 |
Welcome to the NEWS for September 20, 2024
In this week’s newsletter, we dive into a study showing how COVID-19 impacted cognitive skills for students and teachers. Explore how AI could reignite student interest in classic literature and understand why parents resist school cellphone bans.
Remember to join us this morning at 10 AM for our first Town Hall of the school year. Governor Polis will kick off the session with charter school updates, followed by discussions on the State Board of Education elections and the nationwide debate on smartphones in schools, featuring insights from Education Week.
We want to know what’s happening in your community. Share your campus news with us by 12 PM each Thursday for inclusion in the NEWS.
|
||||
|
||||
|
||||
|
||||
|
Suspensions in Colorado schools jump 25% as districts struggle to staff since pandemic
Denver Post | September 16, 2024
Colorado school districts dramatically increased their use of out-of-school suspensions as pandemic-era staffing shortages made it harder to fill positions that play a crucial role in keeping children in classrooms [paywall], an analysis of state data by The Denver Post shows.
Cactus Bloom Montessori school holds ribbon-cutting ceremony
The Daily Sentinel | September 15, 2024
Cactus Bloom Community School, the newest Montessori school in the Grand Valley, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Saturday to publicly mark its opening.
Grant helps Pinnacle Charter School assist Colorado Families in need (Video)
Spot On Colorado | September 14, 2024
Pinnacle Charter School in Thornton has partnered with a food bank.
SHIFT Chronicles: Amplifying Denver student voice
Boardhawk | September 13, 2024
The SHIFT Chronicles is a new monthly feature dedicated to amplifying student voices, where those most impacted by the public education system share their thoughts, reflections, and experiences.
Thinking about college? How Colorado students can make higher education cheaper — or even free
Chalkbeat | September 12, 2024
Colorado has plenty of resources to ensure students don’t pay the full cost of going to college. Some programs even make college free.
What Kamala Harris should do on education and training
Fordham | September 19, 2024
Kamala Harris’s presidential acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention promised Americans “an opportunity economy where everyone has the chance to compete and the chance to succeed.”
America Risks Losing a Whole Generation of Kids. Today’s Schools Can’t Help Them
The 74 | September 17, 2024
America’s education system is at a critical juncture as the nation emerges from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Testing Data Shows Middle Schoolers Are Further Behind in Science Than in 2021
The 74 | September 17, 2024
Middle schoolers are still lagging months behind pre-pandemic achievement levels in science, according to newly released test scores. Disturbingly, their losses in the subject have actually grown since the worst days of the COVID crisis.
The average U.S. student is less than halfway to full academic recovery
K12Dive | September 17, 2024
First, the good news: Despite temporary disruptions to how and where students learn, the COVID-19 pandemic has ignited a new emphasis on relationships in school communities and the use of agile school models, according to a report released Tuesday by the Center on Reinventing Public Education.
Making Districts and Providers Mutually Accountable for Student Success
The 74 | September 13, 2024
Running a school district is challenging. Superintendents and principals shoulder the great responsibility of ensuring students receive a high-quality education and services to support learning in a fiscally responsible way.
The value proposition of high-quality instructional materials is different than I thought it was
Fordham | September 13, 2024
As another school year begins, I have been struck by the many different ways leaders and educators talk about instructional materials. At meet-the-teacher nights or staff meetings to explain the move to a new curriculum or in board meetings to explain plans for the year, educators often talk about the role the curriculum will play with bold claims.
|
Join us at our Regional Gatherings coming to a city near you!
Our Regional Gatherings bring together charter leaders from across the state to connect with peers, engage with League staff on local and statewide issues, and discuss state-level advocacy and policy efforts. These in-person events, held in various locations throughout the year, also provide a platform to showcase charter school successes to local elected officials. Join us at one or more gatherings to strengthen connections and share insights with fellow leaders. Our upcoming Denver East Regional Gathering will also feature special guests Dr. Lisa Escarcega and Sean Camacho! Join us at one Regional Gathering or sign up for multiple to strengthen your connections and share insights with fellow leaders.
Daniels Scholarship Application Now Open! Applications for the Daniels Scholarship Program open today, and we need your help getting the word out to students in your community! The Daniels Scholarship Program makes college possible for motivated students from Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Scholarships cover a full ride at partner schools or up to $100,000, depending on the student's college choice. Daniels Scholars can attend any college nationwide and receive more than just financial support — they also gain leadership skills, personal support, and a brand-new MacBook! The application for the Daniels Scholarship Program will be open from September 16 through October 18, 2024 at 4:00 pm MT and typically takes students less than one hour to complete. Please encourage students to learn more and apply online now at DanielsFund.org/scholarships!
Carol Bowar Joins RootED as Director of School Quality
From RootED: We are thrilled to share that Carol Bowar has joined RootED as the Director of School Quality. In this role, she will lead initiatives focused on school quality, charter sector collaboration, advocacy, and district relations with Denver Public Schools. Carol brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as Executive Director of Girls Athletic Leadership School (GALS) and COO of KIPP Colorado Schools. Her extensive background in education and youth development will be a tremendous asset to the charter school community. Please join us in congratulating Carol on this new role!
