ThunderRidge Weekly Update
As fall semester is winding down and we’re already getting ready for the whirlwind that is our spring semester. Here are some final announcements and news items as we wrap up.
The Board of Education met Tuesday night. ThunderRidge got a nice shoutout (and some certificates to boot) for being the Parent’s Choice Winners for Best High School and Best High School Football Team. Thanks to all who voted for TR! In my ever-so-biased opinion, you are all the best of the best (staff, students, and families).
Thanks to those of you who have already shared your feedback with me on my first semester. It’s been so good to hear your experiences and to see TR through your eyes. Those who have filled it out so far have been thoughtful and candid. You’ve brought up challenges that are worth discussing and growth opportunities for us as a school, and for me as a leader. Where I’ve fallen short, please know that I’ll continue to try to improve. Where I’ve been doing well, thanks for that feedback too. If you’ve not yet had a chance to share your thoughts yet - or if you think of anything else you’d like to add, I invite you to do so here.
On Wednesday morning, I also shared a student survey link to our students via their DCSD emails. I’ve been having some struggles with our mass messaging system, so if your students don’t find the link in email, they can also access it here.
Speaking of surveys, the Board of Education discussed the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey (HKCS) at Tuesday’s meeting as well - moving from an opt-in to an opt-out format. Please see below for details regarding the survey and its implementation here at TRHS.
Thinking of getting an e-bike for a student or family member this Christmas or to help with a New Year’s Resolution? This flyer shares some of the laws pertaining to e-bikes that I sure didn’t know! If it’s relevant to you, feel free to click and read. If not, please disregard.
If you’re a social media person, don’t hesitate to follow TRHS on Facebook or Instagram to see our end of semester celebrations as they occur. We’re working on streamlining our communications so those celebrations can be found on our website as well. Stay tuned for that as we continue to improve our website.
Have a wonderful and restful break! I appreciate you!
Liz
The staff at ThunderRidge would like to extend a very heartfelt 'THANK YOU' to Grizzly Gratitude and the entire community who donated gift cards to the staff Giving Tree. Our staff looks forward to this every year, and your generosity is greatly appreciated.
We also want to thank all who contributed to the generous donations toward our students in need for the holidays. We've said it before, but we truly do have the BEST community.
Wishing you all the happiest holidays and a wonderful New Year.
Enjoy your winter break and we will see you on January 6th, 2026.
December 22-January 2 - ❄️ Winter Break - NO SCHOOL ❄️
January 5 - Teacher Workday - NO STUDENTS
January 6 -Students Return to School/Start of 2nd Semester
January 15 - 17 - Winter Play: Steel Magnolias - 7:00pm - Auditorium
January 19 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - NO SCHOOL
January 21 - 8th Grade Registration
January 21 - 8th Grade Parent Information Night
January 22 - 8th Grade Registration Workshops - 4:00-6:00pm - Library
January 30 - Registration for the 26-26 school year closes
Happy Winter Break Everyone!!
As we head into winter break, we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible work our IB students and teachers have accomplished this semester. This time of year offers a well-earned opportunity to rest, reflect, and recharge before returning for a strong finish to the school year.
Winter Break & Well-Being
Winter break is an important chance to practice balance, one of the core IB values. We encourage students to:
Get plenty of rest and disconnect from academic stress.
Spend time with family and friends.
Engage in creative, physical, or service-oriented activities that bring joy.
Reflect on personal goals for the spring semester.
A little reflection now can make January feel much more manageable.
Looking Ahead to the New Semester
When we return:
IB Diploma Programme students will continue building momentum toward internal assessments, extended essays, and exam preparation.
Course pacing will pick up, so staying organized from day one will be key.
Students should check Canvas upon return for updated deadlines and expectations.
Important Reminder
School resumes on January 6th, and attendance on the first day back is essential for maintaining strong academic habits.
Thank you to our students, families, and staff for your continued support of the IB Programme at ThunderRidge High School. We are proud of the hard work shown this semester and excited for what lies ahead.
🌟Wishing our entire IB community a restful, joyful winter break and a happy New Year!🌟
About Us
Principal: Liz Walhof
Mission Statement:
Empowering Grizzlies through curiosity, compassion, courage, community and service.
1991 West Wildcat Reserve Parkway, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
303.387.2000
Facebook: ThunderRidge High School
X (formerly Twitter): @TRidgeGrizzlies