Fruitvale Elementary Family Resource Guide_2025 by schooldistrict51

Welcome to Fruitvale Elementary Welcome to Fruitvale Elementary Family Resource Guide Family Resource Guide for new and returning families

School Year 2025-26

District Calendar District Calendar

A Message From Principal Angela Galyon

We’re excited to kick off another incredible school year full of learning, growth, and Panther pride. Whether you're a returning family or new to our school, we’re thrilled to welcome you to the Fruitvale community!

I’m Angela Gaylon, the proud principal of Fruitvale Elementary. It’s an honor

to lead a school where we believe in discovering what’s pawsible when we work together to serve our students and community through quality instruction and caring, trusting relationships. Our dedicated staff is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and has the opportunity to succeed.

At Fruitvale, our Panthers are Persistent, Accountable, Worthy, and Successful—and we live those values each and every day.

This Family Resource Guide is here to help you navigate the school year and get familiar with our routines, expectations, and supports. Inside, you’ll find important details about school hours, attendance, drop-off and pick-up procedures, meal programs, communication tools, and more. It’s meant to be an easy-to-use reference to help you feel connected and informed.

We know that strong partnerships between home and school are key to student success. If you ever have questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for being a part of the Fruitvale Panther family—we’re looking forward to a fantastic year together!

SCHOOL HOURS SCHOOL HOURS

Information about Fruitvale start times, dismissal times, and early release.

Bell Schedule

Doors Open - 8:35 a.m.

Tardy Bell - 8:55 a.m.

School Hours

Monday 8:55 a.m. - 3:50 p.m.

Tuesday 8:55 a.m. - 3:50 p.m.

Wednesday 8:55 a.m. - 3:50 p.m.

Thursday 8:55 a.m. - 3:50 p.m.

Friday (early release) 8:55 a.m. - 1:50 p.m.

School Drop-Off Begins/Doors Open 8:35 a.m. (Please don’t drop off students before this time, as supervision is unavailable)

Breakfast Begins at 8:35 a.m. All students will ear breakfast in their classroom.

Enrollment and Registration

Welcome to the Fruitvale family!

Whether you are new to Fruitvale or you are a returning student, each year, our D51 families need to register their children before they can begin attending District 51 schools. Registration i as easy as one, two, three!

Find Your Neighborhood School

Students must attend the school in the attendance area where they reside, unless they have been accepted into a choice program or have chosen to do School of Choice. To find out which school your child should be attending based on your home address, click here or scan the QR code.

Sign Up for a ParentVUE Account

All parents/guaradians must register their student through our ParentVUE account portal. You can access ParentVUE by clicking here, or scanning the QR code.

If you are new to District 51, follow the instructions to create a ParentVUE account and complete your child’s registration. If you are a returning D51 family, simply sign into your ParentVUE account and complete your child’s registration.

Bring Documents to Your Child’s

School

All registration forms are completed online via the ParentVUE account portal. Once you have completed your online registration, gather the required documents and please submit them to the school your student will be enrolling in. Parents/guardians will need to provide the following documents when enrolling their student:

Birth certificate

Immunization Record

Verficiation/Proof of Residency

Copy of rental, lease or mortgage agreement or Copy of utility bill

Stay Connected with ParentVUE

ParentVUE is an essential tool used by schools across District 51 to keep families informed. It allows you to view report cards, register for school, and receive important updates from your child’s school and teachers. A ParentVUE account is required to receive school emails and other communications, so be sure to activate yours during registration.

Attendance at Fruitvale

How to report absences, late arrivals, and early pickups

Attendance Policy

There’s a strong connection between regular attendance and student success. Students who consistently attend school tend to earn better grades, develop stronger responsibility, and get more out of their overall school experience.

While missing an occasional day might not seem like a big deal, those absences add up quickly over time. If a student misses just 2 days each month, by the end of the year they will have missed:

20 days of school

20 hours of math instruction

30 hours of reading and writing

And by graduation, more than a full year of learning!

Attendance Matters & Every day counts—thank you for your support!

Important Reminders: Students must be in class by 8:55 a.m. to avoid being marked tardy. Parents must notify the front office if a student will be late or absent by 9:00 a.m.

Excused absences: Illness or injury (call daily), medical/legal appointments, documented physical, mental, or emotional disability, emergencies, pre-arranged approved absences.

Unexcused: Vacations or recreational trips, family events, or sibling sports activities, etc. To report an absence, contact the office by phone, email, or ParentVue.

