Open Classrooms, Endless Possibilities

Open Classrooms, Endless Possibilities

Castle Rock - Second Grade

🏰 Castle Rock — Second Grade at Beattie Elementary

Welcome to Castle Rock, our spirited 2nd grade community led by Mrs. Cripe and Ms. Meining. Stepping into their open classroom, you’ll immediately feel the warmth, collaboration, and focus on R‑E‑S‑P‑E‑C‑T that defines this grade level.

Why "Castle Rock"?

Named after the Colorado landmark, Castle Rock reflects our students’ journey as they stand tall—confident, curious, and ready—rooted in a community that values both independence and teamwork. Like the rock formation that endures through seasons, our students gain stability and strength as they grow.


🌟 Castle Rock Highlights

R – Ready to Learn
Second grade is a monumental year! Students transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn,” building independence and confidence along the way. Our classroom practices daily MindUp strategies to foster mindfulness and self-regulation, preparing kids to thrive now—and in the future.

E – Educating the Whole Child
Our integrated, balanced approach supports academic, social-emotional, and behavioral development through:

  • Multi‑intelligence projects that amplify creativity
  • A 2nd grade music program where students shine on stage

S – Social Studies & Science

 

  • Discovering community and Fort Collins history
  • Investigating science topics: Matter, Plant & Animal Habitats, and Earth’s changes
  • Hosting classroom habitats for crickets and butterflies, then releasing them in our school garden after a visit to The Butterfly Pavilion

T – Team-Minded Families
Parents are cherished partners in learning—they enjoy the “Royal Treatment” during our Parent Poetry Tea and Valentine’s celebration. Collaboration ensures every child thrives.

L – Literacy & Math

  • Using EL to enhance literacy
  • Embracing our motto: “Build on what you know”
  • Deepening math understanding with EnVision curriculum

O – Outreach & Creativity
Instilled with kindness and awareness, Castle Rock students:

  • Serve the Beattie & Fort Collins community
  • Participate in projects like Meals on Wheels outreach
  • Extend kindness globally through Heifer International’s Pay It Forward initiatives

N – “We’re in This Together”
Our journey is shared—with celebrations, mistakes, and growth—creating a scrapbook of learning moMrs. Cripe and Ms. Meining our second grade teachersments that last well beyond 2nd grade

 


By Year’s End

Castle Rock Bighorns become thoughtful readers, creative thinkers, caring team members, and confident learners—ready to climb higher, together.

Would you like a classroom photo or visual layout to match previous grade-level sections?

Meining
Cripe
PSD does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status, age or disability in access or admission to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. A lack of English speaking skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation.