Inspire
INSPIRE
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Lessons from the Ring
How an MMA fighter became a high school principal
Westminster Public Schools communications@wps.org
Editor
Steve Saunders ssaunders@wps.org
Design + Layout
Kelly Brenner kbrenner@wps.org
Contributors
Kate Beasley
Jeff Colebank Dr. Justin Davis
Translation
Samantha Trevizo
Copy Editors
Shiree Abeyta
Lora Davidek
Jennette Kuxhausen
Publisher Inspire
is produced by Westminster Public Schools, 6933 Raleigh St,. Westminster, CO 80030. All rights reserved. Printed in Colorado by Publication Printers.
Except where noted, the content of Inspire is the property of the magazine and should not be reprinted without permission. Inspire is not responsible for false or misleading claims made by advertising or editorial materials published herein.
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Hollywood Comes to Westminster
A major motion picture filmed in our backyard!
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Cooking with Kids
Making time to share an easy recipe has lasting benefits!
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The future is here - we'll help you undertsand it.
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Is there anything she can't do?
PAGE 5
Snowboarding in School?
With ALPHA Adventures and SOS, freshmen can ride Breck for 5 days of fun and learning!
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Is a Competency Based System the best fit for your child? Probably. T
LITTLE ONES
Mascot word search
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Navigating UPK
PAGE 28
Is your child ready for Kinder?
PAGE 6
Spot the difference! CBS QUIZ
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PAGE 8
From NFL Europe to Westminster High
Meet the new coach helping young people grow into resilient adults.
Kids enjoy free general admission every day! General admission does not include entry to ticketed exhibitions.
August 12
September 9
October 14
November 8
December 9
Registration required. Free Days are for regular Gardens hours only and do not include ticketed events.
August 25
September 15
October 12
No tickets are needed for general Museum admission on these days to gain access to the Wildlife Halls or the permanent exhibitions.
August 25
September 15
October 12
November 8 (evening)
December 8
A Breath of Fresh Air
Snowboarders learn about leadership and courage at 9,000 feet
Most of the 8th graders who signed up for the ALPHA Adventures class last year liked the sound of it, but had no idea what to expect.
As it turns out, the popular Freshman class takes learning out of the classroom and onto the slopes. The unique outdoor education experience provided 32 students from Westminster High School with the opportunity to spend five sessions snowboarding in beautiful Breckenridge. This trip marked the first encounter with the state's iconic mountains for many, despite living in Colorado their whole lives.
Through the generous support of SOS Outreach and the Westminster Public Schools Foundation, the substantial costs for transportation, meals, equipment rental, and even snow gear for the participating students were covered. This support allowed students like Aureilo Garcia to discover a new passion. "It opened up a different world to more experiences than he normally would have
had,” explained Aureilo’s mother, Daisy Quintana, “I wouldn't ever have been able to bring him and all his brothers up skiing."
To maximize learning, students were grouped by skill level, spending every week with the same instructor to build on the themes and techniques from the lesson before. Each day on the mountain focused on a different theme: courage, wisdom, integrity, discipline, and compassion.
"Outdoor education is a great way to integrate these skills."
"Outdoor education is a great way to integrate these skills that you think are theoretical,” says Gabrielle Mattisson, a Social Worker at WHS who has been running the program for 9 seasons, “but when you get on the mountain and you’re doing something fun, you’re not in your head about these concepts and then you can actually see these values."
Watch a video of these kids shredding the slopes!
Is your child ready for Kindergarten?
Heading into kindergarten is a big milestone. It's a time filled with curiosity, excitement, and yes, a few nerves for both children and parents! Here are 4 things you can do that will help build your child’s confidence and have them feeling ready for the first day of school!
1. Build Independence
• Practice zipping coats, opening lunch containers, and washing hands independently.
• Encourage your child to use the bathroom solo and ask for help when needed.
• Teach them to pack and unpack their backpack daily, a simple routine that builds confidence and enforces fine motor skills.
2. Support Social Skills
• Roleplay school situations: sharing, taking turns, asking for help, and following directions.
• Discuss feelings and appropriate responses: “What can we do when we feel mad or sad?”
• Arrange playdates to help develop cooperation and communication with peers.
3. Boost Early Learning at Home
• Practice name writing, counting to 20, and recognizing letters and shapes in playful ways.
• Use everyday moments like cooking or driving, for simple learning conversations.
4. Get Familiar with a Routine
• Establish a consistent sleep and wake-up schedule 1–2 weeks before school starts.
