Raised in the Rockies: Fall 2020

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BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT ADAMS 12 FIVE STAR SCHOOLS PRIVATE & CHARTER SCHOOLS PRESCHOOLS & DAYCARES

Back Back to School in BVSD will be new terrirory for us all, but we are ready to thrive and persevere, together.

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Contributing Writers Brittany Anas Jessica Benes Linda Bond Katie Feindel Adam Goldstein Sarah Huber Julie Kailus John Lehndorff Pam Moore Elise Oberliesen Darren Thornberry Amy Harris Van Vranken Shelley Widhalm Rhema Zlaten

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO

FALL & LEARNING

Creative Director, Editor Greg Stone

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Marketing Consultants Julie Casper Pete Christiansen Jeanine Fritz Ruth Garfield Rich Hopkins Jim Koppel Abigail Lance Keith Kratochvil Billy Magrini Dale Sekular Francine Wahlgren

9 “Let’s Not Waste A Crisis” 13 Starting Preschool and Kindergarten 15 Easing Your Child Into Schooling

In a New Environment 16 Learning from Home 18 Ready to Succeed

Advertising Directors Jill Stravolemos Christine Labozan

19 Special Education and Remote Learning 20 How to Keep Your Kids Active This Fall

Prairie Mountain Media 2500 55th St., Suite 210 Boulder, Colorado 80301

21 Tips to Help Keep Your Kids Healthy and Safe

Raised in the Rockies is a quarterly marketing feature produced by the Boulder Daily Camera, Broomfield Enterprise, Colorado Hometown Weekly and Longmont Times-Call.

23 Letters from the Superintendents

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30 Kid Friendly from the Floor on Up

22 The Power of Music Expression 26 Private, Charter and Preschool Spotlight 29 Flexible Tutoring Choices for Your Kids

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Back to School: A Reintroduction to Learning

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

BACK TO SCHOOL

Raised in the Rockies BACK TO SCHOOL:

A Reintroduction to Learning

BY BRITTANY ANAS for Raised in the Rockies

B

ack-to-school will look much different this year as COVID-19 has reshaped all areas of public life, including education. As school districts are looking to adapt to the new normal, leaders are grappling with a number of challenges, including how to keep students and employees safe amid a public health crisis while reopening school buildings.

Both Boulder Valley School District and St. Vrain Valley School District have made public their plans for hybrid learning, which includes a careful balance of in-person and online classes, face mask requirements and stringent cleaning protocol. Still, plans need to remain flexible so that they can be adjusted should the pandemic better or worsen.

“I will not sugarcoat this: This situation is not ideal,” Rob Anderson, superintendent of Boulder Valley School District said in a letter to parents. “What the planning educators around the world

have been doing during this pandemic is perhaps the most complex work ever seen in education.”

Keeping students and teachers at a safe distance during the school day

and meeting public health rules as they continually change are difficult charges, he explains.

Schools in Boulder Valley will begin on Aug. 26, a delayed start so that the district

FUN FOR THEM. PEACE OF MIND FOR YOU. YMCA Before & After School Care Whether it’s getting homework help, enjoying outdoor time or creating 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 state-licensed program in their child’s school as well as affordable rates and qualified, trained staff.

Adapting in Changing Times Flexible options for fall will be available as we develop programs to meet changing needs. The Y has been running childcare and camp continuously through spring and summer, and we’ve learned a thing or two about running programs for kids during this challenging time. Our staff work closely with public health experts to develop practices that minimize risk and maximize fun.

Before & After Care and School Day Off Camps are held at select BVSD, Weld RE-5J and Thompson schools as well as at the Longmont Y for SVVSD.

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FALL 2020

YMCA INSPIRE PRESCHOOLS The Y also offers full- and part-time preschool for ages 2-1/2 to 6 at the Longmont and Johnstown Ys.

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Raised in the Rockies can train employees on new protocols and better practices around at home learning.

The back-to-school start date for students in St. Vrain is Aug. 18.

Meanwhile, as of press time, Adams 12 Five Star Schools has not yet announced its learning plan for the 2020-2021 school year and Superintendent Chris Gdowski says officials want to develop plans responsive to the most up-to-date COVID-19 data and public health guidance. Final plans are being reviewed by the Board of Education and detailed guidance will be shared with families no later than July 30, according to Christina Dahmen, communications manager for the district.

Here, a look at how local schools are planning for a return of students and learning during these unprecedented times.

BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT’S PLAN FOR RE-OPENING Boulder Valley students in kindergarten through 12th grade will attend school in person two days a week and online two days a week, according to the district’s current plan. BVSD is also offering an opt-out option for in-person learning so students can solely participate in at-home learning. The aim in this phase is to keep students in small, consistently socially distant groups.

The way the schedule is set up, K-12 students will be in either Group A or Group B. Group A students will have in-school classes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays while Group B will be in school on Thursdays and Fridays.

Special education students will have the opportunity to participate in four days of in-person learning if they are willing and medically able to do so. Two of the school days would be in the intensive special education environment and the other two would be in the general education cohort.

School buildings will be closed on Mondays for teacher planning and cleaning, and students will have independent assignments.

“Cohorting” students by keeping them in class pods is a strategy that’s recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. BVSD officials say that the cohort approach will help them manage interactions and conduct contract tracing and quarantine measures if students or employees are exposed to the virus.

Boulder Valley has adopted a five-phase model for student learning amid the coronavirus pandemic that ranges from fully in person to fully virtual based on the severity of COVID-19 in the county.

BVSD is reopening for the 2020-2021 school year in “Phase 3.” If conditions 6

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

improve, the district will consider adding more in-person classes and will give families and staff at least two weeks of notice before making the shift.

Students and staff will be asked to conduct at-home health screenings, taking their temperature and checking for COVID-19 symptoms before showing up to school.

Once at school, a limited number of people will be allowed in the building at any given time and students will be spaced six feet apart. Desks will be spaced six feet apart and BVSD has also invested in plexiglass partitions for added protections.

Students will have limited access to areas in the building and have designated bathrooms as well.

All students and staff members will be required to wear face covers while indoors and when physical distancing is not possible outdoors. The district will

“It is paramount that we keep our students, teachers and community safe.” make exceptions to this requirement for health or education reasons as well as during lunch and at times when students are socially distanced. Students are required to not just wear a clean face cover to school every day, but also have a backup on hand. Employees will be provided with protective gear including face covers, gloves, hand sanitizer, face shields and safety glasses.

Students will also be encouraged to wash their hands often with soap and water or apply hand sanitizer frequently.

They’ll be given ample free time to access sanitizing stations and to wash their hands. They’ll be asked to wash their hands when arriving and leaving home; arriving at and leaving school; after playing outside; after having close contact with others; after using shared surfaces or tools; before and after bathroom breaks; after blowing their noses, coughing or sneezing and before and after eating.

Additionally, the school district will have an increased focus on cleaning hightouch areas, which includes doorknobs, sinks, desks and seats. Bathrooms will be cleaned multiple times throughout the day. Cafeteria tables will be disinfected between each group of students. Not only will schools be cleaned and disinfected every night, but also throughout the day.

Maintenance staff has also made sure that schools’ ventilation systems are operating in a way that increase the circulation of outdoor air as much as possible. Teachers are also encouraged to open up windows so long as it doesn’t pose a health or safety risk, like triggering asthma symptoms. BVSD is also consulting with air quality consultants to figure out the best way to cool buildings without air conditioning.

At the center of Boulder Valley’s plans for the upcoming school year is a commitment to make decisions not based on fear or emotion, but on the best data available from public health partners.

“It is paramount that we keep our students, teachers and community safe,” Anderson said in his letter to parents.

“Nothing is more important than protecting lives.”

For updates visit: bvsd.org/ parents-students/academics/covid-19reintroduction.

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ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT’S PLAN FOR RE-OPENING

St. Vrain Valley School District is also moving forward with a hybrid model of in-person and virtual learning.

Also, all students have the option to enroll in the fully online learning program, St. Vrain LaunchED. The program offers preschool through 12th grade classes that are taught by St. Vrain Valley teachers and delivered via Schoology, a learning management system. Students who opt for online only learning will remain affiliated with their school of record, though.

Since class sizes are smaller, preschool students will attend school in-person according to the schedule offered at their schools.

Elementary, middle and high school students will have a hybrid schedule where they’ll be assigned to one of two cohorts. Group 1 students will attend

“The evolving nature of this health crisis will require us to remain flexible as we plan for the start of the 2020-2021 school year and beyond.” in-person school Mondays, Wednesdays, and every-other Friday. Group 2 will attend in-person school on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and every-other Friday.

On days when they’re not physically in school, they’ll have real-time online learning with their classroom teacher or independent work that’s been assigned.

