Lori Butler
Chipeta Principal

April, 2008

Dear Chipeta Parents,

Unbelievable as it may seem, our school year is once again drawing to a close.  As we review this past school year, there is much for which to be thankful.  For me, it has been an honor and a privilege to work with your children.  Thank you for all the support and cooperation you have given me at Chipeta, and for the opportunity for me to be a part of your child’s education.

This school year we have received several awards from the state along with District level recognition.  The Governor recognized Chipeta for the high success of our students receiving over 90 percent or above in reading, writing, and math scores, we are ranked 13^th of 868 schools in the state, and we’re considered the highest performing school in D-11, D20, and D38 to name a few.  We were also recognized this year by the District for our academic performance and for our continued growth.  This year Chipeta was identified as an exemplar site for the D-11 schools in providing interventions to students (RtI) and we have been a site for other schools to learn how this system works to support all children with their academics.  It’s been a successful year!

Our strong Character Counts program along with our strong music, art, physical education, and gifted/talented programs have a positive impact on providing our children with a foundation for future experiences.  The focus at Chipeta is on a well-rounded education that will meet the needs of all our students.

This is Chipeta’s 20^th anniversary.  It is hard to believe that our school is really that old!  We plan to celebrate in grand style with a celebration that will, in part, mirror the original dedication ceremony complete with Southern Ute Indian Dancers, flag ceremonies with both present and alumni scouts, recognitions and dedications and a revival of a previous Chipeta tradition - the Chipeta Talent Show!  We certainly hope you can join us for a wonderful evening of both reminiscing and looking towards the next 20 years!

With the many activities that go with completing a school year, we are also busy planning for the 2008-09 academic year.  If you will not be at Chipeta next year, we would appreciate a call to the office so we can begin working on class lists for the fall.  More information on teacher assignments and class lists will be in our Back to School letter in August.

Together, staff members who work here, the children who come to learn, and the parents and volunteers are what make Chipeta special.  This partnership is valued and makes Chipeta an exemplary school. 

On behalf of the Chipeta staff, thank you for your continued involvement and support,

We’ll look forward to working with you this fall.  Have a great summer!

 Sincerely,

Lori Butler