Nederland Middle Senior High School (NMSHS) Principal Gavin Goodrich and Nederland Elementary School (NES) Principal Caleb Melamed held their second of three Town Hall Q & A sessions with parents on January 19, 2023.

Goodrich spoke about how Nederland schools need to collaborate together and that there is a need for transparency. Both principals feel this is a piece that has not been consistent within the school system in Nederland. Creating more community and connecting the Pre-K - 12 system in Nederland will build strong bonds between the schools. This will hopefully lead to more retention and inspire a solid root system to bear even greater fruit.

Both principals briefly spoke about the Strategic Plan that comes from Boulder Valley School District that all schools are implementing. NMSHS is helping teachers respond to help kids when they are in need of extra help in classes. At NES teachers are also getting assistance with what should be in their lessons. NES is working hard on Social Emotional Learning (SEL) with students and staff. Also the fun stuff like SHRED ski and mountain biking.

A mentorship program has begun between both schools and Teens, INC. This involves 4th graders, high school students and students from Chinook. A reading program will also start up again between students at NES and NMSHS. Melamed and Goodrich would also like to find ways to bring the staff together from both schools. This would be for people to get to know each other and build community.

One of the questions a parent asked at the meeting was about safety. The principals detailed the safety measures that the school district has put in each building. The principals and parents do have concerns about safety issues with the schools because of the police situation in the Town of Nederland. Those present believe the school district and the town need to address this further. The safety of our children has to be top priority.

As they said at the beginning of the meeting, Goodrich and Melamed were very open and honest when answering questions. A collaboration like this is a breath of fresh air, and although talked about for years, it is wonderful to see it happening. When people come into these meetings ready to listen, speaking with clarity, and with an open mind, progress for the sake of our children and for the community can take hold.