Friday Update
August 21st, 2026
October District Advisory Board (DAB) Meeting
At the October District Advisory Board (DAB) meeting we had a presentation on Technology and District AI Updates.
The PSD IT’s Mission is: “We ensure the reliability, security, and equity of the technology that powers education and district operations, serving as trusted stewards of PSD’s tools and digital environments.” The department’s duties include technology infrastructure, support, training, software, replacement cycles, equitable access, innovation, technology solutions, data security, safety, privacy, compliance, and informed investment.
In the Spring of 2026 IT launched a formal review of PSD’s elementary device model. The purpose is to take a broad look at how technology is accessed and used in elementary schools and what approach best supports students, staff, and district goals.
Current PSD student and staff devices are almost all funded through the 2010 Technology Mill. Every student in K-12 has access to a computer in the classroom and/or at home depending on their grade. Student devices are used for curricula, creation, and assessment needs. Devices are on a 4 year life cycle. After 4 years the cost to repair and maintain them goes up significantly. They do keep devices older than 4 years for spares when possible, and the rest are recycled.
IT is currently having conversations about the appropriate use (and non-use) of AI tools. There is currently very limited deployment of AI tools to students. AI tools may only be integrated when they enhance human capability, effort, and deep thinking and not replace the actual work of teaching and learning. Teacher-student relationships should never be replaced by AI.
If you have questions or want more information, please reach out!
Stacy Armstrong
District Advisory Board Representative
SRO Corner 🚔
Dear Poudre School District Families,
Hello, my name is Officer Sarah Klich and I am the School Resource Officer (SRO) for your child’s school. Each month, I will be sending out a monthly topic that the SRO’s would like for families to know in an effort to keep your child and the community safer.
This month the School Resource Officer Team would like to speak to you about the safety of e-bike/e-motor transportation. There have been several incidents involving students and children in our community. We believe parent awareness about safety and laws regarding these modes of transportation are the first step in ensuring our children are safe.
Here is a graphic of what is and is not allowed when it comes to electronic modes of transportation:
Ms. Martine's Wrapper Rescue
Mrs. Martine's class is taking part in Wrapper Rescue, a program that keeps wrappers that can’t go in curbside recycling (think granola bars, chip bags, and more) out of the landfill by recycling them through Ridwell. Every family that orders a Ridwell Mail-in starter kit through her classroom's link can rescue their own wrappers (and lots more) at home—and earns our class another wrapper recycling bag. The more of us who join in, the more we can rescue together. Learn more and order your kit: classroom.ridwell.com
Yearbook Update
Students are back at school making new memories! Be sure to order the one book that captures the activities, spirit, and unique qualities of your child’s school. Visit www.jostensyearbooks.com to order the 2026 - 2027 Yearbook by October 30th for the BEST PRICE!
Congratulations to Camilla! 🎉
Her artwork will be featured on the front cover of our yearbook.
Thank you to everyone who voted!
Check out our Pioneers in Action! Use the link to discover all the incredible things happening with PGA students.
Tip of the week:
Reflect and Celebrate the First Quarter 🎉
The first quarter is behind us, and it’s a great time to pause and look back together. Take a few minutes this week to:
Celebrate the wins. Big or small, name what went well, whether it’s a good grade, a new friend, or finally mastering something tricky.
Tell your child what you’re proud of. Be specific. Try, “I noticed how hard you worked on your reading, and I’m proud of you.”
Point out their growth. Kids often don’t see how far they’ve come. Say what you’ve noticed, like “You’re more confident speaking up in class this year.”
Set a goal for the second quarter. Let your child choose it. Keep it small and clear, like reading 15 minutes each night or turning in homework on time.
Why this habit matters: Reflecting and celebrating helps children build confidence, see that effort leads to progress, and learn to set goals for themselves. When kids hear what they’re doing well, they’re more motivated to keep going, and tough moments feel more manageable because they remember their successes. Making this a regular habit, such as at the end of each quarter, teaches children that growth is something to notice and be proud of.
And a word for you, our families: We want to celebrate you, too! Thank you for your hard work, your encouragement at home, and your continued partnership. Your support makes a real difference in your child’s success, and we are so grateful to have you on this journey with us. 💛
PGA Counselors:
K-10 = Anne Eakins
11th, 12th & Options = Chris Hagge
K-12 Mental Health Specialist = Beth Shefcyk
Free Tutoring!
Future Ready, Foothills Mall, 6:00-7:30PM, every other Wednesday
See Slide for more information!
FAFSA/CASFA drop in hours
November 4th, 12:00-4:00, Future Ready, Foothills Mall
Come get support completing your FAFSA or CASFA! Other dates available in November, December, January and the spring. See calendar at https://www.psdfutureready.org/events/.
Teen Self Care Fair
October 18th, 11:00AM-4:00PM, Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
Therapy dogs, community resource booths, giveaways, art, free food, aerial silks, yoga, music and more! This free event is open to all youth who want to explore new ways to practice self-care.
Storytime at the Garbage Garage-Larimer County Landfill and recycling center
If you have little ones who are looking for fun at the Garbage Garage, Storytime is the class for you. At the beginning of each month, we gather to read a different sustainability story accompanied by crafts and activities that fit each monthly theme!
We’ll learn about being thankful for our resources in November’s Storytime as we read The Earth Gives More, accompanied by a lesson and craft all about giving back to our Earth.
If you have any questions about our fall Storytime Sessions, please email solidwasteeducation@larimer.org. We can’t wait to have you join us for a fall of fun!