rubbing or closing one eye

SHOW UP COMMITTED When the first day rolls around, show up committed, said Karin Blough, St. Vrain student services coordinator.

“Students who miss no more than five days of school per year, starting as early as preschool, have a significantly high chance of graduating, attending college and being successful in their careers,” she said.

“And never be afraid to reach out for help during the school year,” Shah said.

“One thing I cherish most is when parents and children feel comfortable talking to me about issues or concerns.”

Dr. Grishma Shah, pediatrician at Salud Family Health Centers in Longmont

Dr. Anjali Sheth of the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado

AUGUST 2018 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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BACK TO SCHOOL | CONTINUING EDUCATION

Diverse opportunities for learning, for life

St. Vrain Valley School’s Innovation Center engages students through opportunities in aeronautics, robotics, media, entrepreneurship, technology and much more. (Photo: St. Vrain Valley School District).

By Wendy McMillan

C

ome back-to-school time, parents, students, and educators brace for a return to routines for hitting the books. But as we all know, learning is never confined to the school day. Diverse opportunities abound for students of all ages to extend 6

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learning – to pursue intellectual passions, satisfy curiosity, sharpen skills, and prepare for future career and higher education journeys. Here in Longmont, we are spoiled for choice, from inspired afterschool enrichment to quality educational support programs tailored to your child’s unique needs.

ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOLS St. Vrain Valley Schools makes supporting whole child development through dynamic learning enrichment opportunities a top priority across all grade levels.

Each school offers an everevolving range of extended learning options. “We offer hundreds of programs that extend beyond the classroom to ensure our students are receiving a world-class education,” said Jackie Kapushion, deputy superintendent of St. Vrain Valley Schools. “Our highquality extended learning opportunities are giving our students a strong competitive advantage that is driving their academic engagement and advancing their continued success and achievement.”

At the elementary level, after-school choices include everything from the increasingly popular, competitive robotics to foreign language classes. Plans are further in the works to launch an extended school year program for all first and second grade students who would benefit from the time and consistency to reach grade level reading goals. In upper grades, alongside traditional learning support such as test prep and Driver’s Ed, students have numerous opportunities to earn concurrent enrollment college credit during the

school day.

St. Vrain Valley Schools take great pride in their nationally recognized Innovation Center.

Partnering with industry to provide real life, paid work experiences, the Innovation Center engages students through opportunities in aeronautics, robotics, media, entrepreneurship, technology and much more. The mission is to match highly-skilled students with business, research and development opportunities, fostering analytical and problemsolving skills, encouraging entrepreneurial ambitions, and creating mentorships with experts in the STEM fields.

Working alongside experts, student designers build websites, apps, electronics, structural and mechanical engineering projects and more – practical projects that solidify and complement knowledge gained in the classroom.

WISE OWL TUTORING Whether a child has trouble in reading, is looking to shore up skills, or seeks advanced reading enrichment, Wise Owl Tutoring is here to support. “I am here to help kids succeed, says Owner and Instructor Jerri Modrall, a trained Dyslexia Consultant and Specialist and 36-year veteran St. Vrain Valley School District teacher.

“I have a passion for teaching and helping them.” Modrall employs the Barton Reading and Spelling system, which incorporates an individualized and multisensory approach supported by research and approved by the Colorado Department of Education.

“Dyslexia has been around for years, but is becoming more and more recognized now,” she says. “It is a condition that needs to be answered beyond the regular curriculum.

Programs like mine can do that.” Modrall offers screening for Dyslexia and one-onone tutoring for students struggling with reading, as well as support for students at all levels, included gifted, in search of enrichment. “I will do anything to help kids,” she says. “I just love it.”

KUMON OF LONGMONT For over 50 years, Kumon’s unique after-school enrichment program has supported children’s academic success through individualized learning programs that allow students to progress at their own pace, emphasizing focus, motivation and self-reliance.

Created in Japan by gifted math teacher and father, Toru Kumon, the Kumon method Math and Reading

Kumon’s unique after-school enrichment program has supported children’s academic success through individualized learning programs that allow students to progress at their own pace, emphasizing focus, motivation, and self-reliance. (Photo: Kumon of Longmont)

programs cover everything from counting basics to calculus, phonemes to high level literature. “Lesson plans are customized to individual students,” says Longmont Kumon Instructor and Owner Ben Thair. “We help students gain a strong foundation in math and language arts. We also help them accelerate beyond class curriculum.”

