Departments
- Communication
- Facilities
- Finance
- Health Services
- Human Resources
- Music
- Nutrition Services
- Safety & Security
- Special Services
- Student Achievement & Information Systems
- Teaching & Learning Resource Services
- Technology Services
- Transcripts, Diplomas and Verifications
- Transportation
Communication
The Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) Communication Department is responsible for building trust, relationships, and support for our schools. The department also provides two-way communication with internal and external audiences to increase awareness, understanding, and involvement in our schools. The department supports the mission and goals of the district by serving many important functions, including:
- Trusted Counsel: Takes a proactive stance by anticipating problems and providing solutions to leadership
- Strategic Planning: Conducts research to determine public opinion and attitude as a basis for planning and taking action
- Media Relations: Works with media to get coverage of school district news, and serves as the media’s liaison with the school district
- Crisis Communication: Provides timely and accurate information during an emergency or crisis situation
- Community Relations: Creates and maintains partnerships with community groups; develops ways to bring the community into the schools
- Publicity: Promotes district strengths and achievements through various platforms including website, social media, email, newsletters, newspaper, photography, video, and other advertising mediums
- Special Events: organizes and hosts school district-related events
- Fountain Valley Scholars: serves as president of non-profit organization that raises college scholarship funds for students in the Fountain Valley area (District 3 & District 8); organizes monthly meetings, fundraising events, and award ceremony
Sam Briggs, APR
Director of Communication
briggss@wsd3.org
(719) 391-3005
Carolyn Stephen
Communication Specialist
stephenc@wsd3.org
(719) 391-3005
CORA Requests
In accordance with the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), Widefield School District 3 is happy to assist with requests for public records. Public records open to inspection under CORA include books, papers, maps, photographs, electronic mail, and other written materials. In order to be considered a public record, it must be maintained by the District.
Under CORA, the District has three business days (not including the date the request is received) to make the record available for review to the requestor. Sometimes an extension is necessary if the requested information will take longer than three days to complete. In this case, the requestor would be notified of the request for an extension. If citizens wish to view the public records without receiving a copy there is no charge. There will be a $.25 per page charge for copying records unless the record is available electronically. Please keep in mind not all records are available electronically. In addition, charges may be added for the cost of producing the requested information, up to a maximum of $30/hour, as allowed by statute.
Requests should be as detailed as possible including date, type of record, etc.
To request a public record under CORA, contact Sam Briggs, in writing by mail or email.
Mail: 1820 Main Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80911, Attention: Sam Briggs
Email: briggss@wsd3.org
Social Media
Social Media Guidelines
Widefield School District 3 is all about community. We want to share as much as we can about WSD3 and the achievements of the students and staff as well as other relevant district community information, and to allow members of the community to express comments and opinions in a constructive and civil manner about WSD3-related matters.
We welcome your thoughts and comments and look forward to what you have to say. However, please help us by NOT posting any material or comments that:
- Creates a material or substantial disruption to school district operations or the educational environment;
- Is obscene or sexually explicit;
- Threatens violence toward any person;
- Threatens violence toward property;
- Is false as to any person who is not a public figure or involved in a matter of public concern;
- Violates the rights of others to privacy;
- Is libelous, slanderous, or defamatory; or
- Creates a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts or violation of lawful school regulations,
- Violates copyright and/or other intellectual property rights. If you are talking about or using somebody else’s work, reference the person, and where possible and appropriate include a link.
- Contain abusive or inappropriate language or content regarding protected minorities. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, remarks that are political, racist, sexist, homophobic, violent, obscene, spam, contains falsehoods, or are widely off-topic.
- Advertise or promote a service or product.
The page administrators reserve the right to not post or to remove any comments that are inconsistent with the foregoing rules.
If you have a comment or would like to report an inappropriate comment for us to review, send an email to info@wsd3.org.
Peachjar
Peachjar electronic flyers replace paper flyers distributed at school sites. Flyers from community organizations will be distributed through email and posted on school websites. This is part of our ongoing efforts to be more environmentally-friendly by reducing the amount of paper copies.
COMMUNITY GROUPS AND OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS
Peachjar's Community Free Flyer Program is our way of giving back to communities by covering the fees for one Community Free flyer per 30 days for organizations promoting a charitable free program, service or resource where children are the direct beneficiary. By incurring this service fee, we hope to make it even easier for these organizations to get the word out and impact the lives of even more children.
WHAT QUALIFIES AS A COMMUNITY FREE FLYER?
- Your charitable program, service or resource directly benefits children and does not require participants to qualify, has no enticement for future fee-based programs, and does not serve the purpose of fundraising, collecting donations or allow for the purchase of products or services.
- Your organization is not nationally recognized and physically resides within the boundaries of the school district you wish to distribute to.
-
Your organization is not receiving fees or revenue from vendors participating in the event.
Submissions are limited to one flyer distribution to one school district every 30 days. If you wish to distribute to more than one school district or more frequently than every 30 days, you may choose to distribute a standard flyer, subject to Peachjar's fees
HOW IT WORKS
Every Community Free flyer submission will go through this process:
-
Review these qualifications and limitations to ensure your program/event is appropriate for our Community Free Program.
-
Submit your application to Peachjar with the program/event flyer.
-
Peachjar will review your application in 3-5 business days and notify you whether or not your program event qualifies.
-
If your application is accepted by Peachjar, your flyer will be sent to the school district for their distribution approval at no charge. If declined by Peachjar, your flyer will be saved as a draft so you can still post your flyer using the standard method.
