Community members packed the Boulder County Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall for St. Vrain Valley Schools’ annual Unframed Art Show, a districtwide celebration of student creativity and artistic expression.
The week-long event featured thousands of pieces of artwork from students representing every grade level and school across the district. Families, staff, students, and community members explored a wide range of pieces showcasing both technical skill and creative voice through mediums including ceramics, digital art and photography, drawing, jewelry making, metalwork, mixed media, painting, and printmaking.
A highlight of the week was the Artists’ Night Open House on April 17, where students had the opportunity to share their work with family members, teachers, and peers.
Award winners from this year’s show can be viewed at svvsd.org/artshow.
At the Innovation Center of St. Vrain Valley Schools, music doesn’t only begin with notes on a page or traditional instruments; it can also start with wires, code, and imagination.
On a recent morning, students in the Intro to Music Innovation class gathered around tables scattered with Arduino Leonardo microcontrollers, colorful wires, sensors, and hand-built prototypes for a culminating feedback session. The assignment: build and design their own musical instruments.
Over the past six classes, using a combination of Arduino hardware and Logic Pro software, students transformed their creations into MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controllers capable of producing and manipulating sound digitally. Their projects were rooted in the design thinking process, so each instrument needed to address a specific challenge they identified.
From concept to prototype, students developed their instruments, using tools like Gemini to help write and troubleshoot their Arduino code. This use of AI allowed students to focus on rapid prototyping without needing a coding prerequisite. The result was a range of inventive solutions to real musical challenges, inspired by students’ existing musical frameworks and interests.
At one station, Longmont High freshmen Clara Lehmer and Mason Morrow demonstrated an equalizer controlled by an ultrasonic sensor, allowing them to shape sound with the movement of their hands—similar to a theremin. At another, a series of buttons mapped to musical notes could shift between keys and chords, designed to make music fundamentals more accessible for beginners, including older adults or individuals with physical limitations.
For Alexis Bonilla, a sophomore from Skyline High School, the project unlocked new ways of thinking about music. “It felt like it opened a lot of creative possibilities on a small scale,” he said.
Other projects were born directly from personal experience. Tristan Jones and Nove Cleveland, both bass players, designed a small keyboard-style instrument that lets them practice sight-reading and learning melodies by ear without carrying a full-sized bass. Nearby, Spencer Gutierrez and Nayeli Ceja, both from Frederick High School, developed an intuitive controller to solve a problem they’ve faced in live performance. Spencer, who plays in a pit orchestra, shared that it can be difficult to adjust computer instrument settings quickly during a show. Their solution: a simplified control system designed for speed and ease.
“It’s empowering to build something that is customized for exactly what you need,” Spencer said.
The Music Innovation Pathway has three pillars: music industry, music education, and STEM of music and sound. Kyle Liss, Music Innovation Program Manager, said that the project was created specifically to speak to the latter. “I wanted a design challenge that enabled students’ creativity and was still musical at heart, while connecting to the STEM of music and sound.”
Liss added that he has been impressed by the range of projects and solutions each group came up with, and that this is one of the few—and to his knowledge the only current—K-12 structures embedding rapid Arduino/MIDI instrument design challenges inside an ongoing district program.
Blending human creativity with technology, note by note, line by line, or even instrument by instrument, we can’t wait to hear what these students will come up with next.
Sessions are available this summer for both students and staff in St. Vrain Valley Schools to earn a new lifeguard certification or recertify. Using the American Red Cross curriculum, participants will train in water safety, emergency response, first aid and CPR, and AED operation. Whether you are looking for a rewarding way to serve the community, are a competitive swimmer or student-athlete, or want to build real-world skills in emergency response, leadership, and teamwork, this training is an invaluable opportunity.
The course follows a hybrid training model, with an online component to be completed prior to the hands-on session.
Participants must meet the following requirements:
Be at least 15 years of age
Swim 150 yards
Tread water for two minutes without using hands
Retrieve a 10-lb weight from 10 feet of water
Have a current physical on file (for St. Vrain students)
Details
Dates
May 28-29: Lifeguard Recertification 8 a.m.-2 p.m. (students and staff)
June 1-5: Students Only (Initial Certification) Monday 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
June 8-12: Staff Only (Initial Certification) Monday 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
June 15-19: Students Only (Initial Certification) Monday 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Recertification must have at least 5 participants to run the course. Initial Certification must have at least 8 participants to run the course.
Costs per person:
$200 for recertification
$300 for new certification training
*Class Format:
All classes are in a hybrid format with an online learning portion. Participants must complete the online learning portion prior to the first day of class in the pool. If the online portion is not completed by the first day of class, the participant will not be able to participate and there is no refund. A link to the online portion will be sent on 5/16/26.
On Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28, Legacy Elementary students took to the stage for their production of Finding Nemo. These productions are a powerful display of student talent, and play a strong role in preparing students for future opportunities.
While the two hour-long shows are the public element of the production, they provide just a small glimpse into the significant efforts put forward by students, teachers, staff, and community members alike. To ensure the shows were performed at the highest possible level, students rehearsed before school three times each week starting in mid-November.
Caleb Smith, the music teacher at Legacy Elementary who also directs the musicals, said the most rewarding part is inspiring students and watching them develop a passion for performing.
“I hope students gain confidence, cooperation, and a sense of belonging in theatre,” Smith said. “I love teaching students to sing, act, and dance, and when they leave my program, I want them to take that into everything they do, from sports, work, or academics,” he added.
Smith also highlighted that the show was a coordinated effort between volunteers and students, but the students took the lead on nearly every element of the show.
“We had a lot of backstage volunteers helping coordinate things, but students ran the show,” Smith said. “I often had volunteers backstage just standing and enjoying the show while the cast took control and made the show their own,” Smith added.
Finding Nemo was Smith’s third final show at Legacy, and he reflected on what makes productions such as this one special. “It’s special because it’s a launching point for the future of these students in musical theatre and beyond,” Smith explained.
Providing students with opportunities to perform in theatre productions, particularly at the elementary level, gives students a competitive advantage for future opportunities they may pursue within St. Vrain and beyond.
Longmont High’s MBSA program hosts national showcase of student-driven scientific research
On March 28, the Innovation Center became a hub of scientific curiosity and collaboration as St. Vrain Valley Schools hosted the SMART (Students Modeling A Research Topic) Team Colorado Symposium.
The event, led by the Longmont High School MBSA Program, brought together nine student research teams from four high schools across Colorado, Kansas, Ohio, and Wisconsin. While the projects varied in focus, each shared a common foundation: a year-long deep dive into complex scientific research and the challenge of translating it into something tangible, understandable, and meaningful.
Through the SMART Team program, developed by 3D Molecular Designs, students step beyond traditional classroom learning. They analyze primary scientific literature, study protein structures, and ultimately design detailed 3D models that represent the function and form of the molecules they investigate.
“The SMART Team program transforms students from passive learners into practicing scientists,” said science teacher Chris Chou. “Students learn how to interpret complex research, use evidence to answer meaningful questions, and communicate their understanding in ways that are accessible to different audiences.”
At the symposium, that transformation was on full display.
Spread throughout the open space of the Innovation Center, students stood alongside professional-quality posters and intricately designed protein models – many freshly unboxed and seen in physical form for the first time. The setting allowed for something often missing from larger scientific conferences: meaningful conversation. Instead of navigating crowded poster halls, students engaged in thoughtful, one-on-one discussions with visiting scientists, educators, peers, and community members.
Students explained the structure and function of proteins, adapted their messaging for different audiences, and shared the story of their research journey multiple times throughout the morning. For many, it was a chance to build confidence not just in their knowledge, but in their identity.
“SMART Teams don’t just teach science – they help students see themselves as scientists,” Chou said.
That sense of belonging was just as important as the academic rigor. The symposium created a space where students with a shared passion for science could connect, many realizing for the first time that they weren’t alone in their interests. Conversations extended beyond projects, forming connections that reflected both collaboration and community.
The experience also highlighted the long-term impact of the program. Many former SMART Team students have gone on to pursue advanced studies and careers in science, including research pathways and doctoral programs. One such student, Maya Blau (Longmont High Class of 2017), is now enrolled in an MD/PhD program at the Medical College of Wisconsin and has returned to the program as a SMART Team advisor, an example of the full-circle influence the experience can have.
At its core, the symposium was a celebration. A celebration of students willing to take on complex challenges. A celebration of educators creating space for authentic, hands-on learning. And a celebration of what happens when students are given the opportunity to go beyond memorization and into true understanding.
On Thursday, April 3, Sunset Middle School welcomed families and community members for a vibrant Community Night celebrating the culminating experience of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP).
The event featured student-led community projects, live performances, interactive displays, and guest speakers, including the Mayor of Longmont. Attendees also experienced a variety of food presentations that reflected the cultures and communities explored through student research.
As part of the IB MYP, students completed projects focused on both research and direct service, identifying real needs within their community and taking action to address them.
Principal Alicia Bono shared, “This is an impactful experience. Students learn what it means to be part of a community and that they can already play a role in making a difference. Through their projects, they identify community needs and find ways to give back. They come to see they are capable of far more than they initially thought.”
