2017-2018 Annual Report

2017-2018 ANNUAL REPORT

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LEAD LEARN TABLE OF CONTENTS

Message from Leadership...... 2 2017-2018 ANNUAL REPORT This report covers Aspen Academy’s fiscal year of July Aspen At A Glance...... 3 1, 2017 – June 30, 2018. We made every effort to ensure the accuracy and completeness of Mission Vision & Values...... 4 this report. If we have made an error or omission, please accept our apologies and report it to 2017-2018 Timeline...... 5 [email protected]. Financial Report...... 7

Annual Fund Impact...... 9

Leadership Giving...... 10

Building the Future, Capital Campaign...... 14

Aspen Entrepreneurial Institute...... 15

Meet Our New Board Members...... 16

Class of 2018...... 17

Alumni Colleges and Universities...... 18

Staff & Faculty...... 19

In the News...... 20 Aspen Academy 5859 S University Blvd, Greenwood Village, CO 80121 Rebranding...... 21 aspenacademy.org Ways to Get Involved...... 22 Since 2005, Aspen Academy has cultivated fertile ground MESSAGE where our students can take root, engage in rigorous academic programs, develop their character and leadership skills, and build a sense of global citizenship through service learning. We believe education should address what FROM OUR students know but equally important, who they are. This means taking the time to know each of our 400 students individually and challenging them to be extraordinary LEADERSHIP leaders who do extraordinary things.

Over the course of our 2017-2018 school year we welcomed 60 new families into our community; graduated 40 students in the Class of 2018 who continued on to 12 high schools across Denver, and increased our alumni population to 264 alumni at 29 high schools. We launched new learning amenities as we made an investment in iPads for our Lower School, completed our auditorium renovation with improved acoustics that allow our children to be heard and moved the sound booth to the main level to support closer and better access to the stage and coordination for productions.

With our notable dedication to financial literacy, we launched weekly curriculum focus as part of “Money Kristina Scala, George Sparks, Monday” and “Finance Friday.” Our students led countless Head of School Board Chair academic, arts and leadership performances, projects and events and engaged in 7,000 hours of service learning.

The implementation of our Academic Chair program brought the completed research and business case for our Language Arts academic review under the leadership of co-chairs Joanna Weisel and LeighAnn Orsen.

At the end of the year, the following faculty members were We firmly believe the world belongs to elected by their peers to lead curriculum development, those who show up and hustle. We will create cross-disciplinary connections and model innovative never stop hustling on behalf of Aspen teaching techniques in the following domains: Academy students, faculty, staff and Gabriella (Polen) Fratta and Corey Sampson, Social Sciences families. Kerri Esposito and Maureen Mullen, Math LeighAnn Orsen and Joanna Weisel, Language Arts Sincerely, Rob Cooper and Sam Murray, Science.

We took the next steps in evolving our brand to one that more accurately reflects the energy and innovation that takes place at Aspen Academy. These changes spanned Kristina Scala, Head of School from our website and printed materials to physical changes to our lobby. In our West Wing, we completed a refresh with new shelving and paint, MODI chairs and tables. In the Administrative Wing, we completed our interior renovation and exterior painting and replacement soffits. We completed additional outdoor maintainence on the cafeteria.

George Sparks, Board Chair 2 Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 ASPEN AT A GLANCE Aspen Academy is a national leader in innovative education. Through internationally acclaimed academics and the nation’s first integrated Pre-K through 8th grade leadership and entrepreneurial development program, our students are empowered to lead purposeful and extraordinary lives and focus on the character-building education essential for thriving in today’s world. Small classes are led by exceptional, award-winning faculty who provide a foundation of rich academics and a personalized approach to instruction. At Aspen Academy, these core values are true to our school, and our community: Be Kind. Do Good. Work Hard. Make The World Better. STUDENT PERFORMANCE 86% 91% Reading at or above Average score of Math grade level (DRA/QRI tests based on Singapore Internal Assessments) Math assessments

OUR DIFFERENCE: TOP IN THE NATION 21% 19% 16% 75 Each year, Aspen Academy uses ACT Aspire to map student progress from grades three through eight on a vertical 50 scale, anchored to the scoring system of the ACT. These scores are also compared to other schools around the 25 nation and reveal Aspen Academy to be among the top in the nation for Reading, English and Math. READING ENGLISH MATH

“One of the fastest-growing independent schools in the country.” - Association of DEVELOPING Colorado Independent Schools. EXTRAORDINARY “Top Scoring School” - AdvancED LEADERS OUR MISSION We edify and inspire students and educators to grow, learn and lead. OUR VISION We are a national leader in innovation and transformative education. OUR VALUES Be Kind. Do Good. Work Hard. Make The World Better.

