Issuu

JANUARY 2026 • RMPARENT.COM

Sun safety in winter Easy weekly food prep

Play-based

Snow fun in Lake Tahoe

learning

Head to the theatre

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO FAMILIES

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contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 Perspective

How are the people in your town?

8 Family Health

Getting back into a routine, Realistic resolutions, Sun safety in winter

10 Family Fun

Head to the theatre—Enjoy some local music, dance and theater

12 F avorite Things

Easy weekly food prep—Stasher storage bags, Silicone muffin cups, Countertop snack basket

14 Family Travels

Snow fun in Lake Tahoe—Snow tubing hill, stargazing, cross-country skiing, show shoeing, ice skating

30 C alendar

Events and activities for parents,

kids and families

34 Time out

Watching from the sidelines—Friendship ups and downs through a teen’s eyes

FEATURE 18 Play-based learning

Discover the power of play in early learning. Children love to play, explore, experiment and create. These activities allow kids to learn social skills, problem solving, spacial awareness and more.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS

SPECIAL SECTION

22 Poudre

Browse activities and enrichment opportunities for your kids and family.

Poudre School District to add two electric buses to fleet next year

24 Thompson

Tina Carey, Educational Sign Language Interpreter

26 Greeley Dist 6

Ready Set GO!

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Greeley-Evans leader awarded as 2026 Colorado Middle-Level Principal of the Year

RMPARENT

Perspective

SCOTT TITTERINGTON

How are the people in your town? I’M NOT BIG ON resolutions and I have no use for goals. I believe, though, that my thoughts and actions and words matter, at least to me, and in most cases to the people (and dogs) around me. I can’t keep a whole lot of things in my head, so I have to keep intentions that I might have pretty dang simple. This year I’m going to renew my commitment to be kind in my thoughts, actions and words. Wouldn’t it be great to go through the year, heck even the day, without having to say, “I wish I hadn’t done that or I wish I hadn’t said that”? And it all starts with the way we orient our thoughts. I started wearing a pendent a few years ago to remind me to be kind. When I put it on in the morning, I’m reminded that my words and actions can and do affect the people around me. As I put the chain on, I pause (usually because I’m not very good at hooking the little clasp behind my neck) for a moment to remind myself why I wear it in the first place. Sometimes when I’m stressed or tired or sick or low on patience or pick an excuse, I might act or speak in an unkind way, and I can usually see right away the effect it has on someone. It never makes me feel good, even if I “win.” What makes me feel good is when the people (and dogs) around me are happy. I don’t think that kindness requires grand gestures but happens best in little doses throughout our days. A smile here, a door-hold there, a word of encouragement serves to help buoy people. The funny thing is that we get back what we give. Life is tricky and how we approach each moment matters. When we make someone else smile or feel noticed or understood, they continue on their way more open to support someone else. Anyway, I hope that this trip around the sun is a good one for you and yours. I have found that life is not about the wacky-world headlines we’re bombarded with but about those people (and dogs) who we come into contact with every day—our neighbors, our coworkers, the people on the corner, the people in line ahead of us at the checkout, the drivers in the next lane. It’s all our little interactions, which no one else might even notice, that make a difference in how our world feels. I’ll paraphrase and probably butcher a Chicken Soup of the Soul story. A guy is sitting alongside the road and a car pulls over. The people in the car jump out and say “We’re moving to that town up there. How are the people there?” To which the guy replies, “How were the people in the town you came from? “Oh, they were nasty, awful people,” they replied. “That’s how people in that town are too,” the guy says. Pretty soon another car comes along. The people in the car jump out and say “We’re moving to that town up there. How are the people there?” To which the guy replies, “How were the people in the town you came from? “Oh, they were wonderful, friendly people,” they replied. “That’s how people in that town are too,” the guy says. Live long and prosper, Scott

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JANUARY 2026 • Volume 30, Issue 8 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO

istock photo

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2026 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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Family Health LEA HANSON

Getting back into a routine GETTING BACK INTO A ROUTINE after the holidays can feel like a big reset for families, especially when kids ages 3–15 have been enjoying looser schedules and extra downtime. Sleep consultant Becka Payne, who works with Northern Colorado families, notes that “creating healthy routines and realistic expectations” is a first step toward restoring structure for kids. (https://www.sleeperteachers. com) Payne and other pediatric-sleep professionals recommend gradually reintroducing consistent bedtimes and wake-up times— or instance, shifting bedtime by 15–30 minutes earlier per night over a week—rather than a sudden change.

Realistic resolutions

As you think about New Year’s resolutions for your family, consider choosing micro, realistic goals that fit your everyday life. One helpful guide comes from Glenda Wentworth, Family & Consumer Science Extension, which suggests small changes—such as doing a quick family walk, cooking together, or having everyone help plan easy meals— instead of sweeping transformations. You might aim for: a weekly “family-cook night,” a short daily movement break (even 5 minutes counts), or a nightly technology-free dinner to reconnect. For kids, letting them pick a snack from a pre-approved list or involving them in meal prep can build healthy eating habits over time. These attainable goals do more than change behavior—they build a sense of teamwork, reduce stress, and help your whole family ease into positive routines without pressure. By celebrating small wins, you set up momentum for a healthier, happier year ahead.

