The 2025–2026 school year is officially here, and Estes Park Elementary is ready to welcome students and families back for another exciting year of learning. From updated routines to important reminders, the Bobcat community is kicking things off with clarity, connection, and a whole lot of heart.
Here’s a quick guide to what families need to know:
First Days of School at EPES
- Grades 1–5 begin Thursday, Aug. 14
- Kindergarten has a staggered start:
- Students with last names A–K attend Thursday, Aug. 14
- Students with last names L–Z attend Friday, Aug. 15
- Preschool starts Monday, Aug. 18
Doors open at 8:00 a.m. Families are invited to walk students to class on their first day. After Aug. 18, standard drop-off routines will resume.
Morning Arrival
- Drop-off runs from 7:40–8:00 a.m. in front of the building between the main and west entrances
- Students may eat free breakfast in the cafeteria or play on the playground/blacktop until the bell
- At 8:00 a.m., all students enter the building
- Tardy bell rings at 8:10 a.m.
For safety and efficiency, families are asked to remain in their cars during drop-off. Preschool families should park in the Community Center lot and walk students to their classroom entrance to sign them in.
Supplies & Support
Families still in need of school supplies can find grade-level lists on the school website. If support is needed, Ashley Silva or Kori Light are available to help make sure every student is equipped for a strong start.
Dismissal Times & Procedures
- Preschool: 3:00 p.m.
- Kindergarten–1st Grade: 3:10 p.m.
- 2nd–5th Grade: 3:20 p.m.
There are three pickup zones:
- Community Center Walk-Up: Give your iDismiss number at the gate to notify your child’s teacher.
- Front Drive-Through Line: Display your iDismiss tag for staff to cue your student.
- 5th Grade Pickup Circle: Reserved for 4th/5th grade students only, no younger siblings.
Staff ask for patience as they work to safely dismiss over 400 students each afternoon.
Bus Registration Reminder
Bus riders must be registered in PowerSchool and have a Smart Tag to board. If you haven’t registered yet, log in to the Parent Portal or call the transportation department at 970-577-0211.
EPES Expectations for a Successful Year
- Devices away for the day: Phones and smartwatches should stay off in backpacks during school hours
- No food treats for birthdays or class parties (due to allergy safety); teachers will celebrate in fun, inclusive ways
- Healthy snacks and water only in the classroom (other drinks can be enjoyed in the cafeteria)
- Arrive on time: School starts promptly at 8:10 a.m., students arriving late must be signed in at the office
PowerSchool Forms
All families must complete PowerSchool registration forms before the first day. Help will be available during Meet & Greet appointments on August 12 and 13. Questions? Contact registrar Katie Corbell in the front office, 970-586-7406 ext. 3603.
Meet Your EPES Leadership Team
Principal Erin Miller
Now in her ninth year with Estes Park Schools, Erin Miller brings 24 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and director of innovation. Miller can be reached at 970-586-7406 ext. 3605 or by email, click here.
Assistant Principal Andrea Sporleder
A proud member of the Bobcat team, Andrea Sporleder brings over 15 years of experience in education and enters her second year at EPES. Her passion for literacy, leadership, and building strong community partnerships drives her work. Sporleder can be reached at 970-586-7406 ext. 3601 or by email, click here.
As the 2025–2026 school year begins, the staff at Estes Park Elementary are ready to learn, lead, and grow alongside their students. From morning drop-off to afternoon goodbyes, the focus is on safety, connection, and helping every child feel seen and supported.
Welcome back, Bobcats!
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