Posted November 6, 2020
Dear SKCEE Families,
I hope you all are enjoying this delightful fall weather and having a happy Friday! Over the last several weeks, we have faced many challenges as a school and as a country. Between social unrest and the restrictions of COVID, I know it must be difficult to stay positive. During times like this, I try my best to remind myself of things I can be grateful for. I’m proud to say that I’m grateful to have an amazing staff that goes above and beyond to meet the needs of students and families. I’m grateful to be part of a school community that supports each other by socially distancing and following our safety rules. I’m also incredibly grateful for the patience and support from families. Finally, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and to be part of a school that comes together and supports one another during difficult times. As a Chicago native, and a Bears fan, I would like to leave you with a quote from the great Walter Payton, “We are stronger together than we are alone.” I feel incredibly privileged to face these challenges together with all of you.
Sincerely,
Matt Johnson M.Ed.
Principal of Stephen Knight Center for Early Childhood Education
Ms. Demi has been teaching for seven years. She is a Denver native, and a DPS alum. She is very much a part of the community, serving on committees inside the building and making connections outside as well. These pictures were taken while Ms. Demi was working with a small literacy group.
My name is Demi Molina (Ms. Demi to the students), and I am a full day 4 year old teacher at SKCEE. This is my seventh year as an ECE Teacher, and I have worked within Denver Public Schools for fourteen years. This is my fourth year at the Stephen Knight Center as a teacher. I have a great passion for teaching young children. I obtained my bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State University in 2013. Prior to receiving my degree I was a Paraprofessional for ECE and Kindergarten within Denver Public Schools. I enjoy traveling, cooking, and going on outdoor adventures with my dog Louie. I come from a very large family, and family time is the best time! I am also a huge Denver Broncos and Disney fan.
Ms. Demi
As COVID-19 cases climb in Colorado and Denver, we all have a role to play in keeping the community healthy. Even if you feel well and have no symptoms, you can still have COVID-19 and be contagious. Many people spread the virus and never feel sick at all, we call this asymptomatic spread. We recommend the core prevention strategies — keeping distance, wearing masks, and washing hands — and being tested regularly. Ongoing testing will be key to supporting DPS’ return to school strategy, and keeping each other safe. We ask that if your learner is displaying any COVID symptoms, that you please keep them home. We also ask that you please complete the SafeAccess Health Screening App for Students before arrival.
On November 18th, the cafeteria will be hosting a special Thanksgiving lunch for all students that want to participate. Please fill out the provided form and RSVP by November 9th. For more information please visit our website.
We have weekly office hours for parents from 3 to 5 p.m., on Tuesdays.
To encourage a love of reading in our early learners, the PTA is hosting SKCEE’s first-ever Read-A-Thon event, where parents can pledge to read with their children while raising funds for our school. The Read-A-Thon starts on Monday, November 9 and continues through Friday, November 13.
How it Works:
To support families during this event and create a sense of community through a shared story, the PTA is giving every child Little Penguin Has the Hiccups to keep at home. Please keep an eye out for this book in your child’s backpack this week! If you have any questions about the Read-A-Thon, please email Sandra Tucker, sandra.ellen.tucker@gmail.com.
This month’s dine/take out fundraiser is being hosted by Birdcall on Tuesday, November 17. Order lunch or dinner at any of Birdcall’s three locations and be sure to tell them you are with Stephen Knight Center for Early Education. Birdcall will donate a portion of the proceeds from our orders back to SKCEE!
If you haven’t already, join the PTA today and attend our next virtual meeting on Wednesday, November 19, at 5:30 p.m.
The SKCEE PTA will be having a virtual marketplace event through Facebook. If you or someone you know has a business that is interested in participating in the marketplace, please have them email sandra.ellen.tucker@gmail.com. There is a $25 fee for each business who would like to participate. There is limited availability so make sure to sign up soon!