Kumon provides learners with motivators, such as cash prizes for attaining certain goals, and small toy prizes

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for consistently completing assignments. Of course, the greatest reward is intrinsic.

“Education is a gift that keeps on giving,” Thair says. “At the end of the day, the program works. Parents understand that making a commitment now with Kumon gives children a foundation for success later in life.”

TUTORING EXCELLENCE Tutoring Excellence is about getting results – measurable results, not only at the center

but also within children’s classrooms. Such outcomes are achieved through a focused, personalized approach. “First we identify what a child is truly struggling with,” says Tutoring Excellence Owner Cherilyn Ashley. “Do they have learning gaps which are hindering progress? Is there a disability impeding potential? Do they struggle with organization and how to study? Once we discover the big picture, we develop an individualized learning plan that focuses on what each child specifically needs.” At Tutoring Excellence, tutors follow up with families and children’s teachers to track progress. Course corrections are made to learning plans on an ongoing basis, adapted to meet evolving needs and goals.

“Since 2005, we’ve helped students and families achieve new levels of academic success,” Ashley says. “We’re not only about providing the best academic tutoring, but offer excellent customer service and tremendous value.

Whether a child has fallen behind or is way ahead of the class, Tutoring Excellence has a program to help deliver personal progress.”

WISE OWL TUTORING, INC. Have you ever Wondered if your child could have DYSLEXIA? If your child has trouble reading, mispronounces common words, avoids reading & reading out loud, confuses words that sound similar, spelling, and math.

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AUGUST 2018 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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BACK TO SCHOOL | CONTINUING EDUCATION

The most profound kind of learning doesn’t always take place in a classroom Fiske Planetarium’s “fulldome” films and starshows are rooted in the latest scientific research, and help properly illustrate the wonder and majesty of our galaxy to impressionable young minds. (Photo: Fiske Planetarium)

By Adam Goldstein

E

ffective education is tactile, and that’s especially true for young students whose brains are still evolving and growing.

Kids need experiences, and immersive, impactful involvement can make a key difference in making lessons gleaned from books come to life. Luckily, parents on the Front Range have plenty of options to help complement a child’s return to school in the fall with dynamic, firsthand learning experiences.

From top-of-the-line planetariums to immersive 8

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nature preserves to museums that spotlight science, technology, engineering and math, the metro area is packed with hands-on learning opportunities for kids. These options are an ideal resource in the age of smartphones, tablets and HD TV; they offer a chance to unplug and to get away from the screens.

“Now more than ever, what kids need is unstructured time outside,” said Keith Desrosiers, executive director of the Thorne Nature Experience. For more than 60 years, the organization has been connecting kids with hands-on environmental education experiences across

Boulder County, offering activities and field trips that range from bird watching to hiking to simply exploring a stretch of unspoiled wetlands.

“We need to help our kids unplug from their devices in order to receive the multitude of health and wellness benefits available from time spent outdoor and in nature.”

The Thorne Nature Experience’s in-school, afterschool and field trip programs span the entire year, and they seek to instill a sense of stewardship and natural wonder in students from all backgrounds and interests.

Their facility in East Boulder

near the Leggett and Valmont reservoirs is open to the public two days a week, and their guided tours are an ideal way to explore a picturesque stretch of Boulder County.

Immersive learning doesn’t have to take place outdoors.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science offers plenty of tactile exhibits rooted in the natural world, while the WOW! Children’s Museum in Lafayette is an interactive facility designed to engage younger kids in a host of subjects.

Whether the focus is arts, science or simple life skills, the WOW! museum seeks to impart wisdom through immediacy.

Fiske’s high-definition projector beams graphics at dimensions of 8,000 pixels by 8,000 pixels; the dome’s “star ball” can show up to 20 million stars on its 360-degree circular screen. It makes for an ideal theater to convey the drama of the outer reaches of space – “fulldome” films and starshows are rooted in the latest scientific research, and help properly illustrate the wonder and majesty of our galaxy to impressionable young minds. The facility also features weekly presentations dedicated to astronomy – these familyfriendly events detail galaxies, equinoxes and the layout of the night sky.