Extended Absences: If your student will miss three or more days, a pre-approved absence form must be completed.

School Numbers & Contact Information

SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

Phone: (970) 254-5930

Fax: (970) 245-9143

ADMINISTRATION

Principal: Angela Galyon

Phone: (970) 254-5930

Address: 585 30 Rd. Grand Junction, CO 81504

Email: angela.galyon@d51schools.org

Assistant Principal: Jennifer Craddock

Phone: (970) 254-5930

Email: jennifer.craddock@d51schools.org

OFFICE STAFF

Principal Secretary: Tanya Ivie

Phone: (970) 254-5930 (Ext. 48121)

Email: tanya.ivie@d51schools.org

Attendance Secretary: Kathryn Parry

Phone: (970) 254-5930 (Ext. 48103)

Email: kathryn.parry@d51schools.org

School/Student Expectations

Visiting the School

At Fruitvale Elementary, we believe in engaging our families in their students’ academic journeys. Pare always have the option to visit their student durin lunch or volunteer in their child’s classroom.

All visitors must sign in at the front office and receive a visitor badge before entering any classroom or the cafeteria. Please remember to return your printed badge to the front office before leaving, so we know you’re no longer in the building in case of an emergency.

Student Expectations

DRESS CODE: At Fruitvale, we believe student attire and appearance should be age-appropriate and should not disrupt the learning environment. We follow District 51’s dress code policy, which is outlined in Board of Education Policy JICA. You can find more information on our website.

If a student is not following the dress code, the student will be reminded by a staff member. If they need a separate set of clothing that is appropriate, parents/guardians may be contacted or they can pick out a change of clothing in the front office.

CELL PHONE POLICY: We recognize the importance of communication between students and their families. However, beginning with the 2024–25 school year, District 51 launched its “More Social, Less Media” campaign and updated its policy on student use of personal electronic devices. Under this policy, students in grades K–8 are required to keep their cell phones turned off and stored in a designated area from the arrival bell until dismissal.

ITEMS FROM HOME: We understand stuffed animals and items from home can provide comfort for your student. Because of the diverse needs and ages, we ask that you reach out to your child’s teacher to understand their policies in regards to bringing items from home.

HALLWAY EXPECTATIONS:

Stay Together: Stay with your class and keep your hands and feet to yourself. Show Respect: If sitting, use a respectful posture (such as mermaid, mountain, or criss-cross) so others can see. Clap and cheer appropriately.

Be Engaged: Use whole-body listening—eyes on the speaker, body still, voice off. Respond to quiet signals and stay focused.

PLAYGROUND EXPECTATIONS:

Use Equipment the Right Way: Slide down feet first, stay seated on swings, swing only back and forth, and hang safely on monkey bars. Walk on and around equipment, and keep rocks, snow, and sticks on the ground.

Play the Right Way: Throw and kick balls only in the grass. Stay on the field or blacktop, and keep hands and feet to yourself.

Include Everyone: Use kind words and actions, include others in play, and show good sportsmanship. Share and return equipment when finished.

End Recess the Right Way: Line up quickly and respectfully when recess ends. Be mindful of nearby classrooms.

Breakfast & Lunch Programs

About D51 Nutrition Services

Costs, menus, cafeteria expectations, etc.

At Fruitvale Elementary, every student has access to nutritious meals at no cost through the Healthy School Meals for All program. This means all children can enjoy a free, wellbalanced breakfast and lunch each school day, helping them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn.

Cafeteria Opens at 8:35 a.m. for breakfast.

Menus: Daily breakfast and lunch menus can be found on our website by visiting the menu button or this link: https://schools.mealviewer.com/school/FruitvaleElementarySchool

Cafeteria Expectations

Make Safe Choices: Please keep your food to yourself and use your utensils appropriately. Once you're seated, remain at your table until your class is dismissed. The cafeteria supervisor will dismiss one table at a time. Keep hands and feet to yourself, and when it's your turn to leave, line up quickly and quietly.

Show Respect: Please clean up after yourself and take responsibility for your area, including your tray and surroundings. Be kind and look for ways to include others. When waiting in line for food, stand quietly and patiently. Use good manners: chew with your mouth closed, say “please” and “thank you,” use an inside voice, and be mindful of those around you.

Stay Ready to Learn: Keep an open mind and be respectful of the food others bring. Be ready to listen and follow directions from all adults in the lunchroom. When you see or hear the quiet signal, respond right away.