Thank You to the 2017-2018 Board of Trustees

George Sparks, Chair Ernie Panasci, Finance & Audit and Investment Suzanne Goodspeed, Advancement Jackie Griggs, Advancement Carl Algermissen, Trustee & Governance Brad Tucker, Trustee & Governance Darrell Watters, Investment and Finance & Audit Brian Meegan, Compensation Lew Kling, Compensation Arjun Sen, Advancement Jack Keenan, Finance & Audit and Investment Kristina Scala, Founder, President & Head of School Lori Taylor, Advancement

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 4 2017-2018 TIMELINE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2017 OCTOBER 2017

OCTOBER: Lt. Gov. Donna Lynne speaks with Andrew NOVEMBER: We welcomed Wilson, Aspen Academy grandparents and special friends student as part of Mr. to our annual Grand Day. Faculty Sampson’s class. volunteered at Project Cure. AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2017

AUGUST: Assessment Day and the epic 2017 eclipse aligned to kick-off our 2017-2018 OCTOBER: Our PCO sponsors DECEMBER: The Geography Bee school year. the annual Parent Cocktail gave students an opportunity to Party, an annual event building share their brilliance. Congratulations our parent community. to winner, Anderson Toler

SEPTEMBER: Our 2017 Bear OCTOBER: Parents and DECEMBER: To kick off the week Crawl & Carnival were students supported the annual before Winter Break, Aspen students, opportunities to celebrate Service Day by contributing faculty and staff celebrated Spirit together as a community! hours to our campus through Week, including the annual 8th Rake Up Aspen. Grade/Faculty Basketball Game. MARCH-APRIL 2018 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2018 JANUARY-FEBRUARY MAY-JUNE 2018 MAY-JUNE

MARCH: Speaker Tommy Spaulding shared inspiration JANUARY: Our inaugural in a PUMP’d evening event for MAY: Faculty Appreciation Week was Entepreneurial Expo featured parents and community. followed by Adventure Week for an business acumen from each event-filled May! class.

APRIL: 8th Grade Students made pitches to a “Shark FEBRUARY: Fathers and Tank.” Congratulations MAY: Special guests from the Denver daughters came together on to Nolan Cooper, whose Broncos came to the school to share the dancefloor for our annual Promposal business won the more about character and leadership Father Daughter Dance. competition. on and off the field.

JANUARY: The SCO APRIL: Parents, faculty and JUNE: Field Day, Graduation and our Community Service staff celebrated during the New Alumni Reception create an Committee, along with “An Evening at the Theater” epic send-off for Summer Break. students, Ella S. and Izzy B., Gala & Silent Auction. organized Service Week.

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 6 FINANCIAL REPORT REVENUE

Tuition & Fees 89.4%

Bear’s Student Enterprises 0.4%

Parent Civic Organization 0.6% Rental, Interest Income & Other 1.1% Extracurricular 1.5% Contribution & Support 7%

EXPENSES Payroll & Benefits 63.3%

Campus & Facilities 19.7%

Academic, Character, and Community Service Programs 7.3%

Loan Interest 4.1% Professional Services 1.4% Advancement 4.2% 2017-2018 FINANCIALS

TOTAL REVENUE Tuition and Fees 6,784,222 Contribution and Support 535,610 Rental, Interest Income & Other 80,041 Extracurricular 112,592 Parent Civic Organization (PCO) 43,600 Bear's Student Enterprises (BSE) 30,574 $7,586,639

TOTAL EXPENSES Payroll and Benefits 4,643,596 Campus and Facility Expenses 1,441,711 Academic, Character, and Community Service Programs 534,819 Loan Interest 302,854 Professional Services 105,468 Advancement 311,588 $7,340,036

RESERVES Operating & Long-Term Reserves for Debt Retirement $675,000

GIVING Annual Fund 209,814 Capital Gifts 325,796 $535,610

2017-2018 TESTIMONIALS

“My children are prepared for whatever the “As a parent I questioned sending our kid to a private futures holds because of the education at Aspen school vs a public school. It was a great decision to Academy. The innovation and leadership curriculum send our child to Aspen. Amazing teachers and provides opportunities to be a empathetic citizen CORE principles are developing future leaders. and at the same time create a business and business Every curricula is highly thought out and vetted. plan starting at kindergarten. The faculty are always The learning environment and skill sets that they are forward thinking and truly love my child.” teaching our child will give him the strong foundation as he moves on to higher levels of education. It is a “My Granddaughter loves her Pre-K teacher and class. strong community with parent support and teachers She is excited every day to go to school. Last week who are dedicated 100% to the students in the school.” she was assigned her mentor and it was like Christmas came early!”

