GOOD NEWS

Hello WSD3 Families,

I am Kevin Duren, the Superintendent of Widefield School District 3. I look forward to seeing our staff, students, and families next week.

This year we will continue our goal of increasing student achievement. We will do this by empowering our students to become thinkers and creators, not just passive consumers of knowledge.

We all play a crucial role in shaping the future of our students. Together, we can provide them with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. We believe true success lies not only in equipping students with knowledge but also in igniting the flames of passion within their hearts.

Our approach is forward-thinking and innovative, grounded in a commitment to preparing our students for the challenges that lie ahead. To achieve this, we have actively forged partnerships with industry leaders to stay current with workforce demands and we are continuously providing new pathways and skills sets to be successful in life, regardless of the path they choose.

To ensure your students' success, families can help provide essential needs such as proper nutrition and sufficient sleep. It's also important to create a quiet, dedicated study environment within the household. However, the most pivotal factor is establishing a strong support system that actively engages in the student's learning journey. We encourage families to utilize all available communication channels, choosing the one that best fits your preferences and needs.

We are committed to working with all our families this school year. From the classroom to the boardroom, our mission is to see every child learn, grow, and achieve.

Back to School Reminders:

• First Day of School - August 14th

• 7th and 8th grade students' first day is August 15th

• We added two early release days to the calendar: Aug. 23 and Sept. 20. Please check with your child’s school for exact release times.

We had more than 350 students participate in the Widefield Summer Engagement Academy. The academy offered 50 courses including everything from music and cooking to engineering and sports. These free classes help students find their passion by giving them the time and space to try something new. Registration for next summer's academy will open in April.

The Janitell Junior High Choir and the Widefield High School Orchestra will be performing at the Colorado Music Educators Association (CMEA) at The Broadmoor in January. These music groups were selected to perform and represent WSD3 and the state of Colorado.

(Photo courtesy: Sara Miller, WHS Orchestra Director)

We helped serve 1,500 families at the Widefield Backpack Bash. Students received free backpacks and school supplies, and families were connected to community resources. A huge shout out to all our partners, volunteers, and vendors who contributed to the event.

More than 100 students have a new wardrobe to start school thanks to the Security Lions Club. The club and WSD3 staff partner each year to take students in need shopping for back to school clothes. The event is called Kids Spree.

School meals are free for the 2023-2024 school year. However, we need your help to ensure WSD3 continues to receive funding for students. By continuing to complete the Free Meal Application every year, you can help in many areas beyond just free or reduced price meals:

• School funding - student supports
• Technology support - internet access
• Test fees - discounts on academic tests

Family Resources is a webpage dedicated to providing resources for our families including food pantries, housing, utilities, clothing, mental health, insurance, military support, suicide prevention, and online safety. You can find this page by going to wsd3.org and clicking the "Families" portal on the top right. Please remember you can always reach out to a school counselor, social worker, or a trusted adult for additional information. To contact central administration, please call 719-391-3000.

Mark your calendars for one of our favorite traditions: The WSD3 Community Parade!

• When: Saturday, September 23
• Where: Starts at 10:30 a.m. from the Big R parking lot (165 Fontaine Blvd) and ends at CA Foster Stadium (behind Widefield High School)

• What: The theme is "Inspire, Ignite, Instill." The Widefield High School student cabinet chose this theme based off a quote that reflects WSD3. “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning”- Brad Henry.