Special Education News
It is hard to believe that the first half of the year is already coming to a close. It seems as though time moves quicker, the older I get, and there are so many moments as parents and educators when we wish time would just slow down. One of those moments for me was Friday, December 6th, when I had the immense pleasure of attending Niwot High School’s Unified Theater Production of "High School Musical."
Watching this performance was a powerful reminder of the magic that happens when creativity, inclusion, and determination come together. The students, supported by an incredible team of educators, families, and peers, poured their hearts into every song, line, and movement on that stage. Their talent and joy were not only inspiring but also a testament to what we can achieve when we work together as a community to ensure everyone has a chance to shine.
This season also reminds us to pause and celebrate progress—whether it’s a student achieving a new milestone, a successful collaboration between teams, or the simple joy of seeing a child confidently share their gifts with the world. These moments are what make our work so rewarding and impactful.
As we look ahead to the second half of the year, I encourage each of us to carry forward the spirit of collaboration and inclusion that we witnessed during the Unified Theater production. Let’s continue to embrace challenges, celebrate successes, and remain steadfast in our mission to provide every student with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to reach their fullest potential.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment. Wishing you all a joyful and restful holiday season filled with moments for which we wish time would just slow down.
Warm regards,
Emily Scott
Director of Special Education
LSACE Students Build District and Community Connections Through Their Pet Treat Business
On Friday mornings, the cafeteria at Main Street smells of delicious, warm baked treats. The aroma fills the hallway, as students in the Life Skills Alternative Cooperative Education (LSACE) program are making delicious peanut butter dog treats for their pet treat business, Main Treat. Read more>>>
Erie High School's First Unified Percussion Program Brings Students Together
This year, Erie High School launched Unified Percussion, a program where students of all abilities come together to play music. This group meets every other day, and during these classes, students engage in activities such as learning percussion techniques and practicing as an ensemble. The program pairs students with and without disabilities, providing the opportunity to collaborate, create music, and build lasting connections. Read more>>>
Trail Ridge Middle School Leads the Way With Unified Theater Program
Trail Ridge Middle School has become the first middle school in St. Vrain Valley Schools to introduce a Unified Theater program, a milestone that highlights the school’s dedication to providing meaningful opportunities for students of all abilities. Building on its strong Unified program, which has earned numerous awards, including this year’s “Chaka Sutton” Unified Champion School of the Year from Special Olympics Colorado, the theater initiative showcases the schools focus on fostering collaboration and connections. Read more>>>
Unified Bowling Season Ends on a High Note
Another great Unified Bowling season has concluded with bowlers from Erie High School, Frederick High School, and Silver Creek High School competing in the 5th Annual CHSAA State Unified Bowling Tournament on November 22nd.
With a score of 620, Silver Creek earned the third place trophy out of 28 teams in the state. Click here to view all championship results.
Congrats to all the Unified Bowling teams on a great season! It is always such a joy to watch bowlers having fun and showcasing their skills.
The district's School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP) was awarded a $1000 grant from the SVVSD Education Foundation to provide transportation for students to explore post-secondary opportunities and workplace experiences.
Transportation is one of the largest barriers SWAP students face when exploring post-secondary and work-based learning experiences. SWAP is using the grant funds to provide transportation for experiences during the school year, spring break, and the summer months.
SWAP's annual Career Pathways Summit will take place on Friday, March 7th at Timberline Church in Fort Collins. SWAP sites from the Northern Colorado region collaborate on this event where students choose a career pathway and engage in Work Based Learning with employers from that pathway. Career Pathways include: Automotive, Construction Trades, Heavy Equipment, Technology, Hospitality, Medical, Cosmetology, and Animal Care. In one day, students participate in hands-on activities, network with professionals, explore careers, and consider post-secondary options for their future.
Questions? Contact Ryan Burch, School to Work Alliance Program Coordinator
burch_ryan@svvsd.org, 303-772-7700 x57894