“I have seen older students helping out younger ones, not because they were told to, but because the Aspen Academy culture inspires kindness and compassion and leadership...Aspen Academy helps the child ...examine their own choices and teaches them to be accountable for their actions.”

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 8 A contribution to Aspen Academy’s Annual Fund is the first and most important gift we ask of our families, faculty and Impact of Our staff and board of trustees. Aspen Academy continues to be the only independent school in Colorado without an operating gap between tuition revenue and expenses.

2017-2018 In 2017-2018 97% of our community participated in our Annual Fund, raising more than $209,814.

Annual Fund & Contributions to the Annual Fund support: • Financial Assistance, including up to 50% financial aid for families in financial need. Graduate Gift • Professional development for faculty and Education Masters and Doctoral Degree Programs. • Academic Programs, including technology, and leadership and entrepreneurial curriculum development enhancements and improvements.

GRADUATE GIFT The Class of 2018 Graduate Gift supported the transformation of the Bear’s Student Enterprises Broadcast program. With the support of our 8th grade families we were able to: • Move our audio visual technology from the nest to a central position in the theater, offering our production students the optimal setting to execute clear, crisp sound and lighting. • Upgrade our audio system equipment with 6 wireless microphone belt pack transmitters and 6 base receivers, 6 wireless headset microphones, 1 rechargeable battery base station, 1 wireless antenna system, and 6 spare wireless headset cables. • Upgrades to our stage lighting equipment with 1 lighting control console, 4 wireless data systems, 8 full color LED Spot Lights, 6 full color LED Wash Lights

THANK YOU TO OUR 2017-2018 ANNUAL FUND COMMITTEE John Fichter Melissa Gelfand Kelly Goering Amy Andresen Amy Swieringa Nicole Messina Margo Ramsden Debbie Schwartz Chris Good CR Brinton Jacquii Fabricant Steve Pougnet Academic, Character, and Community Service Programs Aspen Academy recognizes community members who support our mission of developing extraordinary leaders by participating in charitable giving. We are grateful for all levels of support and strive for 100% community participation in our efforts.

Founder’s Circle ($10,000-$49,999)

Head of School’s Circle ($2,500-$9,999)

Scholar’s Circle ($1,000-$2,499)

Family Partner ($500-$999)

Friend (Up to $499)

Leadership gifts are crucial to Aspen Academy’s financial strength, every gift matters. We also acknowledge community members who have committed a planned gift to Aspen Academy as members of the Kristina Scala Legacy Society.

Legacy Society:

Suzanne Goodspeed LEADERSHIP GIVING Lynda Sailor Anonymous

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THANK YOU TO OUR 2017-2018 ANNUAL FUND COMMITTEE