“While this is our plan at this time, our goal is to return to full-time inperson learning for all students as soon as our local and state health

departments determine that it is safe to do so,” St. Vrain Valley School District Superintendent Don Haddad said in the latest update on reopening plans.

“Additionally, the evolving nature of this health crisis will require us to remain flexible as we plan for the start of the 2020-2021 school year and beyond.”

Safety remains the top priority for St. Vrain Valley officials and they’ve launched a “Safe with 7 campaign.”

As part of the campaign, they are asking families to screen their students at home before sending them to school.

Students will also be required to wear face masks at school. School officials, recognizing it can be difficult for younger students to wear masks all day, will work to schedule socially distanced breaks and provide exceptions for certain documented medical conditions.

The district has also been working with its operations team to make sure its HVAC systems are operating at high capacity to support quality airflow and ventilation in classrooms and buildings.

Additional custodial staff was hired, middle and high school students will not be assigned lockers and social distancing will be maintained as much as possible through one-directional hallways and staggered recesses. Also, students will be spaced apart to the fullest distance possible in classrooms.

If school officials become aware of a case of COVID-19 in a classroom or a school environment, Boulder County Public Health has assigned an epidemiologist and several contact tracers to St. Vrain who will work closely with our district nurses and leadership to determine and guide next steps. For updates, visit: coronavirus.svvsd.org.

ADAMS 12 FIVE-STAR SCHOOLS’ PLAN FOR RE-OPENING As of press time, Adams 12 Five Star Schools has not yet announced its learning plan for the 2020-2021 school year and Superintendent Chris Gdowski says officials want to develop plans responsive to the most up-to-date COVID-19 data and public health guidance. Final plans are being reviewed by the Board of Education and detailed guidance will be shared with families no later than July 30, according to Christina Dahmen, communications manager for the district. For updates, visit: adams12.org/onward.

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Raised in the Rockies

“Let’s Not Waste a Crisis” Area private and charter schools roll out phased plans for 2020-21 school year.

BY SARAH HUBER for Raised in the Rockies

C

olorado private and charter schools are launching a buffet of phased plans to get students back in school, and while the plans differ in details, they each aim to provide an enriching education remotely or in a safe, socially distanced classroom.

Here’s a look at how several local schools will open this fall.

BIXBY SCHOOL Nina Lopez, head of school at Bixby School in Boulder, said this is a “time to come together and to get clear about what matters. As the saying goes, let’s not waste a crisis.”

Bixby, a small school by design with about 60 preschool through fifth grade students, plans to provide instruction five days a week per student unless prohibited by a government mandate. “Elementary students will be grouped into cohorts of 10 students and will be assigned a bathroom,” Lopez said. The school will

FALL 2020

Bixby school will provide students with lap desks to tout outdoors, where much of the instruction will occur. (Photos courtesy: Bixby School).

provide students with lap desks to tout outdoors, where much of the instruction will occur. Teachers, instead of students, will rotate between classes, and music class will focus more on theory than on the usual signing (guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest limiting singing to prevent spreading airborne COVID-19 particles).

Lopez has been surveying parents and teachers to gauge their comfort levels with in-person and virtual education.

She said, “There’s clearly a preference to return to in-person instruction, and we’re fortunate that we have huge windows we can keep open and outdoor space to make this happen.” Lopez cited

the American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendation that to support student mental, social and emotional health, schools open with scrupulous safety precautions. “We are prepared to implement the best practice around minimizing or mitigating disease and feel confident with kids in-person for a full and rich curriculum,” she said.

Some students with immunocompromised or older family members will virtually join Bixby this year, and if necessary, the entire school will move between in-person and remote learning throughout the academic year.

“There was a point last spring when I was working 14 hours a day, seven days a week,” Lopez recalled. “I was blown RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

9

Raised in the Rockies away at the adaptability and commitment of our teachers and feel like we emerged as a team stronger than we went in.”

FRIENDS SCHOOL Although parents of students enrolled in the Friends School of Boulder indicated via a school survey that they were pleased with the school’s remote learning program offered last spring, the Friends School remains committed to in-person learning. The Friends School’s two Boulder campuses, with preschoolers through eighth graders, will organize into small pods of students and utilize outdoor classroom space this fall. Meg Hansen, director of marketing and communications, said, “The size of our school allows us to keep our classrooms small, and our large campuses allow us to take advantage of the great outdoors as much as possible.”

Hansen continued, “While we hope to be in-person for the entire school year, our experienced teachers are ready to pivot to remote learning at any time.

PPE, enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols, physical distancing while still building relationships, staggered arrivals, private classroom entrances and thoughtful schedules will all be part of keeping our community safe.”

Furthermore, should a government mandate require virtual learning, Friends School is prepared. Hansen said, “The spirit and creativity our teachers demonstrated in the spring with a deep and rich learning experience provided a wealth of knowledge should we need to pivot to remote learning again. If that time comes, we plan to execute a

Friends School will emphasize the social emotion literacy for which the school is known, and this year’s curriculum will involve a “greater focus on diversity, equity and inclusion work.” (Photo courtesy: Friends School).

similarly robust remote program.”

Whether in-person or virtually, Friends School will emphasize the social emotion literacy for which the school is known, and this year’s curriculum will involve a “greater focus on diversity, equity and inclusion work,” as well as a “deepening of project-based learning,” Hansen said.

SACRED HEART OF JESUS SCHOOL Tom Mecsey, principal of Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Boulder, has been planning for a 2020-21 inperson educational experience for students since May. He said, “We have made preparations that include daily temperature screenings for students and staff, cohorting of student groups and

Sacred Heart of Jesus school will “take advantage of the great Colorado climate to spend as much time outdoors as possible for academic, recreational and social activities.

(Photo courtesy: Sacred Heart of Jesus School).

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physical distancing.” Sacred Heart of Jesus, serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade, replaced collaborative tables with student desks, and teachers will rotate through rooms.

Middle school students will be required to wear a face covering, unless they have a medical condition that discourages the use of a mask, and elementary students will be encouraged to wear a facial covering. The school will also “take advantage of the great Colorado climate to spend as much time outdoors as possible for academic, recreational and social activities,” Mecsey said.

For families wishing to start the year with virtual learning, students will be able to participate with their in-person peers in real-time. “We have spent the summer developing alternative learning strategies should, later in the school year, medical data from the county or state warrant changes,” he said.

Mecsey believes “the classroom provides the opportunity for vital human connection,” something that was difficult to provide last spring despite “a rather rigorous distance learning program.” He said, “For a student to be able to look directly into the eyes of their teacher establishes an essential bond of trust and safety that helps satisfy fundamental needs in children in order for them to learn effectively. As a school built upon Christian values, we realize the inherent value to in-person interaction as a demonstration of the love between a student and his or her teacher.”

SEPTEMBER SCHOOL To navigate the challenges of teaching older students during a pandemic, September School, a private high school in Boulder, is pivoting to outdoor education, said the school executive BACK TO SCHOOL

SEPTEMBER SCHOOL 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR

OUTDOOR EDUCATION LEARNING. TOGETHER. OUTSIDE.

September School is pivoting to outdoor education.

(Photo courtesy: September School).

Want your highschool students back in school but concerned about exposure to coronavirus? Worried about what their school day will actually look like? Us too. So at September School our staff went to work in May creating a safe,fun, academically rich program for Fall 2020. We are shifting to Outdoor Education with a place based curriculum, outdoor classrooms, weekly excursions and, as always, relationship based education.

Our campus, located next to Boulder Creek at the mouth of Boulder Canyon, is the perfect place for teens to explore the environment and grow and learn together.

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96 ARAPAHOE AVE, BOULDER Dawson School plans to open with on-campus instruction, but will shift as needed to either a hybrid or remote model.

(Photos courtesy: Dawson School).

FALL 2020

303.443.9933

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Raised in the Rockies director Kelly Molinet. As early as last April, September School, a 47-year mainstay of Boulder’s educational culture, was researching how safely to educate outside. “We are collaborative by nature, and we have always been outof-the-box thinkers,” Molinet said. “We have constructed outdoor classrooms and adjusted our curriculum and calendar so that we can provide a safe, rich academic and social experience for our students.

Students will learn the natural history and ecology of Colorado and the Rocky Mountains, read the literature of the region and engage in environmental advocacy on the local level.” September School’s classes are capped at about 10 students.

September School, focusing on the social and emotional health of teenagers, welcomed a wilderness therapy intern and an art therapy intern to the staff this year. Molinet said, “We will do regular school Monday through Thursday and use Fridays for excursions such as hikes, bike rides, farm visits, horseback riding and more. Our curriculum remains committed to centering the voices and experiences of marginalized groups, and our history and literature courses will teach indigenous history as well as the history of Black and Latinx people in Colorado.”