Students echoed that growth and said the experience strengthened communication skills, deepened understanding of community needs, and built trust in their peers. Many also described a shift in perspective and recognized the value of contributing to something larger than themselves.
The evening highlighted the power of authentic learning and the meaningful connections formed between students and the community they serve.
Longs Peak Middle School recently held a special signing ceremony honoring more than 40 eighth grade students who have been accepted into high school focus programs. Inspired by traditional athletic signing days, the all-school assembly took place on Wednesday, April 1 from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m., celebrating students’ dedication and preparation for advanced academic opportunities.
Students from Longs Peak earned acceptance into specialized pathways at two local high schools. Programs include the Medical & Bioscience Academy (MBSA) and the High School of Business at Longmont High School, as well as FalconTECH at Skyline High School.
The celebration included performances by the school’s mariachi and percussion ensembles, along with appearances by cheerleaders. Principals and program representatives from each high school were present to welcome future students into their programs. As part of the ceremony, each student was recognized individually and signed a commitment letter, marking an important milestone in their academic journey. The event wrapped up with performances from the Longmont High School drum line and cheerleaders, followed by closing remarks and group photos. Families were also in attendance to share in the celebration.
“This event showcased the value of hard work, encouraged younger students, and generated excitement for what lies ahead in high school,” said Karin Blough, Principal of Longs Peak Middle School. “We have built programs that connect directly to advanced high school coursework and help prepare students for what comes next. We are proud of the dedication shown by our students and their families and look forward to seeing their continued success in these programs.”
St. Vrain Valley Schools values the strong connection between our schools and the community, and we are proud to provide access to our facilities for a wide range of programs, events, and activities.
We are sharing an upcoming update regarding facility use rates across the district.
Beginning July 1, 2026, updated pricing will take effect for the use of district facilities. This adjustment supports the ongoing care and maintenance of our buildings and spaces while continuing to provide meaningful access for community use.
All reservations and contracts* that take place on or after July 1, 2026 will reflect the updated rates.
We understand the importance of our facilities as shared community resources and remain committed to balancing accessibility with responsible financial stewardship.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please reach out to the Facility Use team.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Sincerely, Facility Use St. Vrain Valley Schools
*With the exception of exterior areas included in the Temporary Closure of District Athletic Fields and Exterior Play Areas document on the Facility Use website.
St. Vrain Valley Schools values our community and the many ways our shared spaces bring people together. We are proud to make our athletic fields and exterior play areas available for community use and appreciate the partnerships that make these opportunities possible.
To that end, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily close all district athletic fields and exterior play spaces from May 20 through September 2026 due to unusually dry conditions this past winter and a significant lack of soil moisture. This proactive step protects the long-term health and playability of these spaces.
Our fields are a valued district asset that support a wide range of athletic programs, activities, and community experiences. Taking care of them now ensures they remain safe, high-quality environments that support school-based opportunities throughout the academic year. We recognize the impact this closure may have for community groups and partners. District staff will continue to monitor weather patterns and field conditions. If moisture levels improve or weather conditions shift, we will reassess this decision and share any updates to field availability as soon as possible.
Thank you for your partnership in caring for these important community resources.
Sincerely, Brian Lamer Assistant Superintendent of Operations St. Vrain Valley Schools
Tucked into a cozy corner of Alpine Elementary, a group of kindergarten and first grade students gather at the end of the school day, arms full of stuffed animals and blankets in tow. The room hums with excitement as students recognize something special is about to begin.
Led by third grade teacher Michelle Drangeid, the Stuffy Book Club invites the school’s youngest learners to slow down, get comfortable, and fall in love with stories. Students settle in beside their favorite stuffies, sharing snacks and anticipation as Drangeid opens a book. Each week introduces a new author or theme, expanding their world one page at a time.
On this particular day, the group dives into The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds – a story about courage and the power of creativity. Students bring the story to life through a fun watercolor activity. Starting with a single dot on their page, they quickly transform it into unique shapes and patterns.
For many of these students, this is their first opportunity to be part of a school club, a space designed just for them. “The club is light. It’s a chance for them to take a breath and play,” Drangeid shares, describing the intention behind each gathering.
Along with crafts and stories, the Stuffy Book Club quietly builds something deeper. It increases connections across grade levels, turning familiar faces in the hallway into friendly waves and conversations. As Drangeid explains, “I love including other grade levels because I get a chance to meet kids that I don’t normally get to see. When I’m walking around the building, they see me and say hi. There is a connection that builds community, which is one of the best parts about this.”
Long after the club ends, its effects continue to unfold. Students return home to read aloud to their stuffed animals, build blanket forts, and recreate the cozy magic of reading. In these small, meaningful moments, a lifelong love of reading begins to take root for Alpine Elementary students.
