Mrs. Ridder Message
STEM SPOTLIGHT MESSAGE 10/26/25
Dear STEM School Highlands Ranch Secondary Families,
Welcome back to Quarter 2 of the 2025–26 school year. I hope Fall Break included equal parts rest and fun for you and your family.
Highlights
Neon Nightmare Dance
A glowing success! Students, staff, and our heroic family chaperones had a scary good time. Huge thanks to Lisa Clay and Student Government for creating a safe, spirited night with impeccable vibes and even better playlists.
8th Grade in Boston
Our travelers participated in sea expeditions, workshops, toured to Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution, visited the Museum of Science on a scavenger hunt, and had an all-around wonderful trip. Thank you, Ms. Dillon, for an exceptionally organized and enriching trip.
Coming Up
Seacamp (7th Grade, San Diego)
Over the next two weeks, two cohorts will dive (sometimes literally) into marine biology—snorkeling, tide-pooling, plankton labs, and time at the zoo/aquarium. It’s hands-on science. Our gratitude to Ms. Dwyer and Ms. Wilt for their planning, organizing, and executing this beloved annual trip.
No Tardy Party (Thursday during Access)
Students with three or fewer tardies since September 2nd are invited to celebrate in the gym—music, snacks, and games. Paired with our new musical “45-second warning” in the halls, this incentive is working: our tardy rate is the lowest in five years. Thank you for reinforcing punctuality at home; it’s a life skill wrapped in a bell schedule.
Boosterthon Color Run (Tues 10/28 Kickoff; Event: Nov. 5)
Registration materials go home in Access this week and next week, and we’ll rally at Tuesday’s assembly. Our goal is to raise $90,000 to support student programs and campus needs—while giving kids a joyful, active experience (yes, staff gets colorful, too). Thank you in advance for sharing the link with friends and family.
Important Dates
Nov 5 – Boosterthon Color Run
Nov 24–28 – Thanksgiving Break
Dec 6 – STEM Holiday Market (Interested in vending? We’d love to showcase our community’s makers—sign up here.)
Dec 22–Jan 2 – Winter Break
As always, thank you for sending us your exceptional kids—and for partnering with us in the joyful, meaningful work of learning. Here’s to a strong, curious, and connected second quarter.
Maura Ridder
Middle School Principal
STEM School Highlands Ranch