Back to School

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2 Times-Call Publication August 9, 2009

New school year under way

Haddad

Soon, approximately 25,000 St. Vrain Valleystudents will return to school. This is an excitingand important time in their young lives and ex-tremely critical to their future. Now, more thanever, an individual’s ability to thrive in the glob-al economy and contribute to society is tied tosuccess in school.

From the first hour of class, teachers, princi-pals, support staff and central office administra-tors of the St. Vrain Valley School District will berelentlessly focused on providing each studentan academically rigorous and safe environmentto learn, mature and prepare.

Thanks to the generous support of our com-munity, the passage of the mill levy override andbond have provided valuable resources designedto enhance student achievement. Average classsizes have been reduced, focus school opportu-nities have expanded, and the experience andcredentials of our teachers and staff are out-standing.

Other advantages for students include renova-tions in school buildings and a dramatically im-proved technology infrastructure. These up-grades represent broad public support for ourstudents by providing safe buildings and state-of-the-art learning tools.

The district, meanwhile, is raising achieve-ment expectations by aligning academic stan-

dards and strengthening its systematic focus onreading, writing, math, science, history andworld languages. To this end, students will haveaccess to more advanced placement, pre-ad-vanced placement, honors, International Bac-calaureate and college level courses than everb e f o re .

In addition to offering a variety of core subjectcourses, the St. Vrain Valley School District iscommitted to preparing students to be success-ful employees, innovative entrepreneurs and en-gaged citizens long after graduation. Through arobust menu of co-curricular activities in the ar-eas of the arts, citizenship, business, innovation,critical thinking, teamwork and physical educa-tion, students will experience multiple opportu-nities to develop their talents.

In support of these efforts, business partnerssuch as Amgen, Seagate, Western Digital, DigitalGlobe and Longmont United Hospital are con-tributing to student and school success throughgrants, scholarships and donations of technolo-gy and professional expertise.

Members of the faith community are also in-volved. At the recent church-sponsored eventknown as ShareFest, more than 400 volunteersfrom across our communities logged hundredsof volunteer hours on school beautification andrepair projects.

As superintendent, I believe our students havemany of the tools and resources for success.However, I believe we can do more to addressthe challenges before us. Each year, more stu-dents demand a greater variety of advancedclasses and many are challenged by poverty ordisabilities.

Our mission is to help all students achievetheir highest level of academic success and befully prepared for college, post secondary careertraining and a rewarding career in the newknowledge economy.

The St. Vrain Valley School District canachieve its goals and provide students the foun-dation they’ll need to succeed and thrive. How-ever, our success requires an unwavering com-mitment on the part of every student, parent,District employee and community member.

Together we can give our children the gift of a21st century education while ensuring that ournation has a new generation of innovative, en-gaged and industrious Americans.

Don Haddad

Superintendent of Schools

Don Haddad is the Superintendent of Schools for the St. VrainValley School District and can be reached at 303-682-7205 [email protected].

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m7/30/2009yTCsstair

August 9, 2009 Times-Call Publication 3

View the Back to School Section online at www.timescall.com/magazines.aspKristi Ritter

Special Sections [email protected], 303-684-5275

Cover DesignTravis Claussen

Summer StairSpecial Sections Reporter

[email protected], 720-494-5429

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Welcome back letterStart early to prepare for collegeAffordable school suppliesGetting ready for middle schoolHow not to overschedule kidsDiscover charter schoolsGetting involved in your kid’s schoolLocal bilingual education opportunitiesSchool district overview

Green school suppliesEarly childhood education makes a differenceChoosing the right after-school programsPacking healthy school lunchesPrivate schools overviewThe benefits of school uniformsUnderstanding social networkingThis year’s hot tech gadgetsSchool bus still the way to go

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m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Preparing for College

Continued on 5

Succeed on campuswith this guide fromfreshman to senior yearBy Brian Smith

Longmont Times-Call

Take it from a college senior: gettingready for higher education is not as easyas showing up to the dorms in a toga ...despite what National Lampoon’s Ani-mal House says. And it’s not as hard asyour parents are going to make it out tobe. But there are a few steps you need tobe aware of.

These days, the school system encour-ages students to start thinking about col-lege as early as middle school. The earli-er a student starts to make plans, thesmoother the transition will be.

The majority of your work towardcampus life should begin in your junioryear of high school, but there are thingsyou can do starting freshman year thatwill help you in the future.

I spoke with the University of Col-orado at Boulder’s Office of AdmissionsAssociate Director Jennifer Schufer tocome up with a no-nonsense guide to getyou on a college campus.

Freshman Year• Get to know your guidance coun-

selor as they will be your best resource inthe whole process. They can help youplan out what classes you will need totake in the next four years.

• Start a college folder of all the im-portant papers you will be receiving.

• Explore the possibility of takinghonor level classes. These will be struc-tured more like a college course rather

than a typical high school class.• Get involved with extracurricular ac-

tivities. Showing involvement withschool and the community will not onlyboost your chances of getting into acompetitive college, but also look goodon scholarship applications.

Sophomore Year• Prepare for standardized testing. It’s

never too early to look into ACT andSAT prep classes and sign up to takepractice tests.

• Start browsing colleges and thinkingabout where you might like to focusyour search.

• It’s never too early to start thinkingabout a major. Keep your mind open to avariety of possibilities, however. Oftenyour first major won’t be the one youend up graduating with.

• In the spring, sign up for AdvancedPlacement-level classes and start to in-vestigate earning college credit.

• Keep working on your extracurricu-lar activities.

Junior Year• Meet with your guidance counselor

to get important dates for the ACT andSAT, including information regardingpractice tests and prep classes. Doublecheck that you are signed up for the ACTand SAT. ACT and SAT tests usually takeplace in early spring.

• Look into vocational schools, suchas the Career Development Center, tohelp you explore your interests and ex-pand your knowledge of things you areinterested in.

• Continue thinking about your major.It doesn’t hurt to talk to your neighborsor other community members abouttheir jobs, what education they receivedand if they have suggestions for you.

• Make sure you attend any sessions

that college representatives host at yourhigh school.

• If you are taking AP classes, makesure you are prepared for the tests inM a y.

• Consider registering for Front RangeCommunity College classes throughyour school.

• Set up a professional e-mail accountwhere colleges can send you importantinformation.

Senior Year• The first thing you should do is meet

with your guidance counselor to makesure you are on track to graduate andhave the basic college entrance require-ments.

• If you took the ACT or SAT andw e re n ’t happy with the results, schedulea retake for a small fee.

• Hit the scholarship trail. Use onlineresources, as well as those in your highschool to find scholarships.

• Visit the college campuses. This willhelp you determine where you wouldlike to set your sights.

• Obtain a catalog from colleges youare interested in and see if they offer anymajors you are or might be considering.

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• Apply. The more, the better. You willneed letters of recommendation fromseveral teachers. Find out how to send anofficial transcript to a college as it will berequired when applying. Plan to have allof your applications out the door by Nov.1 or earlier depending on what the col-lege may require. You should get a letterback either way by the first of the year.

• Arrange a private tour of the collegesyou get accepted to. Prepare specificquestions you may have for the collegeambassadors.

• Decide on a college and complete en-rollment paperwork.

• Apply for Free Application for Feder-al Student Aid (FAFSA).

• Apply for Colorado OpportunityFund (COF).

Summer after Graduation• Complete housing applications and

file any security deposits.• Make a list of everything you will

need for dorm living and hit the stores.You can get some great deals if you don’twait until the last minute.

• Attend a campus orientation.Chances are the college you enroll in willsend you information regarding your firstorientation. They will also help you getregistered for classes. Try to get to know

the campus layout as well as possible.Find where your classes will be in the fallto make your first week easier on your-self.

• Declare your major and minor if youare ready. It helps to have an idea ofwhere you are headed when you entercollege even if it is not what you end updoing in the long run.

• Research what clubs and organiza-tions are on campus that you might liketo join.

• Look for a job. Spending cash is amust in college and some of the best,least stressful jobs are on campus.

Online resources forcollege planningCollegeInColorado.org:

Helps explore career options, planyour high school to college career,ACT/SAT preparation, find college fairsas well as comparing colleges.

K n o w H o w 2 G O. o r g :An easy to use national web site to

help students understand the collegeprocess. Has tons of interactive multi-media features and resources.

Continued from 4

St. Vrain Valley School District

Community Schools

Elementary School Program Locations:

Alpine Elementary School 720-652-8146Black Rock Elementary School 303-890-3995Blue Mountain Elementary School 720-652-8220Burlington Elementary School 303-776-8861Centennial Elementary School 720-652-8240Central Elementary School 303-776-3236Eagle Crest Elementary School 303-485-7274Erie Elementary School 720-652-7887Fall River Elementary School 720-494-9878Hygiene Elementary School 720-652-8021Indian Peaks Elementary School 303-772-7240Legacy Elementary School 720-652-8169Longmont Estates Elementary School 720-652-8101Lyons Elementary School 720-652-8018Mead Elementary School 970-535-4503Niwot Elementary School 303-652-2452Prairie Ridge Elementary School 720-494-3645Rocky Mountain Elementary School 303-772-6750Sanborn Elementary School 720-652-8126

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Back to school savingsArticle Resource Association

It seems like the bell just rang con-cluding the last day of school, but it’s al-ready time to start planning for next yearto ensure your kids are prepared for suc-cess. With list in hand, you hit the storesto get necessary items. How can you getall the things your child needs and stillstay within your budget?

