Welcome Back
We hope that all our students and families had a wonderful and well-deserved break filled with joy, relaxation, and meaningful time with family and loved ones. As we head into the new year, we look forward to welcoming everyone back on January 6, 2026 refreshed, recharged, and ready to learn, grow, and make new memories together. Please remember that there is NO late start in January!
Dine to Donate
Reminder: Dine to Donate is happening this week on Thursday, January 8th at Chili’s all day at the Larkridge location: 16506 N Washington, Thornton, CO. Hope to see you there!
Spelling Bee
It’s December, and winter break is just around the corner! When we return, we’ll jump right into our school wide Spelling Bee to crown a champion who will move on to regionals. Here are some important dates that parents need to know:
- Week of January 12th: Classroom spelling bees for grades 3–5 (timing set by teachers) and 2nd Ms. Brown literacy group. Practice lists will be available in your Thursday Folders by the 13th.
- Friday, January 19th, 8:20am: K–2 (excepting Ms. Brown’s literacy group) spelling bee tryouts at school. Please reach out to Megan Hawkins for the correct list.
- Monday, February 4th: School wide Spelling Bee after school (exact start time TBD shortly)
Students in grades 3–5 will bring home spelling lists soon, and please reach out if you’re interested in having your K-2 student participate on the 19th of January. We want to give our spellers plenty of time to practice. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.
That’s all for now; just spelling out the details!
Ms. Hawkins
World Language and Gifted and Talented Teacher
Staff Wellness “Paws”itivity Cart Keeps on Rolling!
Black Rock’s SHAC is very excited about the enthusiasm that is surrounding the launch of the Staff Wellness “Paws”itivity Cart, an initiative designed to uplift and celebrate our incredible staff all year long! Thanks to generous funding from the Erie Economic Development Council and a grant written by PLAY Education, our first two deliveries rolled out in November and December. Staff members got a brightly designed bag decorated by our very own Rock Pile kiddos that included:
- 🥨 One snack item
- 🧘 One self-care item
- 🧑🏫 One classroom item
This joyful effort supports a thriving school culture and creates meaningful opportunities for students to connect with caring adults. Starting in January, every month, there will be two deliveries throughout the month.
🎁 Want to help?
We’re currently seeking donations to restock the cart for the spring. You can contribute via:
- Shop on our Amazon Wish List https://a.co/jgZ3Hj0 and have it directly shipped to the school. This will be updated frequently so check back often!
- Venmo: @milliken_s (x6205) or @PLAYEducation
- Contact Shannon Milliken (Black Rock Parent and SHAC Co-Lead) to discuss other support opportunities, such as volunteering with bag stuffing or contributing small $5 gift certificates or higher priced items for participation drawings ([email protected])
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to staff wellness. We can’t wait to see this cart grow with your help!
In good health,
SHAC Team
School Calendar
What’s Happening at School?
Our school calendar isn’t just dates—it’s where the magic lives! From spirit days to foam parties, pajama days to parent-teacher nights, you’ll find it all there. Check it out so you don’t miss a thing (because nothing’s worse than being the only one not wearing crazy socks on Crazy Sock Day). Just click on the calendar link and stay in the know all year long.
988 Colorado Mental Health Line
A new state law requires schools to share information about the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line. The service provides free, confidential support 24/7 from trained specialists through calls, texts, or live chats. Families can learn more by visiting 988Colorado.com.
2026-2027 Preschool registration
Registration for St. Vrain Valley Schools’ 2026-27 preschool programs begin Dec. 9, 2025. Families can choose from high-quality, five-day programs, including half-day and select full-day options at schools across St. Vrain. The Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) application is included in St. Vrain’s form, and families are encouraged to apply early for the best chance of placement at their preferred school.
2026-2027 Preschool Program Locations
2026-2027 Preschool Registration Information
Learn More About Preschool Programming
PTO Meeting
PTO Monthly Meeting
When: Tuesday, January 13th, 6:30 PM
Where: Black Rock Library OR join virtually
Virtual link:
General PTO Meeting
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 · 6:30 – 7:30pm
Time zone: America/Denver
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/bzf-ciet-xyi
Or dial: (US) +1 361-384-6824 PIN: 451 473 505#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/bzf-ciet-xyi?pin=1336563718422
Save the Date for Black Rock Bash!
March 7th, 2026 | 7-11PM
Colorado National Golf Club
We are seeking volunteers to be on the planning committee. If interested, please reach out to [email protected].
Notes from the Black Rock PTO:
Want to volunteer? Click this link to join Black Rock on Konstella, our volunteer and communications app, or email [email protected]. Returning Konstella Users: Please log in, and update your child’s teacher in the settings area.
Want to become a sponsor? Email [email protected] for more information.
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
There is a form to submit New Business and Ideas for PTO Consideration: New Business form Link.
Lunch Menus
Please use this link to see the detailed version of the lunch and breakfast offerings. LINQ Connect
Black Rock’s Upcoming Events
Jan. 6th – Students Return to School
Jan. 13th – PTO Meeting | Library 6:30pm
Jan. 19th – NO SCHOOL
Feb 7th – Camp Discovery | Black Rock Gym 10am – 1pm
Sponsors of the Week