• Use visual charts or stories to help your child understand what to expect during the day.
7 TIPS TO BOOST YOUR CHILD’S MENTAL HEALTH
Keep a journal. Writing things down helps you process your emotions.
Everyone, no matter their age, will experience stress throughout their lifethat's normal!
But kids and teens are especially at risk of feeling overwhelmed, anxious or even depressed. There are many things we can do to build social and emotional resilience and help them to navigate their feelings. All WPS schools have a mental health professional available to provide support when needed.
Take a deep breath. Inhale, count to 4, exhale, repeat. Get outside. Go for a walk in nature, around the block or even open a window! Show love to someone in your life - friends, family or even a pet! Helping others feels good. Take time to laugh. Hang out with a funny friend, watch a comedy or check out cute videos online. Make a snack and hydrate. A healthy treat and some water can improve your energy and mood. Do an activity you love. Take some time to play a game, color, play an instrument, practice a sport, whatever makes you feel happy and calm.
YOU
From NFL Europe to Westminster High
Coach Chris Helbig Brings Passion and Purpose to the Wolves
The Westminster High School football program is entering a new era under the leadership of Coach Chris Helbig, a former standout from nearby Holy Family High School who went on to play professionally in NFL Europe. Now, he's bringing his passion for the game and his deep commitment to student success to the Wolves.
“This isn’t just about football,” Helbig said in a recent interview between morning practice and an afternoon scrimmage tournament. “This is about helping young people grow into responsible, resilient adults. Football is just the vehicle. I wake up every day excited to come here at 6 a.m. because I get to build relationships with these guys.”
"This is about helping young people grow into responsible, resilient adults."
Helbig’s football journey began on Colorado’s high school fields, where he built a reputation as a fierce competitor and natural leader. He was selected to the all-state team three times before moving on to college, where his career was impacted by COVID-19, injuries and school transfers.
After college, Helbig assumed that his playing days were over until a call came from NFL Europe. “For me, it was an instant no-brainer, a chance to see the world, a chance to experience different things and it was a chance for me to continue my love of the game.”
After three years with a record of 28 wins and one loss as a starting quarterback, Helbig decided
it was time to come home to Colorado. “This school drew my attention because for me it is about being a mentor, not just a coach,” he said. “High school kids are still young. They still have a chance to be influenced in the right way.”
Helbig believes the Wolves will have a good season, but that is not his only goal. “To me it's getting good grades, it's showing up to class. It's the attendance piece. I'm trying to build the habit of you can't skip out on work.”
Coach Helbig is also thinking about the future. He and his staff participate in the WPS Futures program, which offers athletic opportunities to younger students. Not only did the high school football team referee Futures flag football games, but Helbig came to watch them, too. "I think it's important for kids to learn from a young age: 'Hey, this coach cares.'"
__ WANT TO SEE THE WOLVES IN ACTION?
Check out the football schedule and join in on the fun!
How sports help kids succeed in life
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Regular exercise and participation in sports are essential for children even if they are not destined to play for the Denver Broncos. Physical activity strengthens muscles and bones, and improves cardiovascular health.
MENTAL HEALTH
Physical activity helps reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. It also increases the release of feel-good chemicals like endorphins, improving mood and overall well-being. Sports also encourage better sleep patterns and can improve focus.
LIFE SKILLS
As Westminster High School football coach Chris Helbig explained, student athletes learn important life lessons such as teamwork, responsibility, leadership, and dealing with both success and failure. They develop discipline by practicing regularly and gain confidence by setting and achieving goals.
SOCIAL CONNECTIONS
Sports offer children a fun way to connect with their peers and build friendships. Playing on a team teaches cooperation and respect for others, creating a sense of community and belonging. The WPS Futures Program makes team sports available to all students in grades K-8.
Learn more about Westy Futures
Is a Competency-Based Education a better fit for your child?
A Competency Based System (CBS) helps teachers customize the way your child learns, according to their unique strengths and challenges. All schools in WPS use a competency based system.
1
How well does your child do in school?
Think about tests, homework, class participation and engagement
a. They do very well in some areas but struggle in others
b. They do about the same compared to their classmates
c. They find learning in school very challenging
d. They excel at most everything they learn
2
How does your child learn best?
Think about the times that they tune out and the activities that keep them engaged
a. They prefer hands-on activities
b. They like to have choices about how to demonstrate their learning
c. They love independent reading and writing
d. They do best with class discussion and practice problems
3
How does your child perform on tests?
