From the Principal's Mind...
Thursday Night our community came together for a FANTASTIC space themed Art show envisioned and brought to life by our very own art teacher Mrs. Ciotola! The team of people who brought it all together are amazing! Thanks to each one of you. Families, staff, and kids loved the formal presentation of artwork students have created this year, scavenger hunt fun, opportunities to leave positive messages for artists, fabulous food, and more. See below for some images from the evening whether you're reliving moments or unable to join us and getting your first glimpse. A huge thank you to all who donated art and/or bid in our silent auction. All proceeds from this benefit our LISA program. THANK YOU!!
On Tuesday, Educators attended Trailblazing Thompson where educators were honored. Garfield was WELL represented. Former principal of GES and current BRMS principal John Kleiber was honored as the principal of the year. We are so proud of him. He will support many of our kids as they start the next chapter in their life story. We also honored Ms. Laurie Bess, SLP Extraordinaire & LISA Coordinator, and Mrs. Jane Larson, LC teacher phenom, on their retirement after the school year ends. What amazing educators that have impacted and transformed the lives of so many kids! They each played a vital role in establishing the LISA legacy at Garfield.
This year they added a category where STUDENTS could honor educators who have made a difference. Of the 119 honored district wide, Early Childhood through High School, the following seven staff members at Garfield were publicly honored: Jennifer Fodness, Caity Carr, Jackie Duran, Julie Speidel, Carol Thomas, Jeff Thomas, and Jade Baird. In fact, Mrs. Baird took home a special prize as the top nominee by a student. WOW!
We had a great turnout for Volunteer Breakfast. In case you haven't heard it lately, we LOVE our volunteers - they support our students, staff, and keep Garfield smiling. Thank you for everything you do that makes a difference here!
You should have received a separate email with details about a Spring Climate & Culture Survey that is scheduled for the week of May 5th-9th. If you have questions or wish to opt your child in grades 3, 4, or 5 OUT, please reach out to me directly via email, telephone, or Class Dojo.
The Coming Soon section of the Weekly Wrap Up will be updated weekly with what is on our school calendar through the end of the year.
As always, feel free to reach out to share ideas and/or ask questions via e-mail (kathy.sather@tsd.org), class dojo, phone (970-613-6000) or in person.
Summer Computer Access for 2nd-5th Grade Students
Thompson’s Tech4All 1:1 program supports the Strive 2025 Strategic Plan by equipping students with the digital tools they need for their future. By providing access to these resources, we’re creating learning environments that empower students to reach their full potential.
We’re excited to have your child experience a summer filled with learning and growth! To ensure it is smooth and successful, here’s what you need to know about the digital components for summer.
Chromebook & Power Cord Distribution
Students will keep their Tech4All Chromebook and power cord on the last day of the school year. This device will be essential for accessing summer learning tools such as Sora, BrainPop, and i-Ready (All of these are accessible through the ClassLink portal.) Find more details about digital tools on our website.
Guidance and Family Resources
We encourage families to explore digital well-being tools to help set healthy tech use habits at home. Resources from Securly and Common Sense Media, including The Smart Talk and Family Tech Planners, can support these conversations.
Responsible Use Policy (RUP)
Please see our Responsible Use Policy that families acknowledged during Annual Family Check In. If you have not completed the Annual Family Check In, please do so, as it supports all of our digital systems and communications.
Continuing Learning Beyond Summer Programming
After Summer Scholars or other summer programming ends, we encourage continued learning at home! Check out our Summer Activities Guide for fun, educational activities—and share what you’ve learned for a chance to win a prize!
Tech Support
For any technical issues, I.T.S. is here to help! For phone support call our Help Desk at 970-613-7777, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You can also visit our Quick Tips for Chromebooks page to get started. For in person support, you can make an appointment to come to the SSC building in Loveland or visit our mobile support van at a location near you - view flier with schedule!
Optional Device Insurance
To protect your student’s Chromebook from accidental damage, optional insurance is available. Sign up for prorated insurance for coverage through August 2025. Learn more and enroll.
Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting student learning. We’re looking forward to a summer of curiosity, creativity, and discovery. With your support, we know your student will make the most of their learning and technology tools this season! We trust you to take care of your device and continue to learn during the summer.
If you’re reading this on paper, use this QR code to access the links in this letter.
Weather permitting, work activities are Monday – Friday, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm.Here are the project updates for this week (4/28-5/2).
- Now that 8th Street has been re-opened, the project will be scaling back and there will be limited activities for a couple weeks.
- Concrete work will still be on-going, and sidewalks and curb & gutter installations will continue through the first half of the week.
- Street preparation for paving will be on-going at Roosevelt and 9th Street in anticipation of paving in May.
Exciting improvements are coming to our community! The Garfield Harrison Project is a large-scale master planned stormwater project that addresses the multiple drainage problems caused by aging infrastructure.
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to be added to the project’s stakeholder list to receive weekly updates from the city, please contact 970.716.5155 or email garfieldharrisonstormdrain@gmail.com.
Your input is important to the team—we appreciate your engagement in this vital community project!
Kathy Sather Principal
Email: kathy.sather@tsd.org
Website: tsd.org/schools/elementary/garfield
Location: 720 North Colorado Avenue, Loveland, CO, USA
Phone: 970-613-6000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gesgrizzlies/
Twitter: @KathySather11