Halloween Party at Alpine Valley School

Join the Alpine Valley School community for an evening of pumpkin carving, costumes, and fall fun!

When: Monday, October 27th, 3:30-5:30 PM

Where: Main Room, Theater, and Outside

We're hosting a Halloween celebration complete with a potluck dinner and pumpkin carving. Bring a pumpkin if you'd like to join in the carving fun, and feel free to dress up in costume—though costumes are completely optional!

This event is open to the entire AVS community, including siblings, grandparents, and other family members. The more, the merrier!

Potluck Details: A sign-up sheet for the potluck is posted by the back door of the school. We'll have plenty of space to share food and celebrate together.

Important Reminders:

• Parents and guests should stay in the Main Room and outside areas until 4:30 PM

• At 4:30 PM, we'll close the rest of the building following our normal procedures

• Students who want to stay after 4:30 PM must be accompanied by a parent

• Party ends at 5:30 PM

This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to connect, celebrate the season, and enjoy some creative fall activities together. We can't wait to see everyone there!

Field Trip to Anderson Farms Pumpkin Patch

Join us for an autumn adventure at Anderson Farms! We're heading to the pumpkin patch for an afternoon of exploring and celebrating the season together.

When: Friday, October 24th, 11:15am-3:15pm

Where: Anderson Farms, 6728 County Rd 3 1/4, Erie, CO 80516

Duration: 3 hours total (2 hours at the pumpkin patch, plus travel time)

Cost: $12 per person (cash only)

What We'll Do:

• Educational program about pumpkins and farming (first 20 minutes)

• Hay ride through the farm

• Pick pumpkins from the patch

• Explore the corn maze

• Lunch at the pumpkin patch

What to Bring:

• Sack lunch

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Money if you'd like to purchase a pumpkin

Transportation: We'll be riding in chaperone’s personal vehicles to the farm. All students under 9 must ride in an appropriate car seat provided by their parent or guardian.

Chaperones: Marc (Staff Sponsor), Terra (Student Sponsor), Katy, and one parent chaperone (TBD)

Who Can Attend: This field trip is open to School Meeting Members and parent chaperones only.

Important Note: Permission forms and $12 cash payment are due by close of school on Thursday, October 23rd.

Schedule Change: Chore time will be moved to Thursday that week to accommodate the field trip.

Questions? Find Marc at school or reach out via email.

Field Trip: The Mousetrap at Arvada Center

Thursday, October 9, 2025 | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Join us for an exciting theatrical experience as we attend Agatha Christie's legendary murder mystery "The Mousetrap" at the Arvada Center! This classic whodunit has captivated audiences for decades with its clever twists and suspenseful storytelling.

About the Play

Set in 1950s England at Monkswell Manor, this two-act mystery follows guests trapped by a blizzard after a London murder. When another murder occurs at the manor, everyone becomes a suspect as a police sergeant investigates their connections to the crimes. The play runs approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

Important Information

Cost: $24 per student (12 tickets available)

Attendees: Interested students have already RSVP’d for this event, to find out whether your student is on the list to attend, please contact the school

Transportation: Private vehicles with parent chaperones

Chaperones: Addison and two parent volunteers

Content Advisory

This production contains themes of murder, revenge, and references to child abuse trauma. The mood is suspenseful with moments of psychological tension, though there is no graphic onstage violence. Students should be comfortable with mystery/thriller content and prepared to follow traditional theater etiquette throughout the multi-hour-long performance.

Required by October 2nd

• Signed permission form

• $24 payment in cash (please give to any staff member)

Coffee, Books & Park Adventure

Join us for a relaxed morning exploring the neighborhood around Tenn St Coffee & Books! We'll take public transit together, practice navigating the city, and enjoy some free time at a local bookstore café.