Think about in-class quizzes, state testing and their general attitude (nervous, bored, etc.)
a. It depends on the subject, the teacher or their mood the day of the test
b. About average
c. Test scores do not reflect my child’s learning or potential
d. Very well
4
Does your child ever say they feel bored in class?
Think about any comments your child or their teacher may have made about them zoning out
a. Yes, if they get left behind in a lesson they will start to tune out
b. Sometimes, if the subject is not one they are interested in
c. Not really, they are engaged with their lessons
d. Yes, they always finish their work before their classmates
Take the full CBS QUIZ and get your results along with a personalized recommendation for a school in the only competency based school district in Colorado – Westminster Public Schools.
Personalized Learning in a Competency Based School
Did you know? A Competency Based System (CBS) helps teachers customize the way each child learns, according to their individual strengths and challenges. CBS enables all students to:
• Learn at a customized pace—progressing quickly in stronger areas, and receiving extra help from teachers in more challenging areas
• Master knowledge and skills—demonstrating confidence and ability in one area of knowledge and skills before moving on to the next
• Real-time student information at any time, parents and teachers can go online to see where a student is excelling and where they need additional time and extra help in order to grow
Sofia is 9 years old, and in a traditional school she’d be in fourth grade. Since Sofia is great at math, she is already working in Math Level 5, which is above-average. Literacy is a more challenging area, so Sofia is getting extra help from teachers as she works in Literacy Level 3. She’s right on track in Science and Social Studies.
H o w P e r sonali z ed L
Let’s take a look at the Competency Based System (CBS) used in Westminster Public Schools:
CBS presents knowledge and skills as a series of blocks that build on each other. Students show that they have
mastered one block—called a learning target before moving on to the next. Within each content area, there is a collection of learning targets that make up a performance level Students complete all of the learning targets within one performance level before moving on to the next level To graduate, students complete 12 performance levels in each content area
M
ATH L E VEL 2
LEARNING TARGETS and PROFICIENCY: Math Level 2 includes ten learning targets. To compl ete a le arning t arg et, s tu de nts m us t ea rn a s co re of 3 or b ette r o n a 4- poi nt sc ale .
Learning Targets
Traditional Approach:
All students move through the same content at the teacher’s pace.
Personalized Approach:
Students learn at a customized pace, mastering groups of knowledge and skills called learning targets To complete a learning target, students must earn a score of 3 or better on a 4-point scale. A variety of learning targets make up each performance level
Example:
Math Level 2 includes ten learning targets. A student must earn a score of 3 or better to complete each learning target; they must complete all targets to move on to the next performance level.
Performance Levels
Traditional Approach:
Students are placed in one grade level according to their age, for the entire year for all subjects.
Personalized Approach:
Students work in a performance level in each core content area according to their demonstrated abilities.
Example:
A typical fourth-grader may work in Math Level 5, Literacy Level 3, Social Studies Level 4 and Science Level 4. This would mean that math is a strength area and literacy is a challenge area.
HELPFUL TERMS:
Learning Target:
A group of knowledge and skills that st udents master
Proficiency:
Is demonstrated when a student scores 3 or better on a 4-point scale, which must happen in order to complete a learning target.
Student Proficiency
Traditional Approach:
Students move up one grade level in all subjects each year, regardless of their ability in each subject.
Personalized Approach:
Students learn at a customized pace They move from one perfor mance level to the next when they have demonstrated proficiency in all of the learning targets that comprise that level. Students complete Level 12 in all subjects to graduate.
Example:
A student may complete all of the learning targets in Literacy Level 3, and move on to Literacy Level 4, during the middle of the school year Or, they may start a new school year continuing their work from the previous year on learning targets in Math Level 2.
Performance Level:
A collection of learning targets in each content area. Students move on to the next performance level when they demonstrate proficiency in all of its learning targets
"You made me feel welcome."
Top Student Thanks Her First Ever Principal and Looks to the Future
On her last day as a student, and while delivering the most important speech of her young life, Samantha Morales-Jurado shared a memory of her first day in kindergarten and the kindness of her principal.
The 18-year-old Valedictorian of Westminster High School told her touching story during her graduation remarks at the CU Events Center. She recalled that her first day was, “tough and filled with many tears” but said Principal Mat Aubuchon got her through it by grabbing a box of crayons and sitting down to color with her. “Who would have expected the principal to come out and color pages of cats with a student because they wanted to go home. I will never forget you and the impact you had. You made me feel welcomed in a space that was foreign to me.”
Aubuchon, now the Executive Director of Learning Services for Westminster Public Schools, said he was touched by the mention and reached out to Samantha to say thank you for the shout out.