First, check your inventory at home tosee what you have before you head to thestore. Extra paper stored in the closetfrom last year or hand-me-downs from abig brother or sister can be useful. Afteryou take inventory, it’s time to make aprecise shopping list. Sit down with yourson or daughter and determine what heor she needs ahead of time. Then head toa store that can give you a good value forthe items on your list.

Do you need clothing for your brand-conscious kid? For younger children,stick to discount stores that offer quality,brand-name clothing for less. For teens,consider visiting consignment shops.Gently used brand-name clothing can bea great way to get them in the styles theywant at a price that won’t make yougasp.

The age-old problem always exists at

back-to-school time – you want to find agreat deal and your kid wants the coolestnew stuff. What are the most valuableyet trendy items your children are sure tolove? Below are a few of the hottest, yetaffordable, items for this year’s back-to-school season.

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Ativa 4GB Flash DrivesAvailable in a variety of fun patterns,

students love having these fashion-for-ward devices, not only because they arecool, but because they allow students tohave their homework, notes and projectswith them at all times.

Gartner and Mead Fashion ProductsBold designs in trendy colors make

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designs in polka dots, paisley,flowers, swirls and more, allowingyour students to mix and matchfolders, binders, notebooks and othersupplies. They can express themselvesand you can save at prices starting at0.99 cents.

Tug Fun CalculatorsFor under $5, you can get a quality

calculator, but it doesn’t have to beboring. This year, students can add alittle fun and spirit to their calcula-tions with the Fun Rubber Calculatorin unique shapes from Office Depot.

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Getting your preteensready for middle school

By Kate Frasure

Longmont Times-Call

Middle school can be one of the scari-est transitions. Students tend to panicwhen new things such as lockers andelectives are added to their lives. Sixthgrade Mead Middle School teacher Mari-lyn Frade says, “The transition to middleschool is sometimes hard simply becauseit’s a change and any change can bringwith it anxiety, nervousness and wor-ries.”

Parents can help smooth the transitionby talking with their child about middleschool and knowing what to expect.Frade says to expect the level of effort re-quired in earlier years might not producethe same results. “Students will tell methat they had As in a particular subjectarea, but they are now receiving Bs. Asyou progress further in school, the levelof understanding changes so studentsmay have to put in a little more effort.”

Also, expect more homework and agreater need to stay organized. Fradeadds that parents should expect to let goa little more but still remain involved.“Students should be allowed to try thingson their own, even if it means occasion-ally failing.”

She uses the example that if a studentconstantly forgets their textbook and theparent drives to the school to give it tothem they will never learn to rememberit on their own. “Someone will always bethere to rescue them,” she says.

Knowing what to expect will make thetransition easier, but also sitting downand talking with your child will help.Frade offers a few topics to talk over withyour child about middle school.

• Discuss the differences between ele-mentary and middle school. Frade says,“By discussing these differences ahead of

time, parents can find out what theirchild is nervous or excited about.”

• Talk about social differences.“Friendships are usually one of thebiggest concerns for students,” Fradesays. She suggests parents discuss waystheir kids can handle social issues thatmight arise.

• Let children practice with a combi-nation lock. “In my experience, manystudents are nervous about using a lock-er for the first time,” Frade says. If par-ents have a combination lock available,having their child practice with it willmake them feel more confident and com-fortable with having a locker.

• Prepare a designated study area andtime to do homework. Frade says thisarea should be free from distractions,such as a TV, and should have a desk ortable with all the supplies a student willneed. “Students waste valuable home-work time if they have to stop and locatenecessary supplies. Having supplieshandy helps eliminate procrastination,they can’t use the excuse that they werejust looking for some glue,” she adds.

• Remain positive about the transition.“If parents are worried or have negativeattitudes about school, this may impacthow their child feels about it,” Fradesays. “It’s OK to be nervous or even a lit-tle worried, just try to keep it as positiveas possible.”

Middle school is just another step ingrowing up. It can be both exciting andscary, but by talking with your child thetransition can be made easier. “C h i l d re nadapt pretty well and usually settle intothe middle school routine fairly quickly,”Frade says. “Just like that first day ofkindergarten, the first day of middleschool will come and go.”

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Determine if kids’schedules are overcrowdedMetro Services

To d a y ’s kids are busierthan ever. Whereas kidsused to leave school inmid-afternoon and havetheir free time to them-selves, today kids leavethe classroom and headoff to any number of ex-tracurricular commit-ments, such as athletics,music lessons, schoolclubs or other activities.

For parents, these busyschedules can under-standably be a cause forconcern. While it’shealthy for kids to haveinterests and cultivatethose interests, it’s alsoimportant for parents tomake sure their kids don’tbecome overwhelmed bycrowded schedules thatleave no time to unwindor to simply be a kid.

According to the MattelC h i l d re n ’s Hospital atUniversity of California,Los Angeles, gaugingwhether your child isoverscheduled can be assimple as asking yourselftwo questions and beinghonest with your an-swers. First, ask yourselfhow your child is manag-ing his or her daily sched-ule, including bothschool and extracurricu-lar activities. Then askyourself how much yourchild actually wants toparticipate in each activi-ty. Some children willthrive on busy schedules,while others will growoverwhelmed, negatingthe benefits the activitiesare intended to provide.

Kids often try hard toplease their parents, somany will not willinglyadmit if they’re over-whelmed for fear thatthey won’t please momand dad. That makes itimportant for parents tobe capable of recognizingpossible indicators thatkids are too busy.

• Homework: Unfin-

ished homework orhomework that is rou-tinely completed late atnight indicates that kidscould be too busy, withnot enough time in theirday to complete their as-signments, which shouldbe their top priority.

• Complaints: Kidswho routinely complainabout their extracurricu-lar activities could be try-ing to tell you they’resimply overworked. If atypical drive to soccerpractice is chock full ofcomplaints, perhaps it’stime to discuss with yourchild if he or she reallywants to play soccer, or isjust doing it to pleaseyou.

• Meal time: Researchhas shown that kids bene-fit from sitting down tofamily meals with theirparents and siblings.However, today’s busy

kids might not have timeto do so, which couldnegatively impact theirdevelopment. If kids areroutinely rushing throughmeals because of othercommitments, it couldindicate they’re over-scheduled.

• Sleep: Kids needsleep, but many of today’soverscheduled kids sim-ply aren’t getting enough.If your child is not gettinghis or her regular sleep,then an overcrowdedcommitment schedulecould be the culprit.

• Are you feeling run-down? A telltale sign of achild who’s too busy isthe child’s parents. Ifmom or dad is stressingout over driving theirchild to and from a hostof commitments, thenimagine how stressed outthe child is probably feel-ing.

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Twin Peaks Charter Academy fifth grade student Jonathan Flores studies in a math class at his school in February 2009. (Lewis Geyer/Times-Call)

Twin Peaks Charter Academy fifth grade student Arturo Manzo studies in a math class at hisschool in February 2009. (Lewis Geyer/Times-Call)

Discover Charter SchoolsFind out ifyour child

should attenda charter

schoolBy Brian Smith

Longmont Times-Call

These days, the phrase charter schoolbrings up images of kids in khakis anddress shoes. Clean cut. Proper. For some,the antithesis of what a kid at that ageshould be.

But why would any parent trade in theestablished public school system for themysterious world of charter schools?“Well, that’s just a myth,” says StaceyRivera, director of communications forthe Colorado League of Charter Schools.“Charter Schools are not just for the highclass, special or rich kids.” The truth is,charter schools are not what many think.

According to Rivera, many of theseschools share general similarities withpublic schools, but the differences are in

the details.Charter schools are funded by the

state for the same amount as a publicschool and both are open and free topublic enrollment. When it comes toacademics and management, chartershave more autonomy.

A charter school is authorized to beaccountable for student achievement.They set academic goals in house andmany have a different way of teachingthan the public school system. Somecharters place emphasis on rigorous aca-demics while others specialize in ahands-on curriculum.

There are charters across the state thatconduct longer school days or tailor aneducation specifically designed for at-risk students, gifted children, pregnantor parenting teens and juvenile offend-ers, among others.

Whatever the difference, each has aunique curriculum that gives a parentmore choice when it comes to theirchild’s education. According to Rivera,parents often choose the charter path ifthey feel their child needs special atten-tion or a specialized curriculum.

But they do have the same limits as thepublic school system, such as restric-tions on teaching divine creation versusevolution, and are held to the same basicacademic standards measured by testslike the Colorado Student AssessmentP ro g r a m .

