Stepping into the music room at Mountain View Elementary, the sound of anticipation fills the space as students gather around guitars, keyboards, and a drum set. This energy reflects the heart of Mustangs Rock, the school’s Rock Band Club, now in its fifth year. The program grew out of a discovery made by music teacher Karlie Carter shortly after her arrival to Mountain View. “When I first started, I found this awesome set of rock band instruments in my closet,” Carter said. “As a classically trained pianist, I honestly had no idea what to do with them, but I was intrigued.” Through professional development with the nonprofit, Music Will, Carter expanded her instrument collection, incorporated a rock band unit into the fourth-grade curriculum, and then launched the after-school club.
A student learns to play the guitar in Mountain View’s Rock Band Club.
Mustangs Rock is a 10-week program open to fourth graders and meets for an hour after school each Wednesday. Students rotate through guitars, drums, keyboards, and vocals as they learn chord patterns, rhythms, and lyrics for different songs. “Our motto is ‘try everything,’” Carter said. “My goal for this program is accessibility. Students learn chord patterns by focusing on colors so they can get right into the music.” While participation in the after-school club is limited to 12 students per semester, all fourth graders are invited to join the experience during the annual fourth grade music showcase, performing alongside the club as singers or instrumentalists. This year’s featured songs include “We Will Rock You,” “Best Day of My Life,” “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” and “Eye of the Tiger.”
A student practices playing chords during Mountain View’s Rock Band Club meeting.
For Carter, the impact of Mustangs Rock extends far beyond the stage. The club strengthens connection and community between students as they learn to listen to one another, collaborate, and take creative risks. As they rise to the challenge of performing, students build confidence and a sense of empowerment rooted in shared accomplishment. “My hope is that they develop skills and a new connection to music that they will carry with them through middle school, high school, and beyond,” said Carter.
A student plays the keyboard during rehearsal for Mountain View’s Rock Band Club.
St. Vrain Valley Schools has been awarded a $235,683 Quality Teacher Recruitment Program Grant from the Colorado Department of Education. This funding will directly support the district’s Alternative Licensure Pathway to Special Education (ALPSE) program, which was developed to help address the statewide shortage of special education teachers and strengthen services for students with special needs across St. Vrain and neighboring districts.
The ALPSE program provides intensive, targeted support to education professionals seeking a Special Education Generalist License, offering two pathways: Initial Licensure and Added Endorsement. The program is open to both St. Vrain employees and out-of-district candidates, and can typically be completed in two years.
The program currently has 21 participants with increasing numbers each year. In the first year of the program, participants engage in 175 hours of dedicated professional development, learning side-by-side as they explore foundational topics such as Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) regulations, special education processes, and best instructional practices for diverse learners.
The coursework is taught by highly-qualified instructional coaches who not only facilitate learning, but also work directly in the field with each candidate to offer targeted feedback, best practices, and individualized support. For those in the Added Endorsement pathway, this experience is further enriched through collaboration with a cooperating teacher who guides their growth inside the classroom.
When reflecting on the grant and its impact on the ALPSE program, Dr. Laura Hess, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, shared, “We know the value of investing in our teachers and the impact it has on our students. Our goal is to continue to expand the program so teachers have more access to professional development which will benefit all students across St. Vrain.” This new funding represents an important step in supporting educators and enhancing services for students with a variety of learning abilities. As the ALPSE program grows, St. Vrain remains committed to developing high-quality teachers who are equipped to meet the diverse needs of learners across the district and beyond.
Elementary students across St. Vrain Valley Schools are strengthening their writing skills through the use of Write from the Beginning and Beyond, a structured framework that supports the district’s adopted ReadyGen English language arts curriculum. By the 2026-27 school year, all K-5 teachers will be trained in this curriculum, creating a shared foundation for writing instruction that emphasizes clarity, structure, and developmentally appropriate expectations. “This approach empowers educators to drive age-appropriate writing achievement by mastering expectations across the entire grade continuum,” said Shane Saeed, a curriculum analyst at St. Vrain Valley Schools.
