Elementary News and Updates (03/09/25)

Dear Elementary School Families,

We have had a couple of really fun weeks celebrating all things reading and raising money to grant Max’s wish. Next week is the final week of the third quarter. If you have not signed up for a parent teacher conference yet, I encourage you to do so. These conferences are a great way to connect with your student’s teacher on their progress thus far and determine a plan to finish strong. Students are more successful in school when there is a strong parent teacher partnership. 

Here are a few important announcements:

Toys and Stuffed Animals: Just as a friendly reminder we do not allow our students to bring toys and stuffed animals to school. We have seen a large increase of students bringing toys or stuffed animals to school. This causes distraction in the classroom and students run the risk of losing things that are really important to them. Please do not allow your students to bring toys or stuffed animals to school. 

PTO Appreciation Lunch: A special thank you to our amazing PTO for providing a delicious and much-appreciated soup and salad bar for our staff. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are truly valued. We are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support.

Summer Enrichment and Academic Opportunities: We are thrilled to announce our exciting summer school and enrichment offerings designed to engage and challenge our elementary schoolers! This summer, we will be providing a diverse range of programs to keep your children engaged and learning throughout the summer, including:

• Early Reading Intervention (K-2nd) – INVITE ONLY – Student will work with licensed teachers  on building foundation reading skills in a fun and engaging way
• FRC Lego Robotics Camp (4th-6th): Learn the basic concepts of robotics engineering using LEGO Mindstorm EV3 kits and software, while collaborating with teammates to build, program, and bring your creations to life!

• 3D Modeling Camp (1st -6th): Explore the mysteries of space, learning about the sun, moon, and stars through hands-on experiments.

• Camp Invention (K-6th): Exciting challenges will spark curiosity and build confidence to explore limitless STEM fun, full of opportunities to imagine, experiment, and create.

• Chess  Camp (K-6th): Dive into 16 dynamic, interactive chess lessons, then test your skills in 16 epic solo and team competitions – the ultimate chess showdown awaits!

• Roblox (2nd-6th): Jump into game design and learn to create your own worlds in Roblox!

• Coed Basketball Camp (3rd -5th) Enjoy a fun week of basketball under the direction of STEM HS Girls Basketball Head Coach Jeff Hager as well as STEM HS Players. Learn the sport or sharpen your skills, this camp will offer fun and basketball development for all levels.

Detailed information, including dates, times, and registration details, can be found on our website. We ask that you register soon so that we can secure proper staffing for each activity offered. Prices will increase in April.  For more information about Summer at STEM, click HERE and register today! 

Yearbook: Families can order the 2024-25 yearbook by visiting the link below or going to dr-photo.com, selecting “Order Your Yearbook,” and when prompted, enter STEM The direct link is: https://www.prepaysystems.com/view/9d0spDJW/stem-highlands-ranch-elementary-yearbook

Important Dates

March 10 – 14 – Parent Teacher Conversations 

March 13 – Kindergarten Field Trip to Museum of Nature and Science

March 14 – Early Release 

March 17 – 21 – Spring Break

March 25 – Class Photos

March 27 – 2nd Grade Field Trip to Denver Aquarium

April 1 – STEM Board Meeting (5:30pm)

April 7 – 11 – CMAS Testing (elementary)

April 9 – STEM PTO Meeting (6:30pm)

April 11 – Early Release

April 16 – STEM SAC Meeting (5:30pm)

April 18 – 3rd Grade Field Trip to Skate City

Have a wonderful week. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns. 

In Partnership, 

Amie McElroy, Elementary Director