-
If your flyer is approved by the school district, it’s all set for distribution.
If denied by the school district, you will be notified and your flyer will not be distributed.
Make sure you have the final version of your flyer ready before you begin the application.
h t t p s : //p o r t a l . p e a c h j a r . c o m /c o m m u n i t y f r e e
Facilities
Your first impression, is your last impression
Facilities Personnel
Chief Operations Officer
David Gish
(719) 391-3530
Gishd@wsd3.org
Operations Manager - Facilities
Jeff Baerresen
(719) 391-3530
Baerresenj@wsd3.org
Secretary
Maureen Maez
391-3530
Maezm@wsd3.org
Facilities Operations Lead
Zach Richard
391-3555
Mechanical Maintenance Personnel
- Daniel Cunningham
- Robert Hagedorn
- Robert Nuñez
Structural Maintenance Lead
Steve Bunz
(719)391-3665
Cabinet Shop/Structural Maintenance Personnel
- Andrew Braun
- Kyle Dicks
- Kevin Graham
- Adam Lucas
Grounds Maintenance Lead
William "Pat" Paterson
(719) 391-3535
Grounds Maintenance Personnel
- Heath Cleveland
- Joe Granfors
- Dave Martell
- Jose Martinez
- Joe Pfeifer
Print Shop - (719) 391-3072
- Madison Genereux
- Marnie Pagan
Warehouse - (719) 391-3550
- Jeremy Heitz
- Ken Bogan
- Erik Jablonski
Finance
Widefield School District 3 Financial Transparency
CDE Finance Website
Required Financial Transparency
Public School Financial Transparency Act
Colorado Revised Statutes, 22-44-304
(Commencing July 1, 2018)
- District Adopted Budget - Including Uniform Budget Summary (current and prior two years)
- District Financial Audit (current and prior two years)
- Salary Schedules or Policies (current and prior two years)
- Financial Data File for 2019-2020
- Financial Data File for 2020-2021
- Financial Data File for 2021-2022
- List of Waivers Received by the School District
- Standardized Description and Rational for Each Automatic Waiver
- Federal Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF and any associated schedules
- Plan for Distributing Additional Mill Levy Revenue or Statement of Intent to Distribute
Other District-Specific Financial Information
All documents above must be posted or updated within 60 days (30 days for waiver information) after completion or receipt of the applicable report, statement or document.
Disclaimer: Please consider the context when evaluating financial transactions. Some transactions may appear improper on the surface but are perfectly normal and justifiable when placed in the proper context. We welcome your questions regarding our financial transactions or records.
Widefield School District 3
Widefield School District 3 is located in south El Paso County, Colorado and encompasses approximately 59 square miles. The district was originally organized in 1874 and now serves the communities of Widefield, Security, portions of Fountain, Colorado Springs and surrounding rural areas. District 3 strongly supports military families, and is the only school district in Colorado that owns and operates its own parks and recreation center.
Contracts and Purchasing
How we operate
Widefield School District 3 awards contracts and purchases based on what is the best value for the district. The purchasing department acts in accordance with the following policies approved by the board of education:
DJ/DJA – Purchasing/Purchasing Authority
DJB-R – Federal Procurement Procedure
How to become a supplier for Widefield School District 3
Widefield purchasing department's Requests for Proposal (RFP) and Requests for Quote (RFQ) can be found on the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System. If you are not currently set up as a supplier and would like to have access to bid on our proposals and quotes please register. It is free to register as a supplier and you can also pre-qualify as a vendor for opportunities for micro-purchases.
Terms and Conditions
Contacts
Name | Title | Phone | |
---|---|---|---|
Terry Kimber | Chief Financial Officer | (719) 391-3026 | kimbert@wsd3.org |
Olivia Boudreau | Finance Manager | (719) 391-3028 | boudreauolivia@wsd3.org |
Charlotte Lindaman | Staff Accountants | (719) 391-3025 | lindamancharlotte@wsd3.org |
Denise Atlas | Staff Accountants | (719) 391-3027 | atlasdenise@wsd3.org |
Julie Runia | Bookkeeper | (719) 391-3026 | runiajulie@wsd3.org |
Kate Martin | Main Payroll | (719) 391-3033 | martinkatherine@wsd3.org |
Rene Swindale | Benefits/Payroll | (719) 391-3030 | swindaler@wsd3.org |
Liza Vondriska | Accounts Payable | (719) 391-3032 | vondriskal@wsd3.org |
Health Services
Human Resources
Music
The Widefield Music Department offers award-winning music programs in all K-12 schools. General music education is offered in our elementary schools.
- Junior High School
- Band
- Orchestra
- Choir
- Guitar
- Mariachi
- Jazz Band
- Music Technology
- High School
- Band
- Choir
- Orchestra
- Music Production
- (Honor level classes available for the above programs)
Overall, there is a music class available for all K-12 students.
Contacts
District Music Coordinator
391-3143
Seltenrightjack@wsd3.org
Raymundo Munoz
District Music Secretary
391-3143
Munozraymundo@wsd3.org
Address:
615 Widefield Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
Nutrition Services
Safety & Security
Student, staff and visitor safety is essential in Widefield School District 3 (WSD3).
The Safety and Security Department includes the Operations Manager of Security, Chad Haynes, and three safety and security officers. We also have 19 campus supervisors that cover all schools in the district.