Sun safety in the winter Even in winter in northern Colorado sun safety still matters. The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment reminds us that ultraviolet (UV) rays remain a risk all year, and can reflect off snow, increasing exposure. When your school-aged kids head outside—whether for sledding, snowball fights, walking to school, or playing— make sunscreen part of the routine. (https://www.weld.gov/Newsroom/2023News/UV-Safety-Awareness-Month)

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Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, applied about 15–30 minutes before going out, and reapply every two hours. Also, check the daily UV index (readily available on most weather apps) and try to keep outdoor play outside peak sun-intensity hours (roughly 10am–4pm), especially on bright, snowy days. With a little planning, even winter days can be safe and fun—helping kids enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin and eyes.

Everyday expectations To make mornings easier, prep backpacks, lunches, and outfits the night before. Re-establish a calming bedtime routine—such as a warm bath, quiet reading or soft music, brush-teeth, pajamas—to help signal it’s time to wind down. In the days after the break, resist the urge to overschedule. Instead, maintain consistent wake-up and mealtime routines, limit screens at least an hour before bed, and encourage physical activity or outdoor time during the day. This kind of steady rhythm helps kids transition back into school-year structure with less stress.

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Family Fun

KATIE HARRIS

Head to the theatre

STARTING THE NEW YEAR OFF with a case of stir craziness? Ditch the sweatpants and head out to see a show. From Northern Colorado to Denver, the performing arts scene features plenty of upcoming family-friendly performances to break you out of your coldweather routine.

Rialto Theater, Loveland

Rialtotheatercenter.org Audience members might find themselves on stage during The Rialto’s interactive performance of Journey to Oz, Feb. 20th at 7:30pm. Geared toward 5-11-year-olds, the new adaptation of the classic show will include opportunities for audience participation both in their seats and on stage, as they transform into munchkins, monkeys and crows. $20-30/ticket.

Dairy Arts Center, Boulder

Thedairy.org On Jan. 15th at 7 p.m., Glowing Goose Productions will present the classic play, Fiddler on the Roof. Best for families with older kids, the play centers around a theme of religious persecution and contains moments of bigotry and violence as it blends a story of the past with current events. $20-41/ticket. Boulder Symphony and Music Academy will present Curious Case of Symphony City on Feb. 7th at 2pm. The family concert will feature a mix of genres from classical to hip hop, all woven together into a musical mystery. Help Detective Nelo outwit musical mob boss Divisive Dana and bring the genres together in harmony. $11-23/ticket.

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The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins

Lctix.com Catch a family concert on Jan. 18th at 3pm, when Fort Collins Symphony presents Adventures in Sound and Imagination. Gregory Smith’s Olympic-inspired musical competition, The Orchestra Games and Sergei Prokofiev’s Russian folk tale, Peter and the Wolf will be performed in this musical adventure. $9-18/ticket. Introduce your kids to a new twist on a classic when you attend one of Canyon Concert Ballet’s performances of Swan Lake (reimagined) Jan. 30th-Feb. 1st. The ballet company’s production will feature new choreography, re-staging and costuming. $37-51/ticket. Include the whole family with a performance by Versa-Style Street Dance Company. On Feb. 14th at 7:30pm the Los Angeles-based nonprofit dance troupe will take to the stage for an evening of high-energy, hip-hop street dancing. $19-51/ticket.

Union Colony Civic Center, Greeley

Ucstars.com Step into a world of African and African American percussive dance with a performance by Step Afrika! On Feb. 27th at 7:30pm, songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation will mix with traditional African stepping by one of the top 10 ranked African American Dance Companies in the U.S. $26-59/ticket.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Denvercenter.org On select days through Jan. 25th, Randy Weeks Conservatory Theatre will present Goodnight Moon, an adaptation of the children’s book by Margaret Wise Brown. Tailored to audiences in Pre-K through 3rd grade, the performance will feature all the characters from the book, including the kittens and mittens, bears and chairs, and even cows jumping over the moon. Tickets start at $25. Meredith Willson’s family-friendly musical comedy, The Music Man, will come to life at the Buell Theatre Feb. 27th-March 1st. The script will follow that of the original, six-time Tony Award-winner and feature the same musical score with songs including “Pickalittle” and “Seventy-Six Trombones”. Tickets start at $47.

