Project Based Learning (PBL)
Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working to investigate and respond to an authentic and engaging question. The projects are standards based, focusing on the Colorado Social Studies/Science Standards. Literacy standards are then integrated with a focus on research, writing and presentation. Math standards are applied if they fit naturally. Students grow in their understanding of the project concepts and growth is measured throughout the project through authentic assessment opportunities. The students then present their Public Product to our community.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Our priority, even above academics, is that each student knows how to navigate who they are as a human and the implications of being social beings. Without a healthy SEL, focus all the academics in the world will only take you so far. SEL is the horse that pulls the cart of academics. We believe that PBL is the best way to access a healthy SEL. Every project offers incredible opportunities to build a solid understanding of SEL. We call our SEL skills Habits of KITS.
Habits of KITS
Students learn how to show Kindness, Integrity, Teamwork, and Safety (KITS) on a daily basis, and we recognize those outstanding students each quarter.
Kindness (Empathy, Respect, Discover Value, Engouragement)
Integrity (Ownership, Independence, Self Control, Resiliency)
Teamwork (Conflict Management, Communication, Growth Mindset, Curiosity)
Safety (Awareness, Risk Taking, Trust, Responsibility)
Special Education
We value each student as an individual and encourage each student to reach his/her full potential. If you have questions about special education or want to learn more, visit the Special Education pages at the Academy District 20 website.
Clubs and Organizations
We value extra-curricular activities and see them as a great tool for learning and socialization. Clubs include:
Battle of the Books Club
Coding Club
Disc Golf Club
Landsharks
Strings-Music Club
Yearbook Club
Talented and Gifted
We offer Talented and Gifted programming for students with exceptional abilities. Learn more about TAG.
RULER
A district wide initiative, RULER is a program primarily for our elementary schools students. It supports relationships and wellbeing by teaching how to identify, understand and manage our emotions while expressing concern and compassion towards others. It does this by using four Anchor Tools, the Charter, Mood Meter, Meta-Moment and Blueprint.
Learn more about RULER at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence website.