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 10 LEADERSHIP GIVING

Joy and Chris Murphy Ilana and Matt Larson Ernie Panasci Alana and Martin Lawrence Camila and Jason Peck Jennifer and Eric Leavitt Sherri and Matt Poznanovic Aree Bly and Thomas Leonard Ellen and Joe Ruble Julie and Andy LeRoy Founder’s Circle: Kim and John Schultz Shannon and Rob Mackenzie Lily and Bill Derwin Jessica and Eric Schulze Raelynn Maloney Debbie and Brad Dickler* Alisabeth and Colin Shearn Wendy Leung and Dan McCann Jennifer and Yavor Efremov Christine and Scott Simon LucyAnn and Mike McCarthy Chris and Ken Good Lisa and Matt Smith Susannah and Julian McManus Amy and Michael Krza Johanna Bulacar and Matthew Smith Lisa Yacuzzo and Gary Meade Debbie and John Montford* Shandra Wilson and George Sparks Katie and Cam Mochan Amanda Jackson and Mark Oriol Kathryn and Eric Springer Catherine and Mark Murchison Tish and Robb Stone Amy and John Swieringa Jennifer and John Osgood Merri and Kevin Tarrant Liz and Brad Tucker Debbie Schwartz and Fred Peurye Kim and Evan Wyly Lorena Torres Turner and Austin Turner Melanie and Drew Quinlan Deborah and David Younggren* Leslie Underwood and Elia Wallen Tracy and Matthew Ritter Jackie and Darrell Watters Allison and Jason Ruchaber Head of School’s Circle: Jess and Doc Weidknecht Lynda and Eric Jackson Sailor Jackie and Carl Algermissen Brooke and Link Wilfley Kristina Scala Natallia and Maksim Avseev Joy and Jim Woller Ru and Gary Schanman Ernest Behnke* Tara and Jason Shofnos Katie and Bryan Bozeman Scholars Circle: Stephanie Toler Gretchen Zech and Robert Bush Travis and Margot Applegate Shanna and Florian Weber Marilyn and Michael Calvert* Jana Axline Anza Goodbar and JaZelle Whitney Erin and Jeff Chain Kerry and Ryan Barker Amanda and Robert Woolley Kate and Mike Cogdall Victoria and Keith Bough Tamara and John Yount Goldie and Joel Cohen Lisa Swize and Jerrod Brown Pamela and Charles Cook* Lindsay and Matthew Chaffee Family Partner: Lori Taylor and Shan Dagli Debbie and Mike Cordero Amy and Helen Andresen Cathy Zheng and Edward Davis Julie and Josh Dorkin Judy and Richard Batenburg Jacquii and Steven Fabricant Jennifer and David Fintak Jimena and Andy Begal John Fichter Brooke and Roche Fore Sara and Charlie Bentz Angela and Dan Fox Nicole and Eric Frank Neha Mohta and Ravi Bhalotia Suzie and Steven Goodspeed Lisa and Jay Green Tiffany and CR Brinton Vali and Nathan Jerome Rachel and Sam Green Heather Ferguson and David Buhler Pam and Jim Johnston Sara and Brian Gunning Lyssa and Job Chacko Holly and Vance Joseph Kelly and Jon Hardy Ann Badertscher and Cliff Clevenger Lindsey and Michael Keough Karen and Jeff Hendley Nancy and Mike Connell* Dana and Ryan Krauser Susan Furman and Joseph Hughes Margo Connor* Karen and Steven Leaffer Kelly and Phil Jungwirth Jennifer and Daniel Cook Goca Weis and Matthew Leavy Linda and Jack Keenan* Sandra and Gary Cooper Leila and Anthony Lewis Rebecca and Craig Kinard Tim Dailey Michelle and Jason Lockwood Cindy and Kurt Kittleson Brooke and David Loven Kym and Tom Koch Kate McCormick Tracy and Cass McKenzie Nicole and Tom Messina Faith and Stephen Mills Tammy and William Damarath Whitney and Chad Wolz Lennetta and Andrew Elkins Melissa and Karl Engelmann Sarah Spencer-Workman and Adam Roxanne and Ronaldo Esguerra Joey and Chris Fanale Workman Kerri Esposito Magaly Ulate Fields and Michael Fields Julie and Ron Zwerin Jason Fearnow Claire and Sean Goodrich Jennifer Fichter Sandra and Richard Goodspeed* Friend: Janice and James Fisher Kari and Jon Hale Gargi and Rajiv Agarwala Laura and Lance FitzSimmons Stacey and Peter Hauhuth Patrick Allis Gabriella (Polen) Fratta Kara Diamond-Husmann and Brian Benjie and Jon Anderson Katie and Zach Frisch Husmann Elizabeth and Tim Anderson Tara Valgoi and Matthew Fry Liesl and Danny Keefe Burce Anderson Kim Haddad and Mark Galvan Tiffany and Colby Kenyon Deanne and Gordon Andringa Lisa and Dennis Garnder Autumn and Brent Kimball Bridget Aylward Suzette and Brandon Gasser Rebecca and Lew Kling* Hailey Bailey and Nikita Kraemer Diana and Michael Gelfand* Lara and Frank Knuettel Michelle Barnes Jane and Emil Gjester Gretchen Lamberson Jonathan Bar-Or Kelly and Blair Goering Doreen and Steven Larson* Katie and Adam Becker Steve Goslee Brenda and Brian Lehnerz Octavia Betz Mary Ann Gougeon* Wendy and Eric Lindberg Gary Bogner Jennifer Gravlee Christine and Russell Lundstrom Natalie and Chris Boyle Courtney Gray Jodi and Dave Mann Carrie Anne and William Bradley Chris and Steve Pougnet Green Kara Marshall Dan Brodsky Lana Tsirkin and Eli Grinfield Meredith and Brian Meegan Angelita and William Brown Kathleen Harper Kate and Stan Mohler Devon Buchanan Sydney Harper Allison and Jeff Nelligan Julie Burdick Sarah Harris Rebecca and Ryan Nichols Lauren and Phil Burgess Emily and Paul Heffner Thayer Nielsen Michele Burnett Virginia Walton and Jan Helen Kendall and Eric Peterson Nathan Byrne Chris Holtzem Samantha and Chris Powell Brenda and David Calvert Lara Hutchison Heather and Paul Rakowski Carly Letz Carney and Mark Carney Susan and Walter Jackson Jodi and Robb Rolland Linda Carney* Vanessa and Rob Jasinski Molly and Dave Rudnick Sonia and Michael Carty Krista Johnson Rachel and Todd Sachs Linda (Lala) Chain* Peg Johnston* Roberta and Vern Schultz* Jessica Cho Hanna and Jonathan Joseph Chitra and Arjun Sen Caitlyn and Daniel Clark Tatianna and Scott Kannady Heather and Troy Signorelli Christie and John Connor Susan and Jerry Katz* Sherene and Ron Smith Lori Marks Connors and James Leslie and Hank Kinne Ann and Jeff Sobil Connors Janie and Orrin Kirshbaum* Jill and Tommy Spaulding Pamela and David Cook Phyllis Kittleson Svetlana and Scott Speil Allie and Rob Cooper Dana and Jeff Kohls Linda and Howard Speil* Kristin Dagli Chris Lazartic Saskia and Robert Stanley Elizabeth Dailey Kelly Ledden Barbara and Timothy Vander Wall Mary Ann Dawson Meagan and Sam Leger Sara and Gabriel Varela Amy and Marlo Derksen Magdalene and Lawrence Lehnerz* Enid and Eric Victor Melonie and Zeke DeRose Corinne and Peter Lengsfeld Sara Younggren and Jack Weixel Paige and Richard Donahue Yim Luk and Chung Leung* Ingibjorg Thors and Magnus Einarsson Natalie and Kevin Long

