Center of Focus

June 15^th, 2026

Focus on the Fabulous

Even though things slow down a bit for summer break, our students and staff are still out there accomplishing fabulous things!

Our FFA students, accompanied by CHS Principal Mrs. Nicole Neufeld, attended the 98th Annual Future Farmers of America (FFA) State Convention at CSU Pueblo from June 1-4. This marked an important milestone for our district, as it was the first time our newly established FFA chapter participated in the state convention.

During the event, students had the opportunity to connect with peers from across Colorado through leadership workshops, career development events, competitive contests, and networking activities. The convention brought together more than 2,000 students, advisors, and guests from around the state.

One of the highlights for our district was being recognized on stage as one of Colorado’s newest FFA chapters. Another proud moment came when our very own Vanessa Lopez was honored as a recipient of the Edward B. Cordes Memorial Scholarship, a full-ride scholarship to the college of her choice. Vanessa will be attending Colorado State University in Fort Collins to pursue a degree in Veterinary Medicine.

Congratulations, Vanessa! This is an incredible accomplishment, and we are proud to call you a Center Viking.

A huge shout-out goes to Ezekiel Hernandez, whose artwork was selected as the cover design for the 2026–2027 handbook published by the Colorado Council on High School/College Relations.

This project was completed as part of the Multi-Media Design class taught by Mrs. Maldonado. With many impressive entries submitted from across the state, Ezekiel’s design of the Great Sand Dunes stood out and earned top honors. We are incredibly proud of his creativity, talent, and dedication.

The handbook will be released in August, so keep an eye out for Ezekiel’s outstanding work. Congratulations, Zeke, on this accomplishment and for representing Center Schools so well!

This past year, Lucia Miranda worked closely with students and families to organize a once-in-a-lifetime educational trip to Costa Rica. The experience was such a success that plans are already underway for an educational trip to Italy and Spain in 2027.

Students and families are working hard to raise funds to make this opportunity accessible to those who may not otherwise have the chance to travel abroad. Just a few weeks ago, participants held a successful car wash fundraiser as part of their efforts.

Their dedication shows that hard work, determination, and a shared vision can turn ambitious goals into reality. We are excited to see these students continue expanding their horizons and exploring the world.

Our Parents Involved in Center Schools (PICS) group continues to be an invaluable part of our school community. Over the past eight years, I have had the privilege of working with this dedicated group as they have strengthened the partnership between families and our schools.

These committed ladies consistently go above and beyond to support students and families by providing resources, encouragement, and opportunities that help children succeed both in school and beyond. Their dedication, compassion, and willingness to serve make a lasting difference in the lives of our students.

Each year, this team grows stronger and accomplishes even more. Thank you for everything you do for our Viking Family. You are a shining example of what makes Center Schools such a special place.

As part of our Recruitment and Retention efforts, Anna Bishop shared an update at the June Board Meeting on the success of Center’s Mentor Program, which has been in place for the past six years. Established through a partnership with Adams State University, the program began with its first cohort of eight Center staff members and was designed to build teacher capacity, strengthen staff retention, and promote student success.

Over the past six years, 24 staff members have earned mentor endorsements through the program, and 15 of those individuals continue to serve in our district today. We are proud of the impact this program has had and the important role it plays in supporting our District Ownership Plan.

The program’s success is reflected not only in positive annual survey results, but also in the strong network of support, collaboration, and professional growth that mentors have helped establish across the district. By investing in our educators, we continue to create an environment where both staff and students can thrive.

District Ownership Plan

Priority #1- Curriculum and Instruction

CCSD staff lead rigorous, engaging, collaborative learning experiences in every classroom that align with CCSD Instructional Expectations.  

Priority #2 – Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR)

CCSD develops hardworking learners who are contributors, problem solvers, effective communicators, and future-ready with the skills needed to succeed.

Priority #3 – Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)

CCSD maintains high expectations for student learning and behavior, with structures in place to support all students' needs.

Priority #4- Recruitment and Retention (R&R)

CCSD is committed to attracting, training, and retaining hghly qualified teachers, knowing that effective educators are the single most important school-based factor in student success.

Fast Forward-

Monday, June 15^th – GT Summer Programming at Center, IC Training for OLR, Summer Lifting MS/HS- Weight Room 6-8 am; CHS Summer Football Workout

Tuesday, June 16^th- Summer Lifting MS/HS- Weight Room 6-8 am; CHS Summer Football Workout; CHS Basketball Skills Camp

 Wednesday, June 17^th- Summer Lifting MS/HS- Weight Room- 6-8 am; Colorado Rural School Alliance Statewide Meeting, CHS Summer Football Workout, Track summer practice- 7:00 pm- MS/HS

Thursday, June 18^th- Summer Lifting MS/HS- Weight Room- 6-8 am; CHS Summer Football Workout, CHS Lady Vikings Basketball open gym

Friday, June 19^th-  Saturday, June 20^th- CHS Lady Vikings Summer Basketball Team Camp in Center