While Samantha took time to think of her past and deliver remarks in Spanish to her family, she is looking to the future with anticipation. This fall she will begin classes at the University of Colorado - Denver where she is studying human biology. Whatever path she takes, she is going there with confidence. Her high school years taught her to be resilient:
Feel proud of the days where you felt like giving up, but decided not to. Feel proud of the days you failed a test, but decided to persevere.
Feel proud of the days where you lost the motivation, but instead of giving up, you got up the next day and continued.
AI 101: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS
WHY AM I SEEING AI EVERYWHERE?
Genertaive Artificial Intelligence (or Gen AI), is showing up everywhere, including in our schools. This transformative technology is here to stay, integrating more fully into our everyday lives. Schools, teachers and parents need to understand how to use Gen AI responsibly.
ARE MY KIDS USING IT?
Most likely—yes, in some way! If you haven’t had a conversation with your child, you should. AI can write stories, correct spelling, create pictures, analyze information, and so much more. It's helpful to understand the learning benefits and potential concerns when AI is abused.
HOW SHOULD KIDS USE IT?
Learning Aid: AI can help explain tough concepts, give examples, and offer practice questions.
Creativity Boost: Kids can use AI to brainstorm writing ideas or create artwork.
Skill Building: Apps with AI can provide personalized math, reading, or science tutoring.
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY KIDS ARE USING AI TO CHEAT?
If a student finishes their work too quickly, can't show their work or explain their process, you should ask about their use of AI. AI should be seen as a tool for schoolwork, not a replacement for critical thinking and understanding. If you still have questions, talk to their teacher about your concerns.
WHAT SHOULD THEY AVOID?
Shortcut Culture: Kids shouldn’t use AI to “get answers” without understanding the material.
Overreliance: Like calculators, AI should be a tool, not a replacement for thinking.
Misinformation: AI can give wrong answers, so it's important to know how to double-check facts.
WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?
Westminster Public Schools is embracing AI and creating comprehensive guidelines to answer questions about appropriate AI tools, how to define original work, and how to ensure academic integrity. Visit the WPS AI hub to learn more and stay ahead of the curve.
Lessons from the Ring
“If you can learn to sit in that discomfort, just like in the ring, you can achieve anything.”
Westminster High School, located 5 miles northwest of Denver, has a new kind of leader at the helm, one who’s as comfortable in a fight cage as she is in a school hallway. Enter Principal Maureen Bangsund, a former professional MMA fighter whose journey from the ring to school leadership is anything but conventional. But for Bangsund, the leap makes perfect sense.
“This is the definition of my dream job,” she says with a wide smile. “I’m incredibly passionate about this community, our students, and the teachers in this building. To be able to lead with them, that's the real win."
Bangsund’s resume includes professional fighting in boxing, kickboxing, MMA, and Muay Thai. But it’s the lessons she learned in combat sports that now serve as her guiding philosophy in education. “People wouldn’t expect it, but so many of the things I learned on the mats apply in school,” she explains. “In Jiu-Jitsu, I remember my opponent had me pinned. My coach told me, ‘You can’t control others, only yourself.’ That lesson has stuck with me ever since.”
her new role. “You can’t always control what happens in a school day,” she says. “But you can control how you show up, how you support others, and how you lead with consistency
Raised in Arvada and a graduate of Arvada West High School at age 16, Bangsund didn’t always love school. “I loved learning, but I struggled with the structure,” she admits. That early challenge shaped her passion for making students feel seen, heard, and supported. “Relationships are everything,” she says. “I want to know every face and as many names as possible.”
"You can't control others, only yourself."
She’s also quick to inspire. “Whether it’s sports, music, or a CTSO presentation, discomfort helps us grow,” Bangsund tells students. “If you can learn to sit in that discomfort, just like in the ring, you can achieve anything.”
From her fight posters that once read “Never Give Up” and “What’s Your Possible?” to the messages she now shares in school hallways, Bangsund’s story reminds us all that leadership isn’t just about power, it’s about purpose, passion, and perseverance.
It’s this mindset of resilience, control, and emotional regulation that Bangsund brings to
Watch a video about Principal Bangsund.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
There are 15 differences between these pictures. Can you find them all?!
Cooking at Home: Better Together
Inviting your kids into the kitchen offers countless benefits
Cooking with your children is so much more than making a delicious meal.
CREATIVITY
Mix colors and textures, or substitute ingredients to customize the recipe to your own families' tastes. Cotija instead of cheddar? Go for it!