Families should feel confident the WSD3 has an emergency plan modeled after the National Incident Management System. Yearly trainings are given at both at the district level and school level to keep our staff and students prepared for emergencies. In addition, every school has emergency drills throughout the school year using the Standard Response Protocol (SRP v2.x). Many of these drills are given with our other first responder partnerships, to include fire and local law enforcement.
Please review the important safety and security links below and feel free to contact any officer with questions or concerns you may have.
- RAPTOR
- RESOURCES
- SAFE2TELL
- STANDARD RESPONSE PROTOCOL (SRP)
- STAFF TRAINING
- SAFETY & SECURITY OPERATIONS
RAPTOR
RAPTOR Visitor Management System
Widefield School District 3 is adding another layer of security to our current building-entry procedure. All of our schools will now be using the Raptor Visitor Management System. Part of keeping students and staff safe is knowing who is in our buildings at all times, and the Raptor system allows us to do that. The Raptor system will better allow us to screen visitors, contractors, and volunteers in our schools and provide us with a safer environment for our students and staff.
What is the RAPTOR system?
RAPTOR is a visitor registration system that enhances school security by reading visitor drivers' licenses, comparing the information to a sex offender database, alerting school administrators if a match is found, then (if no match is found) printing a visitor badge that includes a photo.
How does it work?
Drivers' license information is compared to a data base that consists of registered sex offenders from all 50 states, including Colorado. If a match is found, school administrators and law enforcement personnel are notified immediately and will take appropriate steps to keep the school safe.
Why is Widefield School District using this system?
Safety of students is the district's highest priority. One of the most flawed security measures in schools is the handwritten log for school visitors. Many indiviDuals visiting the school write their name illegibly or write a different name. Even with an accurate written name, the school knows nothing about the visitor or if they should be allowed in the school.
What other information is the school taking from drivers' licenses?
RAPTOR is only scanning the visitor's name, date of birth, partial license number, and photo for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. Additional visitor data will not be gathered and no data will be shared with any outside company or organization.
RESOURCES
- El Paso County Sheriff's Office
- Fountain Police Department
- Safe2Tell
- Colorado School Safety Resource
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
- Missing Children for Colorado
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
- Safe Communities - Safe Schools
- Bullying Awareness and Prevention
- IACP School Violence Prevention & Response
SAFE2TELL
To submit an anonymous tip to Safe2Tell®:
1-877-542-7233 or report safely here.
Safe2Tell® is a state-funded strategic initiative of the Colorado Department of Law, Office of the Attorney General.
The strategy focuses on Colorado children and youth and the issues they face today. The model was based on the Columbine Commission Report’s recommendation that students need a safe and anonymous way to keep lines of communication open. They realized that tragedies could be prevented if young people had a way to tell someone what they knew without fearing retaliation.
The anonymity of all Safe2Tell reports is protected by C.R.S. 07-197. This means the reporting party remains unknown by Colorado state law.
To submit an anonymous tip to Safe2Tell® call:
- 1-877-542-7233 or report safely here.
- Anytime, day or night. 365 days a year.
- If this is an emergency, call 911.
STANDARD RESPONSE PROTOCOL (SRP)
The Safety and Security Department understands that if an emergency occurs at school or an office, there is usually not much time to warn students, employees and guest about what is happening or what to do. That is why the Widefield School District 3 has implemented the Standard Response Protocol v2.x (SRP-Extended) at all of its facilities.
Standard Response Protocol is not based on individual scenarios, but rather on the response to any given scenario. SRP demands a specific vocabulary, but also allows for great flexibility. The premise is simple - there are four specific actions that can be performed during an incident.
Secure is followed by the Directive: "Secure the Perimeter" and is the protocol used to safeguard students and staff within a building.
Lockdown is followed by "Locks, Lights, Out of Sight" and is the protocol used to secure individual rooms and keep students quiet and in place.
Evacuate is always followed by a location, and is used to move students and staff from one location to a different location in or out of the building.
Shelter is always followed by a type and a method and is the protocol for group and self protection. These specific actions can act as both a verb and a noun.
Hold! In Your Classroom is an action that may be used when building hallways need to be cleared of students. Although not a universal action of SRP v2, schools may use this additional action as part of SRP - Extended (SRP-X).
EXAMPLE: If the action is "Lockdown", it would be announced on public address as "Lockdown! Locks, Lights, Out of Sight." All actions are to be repeated twice. Communication to local Law Enforcement Agency would be "We are under Lockdown."
In addition, each response has very specific student and staff action. The Evacuate response is always followed by a location: "Evacuate to the Bus Zone." Responses can also be chained. " Evacuate to Hallway. Shelter for Tornado. Drop, Cover and Hold."
The SRP is now in place in literally thousands of schools around the country and over the last year or two is becoming the standard in school safety training.
For more information visit the I Love U Guys Foundation Website.
STAFF TRAINING
Introduction to the Incident Command System for Schools
IS-100.SCA Course Overview
The Emergency Management Institute developed the Introduction to ICS for Schools (IS-100.SCa for Schools) course in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education. The course is designed primarily for kindergarten through high school personnel.
The overall course goal is to promote school safety by:
- Familiarizing you with how ICS principles can be applied in school-based incidents.
- Preparing you to interface with community response personnel
Primary Audience
The primary audience includes kindergarten through high school personnel.
Prerequisites
N/A. However, completion of IS 700, National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction is recommended.
Multi-Hazard Emergency Planning for Schools
Course Overview
This course covers basic information about developing, implementing, and maintaining a school emergency operations plan (EOP). The goal of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the importance of schools having an EOP and basic information on how an EOP is developed, exercised, and maintained. The topics addressed in this course include:
- Understanding incident management.
