Military Families
Contact Information
School Military Liaisons
719.495.1199
Megan Garland-Evelo, 719.337.6790 https://usafasupport.com/school-liaison-program/
Diane Zelezinski, 719.526.2463
https://carson.armymwr.com/programs/school-support-services
School Based Military Liaison Information
The School Military Liaison (SML) is a dedicated D49 employee who supports military-connected families—including those with active duty, reserve, and veteran status—as they transition into our district and schools. The SML assists families throughout the enrollment process, helps students adjust to their new school environment, and connects them with local resources as needed. They also provide support with academic planning, including class scheduling and ensuring students meet graduation requirements. The SML works in close partnership with the District Military Student & Family Liaison and military liaisons from surrounding bases to ensure a seamless and supportive experience for every military-connected student.
Bennett Ranch Elementary Military Family information
Bennett Ranch is committed to a community grounded on positive relationships, high standards, and responsive teaching. Our learners will pursue pathways of passion based on firm foundations, creativity, and grit.At Bennett Ranch Elementary, approximately 22% of our students are military-connected. We recognize that military-connected students face specific challenges. At Bennett Ranch we:
- Support students throughout their transition with resiliency tools and resources. Our Bulls Welcome Brigade is there to provide support through transition times.
- Support students in making new friends and finding where they belong.
- Offer after school clubs and activities to foster a sense of belonging and community.
- Facilitate opportunities for students to connect with others who share their interests or hobbies.
- Support students and families through times of transition, deployments, and other life events unique to military life.
The Bull's Welcome Brigade serves as a welcoming team to greet new students and their families. They are here to give a tour of the school, introduce students to our explorer teachers, and be a friendly face for the first days of school. These ambassadors will eat lunch with students and attend recess with them as they learn about Bennett Ranch. We want all students to have someone they feel comfortable around and feel safe to ask questions.
Our counselor, Mrs. Kristen Beuke is here to support our military families. She serves as our point of contact for families looking into attending Bennett Ranch and works to make sure students find where they belong. If your family would like to visit Bennett Ranch for a tour or if you have any questions please reach out to Mrs. Beuke.
Kristen Beuke
Bennett Ranch Counselor
kristen.beuke@d49.org
(719) 488-6024
Important links for Military Students and Families
For military families transitioning to Falcon School District 49, having quick access to essential resources is crucial. The links below provide direct access to important enrollment information, academic planning, transportation services, and specialized support programs.
- Enrollment Information: Learn how to enroll in District 49.
- Required Enrollment Documents: Learn what documents are required to enroll in District 49.
- Transportation Link: Learn about transportation services, bus routes, and policies.
- School Choice: Learn about options for academic planning and school choice options.
- 49 Pathways: Learn about information on career and academic pathways offered in District 49.
- Special Education Link: Learn about how to access supports for students with special needs.
- Gifted Education: Learn about programs offered for gifted learners.
- Bennett Ranch Academic Supports: Learn about academic supports offered at Bennett Ranch.
Military Student and Family Resources: Counseling Services
District 49 offers a variety of resources if your student or your family needs support. Below is a list of counseling options at your student’s school, your base and within the local community.
School Counseling Services available : Bennett Ranch offers a variety of school based counseling services. Each class attends social emotional counseling lessons bi-monthly. During these lessons students work on skills such as making friends, how to solve conflicts, and what to do when they have a conflict they cannot solve on their own. Bennett Ranch’s Counselor, Mrs. Beuke also offers individual counseling services and small group counseling. If you would like counseling services for your student, please contact Mrs. Beuke by phone at 719.488.6024 or email at kristen.beuke@d49.org.
We also have a Military Family Life Counselor (MFLC) who is at our school two days a week. Our MFLC is an integral part of our school community. She connects with individual students and small groups throughout the day. Our MFLC does require parent permission in writing, so be sure to email Mrs. Beuke at kristen.beuke@d49.org.
Base Counseling Services Available
Please contact our Peterson Base School Liaison to obtain the paperwork to see a Military Life Family Counselor.
Community Counseling Services Available
https://www.red-rock.com/cohen_clinic_colorado_springs/
Red Rock Behavioral Health Services is a 501(c)3 nonprofit community mental health organization. We provide integrated behavioral health and physical health care coordination service. Please check with your insurance company to see if a referral is needed from your PCM to receive services.
https://www.veteranscenter.org/health-and-wellness/
This center provides a wide variety of services for the local military connected community. Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center’s Health and Wellness Team offers access to confidential counseling services, as well as alternative therapies to service members, veterans and spouses alike. Please check with your insurance company and PCM, if you need a referral to receive services.
These resources ensure that military-connected students and their families have the support they need for a smooth transition into District 49