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Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 12 LEADERSHIP GIVING

Corey Sampson Deer Creek Valley Ranch Jina Schaff Denver Center of the Performing Arts Kevin Schaff Denver Museum of Nature and Science Hannah Schievelbein Diamond Homes Tara Ames and David Schott Elevate Rides Katherine Tovar Looney and James Terri and Lawrence Schwartz* Elise Zall Looney Carrie West and Joe Serieno Elway’s Rebecca and Gregg Lurcott Julie and Patrick Shaw Encana Oil & Gas Mags and Josh Lybolt Kate Shaw Four Seasons Hotel Denver Shelley and Matthew Maloney Cathy Shematek Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh Christian and Timothy Marasciullo Keiko Short Hapa Sushi Edi and Mort Marks Karen Skadow Homefest Julie and John Marshall Peter Sorich Hotel Engine Linda Marshall Bridget and Dan Starishevsky Iliff Preschool, Inc. Allison Mattivi Andrea Starlin i-Orthodontics Brooke and Rob McCallum Brooke Steedley Jackson Realty Colorado, LLC Megan McKnight Andrea and Scott Steuer Jason Peck Group at Keller Williams Janise and Jeff McNally Danett and Jon Stewart Realty Michael Mercer Naomi and Oliver Stokeld Jing Restaurant Becky Mershon Elena and Steven Stophel JLH Imaging David Mershon Jill Studnicki Kismet Wren and James Miller Kelsey Sullivan Kula Foundation Alla and Vladimir Milstein Mallory Sussman Kumon of Greenwood Village Julie Moreau Ravi Swamy Liberty Gives Ti and Francis Mougne Sirine Tabarra and Ryan Swed Little Nest Maureen Mullen Lydia and Myron Swize* Margot Elena Sam Murray Stephen Taylor Microsoft Monica and Stu Myhill Melissa and Jeff Taylor Mike Ward Automotive Allison and Jason Neal Lisa and Andrew Teets Nordstroms Lili Emadipour and Shahin Nia Bobbie and Douglas Turner Northwestern Mutual Bridget and Paul Noel Roberta Vallina Oppenheimer Funds Lauren Oakley Joanna Weisel Project Genetics Maria Garcia and Jonathon Olp Jenny White Razzle Toys Rosemarie Oppedisano David Wilson REMAX Urban Properties Leigh Ann Orsen Linda and Dean Wolz* Rodney Strong Vineyards Khadija Owinyo Sara Gabriel Mary Payson Corporations & Foundations Sazza Pizza and Pasta Pilar and Anthony Pelz Amazon Smile Foundation SculptMed Beth and Justin Pestotnik Bank of America Seasons 52 Angela and Jamison Prien Barre3 Belleview Station Swim Labs Highlands Ranch Thurdur Gunnasdottir and Sverrir be.lifestyled Tonalis Meats Ragnarsson B-Elite Soccer Traveler’s Haven Margo and Todd Ramsden Boosterthon True Food Shawna Riggio Century Link Wells Fargo Olivia Rodriguez Coca Cola Zane’s Italian Bistro Greg Ryan Community First Foundation Zyntex Medical, Inc. Amy Sabin Comprehensive ENT Curious Cork Imports * - indicates Grandparent(s) enerous donations contributed as part of Grand Day 2016, Gala 2017, Grand Day 2017 and Gala 2018 transformed our auditorium with a remarkable Grenovation. The two-year, This two-year, $500,000+ capital campaign led to: • Installation of a Grand Drape, a beautiful pewter front curtain for enclosing the entire stage for a theatrical reveal when opened, as well as a mid-stage traveller to create a more dynamic performance space and Drama Studio space and motorized curtain track system for safe, automatic operation. • Professional grade acoustic wall treatments and suspended panels in the drama

studio and auditorium space. CAMPAIGN CAPITAL • Professional grade acoustic wall treatments and thundertiles in the Creative Movement Studio, the Music Studio and the Recording Studio. • Fresh paint, aisle and carpet flooring. • A valance for our grand drape and drapery for side stage entries.

