Gold Rush Elementary
Principal's Message - August 29, 2025
We loved seeing so many of our families at Back to School Night Wednesday! This annual event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your child’s teacher, explore the classroom, and get a glimpse of the exciting year ahead. Families also had the chance to learn about priority learning outcomes and favorite classroom activities that make each year memorable.
During the school presentation, I had the opportunity to share Gold Rush’s goals for the year:
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Implement Additional Literacy Assessments -Teachers will use new literacy assessments to better target students’ individual reading and writing goals. These goals will guide small group instruction and ensure students receive the materials and support they need.
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Incorporate SRSD Writing Framework – We are implementing the SRSD framework to strengthen students’ informational writing skills. This structure not only provides a predictable planning process but also builds the resilience needed for more complex tasks.
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Continue to Progress Monitor in Math – Teachers will continue developing informal assessments to check student progress more frequently on key math learning targets.
We are also excited to welcome our new half-time counselor, Mrs. Merkley, who will support our ongoing efforts to nurture students’ social and emotional growth. Mrs. Merkley will work with returning full time counselor, Mrs. Fitch. Together they will provide students with the tools and confidence needed to embrace new experiences and learning.
Finally, I was proud to highlight our students’ outstanding achievement on the Spring 2025 CMAS assessments. Gold Rush students in grades 3–5 significantly exceeded both the state and District in literacy, math, and science. These results reflect the dedication of our students, staff, and families—we could not be prouder of our collective work!
For additional details, please click on the presentation link below to view the full school presentation. Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we embark on another exciting year at Gold Rush!
This week Gold Rush had the privilege of hosting administrators from across the Parker Region. During their visit, our staff highlighted our math acceleration model that supports students in grades K–5.
At Gold Rush, we are committed to ensuring that all students are challenged academically. For many, the grade-level curriculum paired with classroom extensions or interventions provides just the right level of productive struggle. For others who are ready for more advanced work, we provide an accelerated math track. Students are identified for acceleration using multiple data points, both formal and informal, to ensure instruction is tailored to their needs.
Currently, 168 students “flex up” one or even two grade levels for math. We are proud to offer a variety of pathways to meet the needs of all learners, from those who benefit most from strong core instruction to those who thrive with acceleration.
Our students’ resilience and drive in math are evident in their results. On the Spring 2025 CMAS assessments, students in grades 3–5 demonstrated high levels of both growth and achievement in math.
As always, we are grateful for your partnership at home. By encouraging perseverance and promoting a growth mindset—the belief that all students can excel—you play a vital role in your child’s success.
It’s time for our annual Digger Dash fun run, a Gold Rush tradition that brings together fitness, fun, and school spirit! This year, we are excited to raise funds for a new school marquee. This colorful sign will allow us to share upcoming events and highlight our students’ achievements with the entire community. Every donation goes directly toward making this project a reality.
The Digger Dash will take place on Friday, September 5th. Please check the flyer and donation envelope that went home for details. Donations can be made online at MySchoolBucks.com or by sending cash or checks in the envelope provided. The flyer also includes the grade-level run schedule.
We hope you’ll join us on event day to cheer on our students! The Digger Dash is one of our favorite community traditions, and we are grateful for your continued support.
