Dear Cold Spring Families,
Today marks just our fifth day of school, and already we are laying a strong foundation for the year ahead; one that teaches our students to be responsible, thoughtful users of technology while also inspiring them to become creative problem solvers.
I wanted to share this short video because it captures that balance so beautifully. Across grades 1–6, students learned the importance of caring for their devices and being responsible digital citizens, incorporating lessons from Common Sense Media and principles from FranklinCovey’s 7 Habits.
But what makes learning at Cold Spring special is how our teachers bring these lessons to life. Mr. Ryan Francisco took a simple lesson about caring for a computer and transformed it into an engaging, hands-on challenge. He vibe-coded a custom app using Lovable that incorporated timing, math, problem-solving, and even a “windstorm” test to see whether students could keep their devices safe.
Watch the excitement on our sixth graders’ faces at the end when their computer survives! ❤️ When students are jumping up and down with joy after learning how to take care of a laptop, I would say mission accomplished!
This is the foundation we want to build from the very beginning of the school year: responsibility, creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and joy.
Technology alone doesn't create great learning. Great teachers do. Technology simply gives our teachers another tool to amplify their creativity and create experiences our students will remember.
I am so grateful for the collaboration of our classroom teachers, Mr. Francisco, and our partnerships with Common Sense Media, FranklinCovey, Imagi, and Lovable as we prepare our students not only to use technology responsibly, but to imagine, create, and shape what comes next.
Five days in, and we are just getting started! 💙
Cheers to 175 more days of great teaching and learning!
Dr. Alzina
Back to School Night is Next Wednesday!
Students in grades 1–6 will be dismissed early at 12:30 PM on Wednesday, September 2
to accommodate Back-to-School Night.
The Dolphin Center will be available for students in grades 1–6 from dismissal until 5:30 PM.
After-School Childcare Opportunity for TK & Kindergarten
The YMCA is pleased to offer after-school childcare for TK and Kindergarten students at Montecito Union School (MUS), with care available until 6:00 PM. Space is limited.
Registration:
Families can register through the Channel Islands YMCA School-Age Care program:
When searching, please be sure to filter the location to Montecito.
Important Information:
Families are responsible for transporting their child from Cold Spring School to Montecito Union School.
Families must also pick up their child from the YMCA's designated pick-up location.
This is a fully licensed school-age childcare program, and all required registration paperwork must be completed before a child may attend.
Rates are standard YMCA program rates and include a one-time, non-refundable $50 program deposit.
If the program is full, families are encouraged to join the waitlist and contact Adrian Ramos at adrian.ramos@ciymca.org. He will do his best to accommodate families as space becomes available.
For additional information regarding the program, registration, or availability, please contact Adrian directly.
South Coast Youth Band Sign-Ups
Family Concert with Free Student Admission!
Music Opportunities Right Next Door! 🎶
What is WeMA?
Westmont Music Academy is a new music enrichment program at Westmont College, open to students of all ages and experience levels.
🌟 High-Quality Music Education
Students learn from experienced music faculty in a supportive and encouraging environment.
🎹 Amazing Facilities
Students have access to Westmont’s beautiful campus and its All-Steinway Music Building.
🤝 More Than Learning an Instrument
Students can participate in chamber music and small ensembles, developing teamwork, communication, confidence, and friendships.
🎤 A Chance to Share Their Music
The goal is for students to grow from learning an instrument to making music together and performing for their school and community.
💙 A Special Opportunity for Cold Spring Students
WeMA gives our students a wonderful opportunity to grow as musicians, build confidence, and contribute their talents to our community.
Current Pricing:
Early Childhood Music (ages 3–4): $22 per class
Musicianship & Theory Classes (ages 5-12): $22 per class
Beginning Violin & Piano Academy Group Lessons (ages 4–8): $30–$40 per class
Beginning & Intermediate Instrumental Group Lessons (ages 9–12): $45–$50 per class
Musicianship & Theory Classes with instrumental lessons (ages 5–12): starting at $50 per class
Private Instrumental Lessons: starting at $60 per lesson
Advanced Performance Program: for more advanced students
Chamber Music: for students with at least two years of experience; scholarships available
First session begins August 28th!