When: Monday, September 22nd
Departure: 10:00 AM from Alpine Valley School
Return: 2:00 PM

What to Expect:

• Take RTD public transit to Tenn St Coffee & Books

• Browse books and enjoy the café atmosphere (bring money for drinks, snacks, or books if you'd like to purchase)

• Walk to Cesar Chavez Park for outdoor play and socializing

• Practice independence and community exploration

What to Bring:

• Weather-appropriate clothing and accessories

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Money for optional purchases at the café

• Water bottle recommended

Chaperones: Marc and Addison will accompany the group

Cost: Free to attend (transportation included)
Optional spending money for café purchases

First Day of School

Wednesday, August 20th, 2025

Welcome back, AVS community! Our 2025-26 school year officially begins today.

Questions? Contact the office anytime. Here's to an incredible year ahead!

Back to School Night

Tuesday, August 19th, 3:30 - 6:00 PM

Join us the night before our first day of school to reconnect after summer and welcome new families to our community! This beloved annual tradition kicks off the 2025-26 school year with door prizes, games, and our famous (or perhaps infamous) icebreaker activities.

Early Arrival Bonus: Come at 3:30 PM to help move furniture back after carpet cleaning and earn an extra door prize ticket!

Who's invited: Current parents, students, and staff

What to bring: Just yourselves!

This is the perfect opportunity to strengthen community bonds and start the school year feeling connected. We can't wait to see familiar faces and introduce new members to the AVS family.

Questions? Contact us anytime.

Work Party

Saturday, August 16th at 11:00 AM

Join the AVS community for our annual building cleanup before the new school year! We'll tackle furniture moving (our biggest need), kitchen deep-cleaning, bookshelf wiping, gardening, art room organizing, office tidying, and much more.

• What to bring: Work clothes, hat for outdoor tasks, gloves

• What we provide: All cleaning supplies and tools

• Who's invited: Everyone - parents, students, alumni, families!

Tasks are posted on a board so you can grab a team and dive in. We usually finish within an hour thanks to amazing community help, so arrive at 11 AM sharp if you want to claim a job!

After we wrap up, families are invited to continue the fun at our inaugural back-to-school campout at Standley Lake (details below).

Questions? Contact us anytime. Thanks for helping make our school shine for another great year!

Back-to-School Campout

Saturday, August 16th - Sunday, August 17th Standley Lake Campground

Our very first annual tradition! After Saturday's work party, join fellow families for an overnight adventure under the stars. It's the perfect way to build community connections before the school year begins.

Reserve your spot: Call 303-425-1097 and mention Katy Cure's group, or book online at "Coyote Gulch (Upper Campground)" for August 16th, 2025. Deluxe bell tents available for glamping!

2025 Summer Open House - Saturday, July 12th

Discover how children flourish when given the freedom to learn on their own terms. Join us for our annual Summer Open House and experience Alpine Valley School's unique approach to self-directed democratic education.

Meet current families, chat with graduates, and tour our campus where students aged 5-19 pursue their passions in a supportive community built on respect, freedom, and authentic learning. See firsthand how our approach develops confident, creative thinkers who are prepared for real-world success.

This free event offers an informal opportunity to explore whether our educational philosophy aligns with your family's values and your child's needs.

When: Saturday, July 12th, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Alpine Valley School Campus
Cost: Free (RSVP Required)

Register Now at ticketstripe.com/open-house-2025

Come see why families choose Alpine Valley School as a place where their children can truly be themselves and thrive.

End of School Year Celebration!

Join the Alpine Valley School community for our annual Last Day of School Picnic! We're gathering to celebrate another amazing year of self-directed learning and community.

When: Thursday, May 22nd at 4:30 PM

Where: Anderson Park Pavilion (at the back of the park) 4355 Field St, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

What to Bring:

• A potluck dish to share (sign-up sheet available by the school's back door)

• Your own plates, utensils, and drinks

• Nerf guns and darts if you'd like to join our giant Nerf battle!

Important Notes:

• Parents must transport their own children to the park

• All attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

• No electricity available at the pavilion (bring cold dishes or grillable items)

This gathering is one of our cherished traditions where our community comes together to celebrate freedom, respect, and the joy of learning in our unique educational environment. It's a wonderful opportunity for families to connect and for students to enjoy time together outside our school walls.