A pair of students work together on a writing assignment.
At the elementary level, the approach emphasizes vertical alignment, ensuring each grade level focuses on specific writing skills that intentionally build from year to year. Early instruction centers on sentence structure and syntax, which Saeed noted is especially critical for multilingual learners. “Students need to be successful at the sentence level in order to be successful at the paragraph level,” Saeed said. “Because syntax differs across languages, the comprehensive nature of this instruction supports students in developing coherent, quality sentences.”
A student practices his writing skills.
Organization and clarity are further supported through the use of Thinking Maps and oral rehearsal strategies embedded in daily instruction. These tools help students plan and verbalize their ideas before writing, reducing cognitive load and building confidence. “The cohesion in Thinking Map structures, language, and checklists allows students to build on what they already know, rather than relearning new systems each year,” said Temple Hayles, an assessment coordinator at St. Vrain Valley Schools. “It keeps the focus on grade-level expectations and helps students express their ideas more clearly,” she said.
A student practices writing a sentence.
In classrooms, the approach is implemented as a layer within ReadyGen writing lessons and includes teacher-modeled writing, collaborative planning, drafting, revision, and feedback using improvement checklists. Teachers receive ongoing professional learning and coaching support, while students gain confidence as writers who know how to begin and refine their work. “We routinely hear that students who once resisted writing now see themselves as writers and understand how to get started,” Hayles said.
A student writes on her worksheet during class.
Together, consistent structures, explicit instruction, and shared language of the Write from the Beginning and Beyond curriculum helps to establish a strong writing foundation for students across St. Vrain Valley Schools, preparing them for continued success as writers in the years ahead.
Nine high schools within St. Vrain Valley Schools have been honored with the distinguished College Board Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll designation, acknowledging outstanding student performance on college-level Advanced Placement exams.
The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition each year by meeting criteria that demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering a college-going culture, expanding opportunities for students to earn college credit, and promoting college readiness.
St. Vrain Valley Schools offers a robust selection of 35 Advanced Placement courses for high school students, including those enrolled in New Meridian High School, St. Vrain Virtual High School, and LaunchED Virtual Academy, as well as through AGILE programming. In 2025, the district saw 3,048 students take 5,372 AP exams. Additionally, 1,147 students earned the AP Scholar recognition and 78 students earned the prestigious AP Capstone diploma. AP exam participation in St. Vrain Valley Schools has grown by 96% since 2016.
“From administrators and counselors having regular conversations with students about the benefits of taking AP classes, to current AP students writing letters to younger grade levels encouraging them to enroll in AP courses, there is a clear belief that all students can be successful in AP classes,” said Amanda Fitzgerald, the Advanced Placement Coordinator at Frederick High School. This same sentiment is echoed by Lindsay LaPorte, the Advanced Placement Coordinator at Mead High School, “We have set the expectation that all students take a college-level course prior to graduating. Setting this high expectation has helped encourage students to enroll in these classes.”
This comprehensive approach to academic rigor and encouragement of higher learning has empowered more students to step confidently into AP courses and take full advantage of what the program offers. Through AP coursework, each culminating in a challenging exam, students learn to think critically, construct solid arguments, and see many sides of an issue — skills that prepare them for college and beyond.
St. Vrain Valley Schools is currently piloting new instructional resources for elementary music, middle school health, and high school health. The resources will be available for introduction and review in-person at the Learning Services Center, 401 S. Pratt Pkwy., in Longmont. Teachers, administrators, families, and community members are all welcome to evaluate the materials and provide feedback.
Elementary Music: Tuesday, February 3 from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Middle & High School Health: Tuesday, February 3 from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Thank you for expressing interest in exploring the adopted instructional resources used in St. Vrain Valley Schools.
Students in Longmont High School’s Medical and BioScience Academy (MBSA) Internship class shared the culmination of their senior-year experiences during a public poster showcase held Friday, Dec. 19. The event highlighted the work of seniors completing their final year in the MBSA pathway, a program that immerses students in health science and biomedical fields through coursework and real-world learning opportunities.