“One of the strengths of Fiske is that we always have a live presenter in our planetarium shows. We always focus on how to

While facilities like Thorne and WOW! offer lessons about the terrestrial world and all its riches, kids in Boulder County also have access to the cosmos, thanks to one of the state’s most well-reputed and advanced planetariums.

Located in the heart of the CU Boulder Campus, the Fiske Planetarium is jewel for space enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. While Fiske serves as a working academic facility for scholars and scientists at CU, it’s also a resource for K-12 students across the community. In addition to its satellite, onsite visits to schools that feature a traveling, inflatable planetarium dome, the facility makes full use of its futuristic “stardome” to make the outer reaches of space accessible to grade-school students.

engage audiences of all ages in our shows,” said Brianna Ingermann, educational programs manager for Fiske.

“Because we’re so embedded in the academic community, we not only get to feature active CU research in the planetarium, but we also benefit from the huge education research group here on campus.

Fiske also features interactive exhibits and displays in the lobby, resources that have expanded in only the past year.

At kiosks and giant spheres set up across the space, visitors can access the latest data from NASA, NOAA and other organizations. It’s all part of bringing up-to-date and cuttingedge research to all members of the Boulder community.

“We’ve always been about interaction,” said Francisco “Tito” Salas, Fiske operations

manager.

For kids whose scientific interests are more rooted in animals than astronomy, the metro area offers plenty of ways for students to mingle with wild creatures.

The Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster houses more than 1,600 free-flying butterflies, as well as a wide variety of other animals.

For budding zoologists who want to find an even greater selection of wildlife, the Denver Zoo is a Colorado institution that’s housed wild creatures since 1896. The 80-acre facility impacts an estimated quarter million students annually, with a specific mission in mind.

“Our mission is securing a better world for humans with animal understanding,” said spokesman Jake Kubié.

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BACK TO SCHOOL | FAMILY TIME

Plan, be positive, unplug 5 ways to make family meals more enjoyable.

PLAN AHEAD It can be tough to have nutritious meals ready to go with a busy schedule, but spending just a few hours of your weekend buying, prepping or even cooking the components of your weekday meals will go a long way.

You’ll thank yourself when you’re hungry and tired at the end of a long day; having everything nearly ready to serve reduces the chances you’ll opt for fast food or other less-healthy food options.

A Harris poll shows only 30 percent of American families share dinner each night. Yet the benefits of maintaining that family time are so substantial that it’s well worth your while to make it happen.

(BPT) - With our busy lifestyles today, finding time to shop for groceries, cook, then meet as a family to enjoy a meal together can be a major challenge.

A Harris poll shows only 30 percent of American families share dinner each night. Yet the benefits of maintaining that family time are so substantial that it’s well worth your while to make it happen.

Research shows, for example, that kids and teens who share meals with their families three or more times per week are significantly less likely to be overweight, more likely to eat healthy foods and less likely to have eating disorders. Further, such togetherness is linked with higher grades, better self10

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esteem and positive behaviors such as sharing, fairness and respect among children who participate.

In that spirit, we asked actress, host, food lover and mom of two Courtney Lopez for some helpful tips on how she gets her family together for mealtime. Lopez has recently teamed up with Eggland’s Best, a proud supporter of the American Heart Association’s TM Healthy For Good movement, to challenge families across America to pledge to stay at the table for an additional “dozen” minutes.

UNPLUG AND UNWIND Make your table a phone-free zone, encouraging everyone to talk about their day. This will help your family grow closer

together and become more and more involved in each other’s lives. You might be surprised what you will learn!

TRY NEW DISHES Comfort food can be a great thing, but so can the sense of adventure that comes from trying new dishes.

MAKE IT A TEAM EFFORT Your family will feel more involved if they share the work. My little guys love helping out by cracking eggs, stirring, sprinkling spices or setting the table. Allowing little ones to help out can also get them excited about the meal, even if they tend to be picky eaters. And as the old saying goes, many hands make light work.

