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April 2024
Straight From the Superintendent
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Introduction
Dear Manitou Springs School District 14 Community,
Where did the school year go? It is hard to believe the end of the school year is upon us. Personally, I want to thank you for my first year serving MSSD14. As you know, I brought my twins with me to our district. The three of us have feel blessed to be a part of the MSSD14 community. It truly is a special place.
I am pleased to report that our students have been successfully wrapping up CMAS, PSAT, and SAT assessments. It's a testament to their hard work and the dedication of our educators that they continue to excel academically.
As we approach the end of the school year, we have a myriad of exciting events planned to celebrate the remarkable achievements of both our staff and students. From our Spirit of the Mustang Awards to our MSHS graduation ceremony on May 19th, there will be ample opportunities to recognize and honor the talents and efforts of our school community.
Looking ahead, we are eager to finish the school year strong and transition into summer. While the end of the academic year marks a period of closure, there are also opportunities for learners to engage in activities over the summer, such as Growing Gardens and athletic conditioning.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership in our endeavor to provide a great place for students to learn.
- Monday, April 8-Thursday, April 25 - State Testing
- Friday, April 26 - Staff Work Day (no students)
- Wednesday, May 1 - Late Start Wednesday (2-hour delay)
- Wednesday, May 8 - Late Start Wednesday (2-hour delay)
- Wednesday, May 15 - Late Start Wednesday (2-hour delay)
- Sunday, May 19 - High School Graduation (1 pm)
- Thursday, May 23 - Last Day for Students (early dismissal)
- Friday, May 24 - Last day for Staff
- Monday, May 27 - Memorial Day (Schools and District Office closed)
Board of Education Meetings
- Thursday, May 2 - Work Session (5 pm)
- Monday, May 20 - Regular Meeting (5:30 pm)
- Thursday, June 6 - Work Session (5 pm)
- Monday, June 17 - Regular Meeting (5:30 pm)
Read Across Manitou
Manitou Springs Elementary School
Read Across Manitou was an incredible day at Manitou Springs Elementary School! This event is a highlight in MSES' calendar. Our community united to foster a love of reading among our students and the enthusiasm for reading filled our halls. Huge thanks to all the amazing guest readers who shared their love for books with our students - your dedication truly made a difference! And of course, a heartfelt shoutout to our incredible staff for their hard work and dedication in organizing such a memorable event. Here's to fostering a lifelong love of reading in our community, one page at a time!
Scientific Journey with Chicks
Ute Pass Elementary School
The arrival of chicks has sparked an air of excitement and curiosity among sixth grade students. These eager young scientists will embark on a hands-on learning journey over the next several weeks, where they will be tasked with the responsibility of caring for these fluffy newcomers as well as weighing and measuring their growth. This practical experience is set to provide invaluable lessons in responsibility and scientific inquiry, nurturing a deeper understanding of life sciences among the students.
Sources of Strength
Manitou Springs Middle School
Dozens of our bright students are embarking on a transformative journey through the Sources of Strength program, embracing an innovative upstream approach to suicide prevention. This powerful initiative focuses on building resilience and positivity across eight crucial areas: Physical Health, Mental Health, Family Support, Positive Friends, Mentors, Healthy Activities, Generosity, and Spirituality. Our young learners are not just preparing to navigate their own challenges but are also being equipped to spread hope, help, and strength throughout our community. Together, we're fostering a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.
Winter Coat Kits
Manitou Springs High School
Mustang Spotlight Recognition
Manitou Springs School District’s Mustang Spotlight recognized staff members from Manitou Springs Middle School and Manitou Springs School District who are making an impact at the middle school and district wide during the Mustang Spotlight presentation at the board of education meeting on April 15 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.
Marcus Jordan
Marcus Jordan, Manitou Springs Middle School Media Tech, was recognized for his efforts helping staff and students across the district with technology questions and concerns. “Every time I walk into the media center, Marcus is busy working with students, fixing devices or supporting the principal with the weekly newsletter,” said Director of Technology Cat Olimb. “He never says no if asked to supervise students during lunch or cover a class in the media center.” Marcus demonstrates and lives our core values of Relationships, Deep Learning and Opportunity in his work as a media tech and the Robotics Team Head Coach.
Jennifer Trainor
Jennifer Trainor, Manitou Springs School District’s 6-12 Gifted and Talented Counselor/Career and College Coordinator, was celebrated for the progress she has made as a leader on our mental health team and among secondary students. Jennifer works with students at Manitou Springs Middle School and Manitou Springs High School. “Jen has jumped into her position over the past two years as an open-minded learner,” said Director of Student Success Kolleen Johnson. Jennifer co-facilitates the mental health team and acts as a mentor to her peers. She also supports middle school and high school students and families and helped spearhead the creation of a college fair, career fair, and work-based learning field trips for students.