We hope to see all our current families there as we close out another year of growth, discovery, and authentic experiences!

Andra Tulp Graduation Celebration

Saturday, May 17th | 10:30 AM | Alpine Valley School Campus

Join our community as we celebrate Andra Tulp's graduation from Alpine Valley School! The ceremony will feature a photo retrospective of Andra's journey, heartfelt speeches from AVS staff, and Andra's own presentation reflecting on her unique journey. .

After the ceremony, Andra's family will host a reception for all attendees. This celebration embodies our core values of freedom, respect, integrity, and responsibility that have supported Andra's growth throughout her years at AVS.

This gathering is open to all AVS community members—current families, alumni, board members, staff, and friends of the school. It's a perfect opportunity to witness how our democratic educational model empowers students to pursue their passions while building lifelong skills.

Help us send Andra into her next chapter surrounded by the authentic, supportive community that has been part of her development.

Location: Alpine Valley School 4501 Parfet St Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

We hope to see you there as we celebrate both Andra's accomplishments and the vibrant, freedom-centered learning community we've built together!

All Aboard! Colorado Railroad Museum Field Trip

Join us for a journey through Colorado's railway heritage! 🚂

When: Friday, May 2, 2025 Time: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Where: Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden

Cost: $5 (students under 17), $10 (students 17+)

School Meeting Members are invited to explore the Colorado Railroad Museum's fascinating collection of vintage locomotives, railcars, and interactive exhibits. Students will experience the rich railroad history that shaped our state while engaging with authentic artifacts in a self-directed environment.

While train rides won't be available (they begin late May), the museum's 15-acre railyard offers plenty to discover at your own pace. This trip supports student interests in history, engineering, transportation, and Colorado heritage.

Important Details:

• Transportation via staff vehicles (Larry, Katy & Addison as chaperones)

• Maximum 15 students

• Car seats required if applicable under Colorado law

• Closed-toe shoes recommended as most exhibits are outdoors

• Dress appropriately for weather conditions

• Signed release form and payment required before trip

  • $5 / $10 cash or

  • $6 / $11 via Venmo (@AlpineValleySchool).

Join us for our monthly Parent Support Meetup hosted by Chris and Tanja Courtiol (Penelope and Abigail's parents) on Saturday, April 12th from 10am-12pm at Alpine Valley School.

These gatherings have become a cherished space where parents connect, share experiences, and discuss both the joys and challenges of self-directed education. Whether you're new to our community or a longtime member, there's something powerful about connecting with others who understand this unique educational journey.

This month features a special panel discussion with parents of AVS graduates who'll share their insights and experiences!

Parent meetups are a vital part of our community, offering a safe space to talk freely, ask questions, and build relationships with others who value freedom, respect, and trust in their children's education.

No RSVP needed - just come as you are!

This field trip is currently full! If you want to get on the waiting list (in the event one of the participants can’t make it) please speak to Marc. Events & Excursions will work on planning another trip to the Cat Cafe soon!

Important Note: Students will not be added to the field trip roster until payment has been received.

Join Us for a Purr-fect Morning at Denver Cat Cafe! 🐱

Get ready for some feline fun as we head to the cozy Denver Cat Cafe in the vibrant Highlands neighborhood! Our students will have the amazing opportunity to spend quality time with adoptable cats while enjoying the calm, welcoming atmosphere of this unique space.

When: Friday, March 14

Time: 9:15 AM - 12:30 PM

Location: Denver Cat Cafe (3929 Tennyson St, Denver)

This self-directed field trip experience allows students to:

- Connect with rescue cats in a comfortable, home-like setting

- Practice using public transportation independently

- Explore one of Denver's most charming neighborhoods

- Build social connections in a relaxed environment

Our journey will begin at school at 9:15 AM, where we'll take the RTD (free for youth!) to the cafe. Students will spend about 1.5 hours in the cat lounge, returning to school by 12:30 PM. Staff members Marc and Katy will accompany the group.