Hannah Wheaton, a student in the MBSA Internship class, presents her project to a community member.Jovian Gacoin guides a community member through his final MBSA project.
Launched in 2013, the MBSA program has grown from an initial cohort of 40 students to nearly 200 participants, graduating approximately 25 to 30 seniors each year who complete the full four-year pathway. Built on Longmont High School’s strong AP science foundation, the academy offers courses such as “Introduction to Healthcare Foundations,” “Anatomy & Physiology,” “Nutrition & Wellness,” “Introduction to Biotechnology,” and “Animal Behavior.” Chris Chou, who served on the original committee that helped establish the program, noted that the program’s success is rooted in both student opportunity and community support. “What makes MBSA special is the combination of motivated students and mentors who generously open their doors to them,” Chou said. “Seeing our graduates go on to become nurses, doctors and research scientists, and in some cases return to serve our own community, is incredibly rewarding.”
Abigail Diaz reviews her project with a community member.
As part of the yearlong internship class, students complete at least 40 hours of on-the-job experience with professionals in fields such as health care, sports medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and scientific research. They also spend significant classroom time developing research-based poster projects connected to their internships. The posters detail each student’s internship site and mentor, daily responsibilities, a focused research topic drawn from their experience, and reflections on future career plans. During the showcase, students formally presented their work to mentors, teachers, family members, and community partners while engaging in thoughtful discussion about their learning. “This experience gives students a chance to go far beyond the classroom and really understand what these careers look like day to day,” said Chou. “They gain confidence, professional skills and a deeper sense of purpose as they explore fields they’re genuinely passionate about.”
Chris Chou, a STEM teacher at Longmont High, listens to Mason Hendricks’ presentation.
ToniJo Niccoli, principal of New Meridian High School and the Career Elevation and Technology Center, has been named the 2026 Colorado High School Principal of the Year by the Colorado Association of Secondary School Principals. Learn more about her outstanding leadership, dedication to students, and commitment to innovative education across the community.
Superintendent’s Update
Dear St. Vrain Valley Community,
As we close out an incredible first semester, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our students, teachers, staff, families, and community partners for making this such a remarkable period of growth and achievement. The dedication and hard work across our district have led to accomplishments that we can all be proud of, and I am honored to share some of our recent celebrations with you.
The commitment to student success continues to yield outstanding results. The Class of 2025 achieved a record-breaking on-time graduation rate of 96.6%, with our Hispanic graduation rate rising to 92.9%, among the highest in the state. These numbers reflect the tireless efforts of our educators and the support of our entire community. Additionally, across our high schools, we are celebrating 1,147 AP Scholars, including 78 students who earned the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma. From our high school bands marching in the Longmont Veterans Day Parade to our student-athletes competing and winning in numerous regional, state, and national championships, our students demonstrate incredible talent, perseverance, achievement, and success.
Teachers and staff across the district are also receiving numerous additional recognitions. Please join me in congratulating ToniJo Niccoli, principal of New Meridian High School and the Career Elevation and Technology Center, who was named the 2026 Colorado High School Principal of the Year, as well as Chris Chou, a science teacher from Longmont High School, who was recognized by Congressman Joe Neguse as the Congressional District 2 Educator of the Year. St. Vrain was also recently named a national District of Distinction for our impactful Grad Tracker work, which is our internally-developed real-time monitoring system providing daily updates on student progress toward graduation. I want to commend our high school principals and counselors for their outstanding work and commitment to ensure that every student gets across the finish line and graduates with a St. Vrain diploma.
For even more celebrations across our system, I encourage you to look through the Fall edition of our St. Vrainnovation Magazine, which highlights the many programs and opportunities available to our students.
