Loading

Van Buren
Elementary
Principal: Kendrick White

Name/History: The school is named after Martin Van Buren, the eighth president of the United States.

Mission Statement: To help all students be successful both socially and academically.

Environment - Van Buren staff and parents are committed to providing the best education possible for our students. We want all students to achieve their potential in a safe environment that respects all. Van Buren is a Positive Behavior Support (PBS) school. We believe in being proactive rather than reactive. Students are taught the appropriate behaviors and expectations for the school environment. Students are "caught" doing the right things and are recognized for their behavior through programs such as Character Education Recognition Assemblies. Respect, responsibility, caring, trustworthiness, and citizenship are among the character traits developed as part of our goal of educating the whole child. The Principal's 100 is a school-wide program where all staff members recognize any student for actions above and beyond in behavior and academics.

Academics - Academic expectations are high for every student. Teachers design instruction from a district and state-adopted set of grade-level expectations. We expect all students to do their best and achieve their potential in and out of the classroom. Teachers strive to meet individual needs so that growth is evident whether a student requires additional instruction to meet goals or enrichment to extend beyond expectations. For seven years, Van Buren has attained a rating of "High" on Colorado's annual student assessment, CSAP. We continue to focus our efforts on increasing student achievement, especially in reading, writing, and math.

Technology - Students have access to computers in their classrooms, in mini-labs in the library, and in a complete computer lab. Teachers integrate technology into their instruction as well as provide students opportunities to increase their technological skills through projects. Everyday opportunities to interact with technology build student efficacy and confidence in technology as well as provide them the tools to succeed in our ever-changing world.

Enrichment - Before- and after-school activities include Odyssey of the Mind, Drama Club, Spelling Bee, Art Club and the Learning and Creativity Fair. The Learning and Creativity Fair is attended by 50% of our school on a Saturday! PE, music, and art are also an integral part of our educational focus of educating the whole child as we recognize that students can excel in these areas. Students have opportunities to showcase their talents through Van Buren's music programs, art show, and physical fitness programs.

Partnerships - Van Buren is a successful school because of the strong partnerships between the parents, students, staff and the community. Van Buren's volunteer hours average 3,000 hours a year! The Parent Teachers United (PTU) and School Accountability Advisory Committee (SAAC) groups work closely with our staff to support our efforts with our students. Partnerships with local businesses and other community members support learning at Van Buren Elementary School. The Van Buren staff and students have participated in events such as Empty Bowls in which students raise money to donate to the House of Neighborly Service.