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE No one wants to share a table with fellow diners who are grouchy and unpleasant to each other – although sometimes that can be unavoidable with kids. To keep it positive during this relatively short time each day, avoid judgments, lectures, sarcasm and snarky comments. Ask each person about the highs and lows of his or her day, setting aside this space and time to celebrate victories and help each other through life’s challenges.

Sharing great food together can be an excellent way to create positive memories and boost family bonding.

Learn more and sign up for the Eggland’s Best Family Meals Pledge at EBfamilymealspledge.com.

BACK TO SCHOOL | GEAR

Shoes for school

By Linda Thorsen Bond

B

rown’s Shoe Fit in Longmont is dedicated to shoes that fit growing feet so kids can “go fast and play hard with their friends,” according to Owner Jason Wetzel.

That means Brown’s experienced personnel sit down, measure children’s feet and make sure the length and width of the shoe is just right for each child. Brown’s carries brands known for quality and

dependability, including Stride Rite, Keen, Saucony, Kamik, See Kai Run and New Balance.

For the little kids, See Kai Run and Stride Rite strive to promote a proper fit and healthy foot development with stylish and fashionable designs.

Little girls will love the sparkles and flowers, or even fall’s new cute silvery metallic sneakers.

For bigger girls, there’s a sparkly dusty pink Saucony or Mary Janes in black or black and red. Boys will like the classic black leather shoes from

Keen in Velcro or bungee laces.

One of the most popular trends for boys and girls is the trail running shoe. Wetzel says it’s a shoe that holds up well for active kids and comes in both lace up and Velcro.

Brown’s also carries a good selection of sneakers including New Balance and Saucony.

The sneakers come with laces or Velcro and in widths from medium to wide.

Keen has a new hiking style called Targhee. It comes in low cut version in both waterproof and non-waterproof and the mid hiker is waterproof. Colors include navy blue and berry pink, blackish-gray with a red pop and chocolate brown.

The mid hiker comes in a dark grey that’s almost black with a dusty pinkish purple pop or chocolate brown. All of the Targhee hikers have bungee

laces. From Size 8 to 13 they have bungee laces with a Velcro closure at the top.

When the summer heat abates (not IF, but when!)

Brown’s has snow boots by Kamik. Parents like Kamik’s because of its sustainable manufacturing strategy that aims toward lean manufacturing methods and reduced physical waste.

There’s even a Kamik recycling program that helps recycle kids’ old, worn-out boots! The pull-on boots come up above the ankle with a bungee to keep the snow out. They’re available in basic kid colors, like black, black and gray, navy, magenta and teal.

Brown’s Shoe Fit, 373 Main St., Longmont, 303.776.2920, brownsshoefitcompany.com.

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AUGUST 2018 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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BACK TO SCHOOL | EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

After-school fun is right around the corner

By Darren Thornberry

S

chool’s back in session in a matter of days, and that means kids coming home with serious brain drain. Thank goodness that Longmont is blessed with some fantastic after-school sport and fitness resources for kids of all ages.

There are plenty of opportunities to make the body work as hard as the mind and have a ton of fun doing it! So if your student needs a fun break between the end of the school day and homework time, he or she might be very happy to take advantage of an opportunity in the list that follows.

The YMCA provides after-school care, including homework help, sports, games and playtime, STEM projects, arts and crafts. (Photo: YMCA of Bolder Valley)

YMCA OF BOULDER VALLEY The YMCA has extensive afterschool programming for kids.

Sports YMCA Youth Sports provide kids with endless opportunities for fun, fitness and friendship after-school and beyond.

Y Sports help children develop skills and athleticism, learn all the positions on the field or court, and nurture their understanding of teamwork and sportsmanship. Afterschool sports include baseball, basketball, flag football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, learn to skate, futsal, hockey and volleyball.

Programs in Boulder, Lafayette, Superior, Longmont and more. ymcabv.org/sports.

La Familia Boxing La Familia Boxing, for ages 8 to 16, teaches kids and teens commitment, dedication, discipline, honor and respect through the sport of boxing.

Boys and girls are welcome to join this program at the

YMCA Youth Sports provide kids with endless opportunities for fun, fitness and friendship. (Photo: YMCA / Joe Swenson)

Longmont Y to discover a hardhitting sport that can change lives. Hand wraps are needed to participate. Participation is free, but registration is required.