Stay Informed: Check Out This Month’s ACT Newsletter!
As the final days of summer wind down, it’s time to gear up for the important work ahead. In this edition of the ACT newsletter, we’re focusing on Bond & Mill Levy Overrides to ensure you’re well-prepared for Election Day on November 5th. Discover easy steps to get ready to vote, learn how you can nominate a Charter Champion student, and explore the latest news impacting Colorado’s charter school community. Plus, find valuable resources to help you stay engaged and informed as we approach the election. Don’t miss out—let’s make these last days of summer count!
Nominate a Charter Champion Today!
Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 Charter Champions program! This four-month advocacy training is designed for exceptional high school students (grades 9-12) who are passionate about leadership, advocacy, and community service. Selected students will receive leadership training, participate in online sessions, and be honored at the League's Annual Conference. Don’t miss the chance to highlight a deserving student—submit your nominations by October 18th!
Who is your Charter School hero?
Every day across the state, charter school leaders, educators, and supporters make decisions and take actions that improve student lives and family trajectories. Our annual Hall of Fame awards honor these outstanding individuals, and we want to hear their stories. We invite you to nominate those within your circle whose dedication and impact deserve to be celebrated. Nominations are due by Monday, Oct. 14, and nominees will be announced in late fall, followed by finalists in January. The celebration reaches its pinnacle on February 26, when winners will be revealed during a ceremony to kick off the 2025 Colorado Charter Schools Conference. Don't miss this chance to recognize the outstanding individuals who are shaping Colorado's exceptional charter school landscape.
Important Announcement: Phishing Alert
We have been informed that phishing emails are being circulated, falsely claiming to be from the Colorado League of Charter Schools. These emails request information verification and contain a link that should not be clicked. Please be vigilant and do not engage with these emails. If you receive such a message, delete it immediately and do not provide any personal information. See an example of this type of email below.
Loveland Classical Schools Opening Secondary Expansion
Loveland Classical Schools celebrated the opening of a new wing at its secondary school with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The new addition, which includes eight classrooms and an innovation space, was financed through a tax-exempt bond and managed by NV5 Engineering with GTC Construction as the builder. The expansion addresses the school's growing enrollment, now exceeding 1,000 students. The event also marked the start of Back to School Night for middle and high school students.
Colorado State Board of Education Adjusts Cut Scores for Digital SAT Math in Graduation Guidelines
The Colorado State Board of Education has lowered the cut score for the digital SAT math test from 500 to 480 for students graduating in 2025 and 2026, in response to changes in the test format and a drop in student performance. This adjustment affects the state’s Graduation Guidelines, which require students to demonstrate competency in math. Read the full statement.
Submit Your Proposal for the 2025 Colorado League Annual Conference!
Are you passionate about sharing your knowledge and inspiring others? We're excited to announce that RFPs (Request for Proposals) are now open for the 2025 Colorado League Annual Conference, taking place February 26-28 at the Denver Marriott Tech Center. With a theme of "Synergy in Education," we’re seeking impactful workshops that foster collaboration and teamwork.
This is your chance to share your expertise with educators and leaders from Colorado's vibrant charter school community, inspire new ideas, and be recognized as a thought leader. We're looking for proposals on topics like curriculum, school leadership, technology, social-emotional learning, and more.
Don’t miss the opportunity to make a difference! Submit your proposal by October 3rd, 2024.
Explore Opportunities to Hire International Teachers
Join the Educator Career Navigation Office for a 4-part learning series on the J-1 Visa: Teacher Exchange Program. Whether you're new to the process or already familiar with it, you'll gain valuable insights and resources on how to recruit, hire, and support international teachers. Pick and choose sessions based on your needs or attend the full series to dive deeper into integrating this pathway into your teacher recruitment strategy.
Collaborate with Rural Principals Across Colorado
If you're a rural principal balancing countless responsibilities, don’t miss this opportunity! The Rural Principal Learning Cohort application window is extended until Monday, Sept. 30. Join fellow rural leaders to share experiences, address common challenges, and build a stronger professional network as you work toward solving the unique issues faced by rural schools.
Statewide School Performance Ratings Now Public
Preliminary performance framework ratings for schools and districts are now available on the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) website. These ratings include data for all schools, including Alternative Education Campuses. While the full reports will be finalized in December by the State Board of Education, the preliminary results offer valuable insights into statewide trends. Explore the performance framework results and the District and School Dashboard today to see where your school stands. Visit the CDE website to access the data.
ERTC Program Update
In response to continued inquiries we had received from the field, the League recently worked with others to pursue an additional legal opinion on the question of the federal Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) program and whether Colorado charter schools might be eligible to participate. The law firm Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP, reached conclusions different from prior opinions. Schools are encouraged to consult with their attorneys before taking potential action related to this program.
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Submit Your Charter School Capital Construction Report by October 31st!
All eligible charter schools must complete the annual Charter School Capital Construction Report (CSCC-01) by October 31st. This report is essential to confirm your eligibility and determine funding levels for the next fiscal year. Don’t miss the deadline—click HERE to submit your form!