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Favorite Things

LEA HANSON

Easy weekly food prep

Stasher Storage Bags Buy from: The Cupboard, 152 S. College Ave. Fort Collins This reusable silicone bag cuts down on waste by replacing throwaway plastic baggies. Each is completely plastic-free, and seals up to keep food fresh. Eco-friendly, too, the bag is lunch-box ready, and can go from the pantry into the freezer, microwave, or dishwasher without worry. Is there anything this mighty bag can’t do? Well, it won’t break down like plastic does—or get tossed away. Four Stasher reusable silicone bags includes one half gallon (64 Fl Oz), two sandwich (28 Fl Oz), and one snack (12 Fl Oz) bag.

Countertop Snack Basket Buy from: Ace Hardware of Fort Collins 1001 E. Harmony Rd., Unit B, Fort Collins Change your morning role of packing everyone’s lunches and snacks to ensuring that one or two central locations are stocked with easy-to grab snacks and lunch supplies before going to bed. Sometimes the simplest things are the most overlooked. Creating a countertop snack basket can not only move snacks into a visible location, but it can also make it easier for your kids to start packing their own lunches and snacks. A countertop snack basket can hold individually wrapped chips, crackers, granola bars, fruit snacks, etc. A similar option for the fridge can hold individual yogurt cups, string cheeses, and more. One small shift, and–bam–now your house is a grab-and-go of the best kind.

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Silicone Muffin Cups Buy from: The Cupboard 152 S. College Ave., Fort Collins The secret recipe to making consistent cupcakes every time is using silicone baking cups. They can be placed in a muffin tin or on a baking sheet, and you can use the fill line if you want to make treats that are all the same size. All kinds of snacks and small meals can be prepped ahead of time using muffin baking pans and saving them in liners in the fridge: • Egg bites/mini frittatas: whisk eggs with cheese, spinach, peppers, mushrooms, or cooked sausage. Bake until set. • Quinoa or rice cakes: mix cooked quinoa or rice with eggs, shredded veggies, and cheese; bake until firm. • Mini meatloaves or meatballs: ground turkey, beef, or lentils with herbs, shaped into muffin tins. • Savory oatmeal or polenta cups: oats or polenta with vegetables, cheese, or herbs. • Banana or zucchini muffins: healthy swaps like applesauce, oats, or almond flour.

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Family Travels

KATIE HARRIS

Lake Tahoe in winter NESTLED ON THE CALIFORNIA-NEVADA BORDER, Lake Tahoe is known as a summer tourist destination, but when the snow falls it becomes a winter wonderland. A fifteen-hour drive from Northern Colorado will bring you to the north side of the largest alpine lake in North America, where snow sports, stargazing and indoor adventures await.

DAY 1 Arrive at your basecamp for the trip, Truckee, California, and head over to Tahoe Tubing where groomed snow tubing lanes await you, and a moving carpet ride back up the hill means you can do it again and again (rideboreal.com). Warm up with a trip to the Bunker at Woodward, on the same property. The 33,000 sq. ft. indoor playground features giant trampolines, foam pits, a skatepark, pump track and Parkour floor, so come bearing a bike or board or just come to run, jump and play (rideboreal.com/explore/ facilities/the-bunker/). In the evening, enjoy stargazing at its best thanks to the area’s minimal light pollution and seasonal low atmospheric haze. The Secline Beach portion of Kings Beach offers unobstructed views of the night sky over the lake (laketahoetravel.com/listing/secline-beach).

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DAY 2 Donner Memorial State Park is a popular place for snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing and playing in the snow. The mostly flat trails, views of Donner Lake, historic monuments and year-round visitor center are the park’s main winter attractions. Learn about the Washoe Tribe, Donner Party, Chinese railroad workers and early Sierra Nevada travelers on a visitor’s center scavenger hunt then head out to explore the park (visittruckeetahoe.com/donner-memorial-state-park). For more outdoor fun head to the Truckee Ice Rink, offering public skate hours Friday—Sunday. The large rink is located at Truckee River Regional Park a half mile south of downtown (tdrpd.org). Later, you don’t have to have spent the day on the slopes to take advantage of Tahoe’s Aprés Ski scene. The Village at Northstar offers s’mores by the fire every day at 4pm. Enjoy complimentary treats or purchase a kit to make your own s’mores by the fire pits (northstarcalifornia.com). Young children might enjoy a morning spent at Truckee’s Kidzone Museum, where hands-on play awaits them in the Hundred Acre Wood, exploratory art can be created in the Art Studio and Curiosity Corner inspires self-guided science fun. The museum also features an infantonly play space (kidzonemuseum.org). The Truckee Railroad Museum is located inside a former Southern Pacific Railroad bay-window caboose next door to the town’s historic railroad depot. Guests can learn about the area’s mountain logging railroads, the First Continental Railroad and railroad artifacts while little ones check out the Thomas the Tank Engine handson play set (tdrrs.org). Finish your trip with a stop in the historic old-west downtown area of Truckee. Stop by the Tree House Children’s Boutique offering clothing, books and toys, then head to Bespoke for one-of-a-kind handmade gifts. Tahoe-inspired art can be found on nearly every corner, including at the Art Truckee Gallery and Mountain Arts Collective. For dinner, consider the family-friendly eatery Smokey’s Kitchen or head to Cottonwood Restaurant for a fine dining experience with historic touches (downtowntruckee.com).

EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF NATURE WITHOUT LEAVING THE CITY • Step into 12 acres of ever-changing botanic gardens • Enter the world of winged wonders in our immersive Butterfly House • Ignite your curiosity—explore learning opportunities for all ages • Enjoy reduced rate admission in winter • Make memories that last a lifetime

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Debut Theatre Company Launches $3 Million Campaign to Build Northern Colorado’s First Youth Performing Arts Hub New Fort Collins space to provide a permanent home, expand access, and inspire the next generation Debut Theatre Company (501c3), Northern Colorado’s only troupe-structured, nonprofit youth theatre, today announced the launch of a $3 million Capital Campaign to establish the Debut Arts Centre — a permanent, state-of-the-art home dedicated to youth performing arts. This landmark project will transform a generously donated 18,000-square-foot former movie theatre in midtown Fort Collins (2525 Worthington Circle) into a vibrant hub for young artists. The new center will expand access to theatre education, provide year-round rehearsal and performance spaces, and foster creativity and community for students across Northern Colorado. “Our mission has always been simple yet profound: to prepare young people for adulthood by applying the fundamental dynamics of creativity and problem-solving, responsibility, communication, and teamwork,” said Lee Osterhout-Kaplan, Co-founder and Artistic Director. “This campaign is about more than a building — it’s about creating a permanent home where generations of young people can find their voice, their confidence, and their community.” For more than three decades, Debut Theatre Company has inspired students to learn through theatre. Without a dedicated home, the troupe has rehearsed in borrowed spaces, stored costumes in private homes, and built sets across multiple locations. Students often don’t step onto an actual stage until days before opening night. That will soon change. The building’s owner, Les Kaplan, has generously provided the space rent-free in perpetuity — a gift valued at $250,000 annually — and plans to invest over $1 million in structural upgrades. Capital Campaign funds will focus on creating the interior arts center, which will include: • A black box theatre for productions with seating for 120 • A 300-seat main theatre with adaptable seating and flexible stage • Classrooms and rehearsal studios for year-round learning • Workshops and a costume shop for set and

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production design • A welcoming lobby and gathering space for families and audiences • Office space for Debut Theatre Staff • An artist-in-residence studio Beyond Debut’s own programming, the complex will serve as a regional hub for youth arts, offering affordable rehearsal and performance space to other nonprofits and schools and filling a void to address systemic gaps in access to and support of the arts. The Capital Campaign will unfold in two acts: Act One: Raising the Curtain ($1 million, 2025–2026) – Movein-ready with offices, black box theatre, classrooms, and workshops. Act Two: Taking Center Stage ($2 million+, through 2028) – Main performance theatre for 300 with versatile stage and flexible seating. Kicking off the public campaign, Edward M. Warner and Jacalyn D. Erickson have pledged a $250,000 matching grant challenge through December 31, 2025. Donations can be made at www.debuttheatre.org. Recognition opportunities include naming rights for major gifts, inclusion on the facility’s Ovation Wall, and named chairs in the main theatre for donors at the $1,000 level. Impact Beyond the Stage For many students, Debut is more than an arts program — it’s a life-changing community. “Debut was the only place I felt like I belonged,” shared one alumnus. “It was where I learned, made mistakes, and grew as a person.” Parents echo that sentiment: “The education and personal development our son has experienced at Debut is incomparable.” About Debut Theatre Company Founded in 1991 by siblings Lee Osterhout-Kaplan and Gregg Osterhout, Debut Theatre Company is Northern Colorado’s only troupe-structured, nonprofit youth theatre. Its unique, progression-based model gives students hands-on experience in every aspect of production — from acting and stage management to design and publicity — cultivating life skills and a love of the arts. For more information or to donate, visit debuttheatre.org.

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d e s a b y Pla g n i n r le a y a l p f o r e w o The p g n i n r a e l y l r in ea

ri Ka t i e Ha r

If you ask your preschooler what they did at school today and their daily response is, “I played,” you might have asked yourself whether they’re really developing the skills they’ll need for kindergarten. While it’s true that many preschoolers spend a large portion of their day at play, experts say there’s more going on beneath the surface. In fact, recent studies overwhelmingly show that children learn more—and retain more—when play is a major part of their early education (hechingreport.org). This growing body of research has led some states to require play-based curriculums through kindergarten, and in many others the approach has taken hold organically as teachers see the benefits firsthand. Ashley Mills, director of Little Learners Preschool in Berthoud, says she schedules play-based learning into her

