
Our band students did a lovely job at their performance last night. Bravo!
Principal Update
Greetings Coal Ridge Families,
Important Dates
- End of Quarter: Next Thursday
- No School: Friday, December 20
- Winter Break: December 20 – January 6
Take time over the break to relax and enjoy quality moments with family and friends. Encourage students to unplug from their iPads, dive into a good book, and spend time playing outside!
Upcoming Changes for Second Semester
We are implementing a slight change to our Late Work Policy:
- Students may submit late work if they are actively working in class and staying on task.
- If students choose not to work during class, they will receive a Refusal to Work form. This form, explaining their choice, will be shared with parents/guardians.
- Students who are issued a Refusal to Work form will not be eligible to submit late work for full credit.
Our teachers provide ample in-class time for students to practice and complete assignments. If students stay focused and follow directions, they should have minimal homework and fewer late assignments. These changes align with our Coal Ridge Big 3 values.
Other Reminders
- Prepare for the Elements: Students should bring jackets, hats, and gloves to school. We go outside for recess, and proper attire is essential in case of an evacuation or extended time outdoors.
- After-School Activities: All activities and clubs (excluding sports) end at 4:15 PM. Please ensure students are picked up promptly.
If you have any questions about the new policy or other updates, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for your continued support in making Coal Ridge a great place for learning and growth!
Have a safe and wonderful holiday season. I look forward to what 2025 brings for our school community.
Warm Regards,
Natalee Swan, Principal
School will be closed Friday, Dec. 19, through January 6. The first day of the third quarter will be on Tuesday, January 7.
Parent Corner: Keeping Routines
Winter break is a special time for families to connect and celebrate together, but maintaining a semblance of routine can be beneficial for children. Consistent routines provide a sense of security and help children transition back to school smoothly. While it’s tempting to let schedules slide during the holiday season, incorporating a balance of flexibility and structure can help your child enjoy their break and transition back to school smoothly.
Here are some actionable items to help maintain routines during winter break:
- Keep Bedtimes Consistent: Aim for a reasonable bedtime to ensure your child gets enough rest, even on non-school nights.
- Set a Morning Routine: Encourage your child to start the day at a similar time each morning with activities like breakfast and getting dressed.
- Schedule Reading Time: Dedicate a daily time slot for reading together or independently to keep literacy skills sharp.
- Plan Family Activities: Create a schedule of fun family activities, such as baking or crafting, to provide structure and bonding time.
- Limit Screen Time: Establish clear boundaries on screen usage to encourage active and creative play.
- Introduce a “Quiet Time”: Designate a quiet time each day for relaxation or reflection, helping children unwind from holiday excitement.
By incorporating these practices, you can ensure that your child enjoys a restful yet structured winter break, making it easier to transition back to school routines in the new year.
Spirit Week!
Monday – Deck the Halls (Come decked out in any of your favorite holiday spirit)
Tuesday – Ugly Sweater Day
Wednesday- Winter Warm Up (Grab your scarf, holiday socks, hats & gloves)
Thursday – Christmas Vacation 2 (Island Adventure- Hawaiian Shirts, Board Shorts & Sunglasses)
Lost & Found
Our lost and found is full. Please encourage your child to check the lost and found for any missing items. We will donate any items left as we go into winter break in December.
Activity Bus
The activity bus is exclusively for students attending after-school clubs. It is not available for those participating in after-school sports or games.
If your child plans to stay after school to watch a game or participate in an intramural sport, please ensure you pick them up promptly when the event ends.
Winter Clothing Drive
Coal Ridge Middle School is collecting warm clothing items to be donated. Students can bring the items into their advisory class.
Gift Ideas?
Looking for a holiday gift idea this season? Consider getting your child a Logitech Crayon. These are not required for school but many students find them helpful when working with the iPads. The newer versions charge with the same charger as the iPad.
Free and Reduced Fees
Families needing financial help reducing or eliminating class fees are encouraged to complete the Free & Reduced Fees Application. This benefits your family and supports our school in terms of funding, staffing, and reduced fees for activities. Remember to renew this application annually for access to various benefits.
Apply for free & reduced fees today to take advantage of these opportunities!
Lunch Menu
The monthly Lunch Menu is available at LINQCONNECT. This online system allows you to filter for allergens and view the Breakfast Menu. In the upper left-hand corner, you can change between breakfast and lunch.
Save the Date!
Honor Choir @ Niwot HS – January 14
No School – January 20
Parent/Teacher Conferences – January 30 & February 4
Weekly Events
Monday, December 16
Spirit Week – Deck the Halls (Come decked out in any of your favorite holiday spirit)
Rock Climbing Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm
Girls Basketball Game Mead MS @ CRMS 3:30pm & 4:45pm
Choir Concert 6th Grade 6:00pm – 7:00pm 7th/8th Grade 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Tuesday, December 17
Spirit Week – Ugly Sweater Day
Garden Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm
VEX Robotics 3:00pm – 4:15pm
Shrek Musical Rehearsal 3:00pm – 4:15pm
6th/7th/8th Grade Girls Basketball Practice 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Musical Informational Meeting 4:15pm – 5:30pm
Wednesday, December 18
Spirit Week – Winter Warm Up (Grab your scarf, holiday socks, hats & gloves)
Card & Game Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm
Art Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm
Dance Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm
Shrek Musical Rehearsal 3:00pm – 4:15pm
6th/7th/8th Grade Girls Basketball Practice 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Thursday, December 19
Spirit Week – Christmas Vacation 2 (Island Adventure- Hawaiian Shirts, Board Shorts & Sunglasses)
No After School Activities
Friday, December 20
No School— Winter Break Begins!
Winter Break December 20th – January 6th
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