Manni Awards
We're delighted to announce the winners of the 2024 Manni Awards. We had staff and students nominated for awards in educational leadership, youth visionary work, community health and wellness, and environmental stewardship. Congratulations to the recipients in each category:
Educational Leadership: Mike Talbott
Youth Visionary Award: Kate Johnson
Thank you to everyone who joined us in recognizing these remarkable individuals.
From left to right: Gary Miller, Kate Johnson, Mike Talbott
S.T.E.A.M. Night
Manitou Springs Middle School
This event is put on in hopes of exposing students to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) related careers and fields. Community guests that work in STEAM related fields are invited to set up hands-on/activity based tables that allow students to learn more about the opportunities available to them. By allowing students to learn from and meet individuals working in STEAM related fields, they are able to gain insight as to what these types of jobs and careers are like to work in. - This event is open to the public!
- See student work
- Meet community partners
- Engage in fun activities
Date: Thursday, April 18
Time: 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Location: Manitou Springs Middle School
Funding is provided by Manitou Arts, Culture and Heritage Initiative, Manitou Springs PAC, John Greene American Family Insurance Agency, and Costco.
School of Excellence Night
Manitou Springs Elementary School
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating excellence at Manitou Springs Elementary School! On April 25, starting at 5:30 p.m., immerse yourself in a showcase of talent and creativity during our School of Excellence Night.
Starting at 6:15 p.m., the auditorium will come alive with vibrant cultural dances, while live music serenades you during dinner. Explore the brilliance of our students' work with captivating displays of classroom projects.
Dinner is by Adam's Mountain Cafe, featuring choices like vegetarian lasagna or chicken with mashed potatoes, accompanied by salad and dessert. Dinner reservations are required. Visit this link to make a reservation. The cost is $18 for adults, $10 for children.
World Language and Culture Night
Join us on Friday, May 3 for the 10th Annual World Language and Culture Night. This year's theme is "The Showcase." It will feature projects and presentations that students have been working on throughout the school year.
Date: Friday, May 3
Time: 5:30- 7:00 p.m.
Where: Manitou Springs High School
Featuring:
- Students projects and performances
- Student Art Gallery
- Pulsera Project
- Dallo's Drumming Workshop
- Special Guests from colleges and organizations
- Food Trucks
Parking:
- Manitou Springs High School
- Manitou Springs Middle School
- Upper Activity Field
- El Monte Place Hill
- Manitou Ave.
Spirit of the Mustang Awards
We are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Spirit of the Mustang Awards, a celebration of the exceptional individuals among us who embody the mission and vision of our schools. These dedicated employees shine through their unwavering commitment to nurturing relationships, fostering deep learning, and expanding opportunities for all.
Congratulations to the following staff on receiving this year's Spirit of the Mustang:
- Wendy Harms
- Laura Maestas
- Meleah Perkins
- Sue Spengler
- Enrique Torres
- Gabrielle Waters
Awards and dinner will be held on:
When: Monday, May 6 at 5:00 p.m.
Where: Manitou Springs Elementary School, 110 Pawnee Ave, Manitou Springs
Please RSVP to Melissa McElhaney (mmcelhaney@mssd14.org)
The Spirit of the Mustang Award is more than an event; it's a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and the transformative impact of educators and staff who go above and beyond. Let’s come together to honor these inspiring individuals and celebrate the spirit that drives our community forward.
Choice Enrollment is Open
Manitou Springs School District is excited to announce that choice enrollment is open! This presents a wonderful opportunity for individuals seeking educational options within our district. To explore the enrollment process and gather more information, interested parties can visit the dedicated enrollment page on our website at www.mssd14.org. Here, you'll find comprehensive details about the enrollment procedures and have the chance to submit your application. Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of our vibrant educational community at Manitou Springs School District – visit the enrollment page today!
Social Media Links
We're on Facebook and Instagram! Follow our pages to stay up-to-date on what's going on in our schools.
District pages:
District Facebook: @manitouspringsschooldistrict14
District Instagram: @manitouspringsschooldistrict14
School Facebook pages:
Manitou Springs Elementary School: @manitouspringsmses
Ute Pass Elementary School: @upesponies
Manitou Springs Middle School: @manitouspringsmiddleschool
Manitou Springs High School: @manitouspringshighschool
Athletics & Activities: @mssd14athleticsactivities