None of what we accomplish would be possible without the outstanding work and dedication of our teachers and staff. Every day, our educators go above and beyond to inspire, challenge, and support our students. From our classroom teachers and paraprofessionals to our bus drivers, custodians, nutrition services teams, and administrative staff, each member of our St. Vrain family plays an essential role in the success of our students. Thank you for your commitment and your care.
As we head into winter break, I hope all of our students, families, teachers, and staff take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the company of family and friends. You have earned it. We look forward to a strong start to the second semester and to welcoming our students back on Tuesday, January 6. Until then, I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful winter break and a very happy new year.
With gratitude, Jackie Kapushion, Ed.D. Superintendent, St. Vrain Valley Schools
Featured Stories
Principal of the year
St. Vrain Valley Schools Celebrates ToniJo Niccoli, Named the 2026 Colorado High School Principal of the Year
ToniJo Niccoli, principal of New Meridian High School and the Career Elevation and Technology Center, has been named the 2026 Colorado High School Principal of the Year by the Colorado Association of Secondary School Principals. Read More
Teacher of the year
Longmont High School STEM Teacher Honored with Congressional Service Award
Chris Chou, a STEM teacher and co-founder of Longmont High School’s Medical and BioScience Academy and SMART team, was honored with a Congressional Service Award for Educator of the Year by Congressman Joe Neguse on Saturday, December 13. Read More
national recognition
St. Vrain Valley Schools Earns National District of Distinction Award for Transformative Graduation Initiative
St. Vrain Valley Schools has been named a 2026 District of Distinction by District Administration, receiving national recognition in the Culture, Vision & Strategic Planning category for our innovative approach to ensuring every student graduates prepared for success. Read More
Students explore pathways
Opportunities Abound
Across St. Vrain Valley Schools, students are encouraged to explore over 40 industry-leading focus pathways that connect their education to real-world careers. Read More in St. Vrainnovation Magazine
Thoughtful Artificial Intelligence Use
ETHOS: A Responsible Approach for AI in Education
As schools redefine what it means to prepare students for the future, St. Vrain Valley leaders and educators are taking a responsible approach to ensure AI is only used to strengthen learning and to prepare students for future success. Read More in St. Vrainnovation Magazine
Meaningful firsts
Educators Reflect On the Firsts That Matter Most
In classrooms across St. Vrain Valley Schools, educators shared their most meaningful “firsts” and reflect on what inspires their teaching. Read More in St. Vrainnovation Magazine
Registration for the 2026-27 school year is now open. St. Vrain Valley Schools offers high-quality, five-day preschool programs across the district, with half-day and select full-day options for families. Learn more about Preschool.
@StVrainValleySchools
Follow Us on Instagram
Follow St. Vrain Valley Schools on Instagram @stvrainvalleyschools to explore more stories, celebrations, and updates from across our community. See more on Instagram.
St. Vrainnovation Magazine
ST. VRAINNOVATION magazine debuted its inaugural fall edition, marking a new milestone for the publication. The magazine includes videos, feature stories, news, and updates to bring the incredible stories of our students, teachers, and staff to life. Check out the digital version of the magazine at: http://magazine.svvsd.org.
St. Vrain Valley Schools has been named a 2026 District of Distinction by District Administration, receiving national recognition in the Culture, Vision & Strategic Planning category for our innovative approach to ensuring every student graduates prepared for success.
The award honors the district’s comprehensive graduation initiative, which combines the internally-developed GradTracker system with proactive intervention strategies that have produced remarkable results: a 96.8% overall graduation rate—the highest in the Denver Metro Area—and a dramatic reduction in dropout rates to just 0.4%,
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire St. Vrain community—educators, administrators, families, and students—who share an unwavering belief that every student can and will graduate with a strong competitive advantage,” said Superintendent Dr. Jackie Kapushion. “Our approach proves that maintaining high academic standards and providing comprehensive support work together to help every individual students succeed.”
An intentional look at individual student progress began in 2019, and the initiative reached a significant milestone with the launch of GradTracker in 2023. This represented a fundamental shift from reactive to proactive student support. GradTracker provides real-time monitoring of every high school student’s grades, attendance, and credit accumulation, enabling educators to intervene before students fall behind.