MATH + SCIENCE
Following a recipe is also a fantastic way to teach math and science—measuring, counting, and observing changes in ingredients is a perfect example of hands-on learning.
HEALTHY HABITS
Have a picky eater at home? Cooking encourages healthy eating habits as kids are more likely to try foods they help prepare.
FAMILY BONDING
Putting down your phones to work together toward a common goal is a recipe for making memories. :) And passing on family recipes to the next generation is a tradition they will appreciate even more as they get older.
Tomato Cheddar Toasts
Ingredients
Yield: 4 toasts
2 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced Salt
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 packed cup/2 ounces finely grated extra-sharp Cheddar 4 slices crusty bread
Preparation
Step 1
Arrange the tomatoes on a plate and sprinkle with salt. Stir together the mayonnaise, Cheddar and a pinch of salt.
Step 2
Toast the bread however you like. Right when the bread’s hot and ready, slather with the Cheddar mayonnaise. (Extra mayo will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.) Top with the tomatoes and devour.
Ingredients
Yield: 6 servings
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 cups milk or milk alternative
1/2 cup black or white chia seeds
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toppings, such as berries, banana slices, chopped nuts, granola or coconut flakes, for serving
Preparation
Step 1
In a large bowl, whisk all ingredients to combine. The mixture will be liquidy, but will firm up as it chills.
Step 2
Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for 8 hours. Stir before serving, garnish with preferred toppings.
Recipes from New York Times Cooking
Chocolate Chia Pudding
Dakota Hull Loves a Challenge
You can’t help but wonder if there is anything Westminster High School graduate Dakota Hull can’t do when she puts her mind to it.
In February, she won the state wrestling crown in the 145-pound division to become the first ever Westy student athlete to win an individual title in state competition.
In May, Dakota graduated in the top ten in her class with academic and athletic scholarships to Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. You might think she would take the summer off to rest up for her first year of college, but you would be wrong. This summer she earned her Black Belt in Judo and then traveled to Fargo, North Dakota to compete in the 2025 U.S. Marine Corp Junior Nationals.
to college. We stayed in the dorms while at the tournament and it gave me a taste of college living.”
She also met fellow wrestlers from across the country who are also headed to Adams State University to wrestle for the Grizzlies.
"I'm so appreciative of the opportunities that I received at Westminster High School."
Dakota will continue to wrestle at Adams State – in fact she spent the summer training, but her long-term goal is to become an Aerospace Engineer and possibly work for Ball Aerospace or NASA. She “choiced in” to Westminster High School after looking at surrounding high schools and deciding that the hands-on engineering pathway at WHS gave her the kind of challenge she was looking for.
“I’m so appreciative of the opportunities that I received at Westminster High School,” she said.
She finished the tournament with four wins and two losses, battling against the best wrestlers in the nation. “Good times and good memories,” she said after the tournament. “I learned a lot about wrestling and I’m now so excited to go
Winning a state title has already assured Dakota a place in Westy history, but she is far from finished. “I’m definitely enjoying the journey, and having fun along the way."
6 WAYS TO HELP YOUR STUDENT SUCCEED IN SCHOOL
1
Volunteer in their school or join the Parent Teacher Organization
Make sure they are at school on time every day
3
5
2
Don’t take them out of school unless it’s an emergency or a medical appointment
4
Read with them or encourage them to read for 20 minutes each night
6
Attend parent-teacher conferences and make an appointment with the teacher or principal to discuss any concerns
Ask them about their classes, homework and projects
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Hollywood Comes to Westminster
When Dean Stoecker graduated from Ranum High School in 1975, he never imagined that 50 years later he would be back in the same building, having converted a part of school gymnasium into a soundstage to tell his family story in a major motion picture.
That’s exactly what happened to this hightech billionaire and Executive Producer of The Man Who Changed the World. The film tells the true-life story of the Stoeker family living out the American dream with a
commitment to hard work and each other. Stoeker’s father, Bud was an entrepreneur who built A Frame Houses. Dean achieved success as the co-founder and CEO of Alteryx, a computer software company.
The $15 million film, which is now in postproduction, details the family's ups and downs and the influence of noted architect, inventor and philosopher Buckminster Fuller. Stoeker's father met Fuller while attending the University of Colorado and was continually inspired by his genius.
“So our goal was to not make money with the film. It wasn't to win awards with the film. It was to tell a great story so we could inspire you,” Stoecker told students last spring when the production team opened up the set to Westminster Public School students who are interested in the film industry. The production crew devoted an entire day to the students, taking them behind the scenes and answering questions about what it takes to get a story to the big screen.