Despite a Stanford University studythat analyzed the performance of charter

schools as compared to the public schoolsystem and found that 37 percent under-performed traditional schools, Denvercharter schools were in the 17 percentthat actually out-performed traditionalschools from around the nation.

In fact, according to the ColoradoLeague of Charter Schools, 74 percent ofcharters in Colorado performed wellenough to make Adequate YearlyProgress while only 59 percent of non-charters made APY in 2008.

Although charter schools are free tothe public and enrollment is guaranteed,the actual process is more tricky thanpublic schools. According to Rivera, par-ents must first apply, then meet with theschool to determine if the curriculumwould fit the child’s need. Then the stu-dent would either be accepted or put ona waiting list if the incoming class is full.

There are currently four charterschools in the St. Vrain Valley SchoolDistrict: Carbon Valley Academy in Fred-erick, Flagstaff Academy and Twin PeaksCharter Academy in Longmont andImagine Charter School in Firestone. Formore information on charter schools,visit w w w. c o l o r a d o l e a g u e . o rg orw w w. s t v r a i n . k 1 2 . c o . u s .

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


“It’s about seeingsomething thatneeds to bedone and feelingyou have theability to help.”

Terry Larson, Niwot HighBoosters president

Parent groups are more than another batch of cookiesBy Kate Frasure

Longmont Times-Call

For years, many people have drawn theconclusion that parent teacher organiza-tions and booster clubs are committees ofdoting mothers who bake cookies andloosely handle a small amount of moneyfor their child’s school. These organiza-tions are more than another batch of cook-ies.

“It’s about seeing something that needsto be done and feeling you have the abilityto help,” says Niwot High Boosters presi-dent Terry Larson. The booster club at Ni-wot participates in fund-raising for theschool, as well as planning and putting to-gether fun events during the year.

Niwot Boosters has earned more than$10,000 through concessions and has giv-en back $20,000 in grants from the studentstore, which sells spirit wear. “Most par-ents don’t realize how much money goesthrough the organization,” says Larson.The money goes back to the school to beput toward special events such as after-prom and school improvements.

“It’s not just making cookies and han-dling the money in a silly manner. We try

to make it very business like,” says Larson,adding that volunteering is different at thevarious education levels. “At the elemen-tary level they are looking for parents tomake copies, cut things out and grade pa-pers, but at the high school level it is moreplanning and fundraising.”

PTO members at the elementary level,do some fundraising but also organizeevents such as talent shows and monthlynewsletters.

Kim Uridales, Blue Mountain Elemen-tar y’s PTO vice president, says one of herfavorite events the group participates in isParent-Teacher Conference night. Parentscook all different kinds of food for teachersto have a break from the tiresome night.“Teachers are so happy to have the foodand I really feel like I have made a differ-ence that day,” she says.

So why join a parent involvement orga-nization? Tracey Nichols, who has been apart of Niwot High Boosters for four years,says she decided to join because she be-lieves a strong and active booster clubhelps create the best possible experiencesfor children. “I really feel like I am helpingout and participating in the wellbeing and

success of my kids and all the kids at theschool.” She adds that there are so manyways to get involved, some opportunitiesrequire a lot of time while others take onlya little time. “I really believe that a stongbooster’s program helps make a stronghigh school.”

According to Janice Rebhan, who startedout at Niwot Elementary’s Parent TeacherAssociation and then moved into NiwotHigh Boosters, by being involved withPTOs or booster clubs, parents are able totruly understand the school and make adifference not only in their child’s life, butthe lives of all the other children in theschool.

“It builds a sense of community,” Uri-dales adds. “Everyone gets to know everyparent and it sends the message to thechild that their school and education isi m p o rt a n t . ”

Uridales, who is going into her secondyear with Blue Mountain’s PTO, says shejoined because she wanted to make a dif-ference. “It was a brand new school andall these new things were happening. Iwanted to be a part of making the first de-cisions.”

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Bilingual YouthSt. Vrain teaches Spanish-speakingstudents in their native tongue

By Lauren Seaton

Longmont Times-Call

We are surrounded by such increas-ing diversity that languages other thanEnglish hardly sound foreign any-more. Colorado is no exception.

Assistant Commissioner for Innova-tion and Transformation, Barbara M.Medina, Ph.D., says there are an esti-mated 167 different languages spokenin Colorado. However, Spanish is thenative language of more than 85 per-cent of the state’s foreign-languagespeakers.

So how does a child, whose parentsdon’t speak English, prepare for thef u t u re ?

The St. Vrain Valley School Districthas responded to this matter withbilingual schools and programs de-signed specifically for students who’sfirst language is not English.

Eight elementary schools in the dis-trict – Indian Peaks, Rocky Mountain,Spangler, Frederick, Columbine, LomaLinda, Central and Northridge – use atransitional early-exit bilingual modelto teach English and prepare studentsfor a bilingual future.

Regina Renaldi is the director ofSVVSD’s Title I schools and overseesthe bilingual program. “The most im-portant benefit is that our studentslearn to read in their native language,”she says.

This is different from a dual lan-

guage program that teaches both En-glish and non-English speakers a sec-ond language. (There is one districtexception. Central Elementary teachesSpanish to students whose first lan-guage is English as part of their Inter-national Baccalaureate program). Thetransitional model is also differentfrom English-only programs that donot teach second language learners intheir native language.

In this district, Spanish-speakingstudents are taught English while alsolearning to read in their native Span-ish. In kindergarten, 30 minutes of En-glish is taught a day. In first grade it in-creases to 45 minutes a day. By fourthgrade, 90 percent of the curriculum istaught in English and by fifth gradethe students have “transitioned out” –100 percent of their education is con-ducted in English.

“The ultimate goal of St. Vrain is tolearn English,” Renaldi says, addingthat it is also a goal for students to be-come biliterate. However, she believesthe public is sometimes unaware thatteaching English is, indeed, the prima-ry goal.

This education method is not arbi-trar y.

“Research seems to suggest that abilingual approach benefits the stu-dents,” says Medina.

The benefit that Medina refers to isstudents who learn to read, write and

speak in their native language – in thiscase, Spanish – ultimately read betterin English.

This is supported by bilingual edu-cation studies, including researchdone by Jim Cummins, Ph.D., a Mod-ern Language Centre professor at theUniversity of Toronto.

“When children continue to developtheir abilities in two or more lan-guages throughout their primaryschool years, they gain a deeper un-derstanding of language and how touse it effectively,” wrote Cummins in apaper titled, “Bilingual Children’sMother Tongue: Why Is It Importantfor Education?”

At St. Vrain, parents have the optionto opt-out of the program, says Renal-di, but if a student starts it is recom-mended that they continue through

third grade.

Every teacher in the district hasbeen trained in English language de-velopment and sheltered content in-struction. St. Vrain is also working ona program to train all teachers andstaff in cultural diversity with a focuson respect – not simply awareness – ofother cultures.

Six of the eight bilingual schools arereceiving stimulus funds, because oftheir Title I status, that will allow thedistrict to hire new teachers with abackground in literacy and ESL tohelp with the transition that happensbetween third and fourth grade.

“Our teachers and staff at our bilin-gual schools do an amazing job,” Re-naldi says. “It’s a rewarding piece ofwork we do.”

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12 Times-Call Publication August 9, 2009 August 9, 2009 Times-Call Publication 13

Continued on 14

St. Vrain ValleySchool DistrictAdministration Offices395 S. Pratt Parkway, Longmont,CO 80501303-776-6200w w w. s t v r a i n . k 1 2 . c o . u s

Alpine Elementary2005 Alpine St., Longmont, CO80501, 720-652-8140http://aes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth grade,International BaccalaureatePrincipal: DeDe FrothinghamOctober 2008 enrollment: 485

Black Rock Elementary2000 Mountain View Blvd., Erie,CO 80516720-890-3995http://bres.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Cathy O’DonnellOctober 2008 enrollment: 656

Blue Mountain Elementary1260 Mountain Drive, Longmont,CO 80503720-652-8220http://bmes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Kristie VenrickOctober 2008 enrollment: 382

Burlington Elementary1051 S. Pratt Parkway, Longmont,CO 80501303-776-8861http://bes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Janis HughesOctober 2008 enrollment: 499

Centennial Elementary10290 Neighbors Parkway,Firestone, CO 80504720-652-8240http://centenniales.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Keith LiddleOctober 2008 enrollment: 471

Central Elementary1020 Fourth Ave., Longmont, CO80501, 303-776-3236http://centrales.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Jim HeckocksOctober 2008 enrollment: 403

Columbine Elementary111 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont,CO 80501, 303-776-2840http://columbinees.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Eddie ClokeOctober 2008 enrollment: 402

Eagle Crest Elementary4444 Clover Basin Drive,Longmont, CO 80503303-485-6073http://eces.stvrain.k12.co.usKindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Ryan BallOctober 2008 enrollment: 484

Erie Elementary4137 E. County Line Road, Erie,CO 80516303-828-3395http://ees.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Larry ShoresOctober 2008 enrollment: 556