- Forming the planning team.
- Understanding the situation.
- Developing a school emergency operations plan.
- Incorporating the Incident Command System principles and roles in the school emergency operations plan.
- Training, exercising, and maintaining the school emergency operations plan.
Primary Audience
This course is designed for teachers, substitute teachers, counselors, parent volunteers, coaches, bus drivers, and students. However, anyone with a personal or professional interest in school preparedness is welcome to participate. School administrators, principals, and first responders alike will find useful information in this course.
Prerequisites
None
Visit the FEMA website and course details.
COLORADO FEMA
SAFETY & SECURITY OPERATIONS
OPERATIONAL REVIEW
The Widefield School District 3 Safety & Security Department monitors and maintains the security systems. This includes the access control, closed circuit television systems (CCTV) and various intruder detection systems. The security components are fully integrated at each school. All of the schools’ systems comprise a seamless, districtwide networked security management system.
The most visible security equipment at the schools is the proximity card readers at designated entrances and the security cameras on the exterior of the building. Proximity card readers provide accountability for who is coming into the building. CCTV cameras are a useful crime deterrent, and, by working in conjunction with the access controls system, the cameras provide accountability for access during both regular business hours and outside of business hours (nights and weekends). The cameras also provide surveillance of the school grounds.
In addition to providing detection of unauthorized entries into the schools, the security system addresses key control, vandalism, and emergency planning issues. This provides Widefield School District with documentation on who accesses the schools and when they are accessed. Exterior cameras and detection devices provide prevention, notification, and documentation of vandal-related incidents. The security system also helps in planning and preparing for emergencies by allowing the school to be locked down from the school's main office or from the Widefield School District security office, and it provides camera views of the exterior during a lockdown situation.
SAFETY & SECURITY HIGHEST PRIORITY
-
Please know that the safety of the students in our care is of the utmost importance. While it is impossible to guarantee that dangerous situations will never happen in and around our schools, we take far-reaching preventive measures. The most important thing we can do is be aware of who is in and around our schools.
-
It has been standard practice to require visitors to check in at the main office and receive a visitor’s badge. We are asking all school personnel to make sure this is a priority.
-
We stress to employees the importance of stopping individuals they do not know. Students, especially older ones, are asked to report any unidentified individuals to a teacher or other school official right away.
-
We are also taking extra care to keep non-essential doors locked. Our high schools have multiple entrances, but we are restricting access at each high school.
-
You as parents and neighbors of our schools can be very helpful by being aware of what is going on in and around the building and reporting unusual activity.
-
Local law enforcement and district security officials are increasing their presence around our schools.
-
Our district security system is currently one of the most advanced systems used.
-
We work closely with local law enforcement through the preparation of and drilling for various emergency responses and through our school resource officers to help keep our schools safe learning environments for our students.
EMERGENCY PLANNING
-
All schools have implemented National Incident Command System within their emergency response teams.
-
All Widefield School District Schools are equipped with automated external defibrillators. Each school has CPR, First Aid, and AED trained staff members assigned to the Incident Command Teams.
-
Widefield School District has full radio communication interoperability with all area first responders.
-
Continue to meet with emergency responders.
-
School-level emergency response plans will be revised/updated when necessary to be consistent with the National Incident Command System.
-
Widefield School District allows first responders to train regularly in our schools preparing for emergencies.
-
Emergency Procedures Handbook has been printed in an easy-to-read, flip chart format and distributed.
-
The El Paso County Sheriff, Security/ Fountain Fire Departments, and other emergency responders have been given the district’s "Emergency Management Plan" and complete virtual floor plans of all district buildings. Plans are updated every semester.
-
Security and emergency planning improvements are budgeted for annually.
-
Widefield School District will continue to update, evolve, and improve as needed.
Contacts
(719) 391-3004
Special Services
Members of our professional staff include:
- Nurses
- Occupational and Physical Therapists
- Social Workers
- Psychologists
- Teachers for the Visually Impaired and Deaf/Hard of Hearing
- Teachers on Special Assignment/SPED Coaches
- Speech-Language Pathologists
- Transition Link Services
Services are provided in line with state and federal law (IDEA) governing the education of children with disabilities. Before any child is eligible to receive services, concerns about the child's educational progress must first be reviewed at a referral conference, and a referral must be made for an evaluation. Each child must receive a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation by special services staff, specialists, and teachers in their home school.
Additionally, their educational needs must be determined, and they must be declared to possess a disability under rules for the administration of IDEA. An "Individual Educational Plan" (IEP) must be written in a due process meeting (called a "staffing") which includes parents, school administrators, specialists and also the child (when the child is fourteen years old or older). Professionals from the Office of Special Education participate in the evaluation and staffing process in addition to becoming involved in follow-up services for many children.
Resources
- Child Find Services
- Nursing Services
- Occupational & Physical Therapists
- Psychological Services
- Sensory & Augmentative Services
- Social Work Services
- Website Resources
Child Find Services
CHILD FIND COORDINATOR
(719) 391-3378
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Colorado Department of Education - Child Find
- Colorado Early Learning & Development Guidelines
Nursing Services
Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) has 11 full-time Registered Nurses (RN) and three Certified Nurses Assistants.
What do nurses do?