September School went virtual last spring, hosting classes four hours a day online to maintain consistency, but Molinet said teachers are “excited and energized to make this curricular shift” and provide in-person, safe, outdoor education. Parents seem equally “excited and relieved,” she said. Molinet empathized, “I have four kids in middle and high school, and I am a 27-yeareducator, and I was pulling my hair out trying to keep up with their work, so

I get it. I know the students are happy to be coming back to school as well.

Hopefully their enthusiasm will overcome any challenging weather.”

DAWSON SCHOOL Dawson School of Lafayette, an independent college-prep school from kindergarten through twelfth grade, plans to open with on-campus instruction, but “in the event that Boulder County Public Health guidelines at the time preclude that, we will shift to either a hybrid or remote model,” said head of school George P. Moore. Dawson School’s four instructional phases, which the school may move in and out of as necessary, include their pre-COVID program, an exclusively remote option, in-person instruction with a focus on social distancing and a hybrid program with elementary students in-person five days a week and older students completing some work remotely.

Moore said Dawson School, now celebrating its fiftieth year, is ideally suited to educate students despite the challenges of COVID-19. He said, “Our smaller population and larger campus allow us to have students socially distanced in the classroom. We also have put in place health and safety protocols such as 100 percent face-covering indoors. Our adaptability will allow us to shift quickly to one of our other plans should that be required.”

Indeed, if a virtual option is necessitated, Moore said, “Our remote program is not a compromise. It continues to be fantastic teachers engaged with our students to create a meaningful educational experience. But we know the importance of in-person engagement is significant.”

TWIN PEAKS CHARTER SCHOOL With the education of 750 students on his mind, Joseph Mehsling, director of Twin Peaks Charter School, admitted, “It’s been a very anxiety-inducing summer.”

However, he said, the planning and preparing is worth it, as he believes “it’s riskier to not have kids in school.”

Mehsling unveiled three educational plans in July. Phase one is remote learning only, phase two features meticulous social distancing parameters and phase three is “normal school day,” he said. Mehsling expects to return students with phase two guidelines, “allowing us the flexibility to move up or down as needed,” he said.

Twin Peaks, a classical school, is offering virtual instruction to all families, but for those comfortable with returning, students will be grouped into cohorts that will learn, eat and play together.

Elementary students will attend five days a week, whereas middle and high school students will attend every other day, with a day of in-person instruction followed by a day of work at home on assignments.

Extended hours will be offered to help working families care for children on non-classroom days.

Mehsling said, “I think you’re seeing streamlining this year. We will focus on those essential skills of literacy and numeracy, and we’re probably going to start the year without clubs and sports. This is a year for essentials and flexibility.”

For Mehsling and his team, a silver lining this year has been a renewed appreciation for excellent teaching.

“Sometimes we take what teachers get up and do each day for granted,” he said.

“I think that after great parenting, nothing else has more of an impact than great teachers.”

Twin Peaks, a classical school, is offering virtual instruction to all families, but for those comfortable with returning, students will be grouped into cohorts that will learn, eat and play together. (Photo courtesy: Twin Peaks Charter School. Photo was taken prior to social distancing).

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Starting Preschool or Kindergarten Preparing preschool and Kindergarten students for the first day of school through play, consistency, and honest conversations.

BY RHEMA ZLATEN for Raised in the Rockies

P

reparing to start school is a big step. Whether it’s preschool or kindergarten, all future students need a bit of guidance to begin their school career successfully, and that’s before considering the implications of learning during a pandemic like COVID-19. Establishing expectations and rhythms will help new students succeed, even if the format and location of that learning shifts a few times over the next year.

Kimberly Bloemen is the executive director of early childhood education for the Boulder Valley School District, and she is focused now more than ever on integrating play and fun into

education for this age range. Her goal is to support the five big areas of preschool and Kindergarten development: socialemotional, cognitive, physical, literacy and math.

“By age five, 85 percent of the brain is developed,” Bloemen said. “[So] we see Pre-K and K as a partnership with the family."

No matter what school format a family chooses for their preschool or Kindergarten future scholars this year, there are several ways families can help nourish these rapidly changing and expanding brains.

SET A SCHEDULE Early on during BVSD’s pandemic response of switching to distance learning in the Spring of 2020, Bloemen recognized the challenges students faced when this change happened. Mimicking at least some of a school day flow helped kids stay on track and more comfortable with the shift to at-home learning.

Creating a similar flow for the fall of 2020 will help in both distance and hybrid scenarios.

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Diane Lauer is the St. Vrain Valley Schools District assistant superintendent of priority programs and academic support, and she also advocates for setting up schedules for preschool and kindergarten-aged students.

“It can be helpful for them to think about their schedule for the next day the night before, maybe at bedtime,” she said.

“Going over what the day might look like at breakfast can help reinforce the schedule … [this] helps them understand the connection between what they are doing and what they are learning."

Jessica Scott is the senior program director of early learning for the YMCA Inspire Preschool in Longmont, and she recommends continually forecasting the schedule of the day.

“One of the things that I think is really beneficial for especially these little [kids] is something visual that they can see,” Scott said. “In my mind that looks like a tangible schedule for the day, that they can see and keep track of. Sometimes it is hard to know what is coming next, especially when you are a little kid who can’t think in [an] abstract manner.”

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Raised in the Rockies CREATE INTERACTION AND PLAY Kids thrive on moving fast and in play, so why not add academic components to those natural tendencies?

“I don’t want kids to have passive experiences where information is just coming at them,” Bloeman said. “It can be simple things like when you read a story to a child asking ‘what do you think is coming next?’ Or when you are at home, activities like sorting pots and pans by shapes, or sorting closets by color and patterns.”

Play learning can be affordable and also based entirely around what is already in the home. Just giving preschool-aged children opportunities to explore and touch will help their brains to thrive.

“Pull weeds and talk about why they grow,” Bloeman said. “Take a hike and look for leaves that are different colors and shapes, and talk about why they have different colors and shapes … You are using your words to help neurons fire in their brains. So there’s literacy, math, language development – all included.”

Scott also advocates for learning through play.

“Parents have a tough job, no matter what happens with the school district,” she said. “So find new ways for kids to use the things that they really like. I encourage parents to help their kids learn

through what they love.”

She offered an example of one of her preschool kids who really loves the TV show “PJ Masks.” His mother created a simple PJ Masks bingo board with learning and home tasks for the day where he can choose activities to do that are associated with a PJ masks character, and there’s a song she sings with him for transitions throughout the day.

“And make sure to build in breaks," Scott said. "We all need breaks.”

HAVE HONEST CONVERSATIONS It can be difficult to strike a balance between sharing too much information and not enough information with young children, but modeling honesty and helping them express their emotions will help young children learn resiliency through tough times.

“Like when we teach our kids about the danger of streets and of looking both ways before we cross the street, for the pandemic, we have to front load it and teach our children about what it means to be safe,” Bloeman said. “We can talk about our boundaries and our safety."

Scott mentioned that while it is important to be honest with young kids about the pandemic and how it affects their schooling, those explanations don’t need to be very detailed.

“Say ‘I know things are different right now; we are still going to have school, but it will be a little different,’” she said.

“Kids are perceptive and smart, and if you are honest with them, that can help relieve the anxiety. And it is okay for them to feel what they are feeling.”

Laurer also advocates for talking with children about their emotions on a regular basis “It is important for families to help students be able to name their primary emotions,” she said. “Using that language to make connections to the characters when you are watching television programs or reading a story can help your child make a connection to their own emotions. There are also age-appropriate self soothing techniques that families can use, like breathing strategies, having a comfort blanket, or taking time for quiet reflection."

Scott recommends checking in on emotions everyday. “ [Ask] ‘how are you feeling today?’” she said. “Make a feelings chart. [Ask] ‘Why are you sad today? And do you want to talk about that? And whenever you want to talk about why you are sad, you and I will talk about it.’ You need to be there with them and tell them they are okay.”

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Raised in the Rockies Easing Your Child into Schooling in a New Environment

One of the best ways to avoid the dreaded “drop-off drama” is to be clear about expectations, and give your child the space to express their concerns.. (Photo: Shutterstock).

BY PAM MOORE for Raised in the Rockies

F

or parents and children alike, the beginning of the school year elicits both anticipation and anxiety, even under the best circumstances. The prospect of returning to the classroom in the middle of a pandemic is enough to make anyone lose sleep. We talked to Chandra Lontz-Smith, licensed professional counselor and owner of Genuine Heart Counseling in Longmont, to find out how kids – and grown-ups – can manage back-to-school nerves.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR CHILD’S FEELINGS According to Lontz-Smith, who works with children ages three and up as well as adults, we must acknowledge that anxiety amid uncertain circumstances is normal. Amid this uncertainty, we need “someone to be there with us in the midst of whatever we are feeling.”

That means allowing our children to feel whatever they are feeling, no matter how big or uncomfortable it is. “One of the best gifts we can offer our kiddos,” she explains, is “listening and validating these feelings, even if we, as parents, have a different perspective of the situation.”

