What's Up at Washington Square

Before Fall Break, Washington Square held its 12th annual Career and College Day, giving students across all our programs the chance to connect with representatives from more than 85 local organizations. The event helped students explore a wide range of post-high school pathways. While there were many different purposes that guided students’ experience, all students prepared for the event by crafting resumes, practicing interview skills, and developing thoughtful questions for potential employers, recruiters, and college representatives.

For students like Kelly Flores ('27), it was an opportunity to glimpse into the future and begin preparing now for a career in Crime Scene Investigation. "It was really nice getting information from (the CSI agencies). I learned what are the benefits of having that job, how old you have to be to get into the field, and what college degrees you might need."

Other students approached the day with the focus of landing their first job after graduation. Braydon Vollmar ('26), a second year Welding student, expressed optimism after speaking with several potential employers. "It's really easy for employers to get to know me, get my resume, and see what I was all about. Everyone here is pretty much looking to hire, and they want to hire from this school, so you have a really great opportunity."

Not every student arrived with a clear plan, but Career and College Day served them just as well. Kaiden Ball ('26), a student in the Firefighting and EMT programs, discovered new possibilities he had not previously considered . "I think it's a really good opportunity for kids, like me, to show me things I didn't even think about doing. I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do outside of high school, and today is helping me figure out my future."

Whether students arrived with a plan or left with new possibilities, Washington Square's Career and College Day was more than just an event — it was a launchpad for their futures.

This past spring, the City of Thornton partnered with Washington Square's Welding program to fabricate large metal panels to place in roundabouts and landscaped medians throughout the city. (Digital designs for the median signs can be seen to the right).

Washington Square students are involved in using the plasma cutter to make the main design as well as welding frames and stands to assist in installing the finished panels. Cesar Borunda Mena Jr. ('26) has taken a lead role in this project and enjoys its real world application. "Instead of you sitting inside your welding room practicing your welds, you get to actually make something that they're going to use for the city. It's not practice anymore. There's a client and it's hands-on work."

Due to the scope of the work, students are learning about project management and meeting deadlines in addition to different welding skills. The initial City of Thornton order is for 40 signs and roughly half of those signs are completed. If the project proves successful, the city has expressed interest in expanding the partnership to request 400 signs in the coming years.

Every quarter, each teacher at Washington Square gets to recognize a student who has stood out. These students receive a small statute and a certificate to mark their achievement. This quarter's recipients are:

Career and Technical Education (CTE) focuses on building skills and abilities for future trades and skills work. Part of the CTE commitment is having student organizations to help build qualities like teamwork, leadership, and commitment.

We are proud to announce that Kristy Munguia, a senior in CSI and EMT, will serve as this year's president.

In addition, officer elections are open for the following roles:

• Vice President
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Reporter
• Historian
• Parliamentarian

See your Washington Square instructor for more information about how to apply.

SkillsUSA is also excited to announce the launch of the Dare to Care initiative, sponsored by SkillsUSA, running from October 20 to December 3—beginning right after Fall Break and concluding before Winter Vacation. All students and families are encouraged to participate in this meaningful effort to give back to our community.

The initiative supports our local partner Hope House Colorado the through donations of essential items including clothing, hygiene products, food, and baby supplies. These contributions will directly benefit families in need, including teen mothers and their children. By taking part, students are making a positive impact in the lives of Adams County families while also strengthening the connection between Washington Square and our broader community.

November 3 - NO SCHOOL- Staff Work Day

November 24-28 - NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break

December 17 & 18 - Academic Support Day (*8-3) - No Classes - NO BUSES

December 19 - NO SCHOOL - Staff Work Day

December 22 - January 2 - Winter Break

January 5 - NO SCHOOL - Staff Work Day

January 6 - Semester 2 Classes Begin

Check out our new Instagram pages! Give us a like and a follow at “FutureForward Washington Square."

What's happening in each program

The district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses have wait lists, and the district wants to add even more options for these courses based on student interest and industry demand. Ballot Issue 5B, the proposed mill levy override, would provide funding for expanded CTE classes at middle and high schools. Get the facts on 5B.

As we approach October, please review the 2025 Halloween guidelines. We are excited for students to celebrate, and also want to maintain a respectful, safe, and secure learning environment.

2025 Halloween guidelines

Cold Weather is coming! Prepare for the cold days, give yourself more time when making it to school, be careful of icy roads and sidewalks, and pull out those winter coats.

If the district determines that due to inclement weather we will operate on a 1-hour delayed start, FutureForward at Washington Square will have school, and will operate on a 1-hour delayed schedule. Buses will also be on a delayed bus schedule. Please check the bus schedule link for more detail.

If your student will be missing class, please communicate with Washington Square and their home high school. Our attendance guidelines are posted here.

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If you or your family are facing challenges this school year, Adams 12 is here to help. We offer a variety of resources, including health services, academic support, mental health services, and access to community programs.

For more information on available resources or how we can assist, please visit our district resource web page. We're here to support you!

Families who qualify for free or reduced benefits must reapply every year. Submitting this application may also waive some of your student’s required fees. Submit your application online at Adams 12 Five Star Schools.

Don’t miss out and apply now for Free and Reduced Benefits for the 2025-26 school year. Apply today on the SchoolCafe Family Hub.