There continues to be a strategic imperative in bringing the right people, practices, and programs to CA’s campus. Now, our energy is focused on creating the most effective places for the best learning to continue. Education today is delivered in an entirely different manner than previous decades, with new tools, techniques and teaching methods that increasingly don’t fit the simplistic conventions of older school buildings.
Science studies provide students with basic skills and knowledge for success in later life. A strong science foundation teaches students problem-solving skills, a yearning for exploration, and a spirit of innovation. Students versed in science can go on to college and career paths in engineering, medicine, and other innovative fields. A new facility will make it possible to:
- Add new courses including robotics, engineering, astrophysics, and geology.
- Promote independent research and deeper learning.
- Engage students in project-based learning and on-going laboratory work for individual research.
- Engage more students in science, technology, and engineering studies, and allow more them to compete in local, regional, and national science competitions.
- Increase GPA, SAT/ACT, and CWRA averages.
The study and appreciation of mathematics has never been more important. Math pertains to every facet of life and job skill. Understanding math is essential to creating an informed and effective citizenry, and mathematical proof teaches skills in rigor and persuasion that transfer to other domains of knowledge. A facility that allows for innovative teaching of mathematics will:
- Set CA apart as a school dedicated to the study of mathematics.
- Students will experiment with real-world and hands-on applications of their studies.
- Students’ learning styles and coursework will be met with more differentiated instruction.
- More students will participate in engaging work and academic competitions outside the classroom.
The study of humanities seeks to answer the question, “What does it mean to be human?” Through collaborative and creative engagement at CA, we probe this question in a way that inspires students to imagine what might be instead of what is. This new facility will:
- Offer more cross-disciplinary work in Humanities and World Language classes, and will provide additional opportunities for collaborative work among students.
- Promote discussion-oriented approaches that develop critical thinking.
- Accommodate new technologies that allow students access to an array of resources and interaction with people and places around the globe
Imagine a new high school with 40% more square footage overall and classrooms that are 33% larger than they are now. The new building will house an Upper School Lecture Hall for up to 110 people, and will meet accepted standards for sustainability. Imagine a building that:
- Provides collaborative student learning areas.
- Promotes the learning of science and math and the use of technology through customized spaces.
- Houses an innovation lab for student projects.
- Facilitates “design thinking” and project-based learning.
The new building will replace the existing building in its existing location on campus to preserve the historical placement of the three division levels surrounding Stamper Commons.
The building will be a two-story structure, with the six newer classrooms on the northeast side of the current building to remain.
Proposed building render
The building will take advantage of Denver’s climate through the creation of shared outdoor learning spaces. The exterior of the building will compliment the current, newer construction on campus, using brick, flagstone, and glass. In the interior space, there is a desire to create the best 21st century classroom space in the nation.
The school will reflect the feel of collaborative work environments. The interior will have a light and open feel that encourages bold and creative thinking. Furniture will allow maximum flexibility for student use. Hallways will allow for changeable displays of projects and student works. The building will promote the value of “community” at CA.
The Colorado Academy campus has a commitment to sustainability, and we strive to set the standard of environmental stewardship for independent schools. This project will include extensive day lighting for both the first and second floors; solar, photovoltaic energy in select areas of the building; and qualification for industry-recognized green building standards.