Space is limited to 10 students (plus 2 staff) to ensure a calm environment for both cats and visitors.

Cost: $16 per person (cash) or $17 via Venmo (to cover fees)

What to Bring:

• Money for snacks or drinks if desired (the cafe offers a variety of beverages and treats)

• Optional: A quiet activity like a book or sketchbook to enjoy while spending time with the cats

Important Registration Information:

To secure your spot on this field trip, payment must be received before your student's name can be added to the attendance list. While the field trip release form can be signed anytime before the event, spaces will only be reserved once payment has been processed. Spots are filled on a first-paid, first-secured basis.

RSVP today to secure your spot in this unique adventure! Remember, our field trips tend to fill up quickly, so don't wait too long to sign up.

Questions? Feel free to reach out to Marc or Katy for more information.

Annual Meeting of the Membership

Thursday, March 13, 2025 | Alpine Valley School

We invite all members of the Alpine Valley School community to join us for our upcoming Annual Meeting of the Membership. This will be our first membership meeting since implementing the school's revised governance system last year, representing an important opportunity for our community to come together.

Event Schedule

Community Potluck - 6:00 PM
Before the formal meeting begins, we'll be hosting a community potluck starting at 6:00 PM. This will give us all a chance to connect, share a meal, and catch up before addressing the official business of the school. Please bring a dish to share if you're able to attend this portion of the evening.

Annual Meeting of the Membership - 7:00 PM
The formal meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 PM in the Theater. As outlined in our bylaws, this annual gathering enables key stakeholders to participate in important aspects of school governance.

Who Can Attend?

• Automatic Members: Current students who have been enrolled for at least two months, current staff members, and trustees

• Opt-In Members: Parents/guardians of current students, alumni (who attended for at least one year and are at least 18 years old), alumni parents, and elected general members who seek membership and agree in writing to abide by and uphold the school's Bylaws

• Guests: All other AVS community members are welcome to attend as non-voting guests

Meeting Agenda

1. Approval of the agenda

2. Trustees Report to Membership

3. School Meeting Report to Membership

4. Consideration of questions from Trustees (none this year)

5. Consideration of questions from School Meeting (none this year)

6. Ratification of bylaw amendments (none this year)

7. Election of the Member-elected Trustee (Kaye Kamon)

8. Special elections of Trustees (none this year)

9. Members' remarks

This meeting represents an important aspect of our community's shared governance. Your participation helps ensure that Alpine Valley School continues to operate according to our Guiding Principles. We look forward to seeing you there!

Join us for a fun Valentine's Day celebration at Alpine Valley School! We're hosting a community potluck party where everyone can come together, share delicious food, and create memories.

🗓️ When: Friday, February 14th, 2025 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM

What to expect:

• A warm, community potluck dinner (sign-up sheet is available by the school's back door - bring your favorite dish to share!)

• Valentine's-making craft station

• Quality time with our wonderful community

Who's invited? Everyone! Current students and their families (including siblings and grandparents), alumni, staff members, and their families. This is a chance for our whole community to connect in a relaxed, joyful setting.

Important details:

• All attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian throughout the event

• Staff supervision will end at 5:00 PM - this is a family event where parents/guardians are responsible for their children throughout

• Feel free to dress in your favorite Valentine's-themed outfit

These gatherings are what make our community special - they're opportunities for authentic connection, shared experiences, and the kind of organic learning that happens when people of all ages come together. We can't wait to see you there! ❤️

Questions? Reach out to the Events & Excursions Committee via Marc, who will be staffing the event.

Join us for a Wild Adventure at the Denver Art Museum!

Alpine Valley School is excited to announce an upcoming field trip to experience the magical world of Maurice Sendak at the Denver Art Museum. This special exhibition celebrates the creative genius behind "Where the Wild Things Are" and other beloved works that have captured imaginations for generations.

