Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) 7075 N. Shoreham Drive Castle Rock, CO 80108 303-387-5575 Grades K-5 Calendar: Traditional www.1dcsdk12.org/elementary/bre

BRE volunteers “Staking a Claim for our Future” - Pictured back row (left to right) Laurel Mueller, Lilli Almon, CindyHarper, Marsha Singer, Karen Brankin, Lisa Prater. Pictured front row (left to right): Tia Lundgren, Sandy Haworth-South. (photo by Elean Gersack)

Having fun at the Gold Rush. Pictured left to right are Pierce Jacoway, Jennifer Murdock, David Tolson and Ally Berggren. (photo by Elean Gersack)

Students perform the fifth grade show at BRE - “Made in the U.S.A.”(photo provided by Linda Day)

Talent Show participants receive accolades from the crowd after the final performance. (photo by Elean Gersack)

by Elean Gersack

Buffalo Ridge Celebrates 10 Years

To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE), more than 230 parents, staff and friends enjoyed a night at the Sanctuary on April 21. The Buffalo Ridge Gold Rush – Staking Our Claim for the Future - was organized by event co-chairs Sandy Haworth-South and Tia Lundgren along with countless other volunteers. Beyond the exquisite views from the terrace, guests enjoyed chicken, beef and buffalo kabobs, a fabulous salsa bar, drinks, and scrumptious desserts. Throughout the evening, attendees bid on silent auction items, such as a mosaic mirror - created by Ms. Carter’s third grade class, a Dude Ranch vacation get-away, wine baskets, lunch and a movie with teachers and much, much more.

Later in the evening, a live auction brought in lots of fun and high bidders. First grade teacher, Jennifer Murdock, was one of two people to win a day as BRE principal. An autographed John Elway jersey and Carmelo Anthony basketball were also among the live auction items.

Nearly $30,000 was raised for the school and more than half of the proceeds were realized from classroom projects and teacher gifts. The remaining funds came from neighborhood and business auction items.

Students perform the fifth grade show at BRE - “Made in the U.S.A.”(photo provided by Linda Day)

BRE Fifth Graders Perform “Made In the USA”

On April 19, more than 100 students took part in the “Made in the USA” fifth grade show. Students from the classes of Mr. Smith, Mrs. Phelan, Ms. Smith, and Ms. Ambrose presented a celebration of American music.

According to music teacher Cathy Deneault, the show was 30 minutes of non-stop energy. In addition to music – featuring blues, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, Broadway tunes, and patriotic – almost every student participated in a physical routine. The physical programs included gymnastics, Broadway dance, juggling, diable yoyos, scarves, hula hoops and balance boards.

The show was coordinated by the BRE Specials Team – Mrs. Deneault (Music), Mrs. Gutierrez (P.E.) and Mrs. MacIntosh (Art).

BRE Dream Team Talent Show – Fun for All

On May 1, students of all ages took center stage to participate in the Dream Team Talent Show. Students and parents cheered as individuals and groups danced, sang, played music and more.

The Dream Team is Buffalo Ridge Elementary School’s student leadership organization. Nominated and elected by the fifth graders, these students are highly recognized by other students, teachers and staff.

BRE to Receive 10-Year Face Lift

BRE will receive several upgrades over the summer. All carpet and tile will be replaced, the walls will receive fresh paint and storage rooms will be converted to learning facilities. Additionally, the playground areas will be extended and enhanced with new play equipment and retaining walls.