Fall River Elementary1400 Deerwood Drive, Longmont,CO 80501720-652-7920http://fres.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Jennifer GuthalsOctober 2008 enrollment: 590

Frederick Elementary555 Eighth St., Frederick, CO80530, 303-833-2456http://fes.stvrain.k12.co.usKindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Karen MusickOctober 2008 enrollment: 509

Hygiene Elementary11968 N. 75th St., Longmont, CO80503720-652-8021http://hes.stvrain.k12.co.usKindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Mike O’DonnellOctober 2008 enrollment: 430

Indian Peaks Elementary1335 S. Judson St., Longmont, CO80501, 303-772-7240http://ipes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Judy OrbanoskyOctober 2008 enrollment: 466

Legacy Elementary7701 Eagle Blvd., Frederick, CO80504720-652-8160http://legacyes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Sean CoreyOctober 2008 enrollment: 480

Loma Linda Elementary333 E. Mountain View Ave., Long-mont, CO 80501, 303-772-4280http://lles.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten though fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Dina Perfetti-DeanyOctober 2008 enrollment: 440

Longmont EstatesElementary1601 Northwestern Road, Long-mont, CO 80503, 720-652-8101http://lees.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Brian ChildressOctober 2008 enrollment: 473

Lyons Elementary338 High St., Lyons, CO 80540303-823-6915http://lyonses.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Christa KepplerOctober 2008 enrollment: 284

Mead Elementary520 Welker Ave., Mead, CO 80542970-535-4488http://mes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Connie BrodtOctober 2008 enrollment: 512

Mountain View Elementary1415 14th Ave., Longmont, CO80501720-652-8261http://mves.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Nancy PitzOctober 2008 enrollment: 373

Niwot Elementary8778 Morton Road, Niwot, CO80503303-652-2828http://niwotes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: Mike KepplerOctober 2008 enrollment: 506

Northridge Elementary1200 19th Ave., Longmont, CO80501, 303-772-3040http://northridgees.stvrain.k12.co.usKindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Rob OrganoskyOctober 2008 enrollment: 418

Prairie Ridge Elementary6632 St. Vrain Ranch Blvd., Fire-stone, CO 80504, 720-494-3641http://pres.stvrain.k12.co.usKindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Kirsten McNeillOctober 2008 enrollment: 404

Rocky Mountain Elem.800 E. Fifth Ave., Longmont, CO80501, 303-772-6750http://rmes.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Stephen HoelOctober 2008 enrollment: 437

Sanborn Elementary2235 Vivian St., Longmont, CO80501303-772-3838http://sanbornes.stvrain.k12.co.usKindergarten through fifth gradePrincipal: John WahlerOctober 2008 enrollment: 404

Spangler Elementary1440 Collyer St., Longmont, CO80501, 720-494-3761http://spangleres.stvrain.k12.co.usPre-kindergarten through fifth grade,bilingualPrincipal: Michelle JohnstoneOctober 2008 enrollment: 415

Altona Middle4600 Clover Basin Drive, Long-mont, CO 80503720-494-3980http://ams.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades sixth through eightPrincipal: Joe MehslingOctober 2008 enrollment: 577

Coal Ridge Middle6201 Booth Drive, Firestone, CO80504303-833-4176http://crms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightPrincipal: Paul TalafuseOctober 2008 enrollment: 754

Erie Middle650 Main St., Erie, CO 80516303-828-3391http://ems.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightPrincipal: Todd BissellOctober 2008 enrollment: 463

Heritage Middle233 E. Mountain View Ave., Long-mont, CO 80501, 303-772-7900http://hms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eight, InternationalBaccalaureatePrincipal: Karrie BorskiOctober 2008 enrollment: 401

Longs Peak Middle1500 14th Ave., Longmont, CO80501303-776-5611http://lpms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightPrincipal: Mathew BuchlerOctober 2008 enrollment: 512

Mead Middle620 Welker Ave., Mead, CO 80542970-535-4446http://mms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightPrincipal: Josh BarnettOctober 2008 enrollment: 350

Sunset Middle1300 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO80501303-776-3963http://sms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightInterim Principal: Dawn MacyOctober 2008 enrollment: 621

Trail Ridge Middle1000 Button Rock Drive,Longmont, CO 80501720-494-3820http://trms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightPrincipal: Tim RootOctober 2008 enrollment: 632

Westview Middle1651 Airport Road, Longmont, CO80503303-772-3134http://wms.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through eightPrincipal: Mark SpencerOctober 2008 enrollment: 591

Lyons Middle/Senior100 S. Second Ave., Lyons, CO80540303-823-6631http://lmshs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades six through 12Principal: Greg WingerOctober 2008 enrollment: 448

St. Vrain ValleySchool District

St. Vrain Valley is Colorado’s 10thlargest school district encompassing morethan 411 square miles including portionsof Boulder, Weld, Larimer and Broomfieldcounties. The District serves 13 communi-ties: Boulder, Broomfield, Dacono, Erie,Firestone, Frederick, Hygiene, Longmont,Lyons, Mead, Niwot, Peaceful Valley andRaymond.

Statistical informationSource: Department of Education 2008 OctoberCountTotal enrollment: 25,751Number of schools: 49Elementary Schools: 25Middle Schools: 9Middle/Senior: 1High Schools: 7Adult Education: 1Charter Schools: 4Montessori School: 1

Student ethnic compositionSource: Department of Education 2008 OctoberCountAmerican Indian: 218Asian: 909Black: 319Hispanic: 6,688Caucasian: 16,600

2009-10 BudgetThe St. Vrain Valley School District

general fund budget is $319,230,632,which includes $75,449,695 in reserves.

Food servicesThe quality food service program

provides meals at a reasonable cost.School meal costs for 2009-10 are:• Breakfast: elementary, $1.25;

secondary, $1.50; adults, $2• Lunch: elementary, $2.25; secondary,

$2.50; adults, $3• Milk, $0.50For students whose families qualify, a

free and reduced cost program is availablefor meals. Weekly lunch menus are postedat schools, announced in school newslet-ters, published in local newspapers,televised on Comcast Cable Education &Local Access Channels and posted atw w w. s t v r a i n . k 1 2 . c o . u s .

Support SuccessThe challenges that face students and

staff in St. Vrain Valley schools cannot bemet without the support of parents andguardians, volunteers, and communityleaders and businesses.

More than 5,000 volunteers partnerwith our schools. Volunteers form part-nerships with teachers, principals, school

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Continued from 12

Erie High3180 WCR 5, Erie, CO 80516303-828-4213http://ehs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades nine through 12Principal: Steve PayneOctober 2008 enrollment: 627

Frederick High600 Fifth St., Frederick, CO 80530303-833-3533http://fhs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades eight through 12Interim Principal: Pete VargasOctober 2008 enrollment: 937

Longmont High1040 Sunset St., Longmont, CO80501303-776-6014http://lhs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades nine through 12Principal: Rick OlsenOctober 2008 enrollment: 1,225

Mead High School12750 WCR 7, Longmont, CO80504720-494-3940w w w. s t v r a i n . k 1 2 . c o . u s / s c h o o l s / m h s /Grades nine and 10Principal: Jim Sundberg

Niwot High8989 E. Niwot Road, Niwot, CO80503, 303-652-2550http://nhs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades nine through 12, InternationalBaccalaureatePrincipal: Dennis DalyOctober 2008 enrollment: 1,344

Silver Creek High4901 Nelson Road, Longmont, CO80503720-494-3721http://schs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades nine through 12Principal: Sherri SchumannOctober 2008 enrollment: 1,054

Skyline High600 E. Mountain View Ave.,Longmont, CO 80501720-494-3741http://shs.stvrain.k12.co.usGrades nine through 12Principal: Patty QuinonesOctober 2008 enrollment: 1,399

Adult Education820 Main St., Longmont, CO 80501303-678-5662http://ae.stvrain.k12.co.usProject Coordinator: MaryWi l l o u g h b yOctober 2008 enrollment: 260

Olde Columbine HighSchool / CareerDevelopment Center1200 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO80501, 720-494-3961, 303-772-3333 (CDC)http://ochs.stvrain.k12.co.usPrincipal: Deniece CookOctober 2008 enrollment: 105

Carbon Valley Academy4040 Coriolis Way, Frederick, CO80504303-774-9555w w w. c a r b o n v a l l e y a c a d e m y. o r gKindergarten through grade 10Principal: Rachel Murphy/PaulTr a u t w e i nOctober 2008 enrollment: 482

Flagstaff Charter Academy2040 Miller Drive, Longmont, CO80501303-651-7900w w w. f l a g s t a f f a c a d e m y. o r gKindergarten through grade eightPrincipal: Andrew MooreOctober 2008 enrollment: 469

Imagine Charter School5753 Twilights Ave. Firestone, CO80504, 303-772-3711w w w. i m a g i n e f i r e s t o n e . c o mPre-kindergarten through grade eightPrincipal: Ralph GarbartOctober 2008 enrollment: 438

St. Vrain CommunityMontessori1055 Delaware Ave., Longmont,CO 80501Phone: TBAKindergarten through grade twoHead Master: Katie Torres

Twin Peaks Charter Academy340 S. Sunset St., Longmont, CO80501, 720-652-8201w w w. t w i n p e a k s c h a r t e r. o r gKindergarten through eighth gradePrincipal: BJ BuchmannOctober 2008 enrollment: 583

staff, and department staff togive selflessly of their timeand expertise to supplementclassroom learning and activi-ties, fundraise for special pro-jects, sponsor activities, par-ticipate as committee mem-bers and more.