- RNs gather health and social histories as part of the evaluation process of all special needs children
- RNs participate in the district Child Find screenings and perform health assessments and screenings as part of the special services evaluation process
- Nurses administer the district's medication policy, monitor all medical procedures performed upon children within district schools, and provide consultative assistance to district staff on the health-related concerns of individual children.
- Nurses are responsible for making medical referrals and vision referrals for children who require medical assistance. Registered
- Nurses are responsible for monitoring the district's immunization requirements.
WSD3 nurses may be reached individually through the email address provided below:
NURSES:
- Jennifer Apigian apigianjennifer@wsd3.org
- Patricia Blaser blaserpatricia@wsd3.org
- Lisa DeFouw defouwlisa@wsd3.org
- Candace Goeske goeskecandace@wsd3.org
- Jennifer Jiron jironjennifer@wsd3.org
- Amanda Mikschl mikschlamanda@wsd3.org
- Faith Millar millarfaith@wsd3.org
- Megan Nellis nellism@wsd3.org
- Corenda Riley rileycorenda@wsd3.org
- Estelle Vargas vargasestelle@wsd3.org
- Katelyn Watson watsonk@wsd3.org
CNA:
- Connie Cooper cooperconnie@wsd3.org
- Lexus Pena-Taylor penataylorlexus@wsd3.org
- Kendra Waits waitsk@wsd3.org
Occupational & Physical Therapists
Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) has a team of Physical and Occupational Therapists who work with students on school access skills.
Services are available to children who have been evaluated as possessing physical disabilities or orthopedic problems which impair their ability to make progress in the general school environment.
The Motor Services Team provides students improved access to the school environment and to the use of learning tools. Members of the team evaluate student's needs and direct services in adapted physical education, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. WSD3 motor therapists may be reached individually through the email address provided below.
WSD3 Motor Team Webpage: Learn more about the Occupational and Physical Therapist team!
- Kristin Hall hallkristin@wsd3.org
- Meredith Coats coatsmeredith@wsd3.org
- Jaimie Hunsicker hunsickerj@wsd3.org
- Megan Paben pabenm@wsd3.org
Psychological Services
Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) has 13 full-time school psychologists. All psychologists serve as designees for the Executive Director of Special Education at staffing to determine eligibility and placement for children with suspected disabilities.
What do psychologists do?
- Use ability tests to determine how children process information, and they also provide formal and informal evaluations of how children's emotions and behaviors might affect their school performance.
- Evaluate child development and adaptive behavior.
- Conduct behavioral assessments and assist in the development of behavior plans for children with behavior problems.
- Provide consultative assistance to other professional staff, parents and school administration.
- Participate in group counseling with children who have been placed in many of the district's special programs, and they provide short-term individual counseling, crisis counseling and intervention when needed.
WSD3 psychologists may be reached individually through the email address provided below:
- Caitlin Bloyer bloyercaitlin@wsd3.org
- Deborah Graber graberdeborah@wsd3.org
- Delaney Hoge hogedelaney@wsd3.org
- Leilani Keefer keeferl@wsd3.org
- Emily Kenner kenneremily@wsd3.org
- Tashi Miller millertashi@wsd3.org
- Corrina Neugebauer neugebauercorrina@wsd3.org
- Robert Preston prestonrobert@wsd3.org
- Andrea TorresValle torresvalleandrea@wsd3.org
- Jolene Tryon tryonj@wsd3.org
- Lindsay Washington washingonlindsay@wsd3.org
- Macey Wienstroer wienstroermacey@wsd3.org
Sensory & Augmentative Services
The Sensory and Augmentative Services department supports students with vision and hearing handicaps.
In order to receive assistance from vision and hearing handicapped teachers, students must possess vision or hearing sensory impairments which prevent them from making adequate progress in school.
The augmentative communication specialist collaborates with members of a team of professionals in the development of augmented and adapted communication systems. These communication systems help student with sensory and motor handicaps to communicate with others within the school environment and within their homes.
Members of the Sensory and Augmentative Services department may be by reaching out to your student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Team.
Social Work Services
The Office of Special Education in WSD3 employs 16 full-time Social Workers and three Mental Health Therapists.
The social work team facilitates group counseling, community and outdoor experiences, and classroom activities for students who have been placed in district self-contained programs for emotional challenges.
What do social workers do?
- Provide consultative assistance to other professional staff, parents and school administration.
- Network with outside agencies on behalf of children with disabilities.
- Facilitate placement in day treatment and in hospitalization when required.
- Provide short-term individual counseling, crisis counseling and intervention when needed.
- Provide backup coverage to the special services teams in each building, assisting with parent contacts and family assistance when requested.
WSD3 social workers may be reached individually through the email address provided below.