Food Allergies & Dietary Restrictions

Does your child have a food allergy or dietary restriction?

Learn how to notify the school and how we will support your student.

If your child has a food allergy or dietary restriction, it’s important to notify District 51 as soon as possible to help ensure their safety and well-being at school. Families should complete a “Diet Modification Form” with their child’s healthcare provider and submit it to the school nurse or front office. This form provides details about your child’s specific needs and is shared with the Nutrition Services team to accommodate meal plans appropriately.

District 51 schools work closely with families, nurses, and Nutrition Services to provide safe and supportive dining experiences for students with allergies or dietary restrictions. Once the proper paperwork is submitted, the school will create a care plan, which may include special meal substitutions, allergy-safe dining areas, or staff training on how to respond to allergic reactions.

Communication is key, and schools encourage parents to stay in touch throughout the year to ensure their child’s needs continue to be met.

Nursing Services

About D51 Nursing Services

At Fruitvale Elementary, student health and well-bei are essential to supporting learning. Our health of led by Health Assistant Dana Wickware, works in partnership with the District 51 Nursing Team to ca students during the school day. Whether it’s administering medication, offering first aid, or supporting students with specific medical needs, our goal is to ensure every child is safe, healthy, and ready to learn.

Fruitvale Health Assistant: Val Barney, val.barney@d51schools.org

D51 Nursing Mission

“To maintain and protect the health of all students in order to maximize their potential for learning.”

School Nurse Role

District 51 school nurses work with families, health assistants, staff, and healthcare providers to deliver student health services. Nurses may also train and delegate specific tasks to school staff who work with students requiring daily or emergency medical support.

Health Assistant Role

Health Assistants, like Dana Wickware, are in the school health office every day. While not licensed medical providers, they are trained to:

Provide first aid

Administer medications

Maintain health and immunization records

Medication at School

To ensure student safety, strict state guidelines must be followed when medications are administered at school:

Prescription Medications require a completed “Request for Medication to Be Given at School” form signed by both the parent/guardian and the physician. Medication must be in the original pharmacy-labeled container.

Over-the-Counter Medications (including cough drops) must also be in their original packaging and accompanied by a signed parent permission form. All medication must be brought to school by a parent/guardian. Students may not carry medication with them or keep it in their backpacks. Dosage spoons must be provided for liquid medications. Unused medication will be discarded if not picked up by the end of the school year.

New forms must be submitted each school year or when prescription instructions change.

Forms are available in the school office or at most doctors’ offices. Please contact the health office with any questions about your child’s health needs at school.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Procedures

To help keep things safe, smooth, and focused, we ask that families follow our drop-off and pick-up procedures. This ensures students get where they need to be, staff can stay on schedule, and everyone starts and ends the day ready to learn.

Arrival

Buses: Buses unload in the south lot. Students should walk around the front of the building to enter through their designated doors:

Grades 4–5: Flagpole entrance

Grades 2–3: Main entrance

Grades K–1: Cafeteria door

Parent Drop-Off:

All K–5 families use the front lot for drop-off.

Pull all the way forward and park parallel to the sidewalk in the drop-off lane.

If you wish to walk your child to the door, please use a marked parking spot (facing 30 Rd).

Do not drop off students before 8:35 a.m. Supervision is not available before this time.

Walkers / Bikers and Foot Traffic Parent Drop-Off & Pick-Up

A crossing guard is available from 8:35 to 8:50 a.m. to help students cross 30 Road and the parking lot safely.

Walkers can use the west-side gate to enter the playground without walking to 30 Rd. Bike and scooter riders should lock up their equipment at the bike rack in the back playground.

Dismissal

We love seeing families on campus at the end of the day and appreciate your help in keeping dismissal safe and efficient by following our pick-up guidelines.

Bus Dismissal: Staff escort bus riders around the back playground to board buses in the south lot. Please keep the bus loop clear at all times so buses can safely enter and exit while picking up students.

Parent Pick-Up (Front Lot):

Staff escort students to the front of the building.

Use the two lanes parallel to the sidewalk for pick-up.

Staff will walk students across traffic if needed.

The third lane must remain clear for through traffic and exiting vehicles.

If you prefer to meet your child in person, park in a designated spot (facing 30 Rd) and meet them on the grassy area.

Siblings will wait with the eldest child’s class for easier pick-up.

Kindergarten Pick-Up: Use the northernmost lot to access the kindergarten loop.

