The Power of Presence

Throughout this semester, we are working with our 6th-12th grade students to build powerful future-ready habits that will impact them in school and also help them in their future careers and opportunities.

This month, we’re focusing on a habit that is one of the most important aspects of online success: The Power of Presence. In a traditional classroom, people know you’re there just by seeing you in your seat. At LaunchED, your “chair” is actually your voice and your ideas. When you unmute to share a thought or contribute to a chat, you’re making a powerful shift from being a “viewer” to an active contributor. This isn’t just a school skill—it’s the #1 skill used in the global workforce today!

Families, we would love your help in championing this at home! You can play a huge role by encouraging your students to take those small digital risks—like being the first to type in a chat or asking a question out loud. Your support helps them build the “digital voice” and confidence they’ll need as future leaders. In LaunchED, this is especially important as we continue to build an innovative online community where students thrive as learners and leaders.

Let’s spend February making sure every student’s voice is heard and embracing the power of presence!

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Student Art of the Week!

Julisa J. (11th) completed this digital self portrait using the Procreate app on her iPad. This was a self-selected project for the Advanced Studio Art Class, which features independent work and peer feedback to complete self guided art projects using a variety of materials and media. Students that complete the art courses in LaunchED often spend time in their 11th or 12th grade year in Advanced Studio Art class with Ms. Freeman that further encourages their growth and creativity as artists. Thank you to Julisa & Ms. Freeman for sharing this piece!

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Reminders for Feb 11th for 9th-12th Grade Students!

The Online Practice PSAT begins at 8:00am on Wednesday, Feb 11th, for 9th-11th Grades. There are no afternoon high school classes.

12th grade students have an asychronous learning day on Wednesday.

Please see this schedule:

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It’s Scheduling Season in LaunchED!

Do you have a rising 6th-12th grader for the 2026/27 school year? We encourage you to check in with your students and talk about the classes they are requesting for their schedule next year.

Each grade has received a presentation about their schedule and the options they have for electives, advanced coursework, and more! Students can access these materials in their Advisory courses, and as always, please reach out if you have any questions!

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St. Vrain Valley Schools invites the community to attend the Future Ready Festival. This district-wide open house allows visitors to explore the innovative programs and pathways that define the St. Vrain Advantage.

Saturday, March 7
2:00-6:00 p.m.

Read more at this link: https://www.svvsd.org/2026/01/27/future-ready-festival-experience-the-st-vrain-advantage/

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Important Updates for Families in Colorado!

The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) has asked us to share this information with our community: Due to the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits for November may be delayed. If you need additional food before your SNAP benefits are available, there are local resources that can help:

Hunger Free Colorado Food Resource Hotline: 855-855-4626

Colorado 211: Call 2-1-1- or 866-760-6489 or visit www.211colorado.org (this resource also includes support for holiday needs as well)

Feeding Colorado: Visit www.feedingcolorado.org/find-food or email [email protected]

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