Mental Health Awareness Video: Self Care is Essential
SOCIAL WORKERS:
- Bailey Cline clinebailey@wsd3.org
- Kora Burrell burrellkora@wsd3.org
- Crystal Burns burnsc@wsd3.org
- Heather Fannan fannanheather@wsd3.org
- Melissa Hall hallmelissa@wsd3.org
- Linda Hang hanglinda@wsd3.org
- Tory Hartsock hartsocktory@wsd3.org
- Meagan Herbst herbstmeagan@wsd3.org
- Nicole Messick messicknicole@wsd3.org
- Courtney Pelligrino pelligrinocourtney@wsd3.org
- Eileen Pollack pollacke@wsd3.org
- Patricia Ramirez ramirezpatricia@wsd3.org
- Katie Tomlinson tomlinsonkatie@wsd3.org
- Becky Witt wittb@wsd3.org
- Emily Zarkovacki zarkovackiemily@wsd3.org
- Katie Wilander wilanderkaitlin@wsd3.org
Mental Health Providers:
Charity Neumann neumanncharity@wsd3.org
Tia Perez pereztia@wsd3.org
Jeffrey Campbell campbelljeffrey@wsd3.org
Website Resources
- ADD/ADHD
- Behavior Doctor
- CSEFEL - Center for the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning
- Kids Against Bullying
- National Autism Center
- PBIS world
- Teaching Pyramid
Name |
Title |
Phone |
|
Rachel Lake |
Executive Director |
(719) 391-3050 |
lakerachel@wsd3.org |
Milly Melendez |
Assistant Director |
(719) 391-3050 |
melendezm@wsd3.org |
Andrew Fenity |
Assistant Director |
(719) 391-3050 |
fenityandrew@wsd3.org |
Marian Gore |
Special Education/ Medicaid Secretary |
(719) 391-3050 |
goremarian@wsd3.org |
Monica Villarreal |
Special Education Secretary |
(719) 391-3051 |
villarrealm@wsd3.org |
Lisa Snell |
SPED Coach |
(719) 391-3046 |
snelll@wsd3.org |
Lisa Griebel |
SPED Coach |
(719) 391-3069 |
griebell@wsd3.org |
Christen White |
SPED Coach |
(719) 391-3047 |
whitechristen@wsd3.org |
Moriah Stratton |
SPED Coach |
(719) 391-3062 |
strattonmoriah@wsd3.org |
Student Achievement & Information Systems
The Student Achievement Office collects, manages, updates and reviews all student and staff information.
The office supports the district’s student information system, Infinite Campus, and coordinates the academic achievement testing program for Widefield School District 3 (WSD3).
The staff provides test administration and information interpretation support for schools related to district, state and national tests.
They also coordinate and monitor all Professional Development classes offered for certified and non-certified staff. In addition, the staff works with district teams in the creation/revision of learning calendars as well as district common tests.
In accordance with the HB15-1323, school districts will distribute to parents a copy of district policy related to pencil and paper administration of state assessments, as well as an assessment calendar. In addition, we are sharing with you our policy and procedure on how a student's parent may excuse a student from participating in one or more state assessments.
Student Data Dashboard
Enrollment Count
Ethnicity Data
Student Program Participation
Teaching & Learning Resource Services
WELCOME TO TEACHING LEARNING RESOURCE SERVICES
While TLRS does offer many services to Widefield staff and students, we are not able to help with GED acquisitions. If you are interested in acquiring your GED, we have created a support list of resources. Click here for information about GED prep classes and testing centers.
What does TLRS do to help staff and students?
- Lends equipment, such as: projectors, cameras, sound systems, Makerspace kits, etc. on a short-term basis
- Trains teachers to use district equipment, media and/or software
- Supports the district library system and promotes information literacy
- Lends professional materials on integrating information literacy and technology into the curriculum
Where is TLRS?
We are located at 930 Leta Dr. across the parking lot from the District Administration Building. We are in the southwest corner of S.A. Wilson Center, on the west side of the building. Please feel free to drop by and see what we have to offer!
What are the hours for TLRS?
TLRS is open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Call (719) 391- 3077 to request media or equipment.
Call (719) 391- 3078 to arrange for technical assistance or training.
Who works at the TLRS?
- Terri Brungardt (3078)
District Media Specialist
Email: brungardtt@wsd3.org, tlrs@wsd3.org
- Brenna Long (3077)
Library Education Assistant
Email: longbrenna@wsd3.org
- Courtney Daugherty (3077)
Library Education Assistant
Email: daughertycourtney@wsd3.org
What We Support
- 1000 Books Before Kindergarten
- Computer Labs and Libraries
- Enrichment Resources (Activities)
- Events
- Makerspace Catalog
- Professional Development
- SPED materials
- Special Collections
- Video
- Typing Programs
- Reading Resources
1000 Books Before Kindergarten
The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a great opportunity for your child to learn, grow and, most importantly, spend time with you enjoying great books. If you would like your child to participate in this program, please fill out this form and return it to your school librarian.
Reading logs:
1-50 | 50-100 |
100-150 | 150-200 |
200-250 | 250-300 |
300-350 | 350-400 |
400-450 | 450-500 |
500-550 | 550-600 |
600-650 | 650-700 |
700-750 | 750-800 |
800-850 | 850-900 |
900-950 | 950-1000 |
Badges:
- 200 Books
-
- 400 Books
-
- 600 Books
-
- 800 Books
-
Computer Labs and Libraries
TLRS supports the computer labs and libraries across the district in the following areas:
- Cataloging books and Makerspace kits.
- Providing professional development.
- Providing curriculum and instructional materials.
- Checking out equipment and Makerspace kits for classroom use.
- Support with price quotes and ordering of materials.
- Troubleshooting and servicing equipment like projectors, doc cams and Mimios.
Enrichment Resources (Activities)
- Vetted and high quality content
- Experience art from home
- Activities, videos, & exhibits
- STEM focused
- Museum tours
- 3D models
- Historical sites, landmarks & parks
- Virtual and Augmented reality option
- High quality content for all ages
- Free instructions and resources
- A variety of crafts & Makerspace activities
Events
We have materials that make your large and small events possible. We support meetings, Fundruns, convocation, graduations, outdoor movies, etc. Call us to find out how we can support you - 3077.
