Barney Ford Elementary

Weekly Update: Feb 1, 2024

02/01/24, 5:35 PM

Dear Families,

 

Denver is becoming home to many new families from Latin America. Barney Ford is proud to welcome many of these families to our community. Over the last few weeks, we’ve added new students to many of our classes. Our community is stronger and more compassionate when we open our doors and hearts. Join us in welcoming our new families!

 

First Friday Coffee and Conversation

Please join us for the First Friday Coffee and Conversation tomorrow from 7:45-8:45. The DPS social-emotional learning (SEL) team will be hear to discuss how you can use SEL strategies at home. After the Coffee, we will have a Collaborative School Committee meeting to discuss the school budget. All are welcome at both meetings.

Black History Month

February is Black History Month. During February, we honor the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who helped to shape our nation. Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs, and adversities that are an indelible part of our country's history. At Barney Ford, we celebrate this month through our art, writing, and conversations. We will also honor the Black students and staff members throughout the month. Our next Family Fun Night on Feb 22, will include African drumming and Polynesian dance. We hope you join us for the festivities!

 

School Choice

DPS SchoolChoice: for the 2024-25 school year is open through 4 p.m. on Feb. 12! 

 

The process is for students who want or need to attend a new school for the following school year, particularly incoming kindergarten, sixth- and ninth-grade students. All incoming ECE students, as well as incoming students who reside in an enrollment zone, must complete an application. 

 

Research your school options using the School Finder, Enrollment Guides, FAQs or by contacting schools directly. To apply, create an account or sign in using your Parent Portal login. Then, rank your schools in order of preference and submit your application before 4 p.m. on Feb. 12. Results will be released late March. Call 720-423-3493, email schoolchoice@dpsk12.org or visit schoolchoice.dpsk12.org for more information.

 

Summer Connections

The Summer Connections Program is returning as a free, five-week program from June 17-July 19.  Barney Ford students entering first through fifth grade are invited to participate in this full-day program. 

 

Designed for student readiness, the program introduces students to next year’s curriculum with a special focus on STEM subjects. Students will also participate in a variety of activities including Inventor’s Week, The Lego Challenge, Career exploration and computer science. Plus, there’s an exciting field trip in store! 

 

Registration mid-February. See  Summer Connections webpage for more information and updates. 

DPS Job Fairs at Community Hubs

DPS is hiring! Join the Community Hubs and Talent Acquisition Teams to learn about the different career opportunities available in Denver Public Schools! 

  • February 2nd @ Southwest Community Hub from 10 am-12 pm

Schedule Breakdown

  • 10:00 - 10:45 a.m.

Information Session hosted by the Talent Acquisition team regarding different career

opportunities, along with qualifications, pathways programs, and benefits information.

  • 10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Open hours to meet with recruiters and workforce coordinators regarding your path

and what support you need getting started.

Attendance Update

Our attendance rate reached 90.8% last week. We are moving the rate in the right direction as we aim for 95%. 2nd grade had the best attendance at 92.5%. Please support your students learning by making sure that they are at school every day when they are healthy.

Upcoming Events

  • Feb 2
    • 8:00-8:45 Coffee and Conversation with the Principals
    • 8:45-9:15 CSC Meeting about School Budget 2024-2025
  • Feb 16: No school: Teacher Professional Development
  • Feb 19: No School: President’s Day

View the February calendar here.

 

Connect with us on Instagram!

COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND SUPPORT

FACE

DPS’ Family and Community Engagement (FACE) team:  comprehensive list of meals, housing, mental health and other resources to share with students and families in English and Spanish.

Rent and Utility Assistance

The Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) Program assists eligible households with:

  • Rental Assistance – Up to 6 months of rental assistance may be provided to an eligible household within a 12-month period (calendar year). This may include rental arrears, the current month’s rent, and one future month’s rent.

  • Utility Assistance – This program provides utility assistance to Denver Water and/or Xcel Energy (electric, gas) for renters and homeowners. Utility assistance may be provided to eligible households one time per utility within a 12-month period (calendar year).

  • Relocation Assistance – This may include security deposit, first month’s rent, and application fees. Deposit and first month’s rent will count as one month each toward the 6-month maximum.

Migrant Support