Filming took place around Westminster as well as in Fort Collins and Boulder. Because much of it is a period piece with scenes from different eras, vintage cars and clothing played a big part in the production. Local actors and film crews filled critical roles in the production.
Young Sheldon. Other actors include Illeana Douglas, Jeanine Mason and Christopher Lowell.
The Colorado Film Commission supported the project with $1.8 million in financial incentives as the state tries to bring more film productions to Colorado. The filming coincided with Colorado’s successful bid to bring the Sundance Film Festival to Boulder starting in 2027.
"To be able to use the building where five Stoeker children went to school was a dream come true."
Matt Bliss, one of the producers of The Man Who Changed the World hopes the completed film will be shown in January 2026 at the festival in Utah. According to Stoecker, he hopes the production will tell stories, “that authentically reflect real events that resonate deeply with themes of resilience, love, and the transformative power of family.”
The film stars noted actor Wallace Shawn in the role of Buckminster Fuller. Shawn is best known for his starring role in The Princess Bride, though many will recognize him from his role on the more recent TV series
Reflecting on filming at his old Ranum High School gym, Stoeker was thrilled, "To be able to use the building where five Stoeker children went to school was a dream come true."
The Choice is Yours Navigating Choice with UPK
Did you know that, if you can provide the transportation, your child can apply to attend any school in the state? Colorado is an Open-Enrollment state - which means parents are free to choose the school they feel is the best fit – but there are a few conditions.
Priority Placement
While first priority goes to students residing inside a district's boundaries, any open spaces can be filled with out-of-district students who apply.
Application Deadlines
Applications usually open in December or January for the following school year. Some districts offer opportunities to apply later in the year, but space is often limited, so be sure to plan ahead and check with the school.
Acceptance
Approval of School Choice enrollment is based on the available classrooms, programming, and staffing at the requested school. When there are more applicants than there are spaces available, students will be chosen by a random selection lottery.
According to the Colorado Department of Early Childhood Education, the impacts of preschool are immediate and lasting, leading to gains in early reading and math, as well as increased social and emotional skills. Those are the benefits that Colorado legislators had in mind when they launched the Universal Preschool Program (UPK) in the fall of 2023.
Children who attend preschool are less likely to face academic setbacks, are more inclined to pursue higher education, enjoy better longterm health outcomes, and even earn higher salaries in adulthood.
What is UPK?
This state-funded program offers up to 15 hours of free preschool for all children in the year before kindergarten.
What if I need more than 15 hours?
Families may qualify for more free hours based on things like income, language spoken or learning disabilities. Many preschools allow
families to pay a tuition to make up the hours not covered by UPK. Some districts, like Westminster Public Schools, will cover the difference in cost for families who live in their district.
How to Sign Up
Registration for preschool is a two-step process for 4-year-old students:
1. An application must be submitted to your preferred preschool program. If your local school district is Westminster Public Schools, families may submit an application through the online registration portal at wps.org/prek
2. Fill out the Colorado UPK application.
Enrollment periods vary, so be sure to check out upk.colorado.gov for the latest information.
Required Documents
Birth certificate, proof of address (such as a utility bill), immunization records, and current physical.
WHAT’S NEW WITH RANUM INNOVATION CAMPUS?
NEW PATHWAYS
CNA/Medical Assistant
This program prepares students for entry into the medical profession with the opportunity to earn first level certification(s), such as Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant in partnership with Front Range Community College. The courses will qualify students to work in a variety of health care environments, including long-term care, hospitals and home health.
Prepare For More™
This program/institution has strategies in place to ensure that no student is unlawfully: Discriminated against on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in its activities or programs as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504, Age Discrimination Act, and Title II of the ADA. Denied an equal opportunity to benefit from occupational education soley on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Additionally, CTE sta work with students identified as Special Populations (including students with disabilities and English Language Learners) to provide appropriate assistance to students so that they may participate in approved CTE programs as fully as possible.
Automation + Robotics Technology
These pathways are rooted in high-tech manufacturing, where innovation is driven by robotics, automation, and precision systems. Partnering with Front Range Community College students will gain skills in electrical systems, CAD design, and smart machine programming.
STEM LABS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
The Ranum Innovation Campus isn’t just for high school students. Throughout the year, students in grades 6 through 8 will visit the on-site STEM Labs, where they will be introduced to the world of STEM, gain a clearer understanding of jobs of the future, and begin preparing for careers at an early age.
