Academics

Class of 2025

Academics and Workforce Readiness

We value individualized instruction, project-based learning, and preparation for the workforce. We also include a spiritual formation component that seeks genuine heart change and believe this type of change best takes place in highly relational community rooted in love.  Indeed, we aim to be this type of school as we work diligently to create a family atmosphere that regularly invites its students to deeper levels of relational connecting, emotional healing, and critical thinking.

Educational Objectives

At Pikes Peak Academy we focus on both core academics and workforce readiness through subjects taught from a faith-based perspective. Below is the objective of each of these subjects:

  • English: To develop students' literacy skills so they can think critically, communicate effectively across various media, and engage as lifelong learners.

  • STEM: To develop critical thinkers who use mathematical reasoning and scientific inquiry to solve problems, explore the natural world, and make informed decisions in everyday life.

  • Social Studies: To help students understand societies, governments, and human behavior so they can engage thoughtfully in their communities and live as informed, responsible citizens.

  • Art: To help students begin to think creatively and communicate in artistic ways that are culturally relevant and appropriate for today’s world.

  • Pathways: To develop students’ professionalism by strengthening their communication, problem-solving, community engagement, and self-empowerment as they navigate their path toward a chosen career.

How We Accomplish This

We recognize that our students often arrive carrying heavy burdens and having developed harmful behaviors. Because of this, we must approach our goals with care and intentionality. We accept each student as they are, but we are committed to helping them grow beyond that point. Our approach invites students into a healthier, more purposeful way of living through a three-stage process, outlined in the graphic below.

Stage 1: Students will complete individualized instruction in each subject and will be evaluated quarterly on communication, problem solving, community involvement, and personal responsibility. Once their required syllabi are finished and they consistently demonstrate professional behavior, they will advance to Stage 2.

Stage 2: Students begin this stage by taking the ACT WorkKeys test to assess their skills in Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents. They are then assigned subject-specific assignments and projects that explore how English, math, science, and social studies apply to various careers. Quarterly reviews continue to evaluate communication, problem solving, community involvement, and personal responsibility. Once students reach target WorkKeys scores, complete their career exploration projects, and consistently demonstrate professional behavior, they advance to Stage 3.
Stage 3: Students begin this stage by selecting a career they wish to pursue after high school. They then complete a capstone project focused on that career path. This project includes a real-world component—such as a job, apprenticeship, internship, product, or community initiative. Throughout the capstone, students complete a series of assignments that build toward a final presentation, which serves as the culmination of their journey at PPA.