Date & Time: Wednesday, February 5th, 2025, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Location: Denver Art Museum 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy Denver, CO 80204

Activities:

• Exploration of the Maurice Sendak exhibition featuring over 450 original artworks

• Hands-on art workshop led by museum staff

• 30-minute lunch break (please pack a lunch)

Transportation: We'll be taking RTD public bus (free for students under 18)

• Meet at school at 9:30 AM sharp

• Return to school by 3:30 PM

Cost & Payment Options:

• $10 cash (bring to Office with permission form), or

• $11 via Venmo to @alpinevalleyschool (include student name and "DAM field trip" in notes)

Important Details:

• This field trip is for School Meeting Members only

• Lead organizer: Marc

• Adult chaperones: Addison, Connie, and Marc

• Permission forms and payment are required in advance

• Deadline for permission forms: Monday, February 3rd, 2025

How to Participate:

1. Submit your signed permission form to the Office

2. Submit payment (cash or Venmo)

3. Pack a lunch for the day

Questions? Connect with Marc for more information.

Blazing Their Own Trails: A Morning with AVS Graduates

Can self-directed education really prepare students for "the real world"? What happens when we trust children to guide their own learning journey? If you've ever wondered about these questions – whether as a current AVS parent or someone exploring educational alternatives – we invite you to join us for a special morning of authentic conversation with Alpine Valley School graduates who have lived this experience.

On Saturday, February 1st, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, AVS alumni will share their stories of how self-directed democratic education shaped their paths through life. From building successful careers to pursuing higher education, from launching creative ventures to making meaningful impacts in their communities, our graduates demonstrate the profound potential of trusting in children's natural drive to learn and grow.

This intimate panel discussion will offer you the chance to:

• Hear firsthand accounts of life during and after AVS

• Learn how self-directed education prepared our graduates for their chosen paths

• Get honest answers about the challenges and triumphs of this unique educational approach

• Connect with others who value alternative education

• Ask your questions about real-world outcomes of AVS education

The event will take place in the Alpine Valley School theater at 4501 Parfet St, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. While this is a free event, space is limited and registration is required. Children are welcome to attend with a parent or legal guardian – they can either join the discussion or enjoy unsupervised play on our outdoor playground during the event. Please note that all other areas of the school building will be closed during this time.

Ready to join us? Register for your free tickets here

Come discover how giving children the freedom to pursue their interests in a supportive community can lead to confident, capable, and successful adults who truly blaze their own trails through life.

Please note: All attendees under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. While children are welcome, they must be able to play independently or participate appropriately in the event.

Hey AVS families! Get ready for an awesome underwater adventure! 🐠

Downtown Aquarium Field Trip
Friday, January 24th, 2025

We're super excited to explore the incredible marine life at the Downtown Aquarium in Denver. This will be a fun opportunity for students to discover ocean ecosystems and check out some neat undersea life.

Schedule

• Meet at AVS: 10:00 AM

• Arrive at Aquarium: ~11:00 AM

• Explore & Lunch Break: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• Head Back: 1:00 PM

• Return to AVS: ~2:00 PM

What to Bring

• Sack lunch

• Comfy walking shoes

• Weather-appropriate layers

• Optional: Spending money for the gift shop

• Your curiosity!

Important Details

• Cost: $6.50 per student (admission only)

• Transportation: We'll be taking RTD (free for students under 18)

• Location: Downtown Aquarium - 700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211

• Chaperones: Addison, Katy, and Marc will be joining the adventure

• Deadline: All permission forms and payments must be turned in by Wednesday, January 22nd to participate

Sign-Up Process Ready to dive in? Please complete the field trip release form here: Aquarium Field Trip Release

Remember to turn in both the signed form and cash payment by January 22nd!

This trip is open to AVS School Meeting Members only. As always, students will have the freedom to explore the aquarium at their own pace while respecting the space and fellow visitors. Our chaperones will be available throughout the venue to support students as needed.