Modeling our willingness to feel our feelings helps to show our kids that their emotions are valid. “An example would be noticing one’s own anxiety, saying it out loud, and then sharing how we are taking care of ourselves in the midst of it.” For example, you might tell your child you’re feeling worried so you’re going to take a walk or call a friend.

Lontz-Smith also reminds us that anxiety often triggers kids’ irritability and anger. But, “with warmth and caring, the anger will often melt into the worries and FALL 2020

fears underneath.”

of the anxiety,” she explains. “Also, giving them time to share worries or questions, and supporting their creative solutions can help them feel like they have some influence over the situation.”

Keep in mind that sometimes your child just needs to feel heard. “Often just listening through a good cry (or maybe several) without trying to fix or do anything can help relieve a child of the tensions and anxiety they feel inside.”

Meanwhile, says Lontz-Smith, there’s a particular “under the radar” type of stress we need to consider – navigating social dynamics while wearing masks and social distancing. Coronavirus precautions rob us of the many of the non-verbal cues we rely on to navigate social dynamics. This can be not only emotionally challenging for kids, but increased stress is known to interfere with learning.

Lontz-Smith encourages us to “feel into these subtle situations or at least get curious about them, and then name them.”

For instance, teachers can acknowledge that masks can be distracting and how nice it would be for life to return to the way it was before coronavirus.

As she puts it, “It helps normalize the experience.”

PRACTICE SELF-CARE It’s essential to make sure we are taking care of ourselves so we have the energy to take care of our kids when they need us.

Lontz-Smith encourages parents to focus on the basics, including exercise, sleep, staying connected to friends, or seeing a therapist.

At its most basic, self-care can be as simple as breathing.

“Sometimes the best thing we can do is just to pause and notice it’s going on,” explains LontzSmith, adding, “this helps us see the bigger picture, find clearer direction, and feel empathy, You will be known. You will be loved. among other Our innovative programs are designed to promote intellectual supports.”

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COMMUNICATE One of the best ways to avoid the dreaded “drop-off drama,” says LontzSmith, is to be clear about expectations – and give your child the space to express their concerns.

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Raised in the Rockies

Boulder Valley School District is engaged in Child Find Boulder Valley School District wants to locate children ages birth to 21 with disabilities who live within district boundaries as part of Child Find.

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a child with a disability means a child evaluated and determined eligible for early intervention services (birth to 3) or special education and related services (age 3 to 21) in accordance with IDEA under the following categories: Hearing Impairment, Including Deafness, Multiple Disabilities, Deaf-Blindness, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Orthopedic Impairment, Other Health Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, Developmental Delay, Serious Emotional Disability, Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disability, Speech or Language Impairment, or Visual Impairment, Including Blindness.

Learning from Home Tips and resources to help teach your kids from home.

BY AMY HARRIS VAN VRANKEN for Raised in the Rockies

A

t this writing, Boulder Valley School District has identified five possible phases of reopening and plans to start in phase three with a hybrid schedule of in-person and online classes.

Many other districts are planning similar approaches.

These creative ideas from experienced parents and teachers can help you and your child be ready for online learning.

Organization is everything.

Setting up a daily and weekly schedule helps kids get and stay in a groove, so find a tracking system that works for both you and your child.

Review it with them at the start of each day or week.

Consider options like sticky notes on a Kanban board, spreadsheets and Google calendars. Adding live classroom sessions to each child’s Google calendar allows for everyone to get reminders.

Putting alarms on your child’s phone, if they have one, or setting up a smart speaker (such as Amazon’s Alexa) to give verbal reminders about calendar events can help kids feel less overwhelmed. Find creative ways for your child to have a sense of control over

Outdoor Education Throughout The Grades Pre-K through 12th Grade

If you have a child/student that you suspect may have a disability, and one of the following applies: • An infant-toddler or preschool aged child and live within the BVSD attendance area, or • A school-age student (K-12) attending a private school that is located within the BVSD attendance area, or • A school-age student (K-12) you are homeschooling and live within the BVSD attendance area, please contact Child Find at:

Boulder Valley School District 6500 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, CO 80303 (720) 561-5078 Para Información en Español, llame (720) 561-5267 If your child is already enrolled and is attending one of the Boulder Valley School sites, then talk to your child’s teacher or school administrator about your concerns regarding your child’s development, or that you suspect your child may have a disability.

For Further Information: www.bvsd.org/childfind 16

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

Nestled at the base of the foothills on a 12 acre campus in North Boulder, we serve students pre-k–12. Many families live within walking or biking distance of the school. Strong academics enhanced with the arts, place-based learning and outdoor education develop healthy, thinking, whole human beings.

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BACK TO SCHOOL

TWIN PEAKS CHARTER ACADEMY

Organization is everything when remote learning. (Photo: Shutterstock).

the schedule. Can your teen start their day at noon? Can your 5th-grader do all their math on Monday and their science on Tuesday?

Check Infinite Campus and/ or Schoology with your child regularly. Be careful to keep the tone positive when you do: the goal is to help them organize their learning-lives, not to punish them.

Toys, video games, siblings – home is full of distractions for most kids. To head distraction off at the pass, set up a designated work area. If possible, seat your child where you can see each other’s screens and give each other permission to get each other back on task if you get distracted. Building time into the schedule to relax, have fun, and move will also help.

And time outside is especially important for kids’ mental and physical health.

Frustration is inevitable during this time of change and uncertainty. Listen and acknowledge the challenge when your kid complains about an assignment. If they say they don’t understand or don’t know what to do, ask them if they’ve spoken to their teacher. Everyone wins when your child contacts their teacher with questions: you free yourself up, build your child’s independence, and give the teacher space to do their job. Questions help teachers identify what they may need to go over again with the class.

Boulder 8th-grade language arts teacher Adam Hunt is also a parent of three sons, ages 12, 14 and 16. He says, “For my youngest child, I made sure to check back with him to make sure that he understood the FALL 2020

response that he received from his teacher. If clarification was needed, I would take care of the follow-up. For my 14- and 16-year-old, I would check with them and help them with any necessary follow-up emails or messages.”

It’s easy for emails to get lost in the shuffle as teachers manage communications with the district, colleagues, building administrators, parents and students. Check with your child’s teacher to see if they have a more immediate means of communication, such as Google Meets.

Remote learning doesn’t come naturally for everyone, whether you’re a parent, student, or teacher. Even in easier times, motivation comes and goes, and compassion is the key to making sure that people feel safe and valued. Mr. Hunt says, “Showing interest in the humanity of the people that we are interacting with – rather than treating them like cogs in a machine – will make everyone’s lives less stressful and will help your child to feel more valued and less alone in a world that hasn’t been so good at meeting their needs in the last five months.” One way to do this is to ask your child what they’re learning and show interest by asking follow-up questions. Regularly ask them for examples of their “best work” and put it up on the refrigerator.

Finally, before school starts, take some time to browse through this great list of resources for learning at home from the Colorado Department of Education: cde.state.co.us/learningathome/ remotelearningresources.

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We provide a unique educational niche in the greater Longmont community.

One of the most important parental decisions is choosing a school for your child. Some of the areas that make our school exceptional include: • Character education is essential in developing outstanding students.

Whether at home, school, or in play, we agree on Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship • Smaller class sizes • Elementary students learn to read using phonics-based methodology • Elementary students are taught cursive handwriting • The K-8 curriculum is grounded in Latin, Core Knowledge and Singapore Math • 15 AP Classes • A full slate of enrichment classes: Band, Choir, Orchestra, Art, Technology, P.E. and World Languages • Numerous clubs; Odyssey of the Mind, Student Council, National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society, Robotics, 100 Mile Club, etc.

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Raised in the Rockies

Ready to

Succeed

Local businesses and nonprofits expand efforts to assure students have means to succeed.

BY JOHN LEHNDORFF AND JESSICA BENES for Raised in the Rockies

E

ven in a “normal” year, going back to school in the fall can be a difficult time for many children. In 2020, with all the unknowns concerning the COVID-19 pandemic including virtual learning, the return to classes raises monumental challenges for children in need as well as their parents and teachers.

As the Boulder Valley School District, St. Vrain School District and Adams 12 5-Star Schools adjust plans for starting classes, local businesses and organizations are ramping up their efforts to assure that every student – regardless of their circumstances – can start the school year safely with the tools they need to succeed.

BOULDER BODY WEAR Boulder Body Wear Owner Amy Kenney says the store is staffed, stocked and ready to help performance artists, students and anyone wanting to look great this fall. Customers are able to shop the way they feel most comfortable; either inperson with a mask and social distancing; through a contactless pickup option, or online at boulderbodywear.com. Many area dance studios offer zoom classes or limited-capacity classes now and students seem very happy to have an option again, Kenney said.