Special thank you to all our amazing donors and Mike Belitz and the Kablam Corporation for their gift in kind goods and services.

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 14 Updates & Milestones ASPEN ENTREPRENEURIAL INSTITUTE

The Aspen Entrepreneurial Institute (AEI) is the only 75 program in the nation that is a wholly sequenced, year-long curriculum that incorporates economics, personal financial 71% literacy, organizational leadership, and entrepreneurship for 50 Kindergarten - 8th Grade students. Students are exposed to a 63% wide variety of lifelong financial skills that they can take into the world for their personal savings and to contribute to the 25 greater world. 24% 53% Initial results from AEI curriculum in the classroom show growth (measurements by OMNI), including: • 63.3% of students in Kindergarten through 5th grade Milestones: demonstrated proficiency on the post-assessment in • 1st Annual Entrepreneurial Expo occurred comparison to 23.5% at pre-assessment. on January 26, 2018. All grade levels K-8 • 71.2% of students in 6th through 8th grade demonstrated participated in selling products created proficiency on the post-assessment in comparison to 53.2% from their classroom and grade level at pre-assessment. businesses. The combined net profit for the • Parents consistently indicated that they valued all four of expo was over $2,800 to be used toward the AEI units as important for their children to learn, and future business start-up loans. primarily demonstrated support of the curriculum through • 8th grade Shark Tank took place on Friday, April 13, 2018- winner was Nolan Cooper purchasing products from classroom businesses. Parents with his business Promposals. reported that they increased the amount they spoke of AEI • Alumni Delaney Ryan (Laney’s Lipcare) and to others as the year progressed and indicated a decrease Emily Rudnick (RudSpice) made the finals of in the need for more information about the program to the Young Americans YouthBiz competition effectively speak to others about AEI. with businesses started at Aspen Academy. Emily Rudnick won her age category. • Students in grades 3rd-8th participated in the Stock Market Experience sponsored by Economic Literacy Colorado. MEET OUR NEW 2018-2019 BOARD MEMBERS Wayne Guerra

Dr. Guerra is currently Entrepreneur in Residence He is also an Advisor for ListenMD, a guest at CU Innovations at Anschutz Medical Campus lecturer for Executive MBA and MBA students at where he helps identify and support internally DU’s Daniels College of Business, Co-Founder of and externally developed healthcare innovations Garde Systems LLC. Dr. Guerra is Co-founder from Anschutz Medical Campus which includes and was the Chief Medical Officer of iTriage, Children’s Hospital Colorado and University one of the most widely downloaded healthcare of Colorado Health. He provides guidance on applications that helps millions of monthly users creating business models, product development, find the most appropriate and cost-effective raising capital, acquiring customers and healthcare providers. iTriage was the first mobile developing intellectual property rights. healthcare application acquired by Aetna in September 2011, three years after the company was founded.

James Park

James Park is the Chief Executive Officer of (Developer/Franchisee) for Penn Station East Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, the leader in Coast Subs. fast-casual authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh has locations James is a savvy marketing and operations in Colorado, Texas, Virginia, Georgia, and executive who champions and activates all Minnesota. Prior to Garbanzo, James was VP things brand. James is currently on the Board of of Marketing and R&D and VP of Operations Advisors for Restaurant Leadership, Hospitality for Which Wich Superior Sandwiches; oversaw & Technology Magazine, Know Foods (Know Global Marketing, Consumer Insight and Fresh Better Bread), and has been on the steering Foods for 7-Eleven; VP of Brand Management committee for Cornell Hospitality Research for Charley’s Grilled Subs; and President Summit programs.

Tim Taylor

Tim Taylor is the co-founder and Executive Tim is chairman of the board of directors for Director of America Succeeds, bringing a the Policy Innovators in Education (PIE) Network unique background of executive, nonprofit, and and serves on the advisory board of Highline public policy experience to the organization. Academy Charter School. He is a fellow of America Succeeds is the nation’s leading the 14th class of the Aspen- Pahara Education force for mobilizing the business sector to Fellowship and a member of the Aspen Global improve schools. The business community has Leadership Network. the obligation, opportunity, and capacity to transform the public education system.

