News and Events

Parent Education Events

The Parent Education Network ("PEN") coordinates opportunities for parent education on a wide range of topics, including academic, social/emotional, and health/wellness areas of child development. Keep scrolling for more information and to register for PEN's exciting lineup of events throughout the year!



Anxiety, Worry, and Emotional Well-Being: A Discussion With Lynn Lyons, LICSW

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
Register Here

Lynn Lyons, a licensed psychotherapist and author of "Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents" and "The Anxiety Audit," is known for her work supporting children, parents, and educators in understanding and managing anxiety. She also co-hosts the podcast "Flusterclux" and brings decades of experience working with independent school communities across the country.

Lynn will speak to our parent community offering practical strategies to prevent and interrupt the generational cycle of worry. In the session, you will learn the difference between healthy worrying and debilitating anxiety, and how to reclaim emotional well-being.  

Anxiety and worry are normal and expected parts of learning and growing, but when teens and children face challenges cognitively, socially, or emotionally, anxiety can step in and take over. Anxiety can be overwhelming and rigid, but it’s also based on predictable patterns that can shift once we learn how it operates. Action, not avoidance, is the key to success. Understand how you can model and encourage optimism and allow your child to grow with independence and courage.

Learn more at www.lynnlyons.com

Belonging Matters: Building Foundations for Thriving Kids With Phyllis Fagell, LCPC

Date: Monday, January 26, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
Register Here

Drawing on research from her two books, "Middle School Matters" and "Middle School Superpowers," school counselor and mental health therapist Phyllis Fagell will share how parents can keep the lines of communication open and support their child as they navigate shifts in friendship dynamics, heightened academic demands, increased sensitivity and challenges related to growing up in a digital world. Though the transition from childhood to adolescence can be tough for kids, this time of rapid physical, intellectual, moral, social, and emotional change is a unique opportunity to proactively build character and confidence. 
 
Phyllis will share a broad range of practical strategies designed to boost kids' social skills and sense of belonging, help them maintain balance, make smart decisions, and stay optimistic even when things feel hard. You will learn sensible ways to guide your child through risk-taking when they fear embarrassment, and encourage them to thrive as they find their place in the pack. 
 
Learn more at phyllisfagell.com

Josh's Book Club

Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Book: To Be Determined
Register Here

Join Head of School Josh Cobb for an evening of thoughtful discussion and community connection. This casual book club welcomes all parents, whether you're a frequent reader or simply interested in engaging conversation. Stay tuned for the selected title and registration details.
 

ISACS Parent Series: Expert-Led Webinars for Parental Support

Graland has signed up for the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS) Virtual Parent Series and is excited to offer participation to our community. This informative series features six one-hour Zoom evening webinars led by experts in education, parenting, and child development. Connect with other independent school parents and gain valuable insights to support your children's growth. Learn more here and register below. 

* You must register for the event by 2:00 p.m. on the day of the event. *

September 25, 2025 | Lisa Damour
Register Here
5:30-6:30 p.m.
School Skills: Setting Kids Up for Success

October 28, 2025 | Jonathan Haidt
Register Here
5:30-6:30 p.m.
How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Impacted
Everything + What We Can Do About It

January 13, 2026 | Tina Payne Bryson
Register Here
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Elevating Discipline with the Brain in Mind

February 10, 2026 | David Yeager
Register Here
5:30-6:30 p.m.
10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People

April 15, 2026 | Laurie Santos
Register Here
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Happier Parenting: Evidence-based
Strategies for Improving Parent Happiness

May 6, 2026 | Dr. Shefali Tsabary
Register Here
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Conscious Parenting: Raising Resilient,
Self-aware & Connected Children

Graland Country Day School

Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.