American Academy, Douglas County’s newest Charter School, has been moving full speed ahead this summer getting ready to open their doors on August 15. A grand opening celebration is planned at the school on Friday, August 12, at 6 p.m.

During July, hundreds of parent volunteers got out their paint brushes, construction hats and tools to help complete the temporary school facility. As the school continues to investigate a number of options for a permanent site in the Castle Pines North area, they will temporarily be located at 8600 Park Meadows Drive in Lone Tree.

“Thousands of volunteer hours have been contributed by our wonderful American Academy families,” said Jackie Santos, founding board member and CPN resident. “Everyone is working together to help open our doors on August 15. The generosity of this group is unbelievable. Together, we are making American Academy happen.”

According to Santos, through the generosity of many businesses, schools, and individuals, American Academy has received many donated items including furniture, office supplies, construction materials, storage facility, and even carpet. The school would like to thank the following businesses and families for their generous contributions of furniture and equipment: Aurora Loan Services/Lehman Brothers Company, Douglas County School District, ACME Distribution Centers, Platte River Academy, Forhan Academy, Perkin Elmer, Aurora Academy, the Denver Federal Center, the Kittle family, the Jakubowski family, the Ary family, the Cummings family and the Long family. The receipt of these items has allowed American Academy to focus their financial resources on achieving their mission.

Originally founded by several CPN residents, American Academy will be home to 380 students, 25 percent of whom live in Castle Pines North. Roberta Harrell, the Chief Administrative Officer, has assembled a team of 24 teachers and staff members to lead Douglas County’s newest charter school.

American Academy is a Core Knowledge K-8 public charter school with an emphasis in math, science, and technology. The school also employs a character development program called Core Virtues, which ties in with the curriculum and teaches the importance of civic values. American Academy is Douglas County’s sixth charter school.

For additional information, please visit the American Academy website at
www.americanacademyk8.org.