Boulder Body Wear has all the essentials for back to dance class and active extracurricular activities in dresses, tops, skirts and leggings.

“I think dancers and artists have used their creativity to be resilient,” Kenney said.

CHILDISH THINGS Boulder’s “Childish Things” consignment store has a lot of reasonably priced items to offer as students start learning again.

“It’s hard this year because we don’t know [how] they’re going back to school,” said Kerry Radicella, owner. “If people ask for my opinion, I recommend buying lots of books because those will keep them busy 18 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

at home.” Books run about $2.25 to $7.50 a piece. Clothing averages $8 more or less.

“We have tons of clothing for $4.75 to $5.50 including name brands Carters, Gymboree and Old Navy,” Radicella said.

Most of the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) toys and games are a great thing to teach with, she said, because they involve counting, letters and reading. Most of those run $6.25 to $11.50. The store’s lunch boxes and backpacks are brand new, and cost around $25 each.

IMPACT ON EDUCATION Impact on Education is the major nonprofit foundation supporting students and educators in the Boulder Valley. The wide range of services and programs includes professional development, supporting computer science curriculum and skills, and offering grants and scholarships. Right now the organization’s focus is on its Critical Needs Funds which supports efforts like food distribution and equity in online access through free Chromebooks to every student who needs one for remote learning.

There are also enrichment programs children who missed out or fell behind during this past difficult school year.

More than 11,000 Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley students from preschool through 12th grade typically benefit from Impact on Education’s well-known Crayons to Calculators program. The program provides kits of school supplies to students who have a need. Kits will be distributed by BVSD and SVVSD in a safe and socially distant manner, giving students and families the opportunity to begin the school year ready for success whether attending school at-home, within the school building, or a combination of both.

“These kits are specific to student grade level and contain a new backpack and the supplies students need to return to learning, whether that happens at home or in school,” said Allison Billings, executive director.

The demand has grown substantially because of the economic disruption cause by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ordinarily volunteer assistance and donated supplies are a vital part of the program but this year the program will depend on financial donations from individuals and businesses.

For information on Impact on Education: or to make a donation call 303.524.3865, or visit impactoneducation.org.

A PRECIOUS CHILD Broomfield-based A Precious Child assists disadvantaged and displaced children and families by supporting services at more than 440 agencies in the region.

This includes individual help navigating community resources from basic needs to STEM-based activities and A Precious Child’s best-known program: Fill A Backpack.

The need for Fill A Backpack has grown exponentially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Supplying students at school as well as remote learning at home is an additional challenge this year. The traditional collection of donated school supplies at stores, schools and agencies has also changed. Supplies have been purchased in bulk and A Precious Child is asking for financial donations to support the program, as well as its Give Arts and Give Sports programs which provides students with equipment and fees to access extracurricular activities.

For more information or to make a donation call 303.466.4272 or visit apreciouschild.org.

EMERGENCY FAMILY ASSISTANCE ASSOCIATION Likewise, Emergency Family Assistance Association in Boulder is making sure all children in the 56 housing sites it serves across Boulder County will have backpacks full of school and art supplies.

EFAA raised funds in a summer drive and used some of their own budget to make sure their children are set, said Marnie Copeland, family strengthening manager.

“There was definitely more of a need this year. Everything with COVID has been intensified with the mental stress and economy,” she said. “Our folks are the most vulnerable and disadvantaged.”

One of their volunteers who works in information technology, is also giving his time to help families with technology and Zoom issues as the school year gets started.

Visit efaa.org to learn more about the resources EFAA can help with for lowincome and homeless families.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Special Education Students to Engage in Remote Learning

BY SHELLEY WIDHALM for Raised in the Rockies

S

chool will look a little different this fall for Boulder Valley students with special needs – some will be learning remotely, while others will spend part of their week in the classroom and the rest at home.

“The special education teams will work with students’ individualized needs to help support their learning,” said Dennis Rastatter, executive director of special education for Boulder Valley School District.

Boulder Valley will provide all students, including those in the special education program, with three options for the 2020-21 school year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first option will involve Boulder Universal, an online school where students can engage in learning outside the dictates of the regular school day.

The other two options will feature remote learning with the student’s regular teachers either five days a week or in a hybrid model with two days in person

and three online. With the hybrid model, there also will be an opportunity for paid custodial care on the school site, so that parents with elementary-aged children can still work.

Students received the tools they needed for remote learning during the statemandated March shutdown of schools, said Randy Barber, chief communications officer for Boulder Valley School District.

Chromebooks were distributed to the students who didn’t already have them – high school and many middle school students are issued them as part of their regular education, he said. At that time, students in special education may have received additional tools specific to their needs and as determined by collaborative decision-making among families, special education team members and members of the assistive technology team, Rastatter said.

That includes students in the special education program, which serves nearly 4,000 students on Individualized Education Plans and represents about 12 percent of the student population.

The program provides differentiated instruction for the students and any

accommodations, modifications and services that they may need to be able to access their learning. Most of the students are included in the general education classroom at least part of the day and may be pulled out for additional instruction in math and literacy and for services like occupational, speech and physical therapy.

“Our first goal is to keep kids included in the general education environment to the maximum extent that’s appropriate for that student,” Rastatter said.

The school district offers a continuum of services to meet more significant needs, as well as three intensive learning centers with a more intensive level of service. The centers are for students who have autism and have multiple cognitive, medical/ physical, communication and social/ emotional needs.

“The more intensive level of services might include additional support and specialized instruction through a special education team,” Rastatter said. “Due to the continuum of services we offer and the talents of our staff, we can meet the needs of the majority of students within our attendance area.”

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Raised in the Rockies

How To Keep Your Kids Active This Fall

BY JULIE KAILUS for Raised in the Rockies

I

f you’re a parent in the pandemic, you know that with every restart of a youth activity, there’s a no-go alongside it. It’s a game of starts and stops, but that’s just the way it is right now.

While we all watch how the school year and autumn unfolds, here are some tried-and-true area organizations hosting creative fall activities for your pent-up kids. Some can take place safely inperson; others have options for a virtual environment. See what works best for your young ones.

SPORTS, SCIENCE, ART & MORE The YMCA of Northern Colorado is hoping to continue a majority of its extensive activities for kiddos. However, many of the Y’s decisions are tied to the local school district, so stay tuned for possible changes.

The YMCA has all sorts of safe, supportive and community-focused programming, from homework help and science-themed fun to outdoor adventures and group art projects. For example, fall swim lessons will be available at Ys in Longmont, Lafayette, Boulder and Johnstown. The reimagined Boulder Valley Youth Soccer (U4-U19) will start Sept. 8 with smaller rosters and assigned “cohorts.”

Following new health protocol, teams will only play other teams within their assigned cohort.

Other YMCA sports programs include Volleyball Scrimmage & Skills (ages 9 to 15) featuring a cohort setup and a new set of rules. Weekly sessions will include both

a practice and a 4-on-4 game. YMCA Flag Football Scrimmage & Skills (ages 7 to 15) follows similar safety guidelines, and YMCA Basketball Skills Clinics (ages 8 to 15) plan to move forward with a modified format designed to keep young players having fun and developing skills in a no-contact environment.

Kids can’t decide? Try the YMCA Sports of All Sorts Sampler (ages 3 to 8). It’s ideal for little ones who don’t have long attention spans or want to try it all – starting Saturdays, Sept. 12.

ROCKS & ROLES If your kids are climbing the living room walls, get them to ABC Kids Climbing in East Boulder. The popular facility is planning for kids classes, school holiday camps, outdoor climbing, private lessons, small-group open gym and birthday parties. ABC Kids Climbing is known for its fun and always-evolving curriculumbased classes with ratios of about 1 to 5, kids to teachers. But like the Y, ABC will follow Boulder Valley School District’s lead on fall programming.

“We have reworked open gym in light of COVID,” says Manager Kara Caputo.

“Space is reserved ahead of time and the gym is only open to those small groups.

We are also offering birthday parties in this format.”

If the stage is more your child’s style, look no further than Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids. Students can join five companies performing at the Actors Academy for the Performing Arts: Munchkins (ages 5 to 8), Juniors (8 to 10), Intermediate Performance Company (10 to 12), Seniors (11 to 13) and Ensemble (14 to 18).

Fall swim lessons will be available at Ys in Longmont, Lafayette, Boulder and Johnstown.

(Photo courtesy: YMCA of Northern Colorado).

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RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

If your kids are climbing the living room walls, get them to ABC Kids Climbing in East Boulder. (Photo courtesy: ABC Kids Climbing).

If the stage is more your child’s style, look no further than Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids.

(Photo courtesy: Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids).

“Our shows will focus on ensemble and include plenty of movement and creative play,” says Program Director Carrie Colton.

