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Student Engagement

The Student Engagement Office enhances the overall educational experiences and outcomes of all students through support for educators and leaders, system and program innovation, and fostering collaborative school and community partnerships. The Student Engagement Office provides direct supports to schools in the area of:
Child Welfare Programming

Child Welfare Programming is a unit within the Student Engagement Office. This team provides support for District staff regarding their child protection/mandatory reporting responsibilities. The team also supports students who have experienced out of home placement through supports such as Fostering Opportunities.

The responsibilities for the Best Interest Determination Process are handled through the Child Welfare Education Liaison in this unit.

Dropout Prevention

Dropout Prevention and Reengagement is a unit within the Student Engagement Office dedicated to re-engaging students who are at-risk of dropping out or who have dropped out of or are truant from school.

This office works to connect students and families to the educational, social, and community supports that prepare them for a successful future.

Native American Education Program

The Native American Education Program (NAEP) is a unit within the Student Engagement Office. The goal of the NAEP is to support educational success and increase belonging through the use of culturally responsive practices with Native and Indigenous students and families. Support is provided in the areas of:

  • Mentoring
  • Dropout Prevention
  • Cultural events and activities
  • Peer and family networking and support
Community and Family Connections

As a part of the Student Engagement team, CFC specializes in McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act which ensures educational stability for children and youth experiencing housing instability. Students who lack fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence qualify for additional support and resources. Unaccompanied Youth, students whose living situation is not fixed, regular or adequate and who are not in the physical custody of a parent or legal guardian, also qualify. Our team of 7 CFC Liaisons work to identify and verify eligibility. They are also trained to assist with Medicaid /CHP enrollment. Educational advocacy, increasing staff awareness and community partnerships increase positive outcomes for students.

 Connections



Meet The Team



Dave Kollar

Director, Student Engagement Office

Dave Kollar Director, Student Engagement Office

303-982-6794
[email protected]

I am honored to work in Jeffco Public Schools ensuring each of our students receive the support they need to be ready for life. I am originally from the great state of New York, a proud graduate of Cornell College in Iowa majoring in Sociology and Psychology, and with a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Colorado. One of my daughters is a recent Jeffco graduate and the other is a Junior in high school. Both continually provide ‘advice’ for how we can serve students better. In my spare time, I love anything to do with my family, sports, the outdoors, or water and best if they are all combined.

Jason Firestone

Assistant Director, Student Engagement Office

Jason Firestone photo

303-982-0389
[email protected]

Having been raised in Buena Vista, Colorado, I am proud to serve my great state as a member of Jeffco Public Schools. I am also a proud alumni of Adams State University. I began working in Jeffco Public Schools after graduating Adams State in 2005. During my 16-year tenure, I have served as the Manager of the Student Engagement Office, Manager of Dropout Prevention, Indian Education Coordinator, and an Indian Education Liaison. I believe that public education is the linchpin of this great nation and that our Jeffco students deserve the very best. My mission in life is to help ensure that EVERY child has an opportunity to thrive and discover their own unique pathway towards life success.

Liz Romero

Program Technician, Student Engagement Office

 

303-982-6559
[email protected]

I am a Denver native with a strong history in working with youth through education and non-profit settings. I have been in Jeffco Public Schools for the last 4 years and am excited to begin a new journey here in the Student Engagement Department in a position that marries my passions and my technical skills to help keep everything running as smoothly as possible!
I have 2 adult children, one who is a private charter Pilot and one who is a Para for Mapleton School District. I also have 2 young children at home, all of whom remind me everyday of the importance of my investment in education and our next generation of adults. I am a self proclaimed DIY master and love all things that involve creating!

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