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daily preschool routine. The method blends child-led free play with intentional, teacher-guided activities. A typical day in her classroom might include introducing a new idea during circle time through a story, song or short lesson, and then presenting students with the tools (or toys) to carry the concept into playtime. Mills models each concept first— demonstrating how to wash dishes in the kitchen center or how to take care of a baby doll—and then the students are free to explore these ideas on their own. “I try to create a balance in my classroom of both playbased learning and traditional learning time,” she says. “Preschool-aged children are not meant to sit in chairs all day. This method keeps things fun and hands-on while still preparing them for kindergarten. Mills changes materials out daily to keep playtime exciting

and encourage creativity and imagination. “I’m very intentional about the toys and manipulatives I put out so that they connect to our theme while still supporting learning,” she says. Students are learning through play at ABC Windsor Child Development Center, too. Director Kelli Rettele takes a self-guided approach with her students, inviting them to explore what interests them while teachers build off what the students are already doing. Kids craving quiet can curl up in the library corner or focus on art projects, while those with extra energy can dive into dramatic play or shop in the grocery store. “Play-based learning is very holistic,” says Rettele. “It incorporates so many different skills into every piece of our students’ learning. They’re so engrossed in play that they don’t even realize they’re learning at the same time.” She explains that from classroom layout to organized activities, everything at the center

is designed to spark curiosity. A set of blocks lets children design and problem-solve like budding engineers, while a water table introduces scientific concepts such as floating and sinking—skills that connect to real-world safety. Dramatic play areas help children process what they see at home and in their communities, and a toy grocery store fosters early math and social skills. An art center encourages creativity, fine-motor development and self-expression. Even during structured lessons, teachers at the center strive to keep things hands-on. A science experiment may start with reading a book and forming a hypothesis, but once the goggles go on, the experience feels like play. Students might create fizzing “volcanoes” or make popcorn kernels “dance,” all while learning to think like scientists. “When you play with something, touch it and engage with it, muscle memory kicks in and you remember it better,” Rettele says. Mills takes a similar approach to science lessons, incorporating hands-on, play-based elements wherever she can. During a tower-building experiment, she demonstrates how to stick toothpicks into gumdrops and then encourages her students to turn the materials into towers. “I don’t model what the towers should look like—the students have to explore, create and problem solve on their own,” she says. “When they face a play “problem,” like their tower falling down, I ask open-ended questions to see if they can solve it.” While kids may think they’re just building towers or playing with popcorn all day, they’re actually practicing sharing and communication, developing spatial awareness and building fine motor skills. “I think the biggest part of play-based learning is when everything comes together—from the circle-time story to the art project to the centers—it really enforces the learning happening in the classroom,” Mills says. “I love hearing them make connections and seeing their minds learn and grow every day through play.” And while play-based learning is rooted in early childhood, Rettele notes that even the older children in her before- and after-school programs benefit from these elements. “As kids get older, it may look a little different, but they’re still learning through play with their peers.” As more educators adopt play-based learning, they’re also refining what it looks like in practice. Some weave brief play segments into a more traditional day, while others make play the foundation of their teaching model. Because kids have the flexibility to choose what they engage in, no two days—and sometimes no two students—look exactly alike. Rettele says that’s not just expected, but ideal. “We know there are different learning styles, and we try to incorporate them all so that kids have choices,” says Rettele. “What we do know is that most kids get more out of experiences than textual education.”

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Pickleball

Learn & Play Fundraiser

JANUARY 24, 2026 picklr • Fort Collins Jessup Farm Food & Fun 5-8:30pm

Event details

TICKET details Family (up to 4) $60.00 Individuals $25.00

Open to individuals, teens, and families — whether you’ve never picked up a paddle or you’re ready to sharpen your skills, The Picklr Pros are here to help you level up your game. Play with purpose-Where all proceeds support Sproutin’ Up’s community & youth programs

sproutinup.COM for tickets

Food & Beverage for Purchase • Local vendors

Additional Child (up to 13yrs) $10.00

Proudly supporting Proudlyyou

supporting you Proudly supporting you

Proudly supporting you Robert A Royse Robert A Royse CFP®, AAMS®

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Sproutin’ Up 15th Annual Enchanted Garden Party

March 7, 2026 ~ 6:00-9:00 Old Town Fort Collins Block One Events

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Clean out your closet for cash We pay cash on-the-spot for women’s fashion

Mon - Sat 10am-7pm | Sun 12- 5pm

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Call or visit our website to learn more

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Ready Set GO!

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The Dream Starts Here!

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GREELEY-EVANS YOUTH LEAGUE

Are you concerned about your child’s emotional well-being? If they’re struggling with anxiety, depression or other behavioral health challenges, our CAYAC team can put them on the right path to better health and rediscovered confidence. Psychological assessment and testing Care coordination Local referrals

2026 Summer Baseball & Girls’ Fast-Pitch Softball Teams age 6 to 15

REGISTRATION DEADLINE MARCH 31

www.geyl.org

Volunteer Coaches Register now on @geyl.org Teams are filled first-come, first-served according to player and coach requests. Register early for best chance of requested placement. Games are played mid-May through the end of July in the evenings, during the week.