Walkers/Bikers

Crossing guards assist students crossing the parking lot and 30 Rd after school.

Students meeting parents walking from the west may wait at the gazebo on the playground; the back gate will be unlocked.

Transportation Information

Getting students to and from school safely is a top priority in District 51. Families have several options for student transportation, including school buses, parent drop-off/pick-up, and walking or biking for who live nearby.

Bussing

School Bus Services (STA - Student Transportation of America)

District 51 partners with Student Transportation of America (STA) to provide school bus services. Families who qualify for transportation based on their home address and school enrollment may ride the bus free of charge.

Elementary students who live two miles or more from their home school

Middle School and High School students who live three miles or more from their homeschool

Pay-to-Ride Program

Families who are not eligible for free transportation may apply for the Pay-to-Ride program if space is available on the route. Fees are set annually and must be paid before bus service begins. Please call STA at 970-697-1050 for specific details, rates, and application deadlines.

Bus Safety Regulations & Requirements

For the safety of all students:

Riders must follow all posted rules and instructions from the driver. Students should remain seated, speak quietly, and keep aisles clear.

Unsafe behaviors, including standing while the bus is moving, throwing objects, or inappropriate language, may result in disciplinary action.

Bus stops and routes are carefully planned; families are encouraged to arrive at least 5 minutes early to the stop.

Important Reminders:

Students should always know their bus route number and driver’s name. Any changes to daily transportation plans must be communicated to the school in advance. Late buses or delays due to weather or traffic will be communicated through the district’s notification systems.

For additional transportation details, visit the Transportation Services page at d51schools.org/transporation or call STA at 970-697-1050.

Safe Routes to School

District 51 is proud to partner with the Safe Routes to School program to promote safe, active transportation for students. Through this partnership, D51 works with local organizations and city officials to improve sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike paths near schools, making it safer for students to walk or bike. Schools also participate in safety education efforts to teach students and families about traffic rules, safe walking and biking practices, and the importance of being alert near roadways. For more information on this program, please contact our school office.

District Communication Channels

District 51 is committed to fostering transparent and effective communication with our families. We use a variety of channels to share important information including district news, emergency alerts, and updates in an effort to ensure you receive timely and relevant information. All communication is sent in the language in which you register through your ParentVUE account.

SOCIAL MEDIA SOCIAL MEDIA

Follow our active social media channels, where we share news, highlights, and important updates.

@schooldistrict51 @d51schools

WEBSITE WEBSITE

Our user-friendly website, d51schools.org, is the central hub for announcements, event calendars, and resources.

ALERTS ALERTS

Email and text notifications offer direct communication, keeping you wellinformed about school activities, emergency notices, and other essential matters.

WEEKLY UPDATES WEEKLY UPDATES

Our Superintendent's weekly updates provide an overview of district happenings, shoutouts of our amazing students and staff, and upcoming events to look forward to. www.d51schools.org

Want to sign up for Emergency text alerts? Text “YES” to 67587!

Hazardous Weather Updates

As we enter the winter season, unpredictable weather may impact our daily routines. Your safety is our top priority, and we want to ensure you are well informed about any weather-related changes affecting school operations.

In the event of hazardous weather conditions such as heavy snowfall, icy roads, or severe storms, D51 is committed to providing timely updates regarding delays, closures, or any other pertinent information. Stay connected with us through the following channels:

TEXT ALERTS TEXT ALERTS

Opt in to receive text messages directly to your mobile device. Text "YES" to 67587.

EMAIL EMAIL

Check your inbox for important updates. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date in our system to receive timely emails.

SOCIAL MEDIA SOCIAL MEDIA

WEBSITE

@schooldistrict51 @d51schools

Visit our official website for real-time updates and announcements: www.d51schools.org

Stay connected and never miss important communication by keeping your contact information up to date. Call your school or log in to your ParentVUE account to update our contact information today!

Parent-Teacher Communication

How to contact teachers, parent-teacher conferences

Contacting a Staff Member by Phone

To reach a staff member with a phone extension, call Fruitvale’s main number at 970-254-5930. You’ll be prompted to enter their extension, and the call will go directly to their office phone. You are always welcome to call the front office if you need assistance.

Finding Staff Email Addresses

All D51 employee email addresses are available on the District 51 Staff Directory, which can be found on the district website.

You can search by first name, last name, school building, or department.