Perhaps most significant are the equity achievements the initiative has produced. The Hispanic graduation rate has increased from 55.9% in 2010 to 93.4% in 2025, a remarkable 37.5 percentage point gain that now places our Hispanic students with the highest graduation rate in the Denver Metro Area.
These results have been achieved while maintaining the highest graduation requirements in the region at 24.5 credits and increasing Advanced Placement participation to 63% overall, with Hispanic student AP participation growing from 38% to 53%.
The district’s approach includes multiple layers of support: JumpStart summer programming for incoming freshmen, pre-failure intervention systems with guided study halls and targeted tutoring, unit recovery models that allow students to retake only failed concepts rather than entire courses, and expanded eCredit recovery options. Weekly administrator-counselor partnerships and quarterly parent meetings ensure coordinated support for every student.
The District of Distinction award, presented by District Administration, recognizes pioneering initiatives that have made significant impact on student achievement and educational excellence. Award recipients are selected for programs that can inspire and be replicated by educators nationwide.
“We’re not done yet,” Dr. Kapushion noted. “Our mission is to ensure 100% of our students graduate ready for college, career, and life. This award validates our approach, and we’re committed to continuing to refine and improve our systems to serve every student.”
For more information about the Districts of Distinction program, visit District Administration.
St. Vrain Valley Schools is proud to announce that three of our educators — Jason Kelsall, Monica Moreno-Martinez, and Carolyn Clifford — have been selected for the Apple Distinguished Educator (ADE) Class of 2026.
Apple’s announcement: Apple is pleased to welcome Jason, Monica, and Carolyn to the Apple Distinguished Educators (ADE) Class of 2026. In 1995, Apple created the ADE Program to recognize K-12 and higher education pioneers who are using Apple technology to transform teaching and learning in powerful ways. Celebrating 30 years, the program has grown into a worldwide community of visionary and innovative leaders in education, helping other educators rethink what’s possible with iPad and Mac. Learn more about the contributions of ADEs worldwide at https://www.apple.com/education/k12/apple-distinguished-educator/.
This recognition highlights their leadership in leveraging Apple technology to extend and deepen learning for students — giving them more opportunities for creativity, innovation, and empowered self-expression. As David Baker, Professional Development Coordinator for St. Vrain Valley Schools, describes:
“Technology is a tool that can provide access, enhance student learning, and empower students to be creative. They are able to extend their thinking in powerful ways.”
Jason, Monica, and Carolyn have been instrumental in preparing the next generation of educators. Through coursework and professional learning, they support pre-service, early-career, and current teachers in developing strong digital skills — from accessibility tools to creative applications — so technology can be used with purpose and intentionality in the classroom.
All three recognized work with a wide range of people from St. Vrain Valley Schools, including high school students, paraeducators seeking licensure, and current educators earning Apple Teacher certification. As Baker notes:
“You’ll have a para-professional or a teacher in the classroom who knows how to use accessibility tools and creative tools, giving students a wider variety of ways to demonstrate their learning and more skilled instruction to guide them.”
Their work also strengthens a foundational vision for the district: harnessing innovation to give students agency, elevate instructional practice, and contribute back to the community.
“This recognition shows they’re making our entire system better because they took that opportunity and expanded it.”
Being named to the ADE Class of 2026 also opens doors for global collaboration. These educators will now work alongside influential innovators, master teachers, and advocates from around the world — broadening St. Vrain’s reach and bringing fresh expertise back to our classrooms.
“We’re not learning in a bubble,” Baker added. “Collaborating at a national and international level will push us to continue to advance and raise the level for all students.”
We are incredibly proud of Jason, Monica, and Carolyn, whose vision and advocacy continue to elevate teaching and learning throughout St. Vrain Valley Schools. Please join us in celebrating their selection to this prestigious global cohort of Apple Distinguished Educators.