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School District News: Poudre

District to add two electric buses to fleet next year

The Poudre School District strives to innovate across all operations, including transportation. Next year, that work will advance with two important additions. The district will be adding two electric buses to its fleet of transport vehicles. These buses are fully funded through grant money from the Environment Protection Agency, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, and Xcel Energy totaling more than $1.6 million. “These grants…and the EV equipment it will provide are indicative of a collective commitment to preserving our environment by reducing our pollution and greenhouse gas emissions,” says Superintendent Brian Kingsley. “Partnerships like this make great things happen in PSD and in our broader communities.” This project—a continuation of decades of dedication to sustainability—began in 2022 when

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the district partnered with Xcel Energy to complete a study of bus and white fleet usage. The study provided data that went toward determining where and what kinds of EV vehicles would provide the most cost savings for PSD. The district then applied to three separate grants, all of which provided the funding needed for infrastructure improvements, staff training, electric buses, and chargers. The two 2026 Thomas Juley buses can transport 77 passengers and will be used as route buses around the district. PSD will also be installing two charging stations at Timnath MiddleHigh School serviced by Xcel Energy. The district currently expects to receive the buses next September with the potential to put them into service within a month of their reception. Members of PSD, Xcel, the Town of Timnath, PSD students, and members of the Timnath Middle-High School

band gathered at Timnath MiddleHigh to celebrate this promising future addition. “While I am a senior and I won’t be able to ride these buses, sustainability is all about planting trees whose shade we will never sit in,” says Timnath Middle-High School student and member of the Timnath Navigators Beaudy Steele. “While I may never sit on these buses, it is clear to me that the future is bright for PSD students and these investments will be valuable for generations to come.” This project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement 00I01600 to Highland CSB 1, LLC, an affiliate of Highland. The contents of this ceremony do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the EPA, nor does the EPA endorse trade names or recommend the use of commercial products mentioned in this ceremony.

REALITIES FOR CHILDREN

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School District News: Thompson

Tina Carey, Educational Sign Language Interpreter For as long as she can remember, Thompson School District sign language interpreter Tina Carey has always been drawn to helping people with unique needs and challenges. “I had a family member with special needs who was very near and dear to my heart,” Tina says. “Everybody just supported him and encouraged him to do more than what was expected. I learned at a young age to be empathetic and caring and kind.” Tina has been part of TSD for almost 24 years, initially working as a paraprofessional in classrooms with students who had special needs. As a para, Tina used sign language to communicate with students who were non-verbal, which inspired her to become an Authorized Sign Language Interpreter. “Interpreters have a very in-depth role,” Tina explains. “We’re supporting students in having confidence and building self-advocacy. To provide the student equal access, we need to be listening at all times and provide interpreting whenever needed.” Tina (and other interpreters like her) are assigned to one student, who they then shadow throughout the school day, providing interpretation for that student in their classes, and supporting them during social interactions such as lunchtime. “All the students we work with are different; no two are the same,” Tina says. “We are always paying attention to what our student is doing, seeing if there’s conversation happening, or anything happening that we can provide support in.” Tina’s co-worker Heather Hanks, an art teacher and Loveland-area Integrated School of the Arts (LISA)

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coordinator at BRMS, says that the school couldn’t ask for a better interpreter than Tina. “Tina is everything a school and staff could hope for in a co-worker,” Heather says. “She is committed to her role as an interpreter and goes above and beyond to provide opportunities to collaborate and share the experience of sign language.” For Tina, that dedication to her job

and to her students is second nature and is vitally important to providing deaf and hard-of-hearing students with the educational experiences they deserve. “I see myself in almost every single student that I work with,” Tina says. “There’s those little things that happen through the day they may miss. You take the opportunity to share with them so they don’t feel isolated.”

READ All Year Long

Read 20 books in 12 months with the Adults Read On program and earn prizes! Adults (16+) can pick up a paper log at any branch or download the Beanstack Tracker App and following the instructions, or by visiting highplains.beanstack.org/reader365. Redeem prizes at local HPLD locations after you’ve read 5, 10, and 20 books! For more details, check out www.MyLibrary.us/aro. READER

READ ER PROG RAM

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School District News: Greeley-Evans D6