Although parents make upthe largest group of volun-teers, senior citizens, businessprofessionals, civic group rep-resentatives and students alsovolunteer on an ongoing ba-sis.

School district leadership2008-09 School Year

• Superintendent ofSchools: Don Haddad, 303-682-7205

• Assistant Superintendentfor Student Achievement:Connie Syferd, 303-682-7328

• Executive Director of Stu-dent Services: Jackie Witting-ton, 303-772-7700

• Executive Director of Hu-man Resources: David Burni-son, 303-682-7237

• Chief Financial Officer:Terry Schueler, 303-682-7201

• Executive Director forAuxiliary Services: Rick Ring,303-682-7405

• Director of Communica-tions: John Poynton, 303-682-7404

• Director of Food Services:Shelly Allen, 303-682-7251

• Facilities and OperationsManager: Bob Lewis, 303-682-7269

• Director of Planning:Scott Toillion, 303-682-7229

• Executive Director In-structional Technology, 303-772-7782

Board of EducationDistrict A: Rick Hammans,

Secretary, 303-823-9019District B: Sandi Searls,

President, 303-652-2559District C: Bob Smith,

Member, 303-776-2412District D: Dori Van Lone,

Member, 303-665-9634District E: John Creighton,

Assistant Secretary/Treasurer,303-682-0907

District F: Rod Schmidt,Vice President, 303-774-7913

District G: Mike Schiers,Member, 720-353-2828

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Find the right after school programMetro Services

For many households nationwide,having two parents working has becomenot only the norm, but a necessity. Thistrend has resulted in after school pro-grams growing more and more importantas the years go on.

Recognizing that, the National After-school Association has identified severalthings parents should look for in an af-terschool program to ensure kids will bewell cared for and enjoy their time oncethe final school bell of the day rings.

StaffThe staff is important when finding

the right fit for your child’s after schoolprogram. One of the things parents mustobserve is the staff’s interaction withchildren. Before deciding on a specificprogram, visit each school your are con-sidering on a typical day to witness howthe staff interacts with kids. The NAAsuggests looking for specific things re-garding the staff’s interaction, includingwhether or not children are treated withrespect and allowed to voice their con-cerns or opinions; how well the staffknows the children in the program, in-cluding their interests and personalities;and the type of atmosphere the staff fos-ters for children, be it positive or nega-tive.

LayoutThe layout of an after school facility is

an important consideration for parents,as well. According to the NAA, a good fa-cility will have plenty of open space foractivities, as well as a quiet area that al-lows kids to do their homework inpeace.

The layout outside of the facility issomething to consider, as well. Kids needto exercise, and parents will want theirkids to have ample outdoor space to playafter a long day at school. Play equip-ment should be available, and equipmentshould be new and not the product ofneglect.

ActivitiesWhile structure is important for kids,

it’s also important for kids to experience

variety. When looking at a given facility,the NAA suggests looking at the pro-gram’s schedule of activities. A variety ofavailable activities will lessen the likeli-hood of kids growing bored with a givenp ro g r a m .

In addition, activities should be stimu-lating. Simply watching TV should notbe acceptable. Rather, activities shouldbe well suited to children’s interests anda g e - a p p ro p r i a t e .

MiscellaneousOther things also need to be consid-

ered before parents can make a final de-cision on an after school program. One

of those things is nutrition. Most afterschool programs will have snacks forkids. Are these snacks healthy? Is thestaff willing to alter their snack items ifparents object?

Another thing to factor in is the struc-ture of the facility. An older building, forinstance, might not be as safe, and itmight also not have adequate ventilation,heating or light. Kids are typically moresusceptible to illness than adults, sothese are important considerations not tobe taken lightly.

To learn more about after school programs, visitw w w. n a a w e b . y o u r m e m b e r s h i p . c o m .

Back to School August 19

St. Vrain Valley School District

21st Century SchoolsSt Vrain Schools offer an expanding variety of

rigorous curricula and program options:

(303) 776-6200 www.stvrain.k12.co.us

■ Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)

■ Math, Engineering, and Science Achievement (MESA)

■ Honors, Pre-Advanced & Advanced Placement (AP)

■ Career & Technical Education (CTE)

■ International Baccalaureate (IB)

■ Visual & Performing Arts (VPA)

■ Leadership & Technology

■ Gifted & Talented (GT)

■ Science & Inquiry

■ World Languages

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m7/30/2009yTCsstair


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Early childhood educationkey to better start

By Summer Stair

Longmont Times-Call

The first five years of a child’s life isfilled with rapid growth and develop-ment. It is estimated that children whodo not receive positive learning experi-ences during this time are likely to startkindergarten two or more years behindkids of the same age. That is why it isimportant for children to receive a quali-ty preschool experience, or the equiva-lent in their home life.

“The greatest opportunity to close thegap before it widens is to give qualitypreschool experiences that are positive,”says Janet Gutman, director of earlychildhood and special education for theSt. Vrain Valley School District.

Throughout the St. Vrain ValleySchool District parents will findpreschool programs that include 3- and4-year-old programs, which are often re-ferred to as pre-kindergarten or pre-k.These programs are meant to ensure achild’s readiness to enter kindergarten atage 5 by helping them learn hard skills,such as letters and math, and soft skills,including strong communication skillsand emotional regulation.

For the 2008-2009 school year, the

district offered 25 preschool programs,and are projecting to increase it to 32 forthe 2009-2010 school year. This willhave at least one preschool program ateach elementary school with seven hav-ing two. Gutman attributes the increaseto not only the district’s five year plan,but to the community’s awareness of theimportance of early education.

The school district has worked hardto offer options to parents and began of-fering preschool through the district asearly as 1983. The Colorado PreschoolProgram or CPP was added in 1994,which opened the door for at-risk stu-dents to get funding to participate in thedistrict’s preschool program. An at-riskstudent is someone who is determinedeligible by many factors including freeor reduced-cost lunches, homelessness,delayed language skills, English as a sec-ond language or poor social skills. Thedistrict currently has 300 slots availablefor CPP funded students.

While the preschools at the charterschools must meet the requirements ofthe Department of Human Services forlicensing they are not considered part ofthe district. According to Mark Pillmore,budget director for the SVVSD, the con-

tract the charter schools have with thedistrict only covers kindergartenthrough 12th grade. However, a charterschool can enter into a contract with thedistrict for CPP slots if they meet the re-quired regulations.

With the help of CPP and qualitypreschool education, the district is hop-ing to not only prepare students forschool, but to prepare them for a betterfuture. The CPP legislative report showsthat students who fail to start schoolready to learn, stay behind and eventual-ly drop out of school, get in trouble withthe law or have emotional difficulties.

While research shows high positivelearning experiences through preschoolis important for at-risk students, it is al-so beneficial to upper and middle classfamilies. The most important thing is forstudents to be ready for school not justacademically, but emotionally. Whetherparents get that through a program oroffer it at home, the end result is a childready to interact and learn.

“High quality preschool programs paylong term benefits,” Gutman says. “Foryears, people have been recognizing theimportance of early learning and the im-portance of preschool.”

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Green school suppliesMetro Services

Nationwide, kids are gearing up fortheir annual return to the classroom.With back to school about to hit fullswing once again, parents and kids alikeare hard at work compiling their lists ofschool supplies so they can be ready togo for that first day of class.

Though it can be hard for parents toget kids excited about going back toschool, doing so can set a positive tonefor the coming school year. In addition,back to school can be a great chance forparents to educate their children aboutthe environment and how even the littlethings, such as buying environmentally-friendly school supplies, can really addup to make a positive impact.

Avoid Disposable ProductsOne of the most effective ways to

make a positive impact on the environ-ment is to purchase reusable products.The average American produces 1,000pounds of trash per year. Environmen-talists note this waste can be reduced byas much as one-third if people simplybegin buying reusable products – and itcan start with school supplies.

Pentel Recycology writing instru-ments, including pens, pencils, markers,and highlighters, are refillable, greatlyreducing their impact on the nation’slandfills. This can be a big help, espe-cially when considering the fact thatAmericans buy more than 6 billion pensand pencils per year, the vast majority ofwhich are disposable.

Buy Recycled Paper ProductsAnother way to instill a sense of envi-

ronmental awareness in children thisback to school season is to buy recycledpaper products. Recycled paper productshelp save wood, water and energy, whilereducing pollution and solid waste.