Monday-Friday, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Longmont Y, ymcabv.org/ health-fitness/fitness-classes/ youth-fitness.

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8 Over 26 Years

Airborne Gymnastics and Dance offers classes for children of all ages and abilities, from 8 weeks old to high schoolers! (Photo: Airborne Gymnastics & Dance).

After-school care The YMCA also provides after-school care, for Kindergarten through 5th graders – including homework help, sports, games and playtime, STEM projects, arts and crafts. These programs are not just an extension of the learning day. They provide opportunities for new friendships, mentoring, tons of activity and creativity in a fun environment with a focus on character, play and the YMCA values (caring, respect, responsibility and honesty). ymcabv.org/toddlerto-teen/k-5th-grade/beforeafter-school-care.

AIRBORNE GYMNASTICS & DANCE Kids in Longmont and Frederick have plenty of motivation to get moving at this amazing gym. Airborne offers classes for children of all ages and abilities, from eight weeks old to high schoolers! Kudos to Owner Pam Turner for providing all the details.

Gymnastics Airborne has entry level gymnastics classes for a wide variety of ages, from parenttot classes through middle school. They’ve got traditional gymnastics, Trampoline and Tumbling, and Ninja Zone

classes at a variety of times after school and on Saturdays.

Once-a-week classes start at $72 per month.

Airborne is open with fantastic camp programs on many school closure days and their Late Start Open Gym on St. Vrain Valley School District’s late start days (9 to 11 a.m., $10 per student, ages 5 to 12) is a hit.

Not ready to commit to a class? Airborne has open gyms for younger kids mornings 9:30 to 11 a.m., (Mondays and Wednesdays in Longmont and Thursdays in Frederick) and Saturday open gyms for ages 5 to 14. If all this isn’t enough, Airborne has

competitive teams that have earned a prestigious reputation on a national level in both women’s gymnastics and co-ed Trampoline and Tumbling.

Dance New Dance Director Alberta Shulmas has upgraded Airborne’s class offerings for ages 2-1/2 and older: Dancing Bees and “Mini” classes for the youngest students, and Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip-Hop, and Modern/Contemporary technique classes for schoolaged students. Airborne offers specialty dance classes such as Tumbling for Dancers, Musical Theater, and Horton Technique and a wide variety of class

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AUGUST 2018 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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BACK TO SCHOOL | EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES times. Prices start at $56 per month for once-per-week classes.

New classes include Dance Fundamentals for all first graders through third graders.

These classes get new students off on the right foot, having fun and learning proper dance technique and etiquette, before moving into the Junior technique classes. Genres offered include Ballet, Tap and Jazz.

Airborne also offers entrylevel teen dance classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Modern/ Contemporary, and Hip-Hop. Airborne Dance also has opportunities for junior and teen dancers who are looking to perform and compete, in addition to their weekly classes. The pre-professional dance company offers students a closer look into the dance world, giving young dancers a chance to compete, attend regional workshops and perform in and around Longmont. 1816 Boston Ave., Longmont; 303.684.3716; airbornegym.com.

pursuing their personal best.

And fundamentally we want every student to experience dance as a tremendous joy and great fun.”

Studio classes These ongoing dance classes build consistent technique and are organized by age and levels. Tuition is paid monthly.

These classes participate in spring concert. However participation in spring concert is not required to be in these classes.

Dance Dimensions strives to encourage every student to discover the empowerment of pursuing their personal best (Photos: Dance Dimensions)

DANCE DIMENSIONS Dance Dimensions has influenced and taught students, trained professional dancers, mentored college dance scholarship recipients, and seen many of its students go on to teach dance. “We understand that not every student will become a professional dancer, perhaps most will

not,” says Owner Louise Leise. “However, we strive to encourage every student to discover the empowerment of

City classes These are introductory level session classes lasting for 8 to 10 weeks that may be organized by age. These classes are advertised in the City’s recreation brochure as well as the studio website. These classes do not participate in spring concert. 638 Main St., Longmont; 303.772.3750; dancedimensions.net

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BACK TO SCHOOL | ORGANIZATIONS

Finding help when your student needs it

Volunteers fill backbacks as part of Crayons to Calculators program. (Photo: A Precious Child).