NEW PARTNERSHIPS
Westminster Public Schools and Front Range Community College signed a joint operating agreement to share resources in the coming years that will provide expanded opportunities for high school students and training for Westminster community members making it a multigenerational campus.
How CTE is Transforming K-12 Education
Students who participate in CTE programs experience significant positive impacts
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are becoming more popular in high schools across the country. These project-based programs offer students the chance to learn practical skills and gain hands-on experience in various fields, such as healthcare, technology, and engineering.
Why CTE is Gaining Popularity?
CTE prepares students for the real world. By participating in these programs, students can explore different career options before they graduate. This helps them make more informed decisions about their futures. CTE programs often include internships or partnerships with local businesses, giving students a taste of what working in their chosen field is really like.
What are the benefits for students?
CTE students learn skills that are directly applicable to jobs, which can make them more attractive to employers. Students can earn certifications or college credits, saving them time and thousands of dollars off of college
tuition and giving them a head start on further education or job opportunities.
What about students who don't pusure further education?
According to CTE Readiness Network, even for students who don’t go on to postsecondary education, CTE has statistically significant positive impacts on several high school outcomes, such as students’ academic achievement, high school completion, employability skills, and college readiness.
What fields does CTE promote?
CTE programs differ by school, but all offer students valuable opportunities to prepare for their future careers and are becoming an increasingly popular choice for students nationwide. The award-winning WPS CTE program offers over a dozen pathways ranging from Aviation Engineering, Biotechnology, Cybertechnology, Contruction Engineering, to Video Media Arts, and the brand new Robotics and Automation Technology.
Beyond the classroom
Every school in Westminster Public Schools o ers after-school clubs and activities to further enrich our students' learning experience. From sports teams to chess club, nature club, tutoring, jazz band, drone soccer and more - contact the individual school to see what they have to o er this year!
Boys & Girls Club
Westminster Public Schools has partnered with Boys and Girls Club to o er high-quality after-school care at several locations. These programs fill up quickly so reach out to the school directly to inquire about an opening.
Neighborhood School Finder
This tool will allow you to search for your neighborhood school based on address or search for a school based on your interests.
Not in district?
That’s ok! Out-of-district students can apply to any of our schools before October 1 using the School Choice Application
EARLY CHILDHOOD
EARLY LEARNING CENTER at F.M. DAY
303.428.1330 | 1740 Jordan Dr. Denver | fmday.wps.org
Childcare and preschool providing high-quality, full-day and year-round play-based programming for students as young as 3 months through 4 years old.
EARLY LEARNING CENTER at GREGORY HILL
303.428.1560 | 8030 Irving St. | gregoryhill.wps.org
Well-established preschool o ering play-based programming for 3 and 4-year-olds to prepare students socially and emotionally for Kindergarten.
NEIGHBORHOOD PK-5
HARRIS PARK ELEMENTARY
303.428.1721 | 4300 W. 75th Ave | harrispark.wps.org
Harris Park Elementary o ers computer coding programs for students of all ages, a maker-space, a culture of leadership, and multiple after-school programs.
MESA ELEMENTARY
303.428.2891 | 9100 Lowell Bld. Westminster | mesa.wps.org
Winner of the ‘23 and ‘24 Governor’s Bright Spot Award. Academic leader for reading instruction, personal-relational skills, after school programing, and family night activities.
SHERRELWOOD ELEMENTARY
303.428.5353 | 8095 Kalamth St. Denver | sherrelwood.wps.org
Winner of the 2022 Governor’s Bright Spot Award for performance improvement, high-quality teachers who care and collaborate with all students and families.
NEIGHBORHOOD PK-8
COLORADO SPORTS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
303.428.8583 | 7001 Lipan St. Denver | csla.wps.org
CSLA o ers an opportunity for students who want a solid foundational education while also gaining an appreciation of the values instilled through athletic competition.
FAIRVIEW PK-8
303.428.1405 | 7826 Fairview Ave. Denver | fairview.wps.org
Fairview is a neighborhood school with a vision of kindness and service where students are taught to be kinder than you need to and do more than you have to.
HODGKINS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
303.428.1121 | 3475 W. 67th Ave. Denver | hodgkins.wps.org
A Leader In Me School which is built around Steven Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly E ective People . We focus on meeting our students where they are academically.
ORCHARD PARK ACADEMY
303.428.2300 | 7395 Zuni St. | opa.wps.org
Recently opened state-of-the-art facility o ers students access to engineering resources and a high-tech computer lab with laser engravers and drone soccer.
