Welcome to the Crest Academy!
The Crest Academy is a project-based middle school in the Salida School District that offers an engaging and dynamic alternative approach to learning for 5th-8th grade students. As a four year program, we are able to develop strong relationships with students and really push them to their fullest potentials. The curriculum is primarily project and place-based, which allows students to experience their learning in real-life scenarios and field trips. Students’ critical thinking skills are pushed as they analyze their surroundings in a plethora of situations including, but not limited to, writing a novel, taking a (virtual) class at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, conducting surveys and analyzing data, mountain biking, analyzing the water quality of the Arkansas River, or studying watersheds and ecosystems at Keystone Science School. Through 4-6 themed project units over the course of the school year, students’ inquiry skills are developed when students are given the opportunity to learn a new skill, study a topic of their choice, participate in community experiences such as job shadowing or creating and selling a product in a market scenario.
At The Crest Academy, the class sizes are intentionally limited in order to foster a close community for the students and staff with a relational dynamic that some would even describe as familial. Smaller class sizes allow for differentiated, rigorous teaching and learning to ensure that all students are academically successful and ultimately prepared for high school. With tailored educational experiences, students are more motivated to own and engage in their learning, thus driving their desire to excel. Additionally, the individualized attention from teachers and staff contributes to an increased confidence within each student.
In addition to rigorous academic experiences, students are given access to learn components of outdoor education that more traditional school models often cannot offer, such as mountain biking, stand up paddle boarding, fly fishing, skiing, camping, etc. Students challenge themselves to work together as a team to motivate one another to learn and grow while developing their own strength and confidence as individuals. Students also practice the independence of being away from home on overnight trips. Our field learning allows students to have more of a hands-on experience, so attendance is vital since it’s difficult to recreate experiences.
Every student is unique, and one education style doesn’t always fit all. The Crest Academy offers a unique approach to learning that is available for interested middle school students. If you would like to learn more, give us a call at 719-530-5390 or click here to to check out enrollment opportunities.
We look forward to meeting you!
And, as always, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to your student's advisor or contact Servis at [email protected].
Thank you!
Kristie Servis