Students can choose between three majors: private voice, acting or interdisciplinary arts (tech arts, accents/character voice and stage combat).

Just like other organizations around the state, Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids is following pandemic protocol to keep kids and the community safe. All students and teachers will have face coverings, and dropoff and pickup times are staggered.

Casts will top out at 25 children, and performances will be staged live for a small socially distanced audience and streamed.

Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids will also offer completely virtual after-school classes in script writing, acting for the camera, dialects/accents and more for kiddos who aren’t ready to gather in-person.

For information and updates on awesome kids activities available through the creativity and hard work of these local organizations, visit ymcanoco.org, abckidsclimbing.com and theaterforkids.net.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Tips to Help Keep Your Kids Healthy and Safe

BY ELISE OBERLIESEN for Raised in the Rockies

N

ow that schools are almost back in session, the backpacks are filling up quickly with No. 2 pencils, stacks of ruled paper and folders in every color of the rainbow. While many students feel excited to start school this year, some parents may be feeling a bit more trepidatious than usual. Here we have a list of health guidelines to make it easier to navigate the school year so you can keep your students safe and healthy.

GET YOUR ZZZ Want your student to perform well at school? Make sure they are getting enough sleep.

The current recommendation for kids ages 6 to 12 years old is 9 to 12 hours of sleep per night. Teens between 13 to 18 years of age do well with 8 to 10 hours each night, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

PLAY SPORTS SAFELY School sports bring many rewards to both students and parents who watch their games. Should your child take a blow to the head, know what to look for if you suspect a concussion. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, balance issues or dizziness, double or blurred vision, sluggish, grogginess or confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Be prepared to take your child to the doctor if you suspect a concussion.

Salud Family Clinics provides medical, pediatric, dental, pharmacy, and behavioral health services to Colorado families. Salud offers 13 locations in the state – including an office in Longmont.

They provide video conferencing appointments so their team of doctors can answer your questions without you leaving your home. Visit saludclinic.org or call 303.697.2583.

UP TO DATE ON VACCINATIONS For some families, the topic of vaccinations comes with mixed reviews.

Vaccinations help children build immunity, something that protects your child and those around them. Colorado state law requires that all K-12 and preschool students are vaccinated against certain diseases. Visit colorado.gov/ pacific/cdphe/schoolrequiredvaccines.

Parents who prefer not to vaccinate their kiddos can file an exemption with the state. If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations, consider talking to your child’s pediatrician or a healthcare professional at the health department.

HEALTHY LUNCHES Practicing good nutrition is one of the best ways we can take care of our bodies.

Each family has their own set of healthy foods when it comes to meal time. Most dietitians recommend limiting sugar and processed foods. Also include a variety of foods like lean proteins, veggies, fruits, grains and dairy, according to dietary guidelines for Americans, on the Mayo Clinic website.

Help Sponsor a Child’s Backpack School may look a little different this year, but what remains the same is that there are still children that need your help. A Precious Child is now collecting new backpacks and school supplies!

Visit APreciousChild.org/Fill-A-Backpack or contact Programs@APreciousChild.org for more information.

FALL 2020

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

21

Raised in the Rockies

The Power of

Musical Expression

BY ADAM GOLDSTEIN for Raised in the Rockies

T

he customers who flocked to H.B. Woodsongs in Boulder were itching to make music.

Following guidance from state health officials, the storied instrument shop reopened its doors in May after months of closure due to the COVID pandemic. With strict safety measures in place, the store on 28th Street with a nearly 50-year history of connecting the community with music welcomed customers back.

The reopening drew enthusiastic musicians of all levels, interests and backgrounds, including one highprofile parent looking to connect their daughter with a means of creative expression.

“The first day we were able to open to the public, Gov. Jared Polis came in and got a clarinet for one of his kids,” recalled Shawn Cupolo, who owns the store with his wife Sondra Blanchard.

“We don’t necessarily know what’s going to happen with schools in the fall, and I would hope that school officials, teachers and parents hold on to the value of a music education in their kids’ lives. We can help them do that.”

Even amid the isolation and quarantine over the past four months, local businesses that specialize in music have found ways to keep a connection to the customers that need creative expression the most, including those young players just starting their musical journey.

Even during the most restrictive stretches of the statewide shutdown, for example, the crew at H.B. Woodsongs was hard at work building online options for their

Shawn Cupolo, owner of H.B. Woodsongs, with Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

(Photo courtesy: H.B. Woodsongs.

Note: Photo is from a previous visit in 2019).

customers. The effort included creating an online inventory and delivery system so customers could access instruments, accessories and sheet music safely. They also shifted their music lesson series to an online format.

“We’ve used the slowdown as an opportunity to get an online presence going and build an online store,” Cupolo said.

“We’ve had a lot of customers express gratitude that we’re here and providing the resource to make music, whether it’s offering lessons or helping people who need guitar strings,” he said, adding that connecting young players with resources

holds a personal significance. “I was raised by a music teacher, and I still meet people who had him as a teacher who tell me about the impact he had on their lives.”

Connecting young people with the power of musical expression also holds an important place for Jennifer Moriarta, owner and general manager of the School of Rock franchise in Broomfield. The music school specializes in teaching young students the basics of rock instrumentation (guitar, bass, keyboards, drums, etc.), but also places a premium on the value of performance. Before the pandemic, the Broomfield location presented regular concerts featuring bands composed of its students.

The past four months have definitely upended the school’s customary approach to instruction and performance, but Moriarta explained that students and teachers alike have found creative ways to keep making music. Lessons and performances have gone online, and students are slowly returning to the physical space as they observe strict safety measures. Plans for outdoor, socially distanced concerts are also in the works for the coming months.

“Our core group is middle and high school students. We give them a place where they can express themselves and where they can use music to work through their angsty years. It’s very powerful,” Moriarta said. “Now, after all this isolation, it’s become even more important.

Everybody is going through a lot of ups and downs; to have an outlet where you can be around people and create art together is therapeutic for a lot of people.

“We have a ton of fun,” she added.

School of Rock specializes in teaching young students the basics of rock instrumentation but also places a premium on the value of performance. (Photo courtesy: School of Rock).

22

RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

BACK TO SCHOOL

Raised in the Rockies FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT Back Together BVSD

I

have been in education for 24 years and this Back to School is unlike any other that I’ve ever experienced. As we approach the new school year, school districts across the nation are grappling with the best way to support students, while keeping our children, employees and communities safe.

We know in this time of great uncertainty that our public schools play an extremely important role.

Beyond educating students, we are the center where our communities come together on a daily basis. Many of our students rely on our schools for warm meals, shelter, the loving support of teachers and staff that care deeply for them and much-needed social

Rob Anderson, Superintendent interaction with their peers.

Throughout this crisis, BVSD has been there. During the Stay at Home order, our educators found new ways to deliver instruction and support their students online.

We have provided students with supplies, computers and internet access – so they could succeed in this new virtual

world. And we have provided families with more than a half a million meals over the past six months, hand-delivering them, if necessary, to ensure that no family goes hungry.

It is this level of dedication and commitment that you can expect from the Boulder Valley School District in the coming school year.

While we do not know what the pandemic will bring, our 5-Phase Back Together BVSD reintroduction plan provides the flexibility needed to meet whatever challenge may come. Additionally, we are committed to continuous improvement. Over the summer, we have worked to respond to feedback from our families and educators, by improving our systems and developing resources to support our teachers, so we can better serve students

regardless of which phase we are in.

While we are looking forward to a day when school can return to normal, you can count on the Boulder Valley School District to continue its leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence and equity.

To BVSD families, thank you for continuing to support and partnership, especially with your school and teachers that you know and love this fall. We are excited to come #BackTogetherBVSD. If you’re not yet part of the Boulder Valley School District, learn more about the district and enroll at bvsd.org Sincerely, Rob Anderson Superintendent Boulder Valley School District

We’ve Got Perseverance Respect Integrity Dependability Empathy • Colorado Trailblazer and National School to Watch • Colorado Shines Quality Rating Level 5 Preschool • Small Class Size and Dedicated Staff • Greenhouse Classroom and Garden • Robotics, SmartLab, Elementary Science Lab

Learn more at www.flagstaffacademy.org

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Raised in the Rockies FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT | ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

D

ear St. Vrain Valley Community, As we are prepared to begin the 2020-2021 school year in a challenging time of uncertainty, I want to take a moment to recognize the strength of our community and the support we have received from our families, teachers, staff, business owners, elected officials and many others who understand the strong nexus between public education and the advancement of our nation and world.

I believe that public education is one of the most important institutions within our society, serving as the foundation to our economy, public safety and national security, public health, and so much more. Our students today are entering a

Don Haddad, Superintendent complex, highly competitive workforce, unlike anything previous generations have experienced, and it is essential that we provide them with the knowledge, skill, ingenuity, confidence and capacity to advance and compete on a global scale.