Questions? Feel free to reach out to any member of the Events & Excursions Committee. We're looking forward to this fin-tastic field trip! 🐋

Parent Support Meetup at Alpine Valley School

Saturday, January 18th, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Let's be real - choosing a self-directed education path for your kids is both amazing and challenging. That's why we're excited to have Chris Courtiol and Ali Deacon hosting another Parent Support Meetup at school. It's a space to connect, share experiences, and support each other through the unique journey of trusting our kids' natural drive to learn.

While parents meet, kids (5+) can hang out at the nearby Wheat Ridge Rec Center (4005 Kipling St). The meetup is parent-led and AVS staff will not be in attendance, creating an open environment for authentic conversation.

Want to join? Have questions? Reach out to Chris (Abigail & Penelope's Dad) or Ali (Sailas's Mom).

Note: This is a parents-only event as student supervision won't be available at school during the meetup.

Location: Alpine Valley School

Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Date: Saturday, January 18th, 2024

Looking forward to building community together! ✨

We’re planning a cozy winter morning at Tenn Street Coffee & Books! ☕️ 📚

Our students will take a quick RTD bus ride to this beloved neighborhood café and bookstore, where they can browse shelves of interesting reads, enjoy hot drinks (if they choose), and experience one of Denver's authentic local spots.

When & Where
Friday, January 10th, 2025
Tenn Street Coffee & Books
10:45 AM - 1:26 PM (departure from & return to school)

What to Know

• Transportation: RTD bus (free for students under 18)

• Optional: Bring money for drinks and books

• Chaperoned by Addison and Marc

• For AVS School Meeting Members only

• Permission form due by January 9th: Link to Permission Form

Schedule

• 10:45 AM: Depart school

• 11:10 AM: Arrive at café

• 1:00 PM: Head back to school

• 1:26 PM: Return to school

This field trip is planned by our Events & Excursions Committee and has been approved by school authorities. It's a perfect opportunity for students to practice independence, manage their time, and engage with our local community – all key aspects of the self-directed learning we value at Alpine Valley School.

Join us for Alpine Valley School's annual Secret Santa gift exchange! This beloved tradition brings our community together to share in the holiday spirit before winter break.

Does your student want to participate? Here are the details:

Sign up with Marc at school by Friday, December 6th. On that day, we'll draw names for gift-giving. The spending limit is $20, and homemade gifts are always welcome. All gifts should be wrapped with the recipient's name clearly written on the tag. Since this event takes place during the school day, only staff and students will be participating.

If you or your child forget who you're giving to, no worries – Marc will have the master list and can help with a quick reminder.

Bring your wrapped gifts to school on Friday, December 20th. We'll gather for our gift exchange around 10:00 AM, starting our winter break with this festive community celebration.

Have questions? Marc is happy to help!

The deadline to sign up for this field trip has passed and no additional submissions can be accepted at this time.

Join us for a winter treat - an ice-skating field trip to the Apex Recreation Center! On Monday, December 16th, school meeting members will have the opportunity to glide across the ice during a special mid-day excursion.

Time & Location:

• Departure from school: 10:30 AM

• Skating time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

• Return to school: 1:00 PM

Cost: $10 per person (includes skate rental)

Transportation: Katy, Marc, and Addison will be serving as chaperones and providing transportation in their personal vehicles. We currently have space for 14 participants. Additional drivers/chaperones will be needed if more students sign up.

Important Requirements:

• Open to school meeting members only (staff and students)

• Must submit signed field trip release form (sign online using Adobe Sign)

• Payment of $10 (cash only) must be turned in at school before the trip

• Sign-up deadline: December 15th

Don't miss out on this fun winter activity! Register early to secure your spot. Questions? Please contact Marc or Katy.

Illuminate Your Evening! Alpine Valley School Community Night at Adventure Golf

Join the Alpine Valley School community for a magical winter evening under the twinkling lights at Adventure Golf & Raceway!