OERColorado Offers Free Digital Resources for Colorado Classrooms
OERColorado provides free PK-12+ learning materials to Colorado educators, supporting schools by reducing costs and offering adaptable resources. This statewide platform aligns with the state’s educational requirements under 22-5-119, C.R.S. Explore the OERColorado curriculum library and find resources tailored to your classroom needs. Join the upcoming OERColorado and ISKME webinar series in October to learn about "Vetting and Adopting OER" on October 1st and "OER Leadership and Advocacy" on October 8th. Learn more at OERColorado.org.
Small Grants Available for Seal of Climate Literacy Implementation
Lyra Colorado, led by CEO and Founder Mary Seawell, announces the Seal of Climate Literacy, signed into law by Governor Polis in May. The Seal aims to deepen students' understanding of climate change through real-world experiences. Local education providers can tailor coursework and learning opportunities to fit their communities.
To support implementation this school year, small grants are available. Apply by September 23, 2024. Visit SealofClimateLiteracy.org for more resources.
CDE UPDATES
CDE and AIR Seek Public Input on Colorado's K-12 School Funding
The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) and the American Institutes for Research (AIR) are conducting a study on Colorado's K-12 school funding system. They are inviting stakeholders to participate through an online survey and virtual town hall meetings from late August to September. Feedback will help inform future funding policies. Visit the Colorado Financial Adequacy Study website for more details and to participate.
CDE to host the 2024 Landscape of Wellbeing and Belonging Conference on Sept. 18-19
The Colorado Department of Education will host the 2024 Landscape of Wellbeing and Belonging Conference on September 18-19 in Colorado Springs. The event, focused on creating supportive learning environments, is fully booked, but educators can join the waitlist. The conference features 50 sessions on topics like social-emotional learning and dropout prevention. Despite the event's popularity, CDE encourages those interested to sign up for potential openings.
Accountability Update
The mid-August accountability update from the CDE focuses on their accountability data release process, including an updated accountability timeline (with actual dates).
Educator Recruitment & Retention Program Offers $10K for Aspiring Educators
CDE invites aspiring educators to apply for up to $10,000 in financial assistance for educator preparation program fees. The Educator Recruitment and Retention program provides direct support for qualified individuals interested in teaching in a shortage area and who can commit to working in that area for three years. Learn more and apply by Sept. 30.
THIS & THAT
Edge Foundation Event: Executive Function Coach Training
Join the Edge Foundation for a two-day Executive Function Coach Training on October 9-10, 2024, in Lakewood, CO. This event is designed for educators, parents, and caregivers to gain tools and techniques that support young people with Executive Function challenges. Learn how to engage and empower students, while earning a certification and CEU credits.
Wheelchair Lift Available for Donation
Pinnacle Charter School is donating a Hercules II 600 Residential Vertical Lift in excellent condition. With a load capacity of 600 lbs, this lift can benefit schools or organizations in need of accessible equipment. If interested, please contact Dawn Gioia at [email protected] for more information.
Opportunity to Receive a Free Camera and Security System
Firestone Charter Academy is offering a set of functional interior and exterior cameras, along with a Network Video Controller, to a school in need. The cameras, installed between 2017 and 2024, offer decent resolution and were in working condition when taken down. The controller is a 32-channel model from CCTV Security Pros, with expansion capabilities. This is a great chance to upgrade your school’s security system—must take all equipment. If you are interested, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].
You or Your Staff Could be Featured on Teacher Tuesday
CDE’s communications unit created a weekly social media campaign called Teacher Tuesday that highlights a teacher every week across all of the department’s social media.
The posts feature the teacher’s photo, their accomplishments, how long they’ve been teaching and what brings them joy about their work. We need your help to add more teachers. Please fill out this submission form to add a co-worker or yourself or pass it on to a friend.
PACE for Administrators & Benefits Managers
As you plan your back-to-school orientations and benefits schedules, don’t forget to include the Professional Association of Colorado Educators (PACE) in your agenda. As a CLCS preferred partner, PACE offers invaluable benefits. With new staff joining your team each year, a presentation by PACE State Director Ariel Elliott can ensure everyone is up to speed. Choose from 15- or 30-minute presentations to fit your busy schedule. Contact Ariel today at [email protected] or call/text at: 720-580-1326.
|
|||||
|
|||||
|
| View Event Calendar |
|
|||
|
|||
|
| More Health & Wellness |
|
||||
|
||||
|
| View all Jobs |
-
ACT (September 18, 2024)
-
NEWS (September 6, 2024)
-
MOVE (September 13, 2024)
-
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE (September 5, 2024)
-
CONNECT COHORT (August 22, 2024)
Upcoming TrainingsThe League provides a variety of quality professional development opportunities for member schools. |
Our MarketplaceVendors and partners are ready to support our membership. Check out options across all categories. |
ACT for Charter SchoolsThe League's ACT Network mobilizes charter school communities to strengthen and support schools statewide. |
|
Thank you to our Premium Sponsors |
|||
 |
|||
 |
||||||
|
||||||
|
||||||
|
| © 2024 Colorado League of Charter Schools |