Buy Products Made fromRecycled Plastic

Paper isn’t the only culprit when itcomes to potentially wasteful products.Non-recycled plastics, in fact, can bedetrimental to the environment o n - re c y -cled plastics.

Back to school shoppers can reducethis unnecessary reliance on non-recy-cled plastics by purchasing productsmade from recycled plastics.

Our Mission:To positively shape the hearts and minds of our students by providing them with:

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Saturday, August 22ndFor a FREE Gymnastics Trial Class

9am to 12pm

303-651-1456 � �� 303-666555111-1114456 � ��

Gymnastics is a great place to begin developing strength, flexibility, and balance for all of your future sports!

Please call to set up an appointment. Space is limited.Available for boys and girls.

��

BTS-130158

Summer To DoVacation

Summer Camp

Clean Garage

Daughter’s First Gyn Visit

- Sports Physical

R & R

Call and we will mail a free handout for teens’ fi rst visit!

HEALTH WISE

• Obstetrics

• Gynecology

• Infertility

• Surgery

• Menopause

• Teen Care• Gardisil

• Dietitian Services

Kim Lane, MD FACOG • Kim Bergeron, MD FACOG630 15th Ave. Suite 200, Longmont • 303-776-5820

BTS-131208

VisitttttVThe fi rst gyn visit is

recommended between 13-15 years of age... before problems arise and usually does not

involve an exam.

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


By Lauren Seaton

Longmont Times-Call

You want your children to eat well,but packing school lunches can be sucha drag. It doesn’t have to be.

Gwen Kuskie is a registered dieticianat Longmont United Hospital and moth-er of two. “A lot of times healthy eatinghas more to do with what you’re not eat-ing enough of,” Kuskie says, referring tovegetables and fruits. She adds that herjob as a mother, is to provide healthyfood. Her kids’ job is to eat it.

One way of doing this is to be cre-ative. But for busy families, some 180days of creativity can be a struggle.Kuskie suggests giving your child a con-tainer that holds hot food – for soup orcasserole – or include a dip for vegeta-bles. Another method is to use small in-dividual containers for fruits and vegeta-bles to emphasize the surprise-factor.

It’s also important to get your kids in-volved. They know what’s mainstreamin their age group and making their ownchoices helps them feel involved.

But starting early is key. According toKuskie, it is harder on both parents and

children to makethe switch from highlyprocessed convenient mealsto fresh and natural foods.

The ultimate and most important as-pect of packing healthy lunches is in-cluding a fruit, vegetable, whole grainand protein. To help with the process,Kuskie recommends “The HealthyLunch Box,” a cookbook by Marie Mc-

Clendon and Cristy Shauck.

Also visit w w w. h e a l t h y l u n c h b o x.blogspot.com for more healthy lunchideas and w w w. t h e c h i l d re n s h o s p i t a l . o rgfor a nutritional consultation. A child’spediatrician is also a good resource.

Eating healthy at schoolFaith Baptist Faith Baptist

SchoolSchool833 15th Ave • Longmont, CO 833 15th Ave • Longmont, CO • Biblical Moral Teaching

• Qualifi ed Dedicated Faculty

• Character Development

• High Academic Standards

• Kindergarten - 12th Grade

• General Education and

College Prep Program

• Disciplined Environment

Call for an appointment

303.776.5677

Band • Choir • Drama

• Journalism

• Computers • Football

• Volleyball • Basketball

A Ministry of Faith Baptist Church

Pastor Rick Cross

�� !�� "�#�� "�� "�#��"�$��"��%�� &��&��'��(� �� )**+,)*-*��.�� /��

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BTS-130167

Now enrolling

for Fall 2009!

Call 303-530-5353 to

arrange a campus tour.

If you want your child to develop a lifelong love of learning, start early. In fact, early educational practices profoundly influence your child’s later success. Give

your child the best start possible at Mountain Shadows Montessori School. Visit our new website at MountainShadows.org to learn more or call us at 303-530-5353 to arrange a campus tour. It’s never too early to start.

Colorado’s trusted leader in Montessori education for 3-year olds through the 6th gradeFully accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale

“It’s hard to choose what I like the best about school because I like everything.”—Mountain Shadows Student

since 2007, age 4

BTS-130164

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Independent SchoolsAlexander Dawson School10455 Dawson DriveLafayette, CO 80026303-665-6679w w w. d a w s o n s c h o o l . o r gKindergarten through grade 12Headmaster: Brian JohnsonEnrollment: 420Type: Collegiate based private schoolAspen Christian School316 15th Ave.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-5866http://aspenchristianschool.orgFirst through eighth gradePrincipal: Lloyd PetersenEnrollment: 12Type: Private ChristianBixby School4760 Table Mesa DriveBoulder, CO 80305303-494-7508w w w. b i x b y s c h o o l . o r gPre-kindergarten through grade fivePrincipal: Pat BakerEnrollment: 155Type: PrivateBoulder Country Day School4820 Nautilus Court N.Boulder, CO 80301303-527-4931w w w. b o u l d e r c o u n t r y d a y. o r gAge 3 through grade eightHead of School: Michael ShieldsEnrollment: 330Type: PrivateBoulder Jewish Day School7415 Lookout RoadLongmont, CO 80503303-449-5569w w w. b j d s . o r gPre-school through grade fiveHead of School: Shoshana Krongold BilavskyEnrollment: 35Type: Private Jewish Community SchoolBridge School6717 S. Boulder RoadBoulder, CO 80303303-494-7551w w w. b r i d g e s c h o o l b o u l d e r. o r gGrades six through 12Head of School: Richard WeeksEnrollment: 30Type: PrivateBroomfield Academy7203 West 120th St.Broomfield, CO 80020303-469-6449w w w. b r o o m f i e l d a c a d e m y. c o mJunior kindergarten through grade 6Head of School: Dr. Vanessa EwingEnrollment: 85Type: PrivateChildren’s House of Weld County:Montessori Preschool &Kindergarten3801 Weld County Road 18Erie, CO 80516303-651-3215

w w w. c h i l d r e n s h o u s e w c . c o mPreschool through kindergartenDirector: Susan HalkinEnrollment: 50Type: MontessoriCornerstone Preschool1000 W. 15th Ave.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-3081w w w. b e t h l e h e m - l u t h e r a n . n e t / c o r n e r s t o n eAges 3 to 5Director: Andrea BeckerEnrollment: 50Type: ChristianDesiderata School15785 N. 83rd St.Longmont, CO 80503303-678-9335w w w. d e s i d e r a t a s c h o o l . c o mKindergarten through grade 12Head of School: Larame SpenceEnrollment: 50Type: PrivateEastern Sun Academy6717 S. Boulder RoadBoulder, CO 80303303-443-3302w w w. e a s t e r n s u n a c a d e m y. o r gKindergarten through grade 5Head of School: Steven SachsEnrollment: 80Type: Contemplative educationFaith Baptist School833 15th Ave.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-5677http://fbslongmont.orgKindergarten through grade 12Administrator: Dan PerrymanEnrollment: 195Type: Private ChristianFr i e n d s ’ School5465 Pennsylvania Ave.Boulder, CO 80303303-499-1999w w w. f r i e n d s s c h o o l b o u l d e r. o r gPre-school through grade fiveHead of School: Polly DonaldEnrollment: 172Type: Independent private schoolGateway Montessori School1500 Ninth Ave.Longmont, CO 80501303-772-3864http://gatewaymontessorischool.netPre-school through kindergartenDirector: Linda GottschalkEnrollment: 50Type: American Montessori Society certifiedGoddard School1095 Olympia Ave.Longmont, CO 80501303-772-3501w w w. g o d d a r d s c h o o l . c o mInfant through pre-kindergarten, after schoolDirector: Debbie BeethelType: Early childhood development

Continued on 20

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115...

2030 Terry St., Suite B, Longmont71 Erie Parkway #103, Erie

www.littlebritches.com

Dentistry for Babiesand

“Little Britches”Richard Abrams, DDS

Tim Nichols, DDS

303.651.3733Serving Boulder County kids

for over a decade!Open Monday through Friday! Offering a free baby exam before the

age of 2!

Keeping kids happy and smiling for

over 10 years!