When: Wednesday, December 11th, 5:00 PM

Where: Adventure Golf & Raceway

9650 Sheridan Boulevard, Westminster

Cost:

- Ages 13-59: $12.50

- Kids & Seniors: $9.00

Important Details:

- RSVP required by December 4th via: Google RSVP Form

- Payment due by December 11th (cash only, to staff at school)

-Event begins at 5:00 PM

- Concessions available for purchase on-site

- Minimum 10 participants needed for the event to happen

NOTE TO PARENTS: Staff will not be responsible for students after 5:00 PM. This is a family event where parents/guardians should accompany their children.

Questions? Reach out to Marc at school.

Join us for our annual Thanksgiving Feast during the school day! This cherished tradition brings staff and students together to share a meal and gratitude before we head off for break. Want to contribute to the feast? Check out the sign-up sheet by the back door to let us know what dish you'll bring to share. This special lunch is a students-and-staff gathering - a cozy opportunity for our daily community to break bread together before the holiday.

Note: Students may use the kitchen equipment they are certified for if they want to prepare their dish at school.

Alpine Valley School Halloween Celebration 🎃

Friday, November 1st, 4:30 - 6:30 PM
4501 Parfet St, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

Join our community for an evening of autumn festivities and connection! We're transforming our space into a Halloween haven where students, staff, alumni, and families can gather to celebrate the spooky season in true Alpine Valley style.

Important Note: All participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event, as staff members will not be acting in a supervisory capacity during this community gathering.

During the School Day

Students and staff will enjoy special Halloween activities during regular school hours, including:

• The classic Werewolf game

• A spooky Halloween movie

• And more seasonal fun!

Evening Celebration (starting at 4:30PM)

• Community Potluck Dinner: Share your favorite dishes with our vibrant community (sign up on the clipboard by the back door)

• Costume Showcase: Express yourself through creative costumes (completely optional - you're free to come as you are!)

• Halloween Games: Activities and seasonal fun

Why Join Us?

This gathering embodies what makes our community special - a space where authentic connections flourish and everyone's contribution is valued. It's more than just a Halloween party; it's an opportunity for our community members to strengthen bonds, share stories, and celebrate together.

Details

• Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

• Location: Alpine Valley School campus

• Who's Invited: All students, parents, staff, alumni, and community members with their families

• What to Bring: Your chosen potluck contribution (please sign up on the sheet by the back door)

Join us for an evening of fun, meaningful connections, and delicious community-sourced food. Whether you come in elaborate costume or comfortable clothes, your presence adds to the richness of our community gathering.

Strengthening Our Community: A Special Gathering for AVS Parents

Alpine Valley School is thrilled to announce an upcoming Parent Support Group meeting as part of our 2024 initiative to foster a stronger, more connected community. This event represents a significant step towards creating a space where parents can share experiences, offer mutual support, and deepen their understanding of our unique self-directed democratic educational environment.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, October 26th, 2024

• Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Location: Alpine Valley School campus (4501 Parfet St)

What to Expect

This meeting is exclusively for parents of current and graduated AVS students. It offers a rare opportunity to connect with other parents who are navigating the rewards and challenges of supporting children in a self-directed learning environment. The session will be led by two of our dedicated parents, Chris Courtiol and Ali Deacon, who will facilitate discussions and activities designed to:

• Share experiences and insights about parenting in a self-directed democratic educational context

• Address common concerns and celebrate successes

• Strengthen the parent community within Alpine Valley School

Important Notes

• This is a parent-only event. No staff members will be in attendance.

• Childcare will not be available on campus. Parents are encouraged to drop off children at the nearby Wheat Ridge Rec Center if needed.

• Attendees will receive a follow-up message from Chris Courtiol and Ali Deacon with more details about the session's structure and any preparation that might be helpful.

The Inspiration Behind the Initiative

This Parent Support Group is a direct result of insights gained from the summer self-directed democratic school conference. We recognized a vital need to provide more opportunities for parents to connect, share, and support one another. As a school that values freedom, integrity, respect, and responsibility, we believe that fostering a strong parent community is essential to the overall success and well-being of our students and families.