Last spring when we first closed our schools to inperson learning, our teachers

Auditioning Now for 2020-21 Season!

“Covid-safe” small class sizes

and staff worked incredibly hard to reimagine learning in a remote environment to support the continued academic and emotional growth of our students, and more importantly, keep them connected to their classmates and school communities.

During that time, we had over 99 percent engagement through our online learning platforms and I could not be more proud of how our teachers, staff and families supported students during this difficult transition.

Additionally, over the summer months, we have continued to engage with thousands of students and families through our innovation and STEM camps, the Community Resource Center, summer meal distribution sites, and our Mobile Innovation Lab book tour that distributed over 3,000 books to St. Vrain Valley Schools students.

We’ve also had hundreds of teachers and staff engaging in professional development to continue advancing their own knowledge and skills designed to best support our students.

Our 2016 bond projects have also continued during the past several months, including opening a brand new building for Mead Elementary School, breaking ground on a new elementary school in Erie, adding classroom space to several schools and upgrading building HVAC systems alongside other renovations

and repairs. While we may be physically distanced during this time, the enthusiasm for learning, collaboration, and student success remains strong across our community.

As we begin the new school year, we will continue to work very closely with our county and state health agency partners, as well as our comprehensive task force, to navigate the complex and continually evolving coronavirus pandemic and its impact on our community and schools. I want to thank everyone for your continued partnership and support as we have planned for many reopening scenarios and safety protocols to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for our students, teachers, and staff. Our most up-to-date information can be found online at coronavirus.svvsd.org.

A year ago, I never would have envisioned that we would be facing the challenges we are experiencing today, but I can’t imagine a more committed community of teachers, staff, families, students, and community leaders to come together and ensure that we advance through this, and become stronger as a team and system.

Sincerely, Don Haddad, Ed.D. Superintendent St. Vrain Valley Schools

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Raised in the Rockies FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT | ADAMS 12 FIVE STAR SCHOOLS Moving Onward

I

n 2009 I was honored to accept the position of Superintendent of Adams 12 Five Star Schools. Nearly 11 years later, I am still honored and more committed than ever to serve the district I grew up in despite the unprecedented COVID-19 challenge. As a district, we face hard decisions as we navigate the difficult scenario of educating our children in the midst of a pandemic. But our challenge is not unlike all of our challenges – as parents and caregivers, employees and citizens. We all face uncertainty that weighs upon us as we think about the road ahead. Regardless of how the year unfolds, we want the same for your child as you do – a safe learning environment where students can innovate, achieve and succeed through high-quality instruction in every classroom (in-person or virtual), every day. We are steadfastly committed to keeping your children and loved ones safe as we strive to educate in unknown scenarios.

In times like this, we are reminded that public schools are not simply about learning our ABCs. We exist to serve the community by providing quality education for all students regardless of zip code with full tummies for focused learning and socialemotional growth. Despite the unknowns surrounding

Chris Gdowski, Superintendent the ever-changing dynamics of the Coronavirus, we look ahead to a new school year where we can continue to elevate student success regardless of learning formats. As we plan for the year, we focus on our five district strengths that drive our work and community: care, collaborate, engage, empower and focus on students.

This summer we have shown care by providing nearly 800,000 free meals for Five Star families with additional resources and supports throughout the summer.

We have collaborated with neighboring districts, TriCounty Health Department, Broomfield Public Health and Environment, the Colorado Department of Education and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to work through every detail as we plan for this coming year.

TELEHEALTH SERVICES AVAILABLE

FALL 2020

classified staff, school administrators and district staff, to ensure every detail has been considered and viewpoints heard as we made final decisions on how to serve each and every student in our care.

Last school year did not end how we had hoped and we know we have a difficult year ahead, but I am confident that we will continue to come together as a community to ensure that we elevate student success no matter the learning environment. I invite you to learn more about our plans at adams12.org/Onward I look forward to working with you as we move onward, together.

Chris Gdowski Superintendent Adams 12 Five Star Schools

At School of Rock student health & safety is our top priority. We offer online and socially-distanced in-school programs. Select the educational approach that's right for your child and start their musical journey today.

IS YOU HOME OVERRUN WITH STRESS, CHAOS & OVERWHELMING EMOTIONS? Genuine Heart Counseling offers: Parenting support and classes from a Hand in Hand Perspective, as well as Listening Groups for parents, adult services for stress, anxiety, and depression and Synergetic Play TherapyTM to help children reduce aggressive behaviors, anxiety and withdrawal/isolation For further information visit: www.genuineheartcounseling.com

In June, we engaged more than 300 staff (teachers, school and district support staff, school principals), parents (in English and Spanish) and students through focus groups to provide feedback and share considerations on how we might best serve all students this year.

We have empowered our leaders to envision a new online learning opportunity for families. Five Star Online is an online learning track available to all families regardless of the learning model we choose for the fall. It is a tuition-free K-12 option offering 100 percent virtual classes taught by Five Star Schools teachers.

In the end, we have focused on students by working tirelessly this summer, in 16 subcommittees of teachers,

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School of Rock | Broomfield 11970 Quay Street, Broomfield CO 80020 303.325.3772 | broomfield.schoolofrock.com RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

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Raised in the Rockies Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight

Bixby School Nina Lopez, head of Bixby School, said, “The pursuit of creative thinking is what makes Bixby so unique.

Creative thinking is about opening your brain and your curiosity to all kinds of input, relishing the idea of not knowing and being passionate about finding out ‘the why.’ At Bixby, we fuel creative thinking though social-emotional and academic learning. We customize learning experiences, offer small class sizes and take learning outside to our beautiful three acres. We empower students to grow as individuals, develop their unique gifts and become prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world.”

Grades Served: Preschool to 5th grade Address: 4760 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder Phone: 303.494.7508 Website: bixbyschool.org

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 a strong focus on science and technology. The school focuses on the individual learner, subject mastery grouping, progressive levels of difficulty, and ongoing assessment for advancement.

The school offers inquiry-based science, robotics, computer programming, integrated technology, a greenhouse classroom, and the leading Restorative Practices program in the region providing a strong focus on character development and ethical leadership.

Spanish is offered as a foreign language starting in third grade and a robust arts program includes music, band, and art-integrating technology.

Grades Served: Preschool, K-8th Grade Address: 2040 Miller Drive, Longmont Phone: 303.651.7900 Website: flagstaffacademy.org 26

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Dawson School Dawson School is a community of students, faculty and families who are passionate about education. The region’s premier K-12 independent school, Dawson offers challenging college-preparatory academics, robust athletics and arts programs, and renowned outdoor and experiential education. Dawson graduates are young men and women who achieve their individual potential, savor life, and meet the challenges of the world. The school features small class sizes, exceptional faculty, a 107-acre campus, 100 percent graduation rate, leadership and character education, integrated technology education in K-12, after-school care/Homework Club at no charge, 10 hours of specials weekly in grades K-4, an involved parent community, and a nearly 50-year history of success.

Grades served: Kindergarten through 12th grade Address: 10455 Dawson Drive, Lafayette Phone: 303.665.6679 Website: dawsonschool.org

Friends School Friends School values all learners. Its creative, academically-challenging, safe environment allows every student to be seen, known and loved. Small class sizes allow it to meet each student where they are as learners, and help them to know themselves and set their own path. The school’s purpose and values influence everything they do, from how it teaches math and the way it schedules classes to the kinds of activities students engage in at recess and how it plans learning spaces. Friends students enter the world as prepared, thoughtful, kind, genuine, self-advocating, confident and empathetic citizens. Friends School since 1987: Challenging minds, nurturing spirits and honoring individuality Grades served: Preschool through 8th grade Addresses: South Campus (Preschool & Elementary) 5465 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder; North Campus (Middle School & Teacher Prep Program) 3800 Kalmia Ave., Boulder Phone: 303.499.1999 Website: friendsschoolboulder.org BACK TO SCHOOL

Raised in the Rockies

Prospect Ridge Academy Founded in 2010, Prospect Ridge Academy is a Kindergarten through 12th grade public charter school in the Adams 12 Five Star Schools district with a vision to create academic, social and ethical leaders.

The school is committed to providing a comprehensive foundation that includes rigorous coursework, social and physical development through athletics, and character education in a disciplined environment.

Expectations are set high for Prospect Ridge Academy students, as they are inspired and motivated to achieve their full potential and become lifelong learners.

Prospect Ridge Academy graduates are prepared for success in a globally competitive society. Students are accomplished academically, and excel in athletics and arts.

Sacred Heart of Jesus School Located in the heart of Boulder, Sacred Heart of Jesus School is celebrating 120 years of excellence in academics, athletics and the arts. The school seeks to inspire its students, in partnership with their families, to be thoughtful, moral and compassionate leaders.