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Hillside School6717 S. Boulder RoadBoulder, CO 80303303-494-1468w w w. h i l l s i d e l e a r n i n g . o r gGrades one through eightDirector: Kathy ShermanEnrollment: 32Type: Program for students with learningdifferencesJarrow Montessori School3900 Orange CourtBoulder, CO 80304303-443-0511w w w. j a r r o w. o r gPre-kindergarten through grade 6Head of School: Barb TruanType: MontessoriLongmont Christian School550 Coffman St.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-3254w w w. l o n g m o n t c h r i s t i a n . o r gPre-kindergarten through grade 12Principal: Donnie BennettEnrollment: 300Type: Private ChristianMessiah Lutheran School1335 Francis St.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-3466w w w. m e s s i a h l c . t e a m m i n i s t r y. n e tPre-kindergarten through grade fiveInterim Director: Angela SitzEnrollment: 72Type: Private ChristianMount Zion Lutheran School1680 Balsam Ave.Boulder, CO 80304303-443-8477w w w. m t z i o n b o u l d e r. o r gToddlers through grade twoEC Director: Cheryl WuEnrollment: 56Type: Private LutheranMountain Shadows Montessori4154 63rd St.Boulder, CO 80301303-530-5353w w w. m o u n t a i n s h a d o w s . o r gPre-school through grade sixExecutive Director: Frank VincentEnrollment: 100Type: MontessoriMountains Peak Private School1833 Sunset Place, Ste. E & FLongmont, CO 80501720-494-1622w w w. m o u n t a i n p e a k s c h o o l . c o mPre-school through grade sixDirector: Tom BuckettEnrollment: 60Type: PrivateOur Savior’s Evangelical LutheranSchool1219 W. 17th Ave.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-1688w w w. O u r S a v i o r s O n 1 7 t h . o r gPre-kindergarten through grade eight

Principal: Dane MattesEnrollment: 25Type: Parochial schoolThe Patchwork School in Louisville1428 Main St.Louisville, CO 80027720-271-6729w w w. t h e p a t c h w o r k s c h o o l . c o mPreschool through kindergartenDirectors: Michele Beach and Elizabeth BakerEnrollment: 28Type: Independent alternativePleasant Hill Academy421 21st Ave., Ste. 203Longmont, CO 80501303-682-5309Kindergarten through grade 12Director: Linda RittnerEnrollment: 100Type: Private nonprofitPrimrose School of Longmont1335 Dry Creek DriveLongmont, CO 80503303-774-1919w w w. p r i m r o s e s c h o o l s . c o mInfants through preschool and kindergarten,before and after school programDirector: Carrie DickersonEnrollment: 145Type: Private Childcare CenterRocky Mountain ChristianAcademy9447 Niwot RoadNiwot, CO 80503303-652-9162w w w. r m c a o n l i n e . o r gEarly education through grade eightHeadmaster: Brett KingEnrollment: 440Type: Christian ClassicalRocky Mountain School for theGifted and Creative5490 Spine RoadBoulder, CO 80301303-545-9230w w w. r m s . o r gPre-kindergarten through grade eightPrincipal: Barbara Mitchell HuttonEnrollment: 75Type: PrivateRunning River School1370 Forest Park CircleLafayette, CO 80026303-499-2059w w w. r u n n i n g r i v e r. o r gKindergarten through grade eightDirector: Nancy MonsonEnrollment: 40Type: PrivateSacred Heart of Jesus CatholicSchool1317 Mapleton Ave.Boulder, CO 80304303-447-2362w w w. s h j b o u l d e r. o r gKindergarten through grade eightPastor: Father William BreslinType: Private Catholic

Continued on 21

Continued from 19

The Tiny Tim Center611 Korte ParkwayLongmont, 303.776.7417www.tinytimcenter.org

BTS-130149

Teaching diversity, empathy, respect and friendship

for kids of all needs and walks of life.

Program Benefi ts:• 1:4 Teacher to Child ratio

• Individualized attention

• Inclusive environment

• High quality preschool program with NAEYC certifi cation

• LINK Program: an extra year of instruction to prepare 5 year olds for

“traditional” kindergarten.

Fall Registration now open for

3, 4, & 5 year olds

We build strong kids, strong families,strong communities.

®

YMCALONGMONT

Ed& RuthLehman

™

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU.Before and After Schoolprograms for grades K-5

at five sites.

Transportation to and frommost area schools.

Full day childcareand

half day preschool too.

Call DirectorGiselle Lehmann at

720-652-4731for program availability

and schedule.

AUDITIONSFor musicians grades 1 through 12

August 22, 2009To schedule an audition call: 303-651-0167

Music Directors: Mr. Keynes Chen & Ms. Danielle Crisman • www.longmontyouthsymphony.org

131128

from 6:00 - 9:30 p.m.Located on Main Street in

Downtown Longmont, Between 3rd & Longs Peak Ave.

fAugust 28,, 2009 2009AAAAAAuuggussAAAAAuuggussAAAAAFriday

Kids Rides & Activities, Street Performers, Downtown’s Finest Food, LSBA

Expo, Shops & More!Performers

Free

For further information call the LDDA at 303.651.8484 or visit www.festivalonmain.com

WhereLONGMONTHappens

& Past Due&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&Raising CainRaising Cain

d yyFridaFridayidayyF idaFriday

Featuring on Stage:Featuring on Stage:

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


St. John the Baptist CatholicSchool350 Emery St.Longmont, CO 80501303-776-8760w w w. j o h n t h e b a p t i s t . o r gPre-kindergarten through grade eightPrincipal: Julie RossiType: Private CatholicSt. Stephens Christian School1303 S. Bross LaneLongmont, CO 80501303-776-1072 ext. 5w w w. s t s t e p h e n s l o n g m o n t . c o mPreschool and Pre-kindergartenDirector: Kathy FultonEnrollment: 40Type: Private ChristianSeptember High School1902 Walnut St.Boulder, CO 80302303-443-9933w w w. s e p t e m b e r s c h o o l . o r gGrades nine through 12Principal: Dan FoxEnrollment: 48Type: Non-Profit Alternative/PrivateShepherd Valley Waldorf School6500 W. Dry Creek ParkwayNiwot, CO 80503303-652-0130w w w. s h e p h e r d v a l l e y. o r gPre-kindergarten through grade eightPrincipal: Linda AbelkisEnrollment: 140Type: PrivateShining Mountain Waldorf School999 Violet Ave.Boulder, CO 80304303-444-7697

h t t p : / / s m w a l d o r f. o r gPreschool through grade 12Administrative Director: Agaf DancyEnrollment: 300Type: Waldorf schoolSylvan Learning Center1834 N. Main St., Unit 9Longmont, CO 80501303-485-3218w w w. e d u c a t e . c o mKindergarten through adultDirector: Brianna WeberType: Supplemental educationTara Performing Arts High School4180 19th StreetBoulder, Co 80304303-440-4510w w w. t a r a h i g h s c h o o l . o r gGrades nine through 12Administrator: Gregory FisherEnrollment: 40Type: Private/Waldorf schoolVista Ridge Academy3100 Ridge View Dr.Erie, CO 805016303-828-4944w w w. v i s t a r i d g e a c a d e m y. o r gKindergarten throughgrade 12Principal: Carol SchneiderEnrollment: 115Type: Private ChristianWatershed School205 CanyonBoulder, CO 80302303-440-7520w w w. w a t e r s h e d s c h o o l . o r gGrades six through 12Head of School: Jason BervEnrollment: 75Type: Private non-profit

Continued from 20

Benefits of school uniformsMetro Services

Uniforms are typically the norm at private schoolsacross the country. But more public schools are hop-ping on the uniform bandwagon, too. Here’s lookingat how uniforms can be a benefit.

SafetyA school uniform makes it easier for school per-

sonnel to identify members of the student class. It al-so prevents gangs from displaying gang colors.

AppropriatenessIndividuals have different tastes and beliefs when

it comes to what is appropriate to wear. Rather thanschools having to police what you’re wearing, a uni-form makes it easy for them to focus on more impor-tant issues.

ConvenienceThink about how much time you devote to pick-

ing out clothes. With a uniform, all you do is slip onthe required items without any thought on how oth-ers will view you in these clothes.

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �

��

��

1311

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MPPS Students Test Scores – Top 10% of the Nation.Basic Reading Composite: 44% scored in the top10%. Reading Comprehension: 63% scored in the top 10%. Mathematics Composite: 34% scored in the top 10%. Written Expression: 50% scored in the top 10%.

Many of our talented students tested more than a year above grade level – 63% for Reading and 41% for Math.

�� An independent, nonsectarian school for Preschool – 6th grade.

Mountain Peak Students are thriving in an environment with:� ��

� �� (not ability grouping), � �� all things that set our school apart from public, charter and other private schools in the area.

Limited Space Available

for 2009-2010 BTS-129922

St. Stephen’s Christian School Longmont

1303 S. Bross Lane 303-776-1072 x5Contact - Candace 303-772-7080

Ages: 3-7 Licensed September - MayProgram Days: 3 - 4 year olds T/TH or T/W/TH

4 - 5 year olds T/W/TH8:45-11:15 a.m. 11:45-2:15 p.m. (Minimum of 10 students needed)

www.ststephenslongmont.comA fun, educational environment that teaches Christian values and positive self-image.

St. Stephen’s is a well established preschool and is highly recommended by past and present families who have had children attend. Small classes with certifi ed teachers 1:6 ratio.

1311

34

303.833.9001 � 6501 Frederick Waywww.creativeyears.org

Now Enrolling Future Artists,Astronauts, Architects and

Accountants

Toddler Programs � Preschool ProgramsSchool Age Programs

Kindergarten Enrichment Program

Drop-In Care

Flexible Schedules

Proudly ServingCarbon Valley

131401

at LifeBridgeChristian Church

Ages 2½ to 6 years

303-776-5897www.mysonshinedaycare.com

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, MySpace...How to talk to teens about social networkingMetro Services

It’s no secret young people growing up today aremore technologically advanced than older generationslike the baby boomers. In those days, communicatingwith friends was done primarily by talking on the tele-phone, writing a note or speaking face-to-face. Therewas no e-mailing, text messaging, IM’ing (instant mes-saging) or posting comments on personal Web pages.