We have the following types of equipment:
- Camera booms
- Livestream cameras
- Microphones/microphone stands/wind socks
- Portable screens
- Projectors/document cameras
- Speakers
- Still cameras/video cameras
Makerspace Catalog
Professional Development
SPED materials
TLRS houses and checks out various augmentative materials, tests and SWAAAC deliveries.
For augmented materials please contact the SPED department for information on what is available. Chosen materials are checked out by TLRS.
SWAAC materials are delivered by courier to the TLRS office. For information about ordering, contact the SPED department.
TLRS checks out and circulates various tests. Test documents are ordered and supplied by the SPED department. Tests go out for a 10 day limit and must be returned on time. If a test is needed, contact TLRS at 3077.
The tests available are:
- Keymath A/B
- GORT
- TOWL
- OWL 2
- CTOPP
Special Collections
Video
Typing Programs
Reading Resources
- eBooks, audiobooks, and read-aloud books
- How to link your account to Security Public Library
- Browse library catalogs by school site
- eBooks available
- Read-aloud books
- Ideal for Pre-K through 3rd grade
- eBooks available
- Ideal for Pre-K through 1st grade
Technology Services
The Department of Technology Services (DTS) provides the district with the best technology tools to meet the needs of students, their families, and staff.
- We host and support coding and robotics competitions and after school programs
- We support research and literacy (Sora, Encyclopedia Britannica)
- We live-stream events (see important links below), and more!
DTS is comprised of Technicians, Network Engineers, Teaching and Learning Resource Services (TLRS), and Instructional Technologists.
- District Live Streaming
- Tech Newsletter | Families
- DTS Digital Brochure | Families
- Student Devices
- Internet Options
- Remind
- Student Help Desk
District Live Streaming
Tech Newsletter | Families
The Department of Technology Services will be sending out a technology themed newsletter each month of the 2023-2024 school year. The goal is to help strengthen the communication between the tech department and you all: The families. We want you to feel supported, connected, & empowered by being informed! To access the newsletters, click the link below:
DTS Digital Brochure | Families
Student Devices
Widefield is a one-to-one school district; meaning each student is assigned a device. A one-to-one technology district aims to create a more dynamic and personalized learning environment for students, allowing them to explore, learn, and grow with the support of digital tools and resources. Students are given a device at the beginning of the school year and they are responsible for the care and keeping of their assigned device. The school that the student is enrolled at will send out a device consent form. Below, please find a list of replacement costs:
Guidelines for use of District Technology | Student Device Replacement Costs
Internet Options
Colorado Springs believes in Digital Equity: "A condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy." | National Digital Inclusion Agency | Because of this believe, there are a plethora of low-cost internet options and computer access options in Colorado Springs. See the link below for more information. *Note: This is not through the district, but through Coloradosprings.Gov.
Remind
Widefield School District 3 uses Remind as our communication tool to families. Proper account settings is a crucial component in successful communication between the district and families. Please see the Remind Guide for Families below to ensure proper settings. If you have questions regarding Remind or have any issues with your Remind account, please call Danielle Higney at 719-391-3041 or email her at Higneyd@wsd3.org.
Student Help Desk
Address + Directions
Hours of Operation
Contact Us
The Department of Technology Services (DTS) exists to support effective teaching and high levels of learning and provide a technology-rich environment with quality customer service.
What We Do:
β Professional Development + training
β Instructional Technology + support
β Technology Hardware + software support
β Vet Applications + websites
β Support graduations and other live-streaming events
β Support Technology Instructional Coaches (TICs)
β Maintain and deploy staff + student devices
β House a relevant hub of resources for students, their families, + staff
β and more!
Transcripts, Diplomas and Verifications
- If you are in need of a transcript for a current student of Widefield School District 3 (WSD3), please contact the school directly.
- If it is during a time when the school is not in session, please fill out the form
-
If you are a past Graduate or withdrawn student of WSD3 needing an official transcript, unofficial transcript or diploma, please fill out the form
Graduate/Former Student Request
Official Transcripts cost $3.00 and replacement Diplomas cost $25.00. We accept cash, check or credit card. Please call (719) 391-3556 to provide a credit card number. You may also use Parchment.com to request Transcripts/Diplomas.
- If you are a University, corporation, background company or attorney needing an official transcript, unofficial transcript or education verification, please fill out the form
education verification/transcript request
You may also use Parchment.com to request Verifications or Transcripts.
contact:
District Registrar
Address: 930 Leta Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80911 M-F from 7:30-4:00pm Phone number: 719-391-3556 - Fax Number: 719-391-3569 Email Address: WSD3-Registrar-Group@wsd3.orgTransportation
Bus Routes
Bus route information can be found using Infofinder.
Please read the directions first to help make your search easier:
- Select: CO
- Select: Widefield School District 3
- Please enter your full address
- Input your Zip Code
- Selecting a grade is optional. If a grade is selected, only the school that includes that grade will be returned.
- Click Search.
- Click on the My Schools tab to view the school(s) that service your address.
- *If your search contains multiple results, click on the address that is the closest match to your street name and zip code.
If you have further questions, please contact us at 719-391-3540
Contact Us
Address: 4445 Foreign Trade Zone Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80925
Main Phone: (719) 391-3540
Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday 6:00 AM-5:00 PM
Summer Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-3:00 PM
Pick Up and Drop Off
- Only students who are assigned to a bus may ride that bus.
- Only use assigned designated bus stop locations.
- Be five (5) minutes early at the designated school bus stop.