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 16 CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATING CLASS OF 2018

Anoushka Agarwala Emma Gjester Aidan McNally* Byron Starishevsky Saint Mary’s Academy Saint Mary’s Academy Mullen High School Regis Jesuit High School Ari Agarwala Ryan Goodspeed Jack Murphy Danny Stevinson Regis Jesuit High School Kent Denver High School Thomas Jefferson High School Valor Christian High School Sydney Bar-Or Jack Hale Max Myhill Cameron Stokley Cherry Creek High School South High School Regis Jesuit High School Valor Christian High Schoo Daniel Hilt Tillie Cohen Ella Rakowski Jack Tupler Cherry Creek High School Regis Jesuit High School Sophie Kinne Regis Jesuit High School Arapahoe High School Nolan Cooper* Joie Ruble Ben Turner Mullen High School Heritage High School Jack Krza Colorado Academy Cherry Creek High School Mallory Coughlin Delaney Ryan Teddy Vander Wall Littleton High School Mullen High School Delia Leonard Arapahoe High School South High School Kaila Davidson Camryn Sailor* Amanda Wilson Littleton High School Valor Christian High School Colorado Academy Miranda Lockwood Arapahoe High School Aidan Engelmann Connor Schultz Sydney Workman Mullen High School Valor Christian High School Saint Mary’s Academy K.C. Lynch Regis Jesuit High School Gwen FitzSimmons Andrew Simon Littleton High School *= Legacy Leader Littleton High School Ellie Mann Regis Jesuit High School ** = Valedictorian Izzy Galvan Ford Springer** Regis Jesuit High School Valor Christian High School Christain McCormick Cherry Creek High School David Gardner Regis Jesuit High School Valor Christian High School Alabama Iowa Auburn University Cornell College Arizona Louisiana Where are Arizona State University Tulane University Grand Canyon University Massachusetts California Boston University Academy of Art University Northeastern University our alumni? Santa Clara University Michigan University of Southern California Kalamazoo College Aspen Academy graduates Colorado Minnesota have gone on to attend higher Colorado Christian University St. Olaf College education institutions in Colorado College Missouri 22 states and two countries Colorado Mesa University University of Missouri outside the United States. Colorado School of Mines New York Colorado State University New York University Metropolitan State University State University of New York at Plattsburgh Red Rocks Community College North Carolina University of Colorado Elon University Virginia Univeristy of Denver Rhode Island University of Virginia Florida University of Rhode Island Washington Eckerd College South Carolina Seattle University Georgia College of Charleston University of Washington Savannah College of Art and Design University of South Carolina University of Puget Sound Idaho Tennessee Boise State University University of Tennessee International Indiana Vanderbilt University Reykjavik University (Iceland) Butler University Texas Plumpton College (United Kingdom) Notre Dame University Baylor University Southern Methodist University

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 18 Aspen Academy Welcomed New Faculty & Staff for the 2017-2018 School Year: STAFF & FACULTY

• Jordyn (Rohrman) Linnell, Marketing & Engagement Coordinator • Kate (Fuge) Shaw, Enrollment Manager • Charlotte Underwood, Middle School Instructor, Essentials, Extended Care Lead

Patrick Allis Sydney Harper Olivia Rodriguez Bridget Aylward Chris Holtzem Jordyn Rohrman Octavia Beard Lara Hutchison Amy Sabin Katie Becker Dana Kohls Lynda Sailor Gary Bogner Amy Krause Corey Sampson Devon Buchanan Nicole Kruse Kristina Scala Julie Burdick Chris Lazartic Catherine Shematek Michele Burnett Kelley Ledden Keiko Short Nathan Byrne Allison Mattivi Karen Skadow Rob Cooper Megan McKnight Brooke Steedly Debbie Cordero Michael Mercer Jill Studnicki Sarah Coto Harris Maureen Mullen Kelsey Sullivan Mary Ann Dawson Sam Murray Mallory Sussman Kerri Esposito Bridget Noel Jessica Taylor Cho Charles Fischer Paul Noel Lisa Teets Kate Fuge Lauren Oakley Hannah Weil Chris Good LeighAnn Orsen Joanna Weisel Jennifer Gravlee Eric Peterson Jennifer White Courtney Gray Gabriella Polen Nicole Witcher Kathleen Harper Shawna Riggio SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWING

806 Followers 547 Followers

580 Followers 283 Subscribers

ASPEN MAKING HEADLINES

CBS4 Meteorologist Dave Aguilera visited Aspen Academy 1st MARCH 2018

Student, Miranda APRIL 2018 Graders as part of Lockwood featured the Junior Weather on 7News to promote Student Ella Rakowski Watchers program, her Capstone business Featured on Channel sharing experiments project and raise money 7News for Ella Bella Bands, about the weather. for Cheer Stars at Peak a nonprofit to raise money Alliance, a special needs following a friend’s death. cheerleading team.