2026 Colorado Middle-Level Principal of the Year The Colorado Association of Secondary School Principals (CASSP), a department of the Colorado Association of School Executives (CASE) chose Petersen from a competitive collection of nominees. As the 2026 Colorado Middle-Level Principal of the Year, Petersen will be considered for the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Principal of the Year award. Brentwood Middle School in Greeley-Evans School District 6 offers 13 programs and clubs, including the elite International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. As an IB school, Brentwood is part of an international program founded in 1968 that offers globally recognized academic standards. “Nicole is an exceptional leader, who has helped create a culture of caring and learning at Brentwood Middle School,” says Greeley-Evans School District 6 Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch. “She is devoted to knowing all her students and ensuring they have the support they need to be successful. She supports her staff so they can have the time and resources they need to serve students. The change she has helped lead at Brentwood is remarkable.” When Petersen first started her role at Brentwood, the school was in Priority Improvement status and struggling to make measurable academic gains. Now, they are consistently meeting or exceeding state expectations for growth, Petersen says. These improvements have not gone unnoticed. Brentwood has been recognized as a School to Watch three times and has received the Colorado Department of Education Center of Excellence award twice. Petersen also received the District Principal of the Year award in 2019. “We believe our success stems from our commitment to truly knowing our

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students—not just as data points, but as individuals with talents, dreams, and unique needs,” Petersen says. “While we review trend data to inform our instruction, we remain adamant that every data point represents a human being.” As part of expanding students’ opportunities, becoming an IB school enables Brentwood to cultivate global-minded learners. Over 4,000 schools worldwide participate in the IB program. Achieving IB authorization required extensive teacher and staff preparation, accreditation work, and specialized training. “At Brentwood, leading learning means preparing students not only to meet academic standards but to live with purpose, passion, and a sense of responsibility to something greater than themselves,” Petersen said. “As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, we are deeply committed to developing globally minded learners who are skilled thinkers, communicators, and collaborators—but also compassionate humans.”

Andy Hartshorn, assistant principal at Brentwood who has worked with Petersen for over 10 years, applauded her leadership style that has led to the success at their school. “She empowers teachers to take instructional risks, integrate new strategies, and share successes across teams,” Hartshorn said. “Her leadership cultivates a culture where continuous improvement is valued, and where everyone—students, teachers, and leaders—is committed to learning and growing together.” Amanda Fanjoy, a parent of a Brentwood Middle School student, says that she has experienced a feeling of inclusion and consideration by Petersen. “Ms. Petersen has done such an incredible job of making both students and parents alike feel like their feelings and concerns matter,” Fanjoy says. “It feels to me that she constantly has a good pulse on what is happening with all of the students at any given time.”

Step into a world of charm at The Duchess Tea Room, Fort Collins’ destination for afternoon tea. In the heart of the city, elegant china, tiered pastries, and fragrant teas create the perfect escape. Celebrate special moments or simply indulge in a peaceful afternoon, where timeless tradition meets warm Colorado hospitality.

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FIVE STAR SERVICE FIVE STAR RESULTS As a parent of five and a real estate professional who loves helping families, I understand the importance of finding the right home to fit your needs. Whether you’re looking for more space, a great school district, or a welcoming neighborhood to grow and thrive, I’ll provide expert guidance to make your move smooth and stress-free — so you can focus on what matters most: your family. “Jeff was a rock star agent! He not only worked exceptionally hard on selling our house, but he also became a dear friend in the process. He was honest and open and offered great advice. He went above and beyond helping us. A “must have” person when selling, or buying, a home in the Ft. Collins area.” - Tim H “Jeff is the BEST!! He is proactive in a not-so-great market. Jeff was very innovative with his marketing strategies. He is very smart. He helped me get my home on the market by literally moving furniture, boxes, etc. He gives great detailed feedback. He offers to help all the way through the process. He is also one of the kindest human beings. I would recommend Jeff to anyone for the greatest experience of selling your house because he cares!! If there are fivestar ratings, Jeff is an 8. He is the BEST!!” - Kathleen G

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• Comprehensive Expertise: I provide solutions tailored to your unique stage of life. • Specialized Senior Support: As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I understand the unique needs of seniors and their families. • Investment Strategies: I can guide you through using a self-directed IRA to invest in real estate, helping to diversify your retirement portfolio beyond the stock market. • Business Insight: With an MBA in Marketing and decades of experience, I bring a strong foundation in strategy, negotiation, and market knowledge.

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For more information visit: www.OrthoHealth.com

Community Calendar

THERESA BAER

January events FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS JANUARY 16 THROUGH 18 Estes Park First Peoples Festival Celebration of indigenous culture, art, music, language, oral traditions and more. Estes Park Events Complex. visitestespark.com/ events-calendar/winter-events/firstpeoples-festival

MONDAY, JANUARY 19 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Event Reflections, performances and engagement activities to honor King’s legacy. FC. lsc.colostate. edu/involvement/campus-activities/ dr-martin-luther-king-jr-marchcelebration

ENTERTAINMENT

THROUGH JANUARY 11 Million Dollar Quartet Christmas Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley reunite for a festive celebration. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com THROUGH FEBRUARY 14 The Environment’s Influence on Skateboard Design “Designing the Ride” exhibit features vintage skateboards and highlights the sport’s connection to creativity and environmental awareness. Loveland Museum, LV. thelovelandmuseum.org/ designing-the-ride