Join Us in Building a Stronger AVS Community

We encourage all parents to participate in this valuable opportunity. Your experiences, questions, and insights are crucial in shaping a supportive network that enhances the Alpine Valley School experience for everyone involved. Together, we can create a robust parent community that reflects the core values of our school and supports the growth of our children in this unique educational environment.

We look forward to seeing you on October 26th as we take this important step towards strengthening our AVS family!

For any questions or additional information, please Chris Courtiol or Ali Deacon, the event organizers.

Guess what? We're heading to Urban Air Westminster for an awesome day of fun and adventure! Here's the scoop:

📅 When: October 18th, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

📍 Where: Urban Air Westminster, 7025 W 88th Ave, Westminster, CO

🚌 How: We're going green and taking the public bus there and back!

Now, here's the deal:

💰 Cost Options:

• Platinum Level: $28 (includes all the cool stuff like laser tag, sky rider, ropes course, climbing wall, and warrior course)

• Deluxe Level: $23 (basic attractions, but still tons of fun!)

• Both options come with lunch, so no need to pack sandwiches!

💵 Important: We need your cash payment by October 11th. No cash, no splash (or bounce, in this case)!

📝 Permission Slips: We're going digital! No more paper cuts from permission slips. Just head to this link and sign away: https://bit.ly/3ZpLaZc

This link covers both our school permission form AND Urban Air's waiver. Two birds, one stone!

👀 Remember: No signed forms = No field trip. So please, pretty please, get those e-signatures in ASAP!

🦸‍♂️ Your amazing chaperones for this adventure will be Katy, Marc, and Addison.

We're so excited for this trip, and we hope you are too! If you have any questions, just give us a shout. Let's make this the best field trip ever! Get ready to defy gravity and have a blast! 🚀

Alpine Valley School Park Outing - Wednesday, September 25th

Students and staff, get ready for a fun-filled afternoon at Fruitdale Park! We're heading out right after JC (around 11:00 AM) for some fresh air and outdoor enjoyment.

What to bring:

• Sack lunch (if not purchasing school lunch)

• Water bottle

• Comfortable walking shoes

Lunch options:

• Bring your own sack lunch, or

• Purchase school lunch from Cooking Committee ($3 or ingredient donation)

  • School lunch can be brought to the park

Special note for younger students: Students under 9 are invited to join this outing! Marc and Katy will be accompanying the group.

Schedule:

• Departure: After JC (around 11:00 AM)

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

• Transportation: Walking together as a group (to and from the park)

This is a great opportunity to enjoy some outdoor time together. Students, don't forget to dress appropriately for the weather and bring anything else you might need for a comfortable park visit.

We're looking forward to a wonderful time at Fruitdale Park!

Back to School Night: Let's Kick Off an Amazing Year!

Get ready for an evening of fun, laughter, and reconnection at our Back to School Night on August 20th from 4:00-6:00 PM at the school! We're buzzing with excitement for the new school year, and we can't wait to see all of you – familiar faces and new friends alike!

What to Expect

• A warm welcome for our new families joining the AVS community

• Exciting games with awesome prizes to get everyone in the school spirit

• Plenty of time to catch up with old friends and make new ones

• A chance for kids to reconnect before the school year officially begins

• Door prizes to cap off the evening (you might just go home with something special!)

Early Bird Special!

Want an extra chance to win one of our fantastic door prizes? Here's how:

• Show up at 3:30 PM (30 minutes early) to lend a hand with moving furniture

• You'll earn an extra ticket for the door prize drawing

• Plus, you'll be helping us get the school ready for the big day

The Best Part?

All you need to do is show up and have a great time! Whether you're playing games, chatting with other families, or just soaking in the pre-school year buzz, we're thrilled to have you there.

Remember, the new school year starts the very next day, so this is the perfect opportunity to gear up for all the adventures ahead!

We can't wait to see everyone's smiling faces as we come together to launch what's sure to be an incredible year at Alpine Valley School. It's going to be a blast!