SUNSET RIDGE PK-8
303.426.8907 | 9451 Hooker St. | sunsetridge.wps.org
Sunset Ridge has acheived Level 5 certification as a High Reliability School whose sta collaborate with parents to achieve excellence.
TENNYSON KNOLLS PREP SCHOOL
303.429.4090 | 6330 Tennyson St. Arvada | tkprep.wps.org
A small, high-quality school serving the southwest corner of the district o ering pathways to high school programs for robotics, aerospace, and Boys & Girls Club.
Innovation Schools are a State Board approved alternative to Charter Schools that allow for greater flexibility and autonomy at the school level. WPS Innovation Schools are tuition-free, but any interested student must submit an application whether they live in-district or out-of-district. Not all students are guaranteed entrance and transportation is not provided. Applications for each school can be found on their websites.
COLORADO STEM ACADEMY 303.429.STEM (7836) | 7281 Irving St. | stem.wps.org
The only competency-based STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) school in the state preparing students for 21st century skills.
METROPOLITAN ARTS ACADEMY 303.428.1884 | 2341 Sherrelwood Dr. Denver | met.wps.org
Focused on visual and performing arts that start with classical training and the skills to pursue interests and compete professionally in the arts industry.
JOHN E. FLYNN A MARZANO ACADEMY 303.428.2161 | 8731 Lowell Blvd. | flynn.wps.org
First school in the nation to receive Level 5 Certification for Dr. Marzano’s High Reliability Schools. Education focused on academics and personal-relational skills.
WESTMINSTER ACADEMY FOR INTL. STUDIES 303.428.2494 | 7482 Irving St. | wais.wps.org
Their program approaches subjects through the lens of international studies, teaches languages (Mandarin and Spanish) and appreciation of di erent cultures.
MIDDLE SCHOOL 6-8
SHAW HEIGHTS MIDDLE SCHOOL 303.428.9533 | 8780 Circle Dr. | shawheights.wps.org
Middle school with course programming including many electives such as choir, band, orchestra, drama, art, STEM, and an innovative zSpace lab.
HIGH SCHOOL 9-12
WESTMINSTER HIGH SCHOOL
303.657.3980 | 6933 Raleigh St. | westy.wps.org
A thriving, engaged community committed to programs that produce high levels of learning. Robust athletic, performing arts, CTE, and extracurricular options for all.
ALTERNATIVE
HIDDEN LAKE SECONDARY SCHOOL
SCHOOL 6-12
303.428.2600 | 7300 Lowell Blvd. | hiddenlake.wps.org
Alternative campus using a hexter system and serving students who prefer a smaller setting with a focus on self-discovery and credit recovery.
CAREER TECHNICAL INNOVATION CAMPUS 11-12
| 2401 West 80th Ave. Denver | ranum.wps.org State-of-the-art building with industry equipment and industry-trained faculty. Westy and Hidden Lake students can enroll in Aviation Engineering, Biotechnology, Cyber Technology, CNA/MA, and Automation and Robotics Technology pathways.
SHAPING THE FUTURE:
The Vital Role of the Board of Education
They make important decisions, put in countless hours of work, are sometimes subject to public criticism and, oh yeah, they don’t get paid a dime.
These are not just policymakers—they are community members, parents, alumni, and lifelong advocates for public education. They carry with them the memories of teachers who made a difference, the pride of local traditions, and a collective desire to ensure the next generation of students has every opportunity to thrive.
“It’s an amazing way to give back to Westminster Public Schools, which has given me so much,” said President Christine Martinez, the daughter of public-school teachers and a graduate of the district.
This dynamic group of five (Orecchio and Martin are up for reelection in November) have provided steady leadership during the recent transition to a new superintendent, while also helping pass a bond election in the fall of 2024.
"It’s an amazing way to give back to Westminster Public Schools, which has given me so much."
Next up, how to best manage resources. As with many districts across the nation, Westminster Public Schools is navigating the complex issue of declining student enrollment. The challenge goes beyond just numbers—it influences staffing, budgets, building utilization, and long-term planning.
Another member of the board, Dan Orecchio is also a WPS graduate. Aaron Martin and Audrey Yanos are parents of WPS students while Marybeth Murphy has been a lifelong educator
In 2026, the Board will receive a critical recommendation from the Future Together Facilities Initiative committee which has been meeting with parents, educators and community members to discuss how WPS can evolve to meet the changing needs of their community.
Have an opinion? Attend a board meeting or send them an email. While you are at it, why not share a "thank you" as well?