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FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, THROUGH FEBRUARY 28 Eagle Watch Bald eagles from the north make Fort Collins their winter home in communal roosts near the reservoir. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. fcgov.com/events SATURDAY, JANUARY 3 AMA Arenacross Championship Elite riders from across North America compete for a high-stakes night of speed and precision. Blue Arena, LV. treventscomplex.com/ events JANUARY 15 THROUGH 18 Motones & Jerseys: In Concert Motones & Jerseys bring classic 60s hits to life with a lively concert featuring singing, dancing, and audience voting. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com JANUARY 16 THROUGH 18 Western States Classic Loveland Thunder - Draft Horse Show Thrilling draft horse show plus farm team events, obstacle courses and timed competitions. The Ranch Equestrian Center, LV. treventscomplex.com/events

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Brad Williams: Tall Tales Tour Williams is one of the most indemand comedians in the country. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.com SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 Fort Collins Symphony – Family Concert Adventures in Sound and Imagination Family-friendly concert brings stories to life through vivid orchestral music, sparking imagination and fun for all ages. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark Experience visual stories of wildlife, humanity and the cosmos. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com

THROUGH JANUARY 31 Move Through The Darkness Challenge Zero-cost virtual challenge that empowers people to run, walk or exercise to make a positive impact on mental wellness during the winter months. movethrough.org

JANUARY 29 THROUGH APRIL 4 Hello, Dolly! Dolly Gallagher Levi, turn-ofthe-century matchmaker, brings romance, humor, and lively dance. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 Polar Bear Run & Plunge 5k run/walk, icy reservoir plunge or both for all ages. Horsetooth Reservoir, South Swim Beach, FC. frontrangefreeze.com

ACTIVE-ITIES

THROUGH JANUARY 26 Ice Rink at the Promenade Shops at Centerra Days/times vary. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, LV. icerinkattheshops.com THROUGH JANUARY 25 Old Town Square Skate Rink Days/times vary. Old Town Square, FC. downtownfortcollins.com/winter

RiDE on To advertise in RiDE, call Greg or Scott. We have discounts for early-bird advertisiers.

Support business that supports bicycling.

In Fort Collins call Greg Hoffman 970-689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

All others call Scott Titterington 970-980-9183 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

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Clothes Toys Books Shoes Baby Gifts

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Time out

LEAH HANSON

Watching from the sidelines—Friendship through a teen’s eyes As a mother of a 15-year-old daughter, I often feel like I’m watching a live performance with a backstage pass— but without a script. The actors are my daughter and her friends, and the plot is constantly shifting. Some days, it’s lighthearted laughter over shared memes and inside jokes. Other days, it’s tears over a misunderstood comment, a feeling of being left out, or the complicated dynamics of group interactions. These aren’t dramatic crises, just the everyday ups and downs of teenage friendships—but they feel monumental when you’re the one caring so deeply. It’s hard to watch her navigate these situations. I want to step in, offer advice, and fix the problem. But I also know that these small challenges are where she learns empathy, resilience, and conflict resolution. A spat over plans, a fleeting misunderstanding, or subtle changes in friend groups may seem minor from the outside, but for her, they’re massive. And for me, seeing her wrestle with them can be just as intense. Some days (okay, honestly, most days), I find myself overthinking things. I read between the lines of her text messages to me (“nvm,” “K,” “yup.”) or I spend too much (any) time worrying about a lunchroom snub I didn’t witness. Other days, I remind myself that my role isn’t to solve every issue. Her friendships are her own, her social learning arena. My role is to listen, support, and help her reflect without judgment. Questions like, “How did that make you feel?” or “What do you think you need right now?” guide her to think critically and independently rather than relying on me to fix everything. I’ve also realized how much I’m learning alongside her. Her experiences

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with friends remind me of the nuances of communication, the importance of empathy, and the necessity of patience in resolving misunderstandings. I’m noticing the small, joyful moments too—the bursts of laughter that echo through the house when she recounts a funny story, the unexpected gestures of kindness among friends, the moments where she stands up for herself or someone else. These seemingly minor events can carry enormous lessons about loyalty, compromise, and emotional intelligence. Being a parent at this stage requires patience, a steady hand, and quiet empathy. I can’t control her friendships, but I can provide a safe harbor where she feels heard, validated, and

supported. Even when I worry about her hurt feelings or social missteps, I know these experiences are shaping her understanding of connection, boundaries, and forgiveness—lessons she’ll carry into adulthood. Watching her navigate the highs and lows of teenage friendships isn’t always easy. But amidst the challenges, the laughter, and the occasional tears, I see growth, resilience, and her emerging sense of self. I see her learning how to be a friend and, perhaps more importantly, how to value herself. And as a parent, that’s both comforting and inspiring. I may not be able to script the story, but I’m grateful to watch it unfold—and to witness her learning to navigate it with grace.

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