By Emma Castleberry

T

he success of each student doesn’t end and begin with the classroom schedule – often, what happens outside the classroom, before and after school hours, can be just as defining for a student’s future.

Colorado school districts have a number of resources available to parents, teachers and students who need support and aid throughout the school year.

CRAYONS TO CALCULATORS While shopping for school supplies is exciting for some families, it is a daunting task for others. “The goal of the Crayons to Calculators program is to supply the

11,274 students in need in both Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley School Districts with backpacks filled with the supplies needed to start the school year prepared and empowered to learn,” says Chris GrackWilson, development and communications manager for Crayons to Calculators. The program estimates the cost of basic school supplies for one child to be between $60 and $80, a financial burden for the more than 11,000 students in these districts that qualify for free and reduced lunch – which is the qualifying factor for the Crayons to Calculators program. Students who take part in “I Have a Dream” of Boulder Valley programs also are eligible for backpacks

GIVE Arts recipient. (Photo: A Precious Child).

through this program.

Families can determine eligibility by talking to their school.

Crayons to Calculators creates their school supply backpacks with the help of presenting sponsor Western Services, who has supported the program for over 11 years.

The program holds supply drives throughout July and individuals can donate at crayonstocalculators.org.

A PRECIOUS CHILD Once the school year has begun, organizations like A Precious Child work to assist students struggling with abuse, neglect, crisis situations and poverty. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure we are providing children in

need with opportunities and resources to empower them to achieve their full potential,” says Alissa Trumbull, director of development and marketing for A Precious Child. “We do this through our eight core programs, which are grouped into four key focus areas: Essentials to Thrive, Educational Empowerment, Extracurricular Enrichment and Gifts to Celebrate.”

The organization works with more than 400 agency partners throughout the eight Denver Metro counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson and Weld to identify children and families in the most need of services.

For more information call 303.466.4272.

AUGUST 2018 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Boulder Valley Waldorf School Boulder Valley Waldorf School will celebrate its 25th year with a big Silver Harvest Celebration in autumn. Formerly Shepherd Valley Waldorf, the school has opened an additional kindergarten school on its 38 acres in Niwot and gone to a sensible tuition model, according to Ruth Godberfforde, outreach and admissions director.

She said, “We have a holistic developmentally-based education based on the age and ability of children. For little ones the program is play-based with lots of time outdoor in nature, developmental movement, crafts, and social things they do together. When they’re ready for first grade, in addition to literacy and math, they learn two world languages, movement and music. In third grade they start learning strings instruments.

As the children continue in the upper grades, their thematic learning blocks are studied in greater depth. We’re continuing the good work in a more intellectual way.”

Grades Served: Preschool to 8th Grade Address: 6500 W. Dry Creek Pkwy., Niwot Phone: 303.652.0130 Website: bvwaldorf.org Principal: D. Hindes Enrollment: 150 Capacity: 160 Annual Tuition: $9,650 Daily Schedule: 8:05 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.

Open House/Visitation: Daily Tours; Oct. 18, 1 to 3 p.m.; Nov. 8, 3 to 5 p.m.

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Gateway Montessori Flagstaff Academy Flagstaff Academy, an award-winning preschool through eighth grade public charter school, is an academically rigorous school with a Core Knowledge foundation and 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, robotics, computer programming, integrated technology, a greenhouse classroom and the leading Restorative Practice program in the region provides a strong focus on character development and ethical leadership. Spanish is offered as a foreign language starting in third grad and a robust arts program including music, band and art integrating technology round out Flagstaff Academy’s one-of-a-kind educational environment.

Grades Served: Preschool, K-8th Grade Address: 3040 Miller Drive, Longmont Phone: 303.651.7900 Website: flagstaffacademy.org Executive Director: Wayne Granger Enrollment: 930 Capacity: N/A Annual Tuition: N/A Daily Schedule: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Open House/Visitation: Call 303.651.7900 for a tour

Gateway Montessori has been a presence in the Longmont community for more than 30 years. The school’s long history has set the bar for Montessori education.

