STEM SPOTLIGHT

STEM School Highlands Ranch is entering an exciting new chapter—one that will elevate how we provide our students with the very best opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. While public funding covers the basics, our students deserve more: state-of-the-art labs, expanded clubs and athletics, innovative tools, and access to real-world learning experiences that match their caliber.

To support this vision, we are introducing a new era of community fundraising—a coordinated effort designed to bring clarity, focus, and lasting impact to how we support our students. Together, we’ll fuel innovation, enrich experiences, and accelerate education for every learner.

This is more than a fundraising initiative—it’s a community movement. Our vision is to ensure every student has the resources and opportunities to reach their fullest potential, and we’re thrilled to invite every member of our community—including our students—to be part of it.

Mark Your Calendar

• Accelerator Fund Launch: September 10th (check your email)

• STEM Blast Off: September 17th (funds support student groups and clubs) - Details below…

• Sponsorship Launch: Early October - Opportunities for industries and local businesses to support our students

• Fun Run: Week of October 27th (K-12 student fundraising event)

We’re excited to grow community engagement and celebrate the increased opportunities and successes that lie ahead for our students.

STEM Blast Off – A K-12 Carnival Celebration!

Wednesday, September 17th
5 PM – 7 PM
STEM School Highlands Ranch Campus

Get ready for one of the most exciting events of the year — STEM Blast Off is just around the corner, and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever! Presale information is further down in this newseltter!

This K–12 all-school carnival is designed to bring our entire community together for an evening of fun, food, and fundraising — all in support of our amazing students. Proceeds will benefit our Tier One student clubs, student governments, and the After Prom Committee, helping fund meaningful experiences for students across all grade levels.

Get Ready For…

• Rock Wall & Bungee Run

• Obstacle Courses for both younger and older students

• Carnival Games hosted by student clubs and teams

• Music to keep the energy high

• Food Trucks with tasty options for the whole family

• Club & Activity Info Tables to learn more about how to get involved

This event is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their passions, for families to connect, and for our school community to come together in support of a common goal.

While at STEM Blast Off, be sure to check out Venture Martial Arts Highlands Ranch, one of STEM activity partners.

Don’t miss out on the fun — bring the whole family, invite your friends, and come celebrate everything that makes STEM special! We can't wait to see you there!

In Partnership,

LynAnn Kovalesky

Executive Director

As we create our 10-Year Master School Improvement Plan, your input is essential to guide the spaces, programs, and opportunities that will carry STEM into the future. Join a Virtual Engagement Session on Tuesday, September 9th from home. Sessions will be held at 8:30 AM, 12 PM, and 4 PM.

Please access the Engagement Sessions Zoom Links by clicking the button below.

Parent Ambassadors support STEM through events, tours, advocacy, industry partnerships, new family outreach, and upcoming Parent Focus Groups. Many opportunities are available, and participation counts toward volunteer hours. Learn more by clicking the button below!

On Thursday, October 9th, STEM School will host Career Discovery Day, an annual event designed to connect 8th–12th grade students with professionals from a wide range of industries. We're inviting local industry professionals—including you—to share your career journeys with our students. If you're interested in joining this event, please click below to learn more!

At STEM, safety and connection go hand-in-hand. Our School Resource Officer, Deputy Gabe, is a familiar face in the halls, on the playground, and during driveline. More than just providing security, he builds relationships with students, staff, and families—helping everyone feel safe, supported, and cared for. Click below to read Walking the Beat with Deputy Gabe.

You’re invited to join our Parent Teacher Committee (PTC) Virtual Monthly Meeting on Wednesday, September 10th at 6:30 PM. This is a great opportunity to connect with other parents, hear updates, and get involved in supporting our STEM community. We’d love to see you there! PTC Virtual Meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of every month. Visit the monthly calendar at stemk12.org to access the Zoom link and passcode.

Please click the link below to read full updates from STEM's athletic director, Mrs. Jones.

MS/HS Students Can Buy During Lunch on September 8th, 9th & 10th
Students can purchase their presale wristbands with cash or card right at school during lunch on these three days! Elementary Parents: Please purchase your tickets through QR codes on flyers and our postings until midnight on the 10th!

Pre-Sale Deals

• $15 Wristband = Unlimited play at Luigi’s Game Truck, obstacle courses, yard games & more

• Special Activities (Face Painting, Rock Climbing Wall, Duck Race, Bungee Run, Dunk Tank) = 1 ticket each

• Ticket Bundle = $20 for 25 tickets

• Best Value: Wristband + Ticket Bundle = Access to ALL activities

Presale Ends Wednesday, September 10th

After September 10th, wristbands and tickets will only be available at the event, and prices will increase. Pre-order now through MySchoolBucks (link below) and lock in your savings!

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Your purchase directly supports all 3 levels of Student Government and major student clubs like TSA, Best Robotics, FRC, Theater, Speech & Debate, Business, and After Prom. This is one of STEM’s most important fundraisers of the year.

Food & Fun for Everyone
Purchase dinner from What Would Cheesus Do, STEM concessions, or bring your own picnic, then enjoy a treat from Kona Ice. Non-STEM siblings welcome—everyone can join the fun with a wristband or tickets!

While at STEM Blast Off, be sure to check out Venture Martial Arts Highlands Ranch, one of STEM's activity partners. Explore their offerings at venturemartialarts.com

This is STEM’s biggest celebration of the year. Don’t wait—presale closes in just 3 days! Get your wristbands today and get ready to BLAST OFF!

We need amazing parent volunteers to help make Blast Off a success! Your time and support make all the difference, sign up today and be part of the fun!

Please click the link below to read full updates from Mrs. McElroy, Elementary Principal.

To honor Mental Health Awareness, we’re hosting a Green-Out Day on Wednesday, September 10th. Please encourage your child to wear any shade of green this day. Elementary students wearing green will be part of a special group photo. Together, we’ll show our support for mental health awareness and community unity.

K-5 yearbooks are on sale! Order now at buytheyearbook.com. Use school code: 732153 or search by state, city, school.

Please click the link below to read an update from Mr. Alsup, High School Principal.

To honor Mental Health Awareness, we invite Middle School and High School students to wear teal or purple on Wednesday, September 10th. Any shade of teal or purple works. Thank you for your support as we support mental health awareness.

Has your child lost their ID and need a new one? We now have a quick online ID Badge Reprint Request Form. Submit your request for a new ID here:

BELL SCHEDULE

Secondary School (6-12): 8 AM - 3:30 PM

Elementary School (K-1): 8:10 AM - 3 PM

Elementary School (2-5): 8:10 AM - 3:10 PM

AFTER-CARE HOURS

B.A.S.E. (K-5) 6:30 AM - 8:05 AM and 3 PM - 6 PM

Secondary (6-12) After School Care: 3:35 PM - 5:30 PM