Over the next two weeks, teachers will be conducting Middle of the Year (MOY) assessments with students using a variety of tools including i-Ready and DIBELS. These mid-year assessments provide teachers with a variety of information including what students have learned so far this school year. This is especially important as many students entered the school year behind where they might have been had all students been consistently learning in-person last year. This loss of learning, aptly named the “COVID slide” is being monitored and addressed by teachers through the collection of information on students’ individual progress, developing prescriptive individualized learning plans, and differentiating classroom instruction.
Thank you for partnering with teachers during this important time!
Cold Weather in The Forecast
We have been fortunate this year to have mild temperatures extending into December. However, the forecast this week includes several days with highs in the upper 30s.
- As a reminder, unless the temperature is less than 23 degrees including wind-chill and/or conditions of precipitation are present, students will go outdoors for recess.
- Please ensure students are dressed appropriately for the weather including heavy coats, hats, and gloves.
- Don’t forget to label all items brought to school with the student’s first and last name using a permanent marker!
Holiday Happenings
Holidays Around the World
Holiday s Around the World will be celebrated on Thursday, December 16th with classrooms focusing on different countries and their celebrations.
- December 16th is also a half-day for students (students dismissed at 12:00 pm).
- The dress code for the day is holiday wear (including but not limited to ugly Christmas sweaters!)
Staff Recognition
Apple Awards Nominations
We value and appreciate all of our outstanding educators and staff here in GVA-DC and are thrilled that the Foundation for Douglas County Schools is gearing up to host the 16th Annual Apple Awards on April 2, 2022.
- Nominations for Apple Awards are now open until Sunday, December 12!
- Please consider nominating a GVA-DC educator or staff member who is inspiring a love of learning in students.
COVID Resources
COVID At-Home Rapid Testing Program
To make sure Coloradans have the tools they need to keep their families safe,
- The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is providing free over-the-counter tests for parents, guardians, and caregivers to administer to school-aged children at home. Learn more
COVID Vaccination Clinics (Pediatric Vaccines)
- Be sure to check this website for a list of COVID vaccination clinics in our community. For example, the former Safeway location in Castle Pines has many appointments available for COVID vaccines for ages 5-11.
- Click here to schedule.
Student Safety & Daylight Savings
Recently, a DCSD student was struck by a motorist while crossing the road to get to school. Fortunately, the student is recovering, but this incident is a "wake up call" to remind ALL drivers & pedestrians that the daylight savings time change now puts the sunrise at an angle that will cause vision problems for many Eastbound drivers during the same time students are arriving at schools in the morning.
When traveling to and from GVA-DC please be extra cautious and slow down (especially when driving Eastbound). In addition, do not use the staff parking lot on the west side of the building for parking, dropping off students or turning around due to student movement across the lot and reduced visibility.
Looking Ahead
Monday, December 6th
- ENCORE Winter Recital at 5:30 pm (Cafeteria)
Tuesday, December 7th
- Vision and Hearing Screening
- Coffee with the Principal at 8:30 am- 9:30 am
- SAC Meeting at 4:30 pm (Art Room)
Wednesday, December 8th
- BOD Meeting at 6:30 pm (Cafeteria)
Thursday, December 18th
- Holidays Around the World
- (Ugly) Holiday Sweater Day
- 12:00 pm Release for Students
Friday, December 19th
- Staff Work Day-No Students
December 20th – January 3rd
- Winter Break- No School
Tuesday, January 4th
- Teacher Work Day- No Students
Wednesday, January 5th
- Students Return!!
Have an amazing week!
Stacy Bush
Principal, GVA Douglas County