School-Wide Communication

Weekly communication is sent home each Thursday in your child’s “Thursday Folder.” In addition, the office sends out monthly newsletters via email and a printed copy on colored paper.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are a valuable opportunity for families to connect with teachers, discuss student progress, and work together to support learning goals. When it’s time for conferences, schools will share details with families through email, flyers, and their school websites. Be sure to check your school’s website and look out for messages from your child’s teacher for information on scheduling and how to participate.

School News & Updates

Where to find announcements, school newsletters, website, social media, and more!

Stay connected with the latest school news and updates by checking out multiple sources!

Visit our school website regularly for important announcements, calendar events, and helpful resources.

WEBSITE: https://fruitvale.d51schools.org/

Keep an eye on the Fruitvale website for important updates, upcoming events, and highlights from around the school.

NEWSLETTER: Check your child’s Friday Folder & your inbox!

Teachers will communicate weekly on Fridays via your student’s “Friday Folder” or Class Dojo. Monthly school newsletters are available by the 1 of every month via Class Dojo, Facebook, and the Fruitvale website (paper copies are not available). st

CLASS DOJO: At our school, we use Class Dojo to share updates, celebrate student progress,

and stay connected with families. Be sure to download the app and follow your child’s classroom.

How can my student get involved?

At Fruitvale, we believe in discovering what’s pawsible when students take part in learning, leadership, and community connection beyond the school day.

✅ Clubs & Activities:

Students can participate in a variety of after-school programs such as Lego League, Kids Who Code, Modern Band, and Girls on the Run. We also partner with REC (Riverside Education Center) and Tennis & Tutoring to offer additional enrichment and academic support.

✅ Student Leadership Opportunities:

Our Student Council and Pack Leaders (grades 4–5) help coordinate school events and model Panther values. Pack Leaders are elected in the fall and serve as ambassadors throughout the year.

✅ Extra Academic Support:

Fruitvale teachers offer extra help before and after school to support students’ academic growth.

✅ School Events & Spirit Days:

From assemblies and themed spirit days to school-wide celebrations, students have many ways to show their Panther pride.

✅ Classroom Involvement:

Teachers encourage students to take part in classroom jobs and collaborative projects, promoting responsibility and teamwork.

✅ Family & Community Projects:

Students can take part in service projects, fundraisers, and family events that build a strong school-home connection.

For specific details about current programs or activities, we encourage our families to watch for announcements in school newsletters and flyers throughout the year, or reach out to your student’s teacher for additional information and opportunities.

How can I get involved?

At Fruitvale Elementary, we believe that strong fami partnerships help students thrive! Parents and guardians are encouraged to get involved in a varie of ways throughout the school year.

Whether you have an hour to spare or can commit to an ongoing role, your time and talents make a difference.

Ways to Get Involved:

✅ Classroom Support: Help with small group activities, reading with students, or assisting with classroom projects.

✅ School Events: Volunteer at special events, such as book fairs, family nights, and school celebrations.

✅ Field Trips: Serve as a chaperone for classroom field trips.

✅ Parent Committees: Join our parent-teacher organization or serve on school advisory committees.

✅ Take-Home Projects: Help with tasks that can be done from home, such as preparing materials for classrooms.

How to Get Started:

All volunteers must complete a brief application and background check through the district. Once approved, you can work with your child’s teacher or the front office to find volunteer opportunities that match your interests and schedule.

For more information on volunteering, please call the school office at 970-254-5930 or visit fruitvale.d51schools.org.

Before & After School Care

Safe, affordable, enriching care for kids.

Before- and after-school care is essential for many families, offering a safe, supportive space where students can learn, play, and connect outside of re school hours. These programs help working families giving students opportunities to grow, socialize, and thrive.

The Extended Hours Program provides safe, affordable before-and after-school care for elementary students across District 51.

Hosted at several school sites, including Broadway Elementary, the program offers a fun, structured environment where students can participate in activities, complete homework, and enjoy social time with peers.

EXTENDED HOURS PROGRAM

Offered at Fruitvale Elementary and other D51 schools. Fun, supervised activities, homework help, and social time.

QUICK DETAILS

FULL DAY CARE

Care is available on school days as well as during select non-school days, such as teacher workdays and certain holidays.

Check schedule for details.

HOURS 6:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. INCLUDES

Full-day care includes snacks, though students must bring their own lunch.

Visit extendedhoursprogram.com or call 970-241-3603 for more information.

To discover what’s ‘pawsible’ when we work together to serve our school and community through quality instruction and caring, trusting relationships.