From offering each preschooler Universal Assessment Screenings to sending 7th graders to the Catalina Island Marine Institute, Sacred Heart of Jesus School is dedicated to providing a nurturing and experiential environment that cultivates engaged, life-long learners.

Grades served: Preschool through 8th grade Address: 1317 Mapleton Ave., Boulder Phone: 303.447.2362 Website: school.shjboulder.org

Grades Served: Kindergarten through 12th grade Address: 2555 Preble Creek Parkway, Broomfield Phone: 720.399.0300 Website: prospectridgeacademy.org

September School For more than 40 years, September School has been one of the most progressive high schools in Boulder, providing relationship-based education, learning and achievement opportunities in academic and personal growth for students in grades 9 through 12. While other high schools in Boulder focus exclusively on academics, September School values social and emotional learning in addition to traditional academic growth. When students are empowered to collaborate, support and understand themselves and the diversity around them, there is an inherent desire to want to learn. We foster this desire as part of a well-rounded learning and growing experience.

To truly understand the approach and impact, the school invites you to explore its programs, summer school, community, who we serve, and what makes them different.

Shining Mountain Waldorf School True education is much more than simply imparting information. Love. Awe. Devotion. Compassion.

Trust. The ability to recognize beauty; to discriminate between right and wrong; to carry out a chosen course of action. These are the qualities consciously cultivated at Shining Mountain Waldorf School from early childhood through adolescence. Shining Mountain’s well-rounded academic curriculum, enlivened by the arts, music, movement and world languages, provides a learning environment that fosters creativity and healthy social interactions.

Today’s students will become tomorrow’s initiators of cultural progress. We believe that a lifelong love of learning and a curiosity to ask deep questions are vital to this process.

Grades Served: 9th through 12th grade Address: 96 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder Phone: 303.443.9933 Website: septemberschool.org

Grades Served: Preschool through 12th grade Address: 999 Violet Ave., Boulder Phone: 303.444.7697 Website: shiningmountainwaldorf.org

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Raised in the Rockies Private, Charter & Preschool Spotlight

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 serving families in the Carbon Valley Area. Registration continues for tuition based programs with opportunities for tuition assistance through Colorado Preschool Program (CPP) 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.

Twin Peaks Charter Academy Twin Peaks Charter Academy provides students with a rigorous education and the foundations of virtue and character, while building cultural literacy through a content-rich curriculum in an encouraging environment. The school’s vision is every student who earns a degree from Twin Peaks Charter Academy is a good and productive citizen, matriculated and prepared to graduate from a four-year university.

Twin Peaks is a public, school of choice in the St. Vrain Valley School District, conveniently located in Longmont. The school is governed by engaged and passionate parents and is the longest operating charter school in the St. Vrain Valley School District.

Grades Served: Preschool (3 to 4 years) Address: Various locations Phone: 303.702.7815 Website: svvsd.org/preschool

Grades Served: Kindergarten to 12th Grade Address: 340 S. Sunset St., Longmont Phone: 303.772.7286 Website: twinpeakscharter.org

YMCA Inspire Preschool At YMCA Inspire Preschool, children enjoy meaningful, hands-on experiences that help them learn, grow and thrive. Daily lessons and themed projects allow for exploration and individualized learning opportunities for every child. By supporting students’ academic, social and emotional well-being, Y teachers help children ages 2-1/2 to 6 begin a lifetime love of discovery. Students enjoy weekly swimming, playtime on the playground, gym and bike park, sports activities and hands-on education on the Y’s farm. The preschool utilizes Creative Curriculum, the same program used by local school districts. Inspire Preschool offers fullday/part-day and full-time/part-time options. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Preschool families receive a free YMCA family membership.

Grades Served: Preschool Phone: 303.664.5455 ext. 4700

Address: 950 Lashley St., Ste A., Longmont Website: ymcainspirepreschool.org

OVERWHELMED WITH WHAT TO DO ABOUT SCHOOL THIS FALL? SHIFT + ALT + CONTROL

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Raised in the Rockies

Flexible Tutoring Choices For Your Kids Tutor Doctor stand out is variety of private, semi-private and small group tutoring options. Students from the same schools (or district), orget about the hassle and headache of making same grade, same age and same sure your student is up curriculum can be partnered in to par in all their academics. small groups for tutoring sessions.

Isn’t it true that so much time These pods can be in-person or and effort goes into parental online, and they are flexible and homework help, only for it to accommodating. end in tears and frustration, Don’t hesitate, call Jay now with no progress to celebrate? and set-up your student’s first Save precious family time and session. “What’s different about let the caring and proficient us is, students get the same tutor pros at the Tutor Doctor of Take pleasure in watching your kids improve academically. for every session, unlike most Northern Colorado do all the (Photo courtesy: Tutor Doctor of Northern Colorado). center based tutoring services.” work so you can relax and Consistency is important in a He hires and trains only the cream of the enjoy your kids. Take pleasure young person’s life and Tutor Doctor of crop and expects top performance from in watching your kids improve and Northern Colorado offers that-and so his tutors.

Of all the tutoring services accomplish so much academically, all much more. Let Tutor Doctor take the in the Northern Colorado area, Tutor because the very structure and set-up of stress out of homework and tests this fall.

Doctor is the only one that sends tutors the Tutor Doctor of Northern Colorado Tutor Doctor of Northern Colorado directly into homes. All services can far surpasses any other tutoring service in 353 Main Street, Longmont also be offered through online portals, the area and maybe in the nation.

303.774.9081, or go online to especially during this unsure time.

Franchise owner, Jay Stype loves how tutordoctor.com/longmont-fort-collins Another characteristic that makes so many kids are thriving in his programs.

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COMMUNITY PARTNERS

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Raised in the Rockies

Kid Friendly from the Floor on Up Luxury vinyl is an excellent choice for homes with children because it is scratch and dent-resistant, as well as water-resistant.

You won’t have to worry about damage, spills or messes made by kids. (Photo: Shutterstock).

BY LINDA BOND for Raised in the Rockies

W

ith Summer coming to a close and our kids heading back to school, we’re turning our thoughts toward the fall ahead. The holidays are just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to finish some renovating and redecorating before the weather starts to cool.

No room sees as much activity as a child’s playroom or bedroom – so it only makes sense to choose a solution that will stand up to their high energy (and messes)!

We asked an expert, Scott McDonald at McDonald Carpet One, for his advice on kid-friendly flooring.

Durability and fun are the most important factors in flooring for a child’s playroom or bedroom. What recommendations do you have?

“For a playroom or a child’s bedroom there are a few great options that people should be turning to. On the top of my list 30 RAISED IN THE ROCKIES

is Marmoleum click tiles. They come in fun colors and can be mixed and matched to make interesting patterns. It is also very durable and made from natural and sustainable materials. If tough is what you are after, look no further than luxury vinyl plank. It is scratch resistant and waterproof.”

Since children grow so quickly, are there some trends parents could follow right now that can be replaced when the children get older?

“Most resilient floors are click-together and float above the subfloor which makes changing them out at a later date easier than other more permanent floors like hardwood and tile.”

How does McDonald Carpet One work with families in the current climate of caution?

“We are taking every measure possible to make sure our clients are safe during this trying time. We sanitize our showroom

daily. We disinfect all samples that are returning from homes and we practice social distancing while wearing masks. If coming into the store is not something you feel comfortable doing, we can show you products via facetime or zoom as well as bring samples to the house after you have shopped our online store.”

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

“We would like to thank our community for standing with us. We were closed for seven weeks and were not sure we were going to make it. However, the county and surrounding areas have come in to help our locally owned and operated company in quantities we were not expecting.

We are sincerely humbled by our fellow citizens and can’t thank them enough.”

McDonald Carpet One, 6367 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.449.0011, mcdonaldcarpetoneboulder.com.

BACK TO SCHOOL

FROM BUILDING ROBOT S

FROM DISCOVERING A FAVORIT E SP ECIES

TO LAUNCHING SATELLITES.

TO AFFECTING CLIMATE CHANGE.

FROM LEADING T HE T EAM

TO RUNNING FOR OFFICE.

SELECT OPENINGS FOR 2020

TOURS DAILY dawsonschool.org/Tour

FROM LOOKING FOR ANSWERS

TO DIAGNOSING DISEASES. Preparing students to bring their best to the world.

dawsonschool.org

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Welcome Back “As we are prepared to begin the 2020-2021 school

year in a challenging time of uncertainty, I want to take a moment to recognize the strength of our community, and the support we have received from our teachers, staff, families, business owners, elected officials, and so many others who understand the strong nexus between public education and the advancement of our nation and world. While we may be physically distanced during this time, the enthusiasm for learning, collaboration, and student success remains strong across our community.”

– Don Haddad, Ed.D., Superintendent

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR 2020-2021 REOPENING PLAN AT http://coronavirus.svvsd.org 32

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