The Villager CBS4 Meteorologist (Greenwood Village) Dave Aguilera highlights the first AEI returned to spend Entrepreneurial Expo. time with 2nd & 7th Graders as part of the Junior Weather Watchers program.

Colorado Women’s Chamber Article on Inc.com: Are We of Commerce names Kristina Raising Financially Literate Scala, Head of School, one Kids? Three tools every of the Top 25 Most Powerful parent can use to nurture Women in Colorado. entrepreneurship at home. JANUARY 2018 JANUARY

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 20 REBRANDING A COMMUNICATIONS CORNERSTONE

Aspen Academy PRIMARY COLOR - COOL GRAY SECONDARY COLOR - LIGHT MINT completed a rebranding PANTONE COOL GRAY 9 C C 8, M 0, Y 17, K 8 C 55, M 47, Y 44, K 11 HEX: e2e6d3 initiative during the HEX: 7e797b 2017-2018 fiscal year. The school updated its logos, colors, fonts and images to create a more modern, professional look Elevator Pitch Aspen Academy is the premier independent school and feel. These new for academic, leadership and entrepreneurial standards became development. the cornerstone of Aspen Academy communication efforts. With a focus on academic rigor, character and MODI leadership development, and community strength and service, our small classes are led by exceptional faculty who oer a personalized approach to instruction.

Brand Toolkit Located on the shared drive under “Brand toolkit”

Website

Aspen Academy 5859 S University Blvd Greenwood Village, CO 80111 (303)346-3500

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Aspen Academy is an innovative Pre-Kindergarten – 8th Grade independent school that emphasizes academic rigor, character and leadership development, and community strength and service. . Sing. Join Us for an Early Literacyalk. Write. Play Event Informational Session Read. T Attend our student produced morning program, take a tour of our state-of-the-art Drop-in campus, and meet our academic directors. interactive Save the Date January 12 stations. February 9 & 23 March 9 & 23 April 13 Take home 8:00-10:30am crafts, prizes, To RSVP contact Steve Goslee at and new ideas [email protected] or (303)346-3500 ext. 108 for family fun! Visit www.aspenacademy.org for more

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WHO www.aspenacademy.org FREE EVENT WHERE Families with newborn - 7 WHEN Aspen Academy year olds 5859 S University Blvd. (readers & Feb. 10, 2018 non-readers) (303) 346-3500 x125 brought to you by 10:00am-12:00pm

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PRIMARY COLOR - ASPEN GREEN SECONDARY COLOR - EARTH PANTONE 377 pc C 18, M 64, Y 32, K 50 C 45, M 0, Y 100, K 24 HEX: 814954 HEX: 85a314 ur community at Aspen Academy is filled with unique and remarkable parents, students, Ofaculty and staff. There are tons of ways to LET’S GET engage and experience the best of Aspen. Here are just a few:

Connect with us on social media TOGETHER Share your successes and tag @AspenAcademy so 1 we can acknowledge your celebrations and invite our whole community to as well. SOON. Share your cultural experiences 5 WAYS TO GET Throughout the year, we look for ways to engage with INVOLVED WITH 2 cultures and traditions from around the world. Does your family celebrate unique customs that we can bring to ASPEN ACADEMY. Aspen? Please let Lovie Cunningham (lovie.cunningham@ aspenacademy.org) know and we’ll find the best classes to get you involved with to share your experience.

Mentor an 8th Grader 3 We’re always looking for the best and brightest to mentor our students. Mentorship is a longterm, meaningful commitment that pairs our students with savvy business leaders who support their leadership and career development. Please contact Nicole Kruse ([email protected]) if you’re interested in learning more.

Share your business expertise 4 Our AEI program is eager to have entrepreneurial parents speak to classes about their experience and expertise. If you’d like to inspire our students this way, contact Nicole Kruse (nicole.kruse@ aspenacademy.org) to learn more.

Support us by inviting new 5 families to learn more about Aspen! We need your support to identify new members of our community. It’s a win-win- win: you love the newest members of our community, they’re part of an awesome community that includes you, and when they enroll you receive a referral bonus of $1,000 that can be credited toward your tuition. Look for information in your mailbox and email inbox.

Aspen Academy Annual Report | 2017-2018 22 Image credit: Avery K. student, 2018