🏫 History
Beattie Elementary opened its doors in the fall of 1972 and was named in honor of Dan Beattie, a Fort Collins native who excelled as a student-athlete at Colorado State University, later serving more than 40 years as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal at Fort Collins High School. The school’s motto—“Open Classrooms, Endless Possibilities”—reflects its pioneering design and vision.
🧩 Learning Culture & Open Classroom Design
Built in the early 1970s, Beattie features a large, open classroom layout, eliminating walls between learning areas to encourage co-teaching, student movement, and cooperative learning. This structure promotes flexibility, collaboration, and real-time support, allowing teachers and students to work together seamlessly while maintaining clearly defined learning zones.
🎯 Academic Environment & Whole-Child Learning
- Grade-level co-teaching work in shared spaces, enhanced by open layouts, giving each student two teachers.
- Specials programming—including art, music, PE, and health—supports the development of athletic, creative, and wellness skills.
- Emphasis on health, wellness, and student-centered learning encourages lifelong growth.
🎒 Programs & Student Support
Beattie ensures all learners are supported through:
- GT (Gifted & Talented) services, literacy interventions, and a moderate-needs resource program
- Full-time counseling and mental health support
- Partnerships with Colorado State University and other universities for student teacher placements, practicum experiences, and collaborative learning
- Active clubs and enrichment opportunities (Odyssey of the Mind, LEGO Robotics, Nature Garden/Center, makers fair, etc.).
📘 Positive Behavior & School-wide Culture
Beattie is a PBiS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports) school, focused on R.A.M.S. behavior expectations—Respect All, Act Responsibly, Motivate to Learn, and Safety. These expectations are routinely taught, modeled, and recognized (e.g., Beattie “Rockstars” awards). Daily classroom Circles foster community and emotional connection, while ongoing crisis-preparedness drills support school safety.
🤝 Community & Family Engagement
- The Beattie Action Team (BAT) serves as our active PTA/PTO, coordinating key events and fundraisers.
- The School Advisory Committee (SAC) includes parent representatives who participate in school improvement planning.
- Additional community initiatives include Kindness Club, Student Council, and service-learning projects.
📚 Milestones & Recognition
- 50th Anniversary in 2022: Celebrated with alumni, families, and friends during an open house and plaque dedication.
- Recognized by GreatSchools as an above-average elementary school in Colorado (9/10 rating), notable for both academic performance and the inclusive co-teaching open classroom model.
Why Beattie Stands Out
- A distinctive open-concept design that supports collaboration, movement, and student agency.
- A commitment to whole-child education, wellness, and behavior through PBiS, counseling, and diverse programming.
- Strong community partnerships and parent engagement that enrich and sustain school culture.