- While waiting for the bus, stay off of the road at all times, conduct yourself in a safe manner while waiting, and be respectful of public and private property.
- When the bus is approaching, students must wait at least six (6) feet from the curb and shall not approach the bus until signaled by the driver.
- Board the bus in a single file line, at least one arm length apart from the student in front of and behind you. No horseplay.
- Do not attempt to bring unauthorized items to the bus stop or aboard the bus. Unauthorized items are any item not permitted in the school or any item that is 2’x 2’ or greater and has not be previously approved for transport by the bus driver.
- When aboard the bus and the bus is approaching your bus stop, do not stand from your seat without the driver’s or monitor’s permission.
- Do not exit the bus until directed to do so by the driver.
- When exiting the bus, move at least ten (10) feet away from the side of the bus, directly across from the service door. If you must cross the street, wait until the driver signals you to do so, look both ways for traffic, and remain ten (10) feet in front of the bus. Maintain visual contact with the driver until you have completely crossed the street to a safe location.
- Use of drugs, alcohol, or nicotine; horseplay; obscene language; foul gestures; physical or emotional harm; harassment; threatening; bullying; sexual behavior; and vandalism are strictly prohibited.
- Any behavior that jeopardizes the safety of other students, staff, or the public is prohibited
On the Bus Rules
- Students are required to follow the bus driver’s and/or monitor’s instructions. Be respectful and follow directions.
- Use a quiet voice, unless directed otherwise, at all times. A quiet voice is a voice that can be heard by the person sitting beside you, but can not be heard by students sitting in the seats in front, back, and to the side of you.
- Use of electronic devices is prohibited. Mobile phones, tablets, watches, etc. must be turned off and may not be used during the route (ref. Policy JICJ)
- Do not open windows or doors without permission. Emergency exits may only be opened during an emergency evacuation.
- Keep all body parts and objects inside of the bus at all times.
- Keep the aisle clear at all times. Personal items shall be placed on your lap, or, if unoccupied, beside you on your seat.
- No eating or drinking.
- No trash or personal items are to be left on the bus. If you make a mess, clean it up.
- Do not stand while the bus is in motion. Only stand when the bus is stopped and you have been given instruction to do so by the driver and/or monitor.
- Sit in your assigned seat. If you have not been assigned a seat, see the bus driver immediately.
- When seated, sit with your back against the seat, feet on the floor.
- When approaching and crossing railroads, follow all driver directions and do not talk or make noises.
- In the event of an emergency, follow the directions of the bus driver and/or monitor.
- Only one (1) student on the steps at a time.
- Use of drugs, alcohol, or nicotine; horseplay; obscene language; foul gestures; physical or emotional harm; harassment; threatening; bullying; sexual behavior; and vandalism are strictly prohibited.
Any behavior that jeopardizes the safety of other students, staff, or the public is prohibited.
Field/Activity Trips
- All of the aforementioned rules apply to Field and Activity Trips.
- In the event that a chaperone is present, students shall respect their authority as they would any school official, driver, or monitor.
Here Comes The Bus App
“Here Comes the Bus,” a free app for students and parents to get real-time information on bus arrivals, locations, and much more!
WHAT'S ON THE APP?
- Location of your child’s bus on a map
- Scheduled and an actual bus arrival times at home and school
- Push and email alerts when: Bus has entered radius of around the home stop, Bus has been substituted, Student has scanned on and off the bus, including bus number, time & location
HERE'S HOW IT WORKS:
- Open this the Here Comes The Bus page in your web browser
- Choose a Username, Password, and enter School Code: 74956
- Once signed in, add student(s) by going to the “My Account” tab, scroll down to “My Student,” and click add.
- Enter student(s) name and ID #.
- Once student(s) have been added, you can set parameters on how you’d like to be notified under the “Notifications” tab.
- “Here Comes the Bus” can be downloaded for free in the iTunes or Google play stores.
Permission Procedures to Ride a Different Bus
We know at Transportation that on occasions, your child may need to ride a different bus home. Here are the proper procedures to ensure your child can access a different bus if needed. This is the only way a child may be permitted to get on another bus.
You must contact Kendra Larsen (larsenk@wsd3.org)and Rick Fenton (fentonrichard@wsd3.org) by email . Please include the following:
Child's name, Parent's name, Address/Phone #, Bus #, School of Attendance
Please keep in mind, this is not a guarantee. There are things that have to be considered before a child can be approved. Please wait for a response from Kendra.
Special Education Transportation Information
Students who receive Special Education Transportation, will be receiving a phone call in regards to your student’s bus route information. If you have not heard from Transportation a 1-2 days before school is to start, please call 719-391-3544 to speak to our Special Needs Lead Coordinator.
Contacts
Jason Schwartz
Operations Manager
719-391-3540
schwartzjason@wsd3.org
Rick Fenton
Assistant Operations Manager
719-391-3540
fentonrichard@wsd3.org
Yvonne Morrison
Special Education Transportation Lead
719-391-3544
morrisony@wsd3.org
Kendra Larsen
Router
719-391-3540
larsenk@wsd3.org
Susan Ortega
Secretary
719-391-3540
ortegas@wsd3.org
Scott Teague
Trip Coordinator/Dispatcher
719-391-3541
teagues@wsd3.org
Kimberly Johnston
Dispatcher
719-391-3540 (Main Line)
johnstonkimberly@wsd3.org
Gary Wilson
Lead Mechanic
719-391-3547
wilsong@wsd3.org
Training Department
thomasd@wsd3.org