If you see or hear something, say something. Eight simple words, and yet those words have the potential to change an outcome.
This week, because one individual reported something to the Elbert County Sherriff’s Department (ECSD), our schools averted potential danger.
The news that a former district student, who spent only nine months in our schools over a two-year period, had plans to harm our schools, is jarring. To be honest, it is disgusting.
But as scary as this news is, we are fortunate everyone involved did the right thing. This could have been a tragic news story. However, because of the swift, diligent, and thorough action of the Elbert County Sheriff’s Deputies and the Office of the 18th Judicial District, our students and staff are safe.
We are filled with gratitude to both agencies for their partnership, due diligence, communication, and unwavering dedication. Their actions were crucial in neutralizing this situation. We are also thankful the courts have a protection order in place for Timberview Middle School, Prairie Hills Elementary School, and Pine Creek High School. Please know, to date, the suspect remains in jail.
But, we must remain vigilant. We will continue to be in close communication with the District Attorney’s Office and ECSD. Should we receive additional updates about impacts to our schools or staff from this case, we will share those details.
This experience is an example we must say something when we see or hear it. Even if something simply feels off or weird, please reach out. Create a Safe2Tell tip. Contact a school administrator. Tell parents. Talk to a School Resource Officer or District Security Officer. Encourage students to share information with a trusted adult.
There are many ways to report a situation that doesn’t seem or feel right. While it can feel scary, talking about these situations, and ensuring action is taken can make a difference!
However, please do not go to social media when hearing or seeing something that doesn’t seem right. This often creates misinformation and makes it much more difficult four law enforcement officers to determine the credibility of information.
Once again, I would like to thank all those who played a part in ensuring our schools remain safe. We often say it takes a community, and this week, it certainly did.
Textbook Review
English Language Arts and fourth grade books will be available for public review and comment, by appointment only, until April 14, 2023, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., at the Academy District 20 (ASD20) Education and Administration Center.
Learn more about the textbook review on ASD20.ORG
Summer School Registration
Current ASD20 students can begin registering for Summer School on Friday, April 14, 2023, at midnight. You can learn about, and register, for Summer School on ASD20.ORG. This year there is a new Q & A PDF that can be downloaded to help with questions.
Learn more about Summer School on ASD20.ORG.
Summer Group Counseling
This summer we are offering group counseling services to help students manage emotions effectively and better communicate. The sessions are from June 5 – 22, 2023, and are one hour each.
Learn about Summer Counseling at ASD20.ORG.
Last Day of School
On Thursday, April 6, 2023, during the Board of Education meeting we confirmed the last day of school. Below are the dates:
High School seniors: May 12, 2023
Pre-school students: May 18, 2023
K-11th grade students: May 25, 2023
Teachers: May 26, 2023
Healthy School Meals for All
There are still many questions regarding the Colorado Healthy School Meals for All program (Proposition FF) and its impact for the 2023-24 school year. While we are still in the information gathering and planning stages, below is a summary of what we know:
ASD20 will opt into the Healthy School Meals for All program in the 2023-24 school year.
Starting next school year (August 2023), all students will have access to reimbursable breakfast and lunch school meals at their school at no cost.
A la carte purchases will continue to be offered for a fee. These purchases will be charged to the student’s meal account, or the student may pay for the food items with cash.
Qualifying families should still submit applications or Free or Reduced Meal status to qualify for fee reductions for athletics, activities, and course fees.
We will continue to provide additional information about this program in the coming weeks.
Our People: Sherry Adamcyk
Sherry Adamcyk, a fourth-grade teacher at Frontier Elementary School, is known for always “giving 100% to students and always being the first person to step up and do what is needed.”
Learn more about how Sherry has been a positive influence for three decades.
Be safe and be well,
Tom Gregory
Superintendent of Schools