Gateway Montessori is not only statelicensed, but also has memberships with AMS, (American Montessori Society), CMA, (Colorado Montessori Association), and NAMTA (North American Montessori Teachers Association). The school slogan, “we nurture the love of learning,” speaks to the culture of educating the whole child and providing preparation for not only elementary classes, but also for life.

“We foster the growth of the whole child, each child is respected as an individual and is encouraged to develop at his or her own pace,” says Director Reyn Hedger.

“We believe that each child is unique and special in his or her own personality and individual growth style.”

Grades Served: Preschool (starting at 2.5 years) Address: 1500 9th Ave., Longmont Phone: .303.772.3864 Website: gatewaymontessorischool.net Principal/Director: Reyn Hedger Enrollment: Available spaces are assigned after January 7th to new students on a first come basis. 10% of tuition is due June 1st to guarantee child’s place in the class. Enrollment in Kindergarten reserved for returning students.

Capacity: 40 Annual Tuition: Starts at $4,000.

Non-refundable registration fee of $80 per family.

Daily Schedule: 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.; 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; or 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Open House/Visitation: Call 303.772.3864 for a tour.

Goal Academy High School GOAL Academy High School is a free pubic high school that offers students the opportunity to access their curriculum online with the option of visiting drop-in centers for one-on-one help. GOAL offers three tracks for students bound for college, the military, and technical trades. “At GOAL High School, we are changing the world one graduate at a time,” says CEO Dr. Constance Jones. “We are an alternative high school serving students across the state of Colorado. Our approach leverages multiple resources to develop highly personalized learning pathways designed to reengage disconnected youth with learning.”

Grades Served: 9th to 12th grade Address: 1600 Hover Road, Longmont Phone: 1.877.776.4625 Website: goalac.org Principal/Director: Debbie Rose, President of Board of Directors Enrollment: Visit website Annual Tuition: Free Daily Schedule: Flexible Open House/Visitation: Office is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Messiah Lutheran Early Learning Center

preschool families become part of our family!”

Messiah Early Learning Center uses a play-based model to help children develop their physical, spiritual, social and academic identities. Children follow programs based on their age, with preschool, pre-kindergarten and junior kindergarten classrooms available to prepare all young children for academic and life success. “Messiah Early Learning Center (MELC) is Christ-centered and taught by loving Christian teachers,” says Director Kirsten Danile. “MELC offers a play based program that also incorporates music classes and Zoo Phonics. We offer a variety of family activities throughout the year and enjoy getting to know the whole family. Our

Grades Served: Preschool (2-1/2 to 5 years) Address:1335 Francis Street, Longmont Phone: 303.776.3466 Website: messiahlongmont.org/early-learningcenter.html Principal/Director: Kirsten Danile Enrollment: N/A Capacity: 50 Annual Tuition: 2 days/week - $1,665, 3 days/week - $2,115, 4 days/week - $2,250, 5 days/week - $2,430. Full week junior kindergarten - $2,430. $75 nonrefundable registration fee.

Daily Schedule: 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Lunch Bunch. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Open House/Visitation: Call for tour.

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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT SonShine Daycare & Preschool SonShine Daycare and Preschool serves children in four classrooms, organized by age. Each classroom focuses on ageappropriate development goals, with a consistent focus on fostering a religious connection with God. Located within the LifeBridge Christian Church, SonShine Daycare and Preschool offers an education that is deeply rooted in Christian belief.

“The children are surrounded by a Christian atmosphere of love and respect,” says Director Cathy Stoecker. “It is our intention to develop a program that challenges your child, builds self-esteem, respect for others and prepares them socially, emotionally, academically and spiritually for the upcoming challenges that face them through life.”

Grades Served: Preschool (2-1/2 to 7 years) Address: 10345 Ute Hwy, Longmont Phone: 303.776.5897, 303.776.2927, ext. 213 Website: svvsd.org/about/departments/ preschool Principal/Director: Cathy Stoecker, Director Kellie Brown, Assistant Director Enrollment: Visit website Capacity: 90 Annual Tuition: $145/week, $30/day, $15/preschool only.

Daily Schedule: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Open House/Visitation: Call 303.776.5897 to schedule a tour.

