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Peterson April 2026

Peterson April 2026
Peterson April2026

April 2026 April 2026

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A Word from Mr. Peterson

Showcasing Innovation: Science Fair & STEAM Expo


The Science Fair provides our 3rd and 5th grade students with an opportunity to explore scientific questions, conduct experiments, and present their findings with confidence. We invite you to join us for the public viewing on Tuesday, May 6, from 4:15 to 7:00 p.m. in the Lightning Gym. Come celebrate our young scientists and the hard work they’ve put into their projects—we look forward to seeing you there.


Our STEAM Expo is May 1. The expo brings industry leaders and professionals into our school to lead dynamic activities that inspire and inform. This day fosters the understanding of STEAM disciplines and ignite a passion for innovation in our students. Stay tuned for the many volunteer opportunities for parents to come experience this day.


Mr. Peterson

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Science Fair Coming Soon!

We are excited to announce that the 2026 Ben Franklin Science Fair is going to be held from May 4th to May 6th, with a parent viewing night on May 5th from 4:15 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. For parents of 3rd and 5th graders, please put on your calendars. The event will be held in the Lightning (small) gym. The 3rd and 5th graders will begin talking about their projects in their classrooms starting in March and April.


If you would like to come to view all of our student’s hard work, please fill out your information on the viewing volunteer signup genius link (click here). If any parents are interested in helping us judge students' science fair presentations, please complete the form on the judging signup genius link (click here). We only ask that you refrain from signing up to judge your child’s grade.


More information will be sent out closer to the event date, including Science Fair project expectations, viewing, and judging logistics. If you have any other questions, please refer to the BFA Science Fair Handbook linked on the BFA Science Lab webpage.

In the Classroom In the Classroom

What to expect in this Section

Throughout the year, we use this section to celebrate classroom or grade achievements, post a snapshot of what each grade level is doing and post important information to help each parent.


You can use the Table of Contents on the left side of your screen to quickly navigate to information that is important to you (on desktop version only).

Kindergarten Kindergarten

Musical Books

In library, our students experienced reading different books than normal, but playing "Musical Books". Many of the students went home with books they may never have picked out otherwise.

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First Grade First Grade

Stuffies Get a Sleepover

Our first graders brought in stuffies for a very important sleepover. After spending time going to Owl night classes, Mrs. Simpson read them a book before bed.

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Second Grade Second Grade

Carson Nature Center

Representatives from the Carson Nature Center visited our campus to share with our 2nd graders. Students had a wonderful time exploring nature-themed activities and discovering more about the world around them.

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Third Grade Third Grade

Author Visit

Our own Cara Brzezicki, BFA parent, spoke to our 3rd grade class about how to write a book. Now our students are busy creating their own book covers and descriptions of the story.

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Fourth Grade Fourth Grade

Field Trip to Denver Nature and Science Museum

Our 4th grade students visited the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. This field trip brought science to life as students explored exhibits and participated in fun activities

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Specials Specials

Physical Education

Our Elementary Specials highlight is Physical Education, where students are learning the fundamentals of basketball. They are developing skills such as dribbling, passing, and teamwork while building confidence and having fun.
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Bond's Games Bond's Games

Mrs. Bond welcomes all 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade students into her classroom throughout the month, where they learn through engaging activities such as games. These games are designed to enhance learning while making it fun. In the first Mr. Peterson newsletter each month, we will spotlight one of the games our students are enjoying. We encourage families to consider adding these games at home as well, since playing together is a great way to support learning.
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Family Game Holiday Spotlight: Card Games

The Power of Family Game Night (Even When You Only Have 15 Minutes!)


In busy households, finding meaningful time to connect can feel like a challenge. That’s where family game night comes in! Even a quick 15-minute simple, low-prep game can create lasting memories and strengthen family relationships.


Playing games together creates opportunities for laughter, teamwork, and shared experiences. These moments help children feel connected and valued. Games naturally teach important life skills like taking turns, handling wins and losses gracefully, and practicing patience and communication. Many games reinforce math, memory, strategy, and problem-solving skills, all while kids are having fun.

Card Games You Can Play in 15 Minutes - All you need is a standard deck of cards!


1. Go Fish

2. Crazy Eights

3. Speed


Family game night doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. A single deck of cards and 15 minutes can go a long way in building connection, laughter, and lifelong memories!

Volunteer Time Volunteer Time

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Art Room

Our Art room is always in need of volunteers. If you are interested, just come on by the school and check in with the Front Office. No need to sign up or even let us know as Mrs. Hinkle can use your help everyday!


You can find Art Schedules on our Hours/Schedule webpage.

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Lunch & Recess Volunteers

No need to sign up.


We need volunteers EVERY day. Simply come to the Front Office to check in and head on out to volunteer.

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Library Lane

Sign Up For Library.

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Science Lab

Sign Up for Science Lab

Grade Level Webpages Grade Level Webpages

All our Grade Level Webpages are Password Protected:

Email teacher or info@bfacademy.org

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Kindergarten

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First Grade

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Second Grade

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Third Grade

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Fourth Grade

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Elementary

Important Links and Apps Important Links and Apps

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Calendars

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BFA APP

Download the BFA app. It is available for free on both Android and iOS platforms. Don’t forget to allow push notifications!

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Newsletter Archives

Read this week's and past newsletters.

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Lunch Menu

Our delicious lunch is provided by DCSD. Check out the menu and select the current month. If a student has a specific dietary restriction or allergy, parents must contact DCSD Nutrition Services to arrange an allergy/restriction lunch section. BFA does not provide breakfast at this time.

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Securly

Visit https://www.securly.com/parent-login or download the Securly app. It is available for free on both Android and iOS platforms. Don’t forget to allow push notifications!

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Gradelink

Our school uses GradeLink for grades and report cards.

School ID is 656.

For parent log in information, please email your student(s) homeroom teacher.

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April Virtues are...

Cleanliness – Keep yourself and your work area clean. Keep your uniform clean. Keep your school clean. Keep your words clean.


Frugality – Be frugal. Do not waste the school’s resources. Respect what you have been given. Reduce, reuse, recycle.

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BFA's Guiding Principles

Mission:

Our mission is to create young adults with character like America's founding Renaissance man, Benjamin Franklin: well-read, scientifically curious, and civically engaged.


Vision:

Our students will excel academically through a challenging, sequenced curriculum that emphasizes math, science, the arts, and literacy. We will be a data-driven institution, focusing on individual students. Our students, teachers, parents, staff, and leaders will be held accountable for the success of our school. Finally, we recognize that an education is incomplete without fostering social emotional development, character, sports, and nature.

Ben Franklin Academy

2270 Plaza Drive
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
www.bfacademy.org
Main Office Phone: 720-383-4519
Email: info@bfacademy.org
Attendance Phone: 720-432-9239
Email: attendance@bfacademy.org

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