Peterson April 2026

April 2026
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Specials
Physical Education
Bond's Games
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
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.
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.
Library Lane
Science Lab
Grade Level Webpages
Kindergarten
First Grade
Second Grade
Third Grade
Fourth Grade
Elementary
Important Links and Apps
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.