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St. Vrain Valley Preschool Program The St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD) offers a preschool program with locations available in Longmont, Niwot, Lyons, Mead and Erie, as well as the Spark! Discovery Preschool, which serves families in the Carbon Valley Area. Registration for the tuition-based programs started in early January, with options for tuition assistance through the Colorado Preschool Program and scholarships. The program is free for children who qualify for Special Education Services. “Families can rest assured that their children will be loved and cared for by educated teaching staff who work hard at helping each individual student reach their highest potential,” says Director Shela Blankinship.

Grades Served: Preschool (3 to 4 years) Address: Various Phone: 303.702.7815 Website: svvsd.org/preschool Principal/Director: Shela Blankinship Enrollment: Visit website Annual Tuition: Starting at $1665/year for two half-day classes per week.

Daily Schedule: Varies per school, but both a.m. and p.m. classes last two hours and 40 minutes. Limited full day options for 6.5 hours. Options for before and after school beginning at 7 a.m. and ending at 5:30 p.m. at certain locations.

Open House/Visitation: Call 303.702.7815 to schedule a tour

TLC Learning Center At TLC Learning Center, you will find diverse classrooms like no other in Boulder County. “Typical kids (no identified special need) and children with special needs (identified developmental delays or disabilities) learn, play and grow side by side,” says TLC Executive Director Matt Eldred. “All kids benefit from diverse classrooms and TLC Learning Center children are not only academically prepared for kindergarten, but have also gained social-emotional skills that will help them throughout life in relating and working with others, negotiating challenging situations with peers, exhibiting real empathy for those who are different from them, and finding the strength to stand up for those who may not be able to defend themselves.

These are life skills that go well beyond the classroom.”

Grades Served: Early Care & Preschool (8 weeks to 6 years) Address: 611 Korte Parkway, Longmont Phone: 303.776.7417 Website: learningwithtlc.org Executive Director: Matt Eldred Enrollment: Shared during tour Capacity: 90 Annual Tuition: Monthly tuition varies based on two, three or five-day enrollment and age of child.

Daily Schedule: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., class programming starts at 9 a.m.

Open House/Visitation: Tours are offered weekly. Call 303.776.7417.

W I S D O M B E G I N S I N WO N D E R Imagine a classroom that allows your child to blossom while preparing him or her for a lifetime of academic success and engagement.

Affordable tuition.

Schedule a personal tour!

bvwaldorf.org | 303.654.0130

5,840 DAYS Because changing a life isn’t quick & simple

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FUN FOR THEM. PEACE OF MIND FOR YOU. BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE FOR K-5TH YMCA Before & After School Care sets out to give kids both smile-inspiring escapades and foundational experiences.

Whether it’s getting homework help, exploring science concepts, enjoying outdoor time or creating group art projects, the Y provides a supportive environment that focuses on developing interests and making friends.

Plus, parents enjoy the peace of mind of having a statelicensed program in their child’s school as well as affordable rates and qualified, trained staff.

SCHOOL DAY OFF CAMPS FOR K-8TH Children can join the Y during school days off for field trips, sports, arts and crafts and tons of adventure.

Before & After Care and School Day Off Camps are held at BVSD schools and at the Longmont Y. YMCA INSPIRE PRESCHOOL The Y also offers full full- and part-time preschool for ages 2-1/2 to 6 at the Longmont Y.

YMCA OF BOULDER VALLEY Serving Boulder, Broomfield & Weld Counties ymcabv.org AUGUST 2018 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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Welcome Back As excitement builds for the 2018-2019 school year,, we would

like to sincerely thank everyone throughout our community for your tremendous support. Together, we are e providing our children with an outstanding education and strong ong competitive advantage as they compete at the highest level el in an ever changing global economy. – Don Haddad, Ed. D.,., Superintendent

As one of the fastest growing and most innovative school districts in the nation, we are excited about our new schools and facility improvements made possible because of the great support of our community.

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Students accelerate their learning through our rigorous and robust instructional programming and co-curricular activities that empower student advancement through choice and opportunity.

Supported by a 2-gigibit fiberoptic internet connection, all schools are equipped with iPads, Chromebooks and other cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance student learning.