Michael Crapsey Jr.

Sara Sandstrom, Nederland. It is especially fitting that we honor Michael Crapsey Jr. with an article in The Mountain-Ear for his graduation from Nederland High School. It brings resolution or bookends his education in the Nederland school system. You see, on his first day of Kindergarten Barbara Lawlor, longtime Mountain-Ear journalist, wrote a story about Michael Jr. and his big day starting school. Now here we are thirteen years later ending this chapter of this young man’s life with another article.

Michael Jr.’s family is not new to the Peak to Peak area. In fact, his father Mike Sr. graduated from Nederland High School in 1995. His mom Angela graduated from Gilpin High School in 2000. Both Mike and Angela grew up in the area and are raising their three boys here. 

While at Nederland Elementary (NES) Michael Jr. enjoyed outdoor education at Cal-Wood and the skiing at Winter Adventure Days. He is grateful for the positive connection he made with NES teacher Claudia Kuster. 

He started playing the violin at age five and is still playing today. He has a great love for music. In sixth grade he started working with orchestra instructor Ms. Mallory and has been in the orchestra all through middle and high school. Michael Jr. has always enjoyed taking those Nederland Middle Senior High School orchestra trips to Elitch Gardens. He also taught himself how to play the guitar. 

When I asked Michael if there was a particular class that he will miss at Nederland High School he said that he did enjoy taking classes with Senor Gonzalez. 

When school is not occupying his time Michael Jr. likes to play basketball, skateboard and ski. He is also passionate about cars. He loves fixing cars and building cars. In addition he helps his dad at the family business Rock Mountain Customs. 

Michael Jr. is not exactly sure what he will choose to do after graduation. With his athletic talent, mechanical talent, and musical talent I would say he has several options. His skills and passions leave a number of doors open for him. We wish you all the best Michael Jr.!

(Originally published in the April 29, 2021, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)

Sydney Nation

Sara Sandstrom, Nederland. Thanks to Nederland High School sports and the signature introductions at the beginning of each game in the gymnasium I will never forget the name Sydney Nation. Janet Turnburke introduces each Nederland player with such energy and Panther Pride. Syyyydneeeeeyyy Naaaation would roll off Janet’s tongue as Sydney would run out onto the court. 

Sydney has been a dedicated volleyball and basketball player while at Nederland Middle Senior High School (NMSHS). She was involved in other activities like orchestra, but sports in particular has played a big role during her time in high school. 

She says that in middle school sports were fun, but in high school they became more than that. “Sports in high school have truly pushed me to be the very best version of myself and have taught me that dedication and hard work really do pay off. If it wasn’t for the many coaches and teachers that have pushed me and inspired me throughout high school, my high school experience would have looked much different.”

When asked about what classes she enjoyed in high school she said Advanced Biology and Advanced Anatomy. She says that Mr. Real made those classes a great environment to learn in. 

Sydney has taken advantage of the learning opportunities that take place in the classroom and on the court in a small school like NMSHS. 

You might say that being a Nederland Panther is part of Sydney’s family. Her mom, Suzi Lorenz attended Nederland High School. Sydney’s older sister and brother also attended and graduated from Nederland schools. 

Like many in Nederland’s Class of 2021 Sydney began her time in Nederland schools in Kindergarten. Some of her favorite memories from elementary school involve outdoor education. She loved the trips in fourth and fifth grade when they learned outdoor survival skills. 

One of Sydney’s passions is horses. If you have been to the Gilpin County Fair or know about the Gilpin Gymkhana events you have heard her name. After high school Sydney plans on working, and then going to school and getting into the equine business. Currently, she is working at the Boulder Creek Lodge as well as a pet care business in Gilpin county. 

Sydney says that she has always looked up to her older siblings for advice and support. This year in particular has been a very difficult year for Sydney and her family. She says, “I would not have been able to make it through high school if it wasn’t for the teachers, administrators, coaches, family, friends and my second family who have reached out, offered support and even at times pushed me to keep going.” 

Your community, Sydney, celebrates your graduation with you! 

(Originally published in the April 29, 2021, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)