In schools today, instead of passing notes, studentscan send text messages on their cell phones and com-municate online with their friends or with people theydon’t know, and this makes it difficult for parents tomonitor their child’s online activities. In addition toe-mailing and text messaging, communicating via socialnetworking sites is becoming more common for botholder and younger generations. In fact, in January 2009Facebook alone reported they had 150 millionactive users. In addition, according to Common SenseMedia, 55 percent of teens have an online profile onsocial networking sites.

“Social networking sites can be great resources forstaying in contact with people, reconnecting with oldfriends, meeting people with common interests, andgetting questions answered, but unfortunately not ev-eryone who uses the Internet and social networkingsites has honest intentions,” says Jay Opperman, SeniorDirector of Security and Privacy at Comcast.

What does this all mean? It means parents should:1) become familiar with online socialnetworks like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn andMySpace; and 2) talk to your children about theimportance of being safe and smart whilecommunicating online.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when talking toyour teens about the Internet and social networks.

Tip 1Choose your pictures wisely. Pictures can say a thou-

sand words. If you decide to post a picture of yourselfonline, be cautious about what you post.

“Do not use a picture that will embarrass you fiveyears down the road because if you delete the picture, itwill never go away. What goes online, stays online,”says Opperman. “Think about these questions: If I postthis picture, could it prevent me from getting a scholar-ship or a job in the future? What if the person or per-sons I share my picture with, shares it with others?”

Tip 2Don’t talk to strangers and use privacy settings.

Sometimes people aren’t always who they say they areand the Internet provides an additional means of beinganonymous. Remember, everyone in the world doesn’thave your best interests at heart and some people arelooking to prey on children and teens online. Socialnetworking sites have privacy settings so you can con-trol who can see your personal page. The settings can’tprotect you 100 percent, but they are helpful.

Tip 3Keep your personal information personal. Don’t

share personal information such as your last name, par-ents’ or siblings’ names, phone number, address, socialsecurity number or where you like to hang out. Peoplewith dishonest intentions can use this information tofind you or steal your identity.

Tip 4Don’t be a cyberbully. Don’t bully people online or

in person. You wouldn’t appreciate a schoolmate oreven a stranger posting embarrassing or harassinginformation about you or threatening you online sodon’t do that to someone else. Online, this is called

cyberbullying, and now more states are passing anti-cy-berbullying laws.

Tip 5Go outside and stay active. Technology is fascinating

and it keeps us connected, but don’t let the Internet dis-connect you from other things that are important inlife. Spend time with family and friends in person.

Since the Internet is such a big part of teens’ lives today,parents and children need to discuss how to properly use socialnetworking sites to ensure their safety. (Metro Services)

1 in 4 children have an undetected vision 1 in 4 children have an undetected vision problem that can interfere with learning.problem that can interfere with learning.

eyec e n t e rCARE

of northern colorado, pc

Back To School Kids’ Packages

1400 Dry Creek Drive, Longmont300 Exempla Circle, Ste. 120, Lafayette

303.772.3300

Package #1: $99Single vision lenses with poly budget frame

Package #2: $129Single vision lenses with poly deluxe frame

Comprehensive Eye Exam: $89Not valid with any other off ers or insurance. Glasses package price does not include comprehensive eye exam. Other restictions may apply. Expires 9/30/09.

A comprehensive eye exam measures a number of visual skills

that are critical to a child’s healthy vision. To ensure optimal eye

health, development and learning performance,

schedule an appointment today!

William L. Benedict, MDJoel S. Meyers, MDIrene Olijnyk, MD

Micah Rothstein, MDPeter R. Andrews, MDRobert Krone, OD

BTS-131198

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


Must-haves for techy studentsMetro Services

There used to be a time when a student couldmake the grade with a looseleaf binder and a fewpens and pencils. Today’s students lean toward ahigher-tech arsenal of gadgets to ensure a goodgrade point average.

Here are some gadgets and gizmos many studentsprefer that can make school time fun, efficient anddownright techy.

Laptop ComputerStudents are continually understanding the bene-

fits of investing in a laptop computer for schoolwork – not just for updating MySpace or Facebookposts. They can always have assignments a mouseclick away, and are able to easily type notes andstart on assignments in free time. Most laptopscome with an array of software that can easilybe used for school purposes. For example, usecalendar functions to keep track of assignmentsand other school to-do lists. Manage friends andteacher contact information in your address book,then simply link to your e-mail program for quicknotes and assignment questions. Bookmark teacherassignment Web sites or your school homepage tokeep track of the latest news.

Mobile PhoneYo u ’d probably be hard-pressed to find a student

who didn’t have a mobile phone these days, butthere still are the rare students who have managedto survive without one until now. However, asmany school districts broadcast emergency newsover a phone- or e-mail-based information system,having a cell phone takes on a new security-mindedrole. While no one wants to think about a potentialsecurity threat on campus, the reality is theirprevalence has increased in recent years. Havinga phone close by to receive either a call or ane-mail alert can help save lives.

Digital Voice RecordersStudents of all ages are recognizing the benefits

of recording class lessons for future playback.Recording teachers’ dictation can serve as a backupto handwritten notes, or allow students to tran-scribe their notes at a later time. It’s also a goodway to retrace steps and prepare for midterm orperiodic tests that run the gamut of classroommaterial. Olympus makes a variety of digitalvoice recorders that can quickly transfer digital filesto a computer for future playback. Or for an evenmore efficient way of notetaking, explore the possi-bilities with the Livescribe Pulse Digital Smartpen.This digital pen creates digital copies of everythingyou write by hand while recording audio at thesame time. It can also link the audio with yournotes.

131126

Restrictions may apply. See store for details.

DESIGN • PRINT • COPY • SHIP

it’s Backto School!

We can help. PostNet.

Open Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm, Sat: 10am-3pm

ST. VRAIN CENTRE • 303-651-98931067 S. Hover St, Unit E • Longmont

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Custom Graphic Design • Print School Projects • Sports Programs • Tickets • Awards • More

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BtS

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408...

m7/30/2009yTCsstair


School buses safe for students, environment

School buses have been proven safe for students seekingtransportation and good for the environment. (Liz O.Baylen/ARA)

Article Resource Association

Parents are tasked with makingmany decisions that affect the qual-ity of education their children re-ceive. One of those choices, trans-portation to and from school, playsa more important role than momsand dads may realize.

The yellow school bus is a reli-able form of transportation thatprovides 26 million students withaccess to education daily. But notonly does it enable their education-al achievement, it does so in a man-ner that ensures their safety andthat of the environment.

“Riding the bus is the safest,most efficient way to get childrento school,” says John McKinney,vice president and general managerof Bus Vehicle Center for IC Cor-poration and member of the Ameri-can School Bus Council. “Our in-dustr y’s commitment to updatingbuses, installing new safety featuresand properly training school busdrivers will help to ensure the yel-low school bus remains the safestmode of transportation for our na-

tion’s students.”According to the Transportation

Research Board, a part of the Na-tional Academy of Science, a childis 13 times safer in a school busthan in other modes of travel.

Part of what makes school busesso safe is their ability to be identi-fied, thanks to their color and size.The bus’s height provides the busdriver with good visibility and liftsthe passenger compartment abovea car’s point of impact. Buses are al-so more impact resistant than cars.

Laws that require drivers to stoptheir cars when they see a schoolbus’ flashing red lights, help keepstudents safe. The stop sign thatdeploys during boarding and un-loading and a crossing arm thatforces children to walk where thebus driver can see them are addi-tional safety features that help toprotect children from harm’s way.

But it is not just the bus itselfthat provides safety measures,school bus drivers are trained notonly to drive safely, but to identifysigns of emotional and physical

distress of the children they drive.

Ride Yellow and Go GreenChoosing the yellow school bus

is also a safer transportation choicefor the environment. According toindustry estimates, the nation’sschool bus transportation systemcarries more than half of the coun-tr y’s children to school each day,saving an estimated 17.3 millioncars from roads surroundingschools each morning. By reducingthe number of cars on the road, it isestimated the school bus trans-portation system eliminates theneed for 2.3 billion gallons of fuela n n u a l l y.

School bus manufacturers alsomake large investments in newdiesel, natural-gas, liquid propaneinjection (LPI), electric hybrid andother engines to further reducepollution. All newly constructedschool buses must meet newsmog restriction regulations byreducing soot and smog-causingemissions by 90 and 95 percent,re s p e c t i v e l y.

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Make Sure Your Kids’ Smiles Are Make Sure Your Kids’ Smiles Are Back To School Ready!Back To School Ready!

303-678-7800 • Corner of Main & Mtn View • 1246 N. Main

nt

BTS-131199

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