Who We Are
Overview
Overview
Overview
A public school of choice, RMSEL is a vital partnership of three Denver-area school districts: Aurora, Denver, and Littleton; and a non-profit organization actively involved in the renewal of public education: the Public Education & Business Coalition. Expeditionary Learning captures the power of Outward Bound principles and research about best practices and combines them in the classroom to promote high academic achievement and character development.
RMSEL was founded on the ideals of Outward Bound and organizes its curriculum around multidisciplinary learning expeditions. Academic achievement and character development are placed together at the core of the curriculum. Our standards-based K-12 portfolio assessment system makes explicit the criteria by which success can be measured and documents the accomplishment of high academic and character standards. We place a high value on:
RMSEL was founded on the ideals of Outward Bound and organizes its curriculum around multidisciplinary learning expeditions. Academic achievement and character development are placed together at the core of the curriculum. Our standards-based K-12 portfolio assessment system makes explicit the criteria by which success can be measured and documents the accomplishment of high academic and character standards. We place a high value on:
- Interdisciplinary learning
- Collaborative learning
- Active engagement in real issues, content, and skills
- Development and demonstrations of deep knowledge, higher-order thinking skills, and effective communication
- Service and character
Our Students
Our Students
Our Students
The school, housed in the former Ash Grove Elementary School building in southeast Denver, opened its doors to 215 students in grades K-9 on September 7, 1993. We now enroll 381 students in grades K-12, with an approximate mix of students from Denver Public Schools, Littleton Public Schools, and Aurora Public Schools. RMSEL serves a socio-economically diverse population comprising 25% students of color, which reflects the diversity of the five sponsoring districts.
Our Values
Our Values
Our Values
RMSEL (Rocky Mountain School of Expeditionary Learning) emphasizes five core character values: courage, discipline, responsibility, integrity, and compassion. These values are integrated into all aspects of the school, including learning expeditions, crew activities, and daily interactions.
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Courage:RMSEL encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace challenges, fostering a willingness to try new things and persevere through difficulties.
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Discipline:This value promotes self-control, focus, and the ability to stay on task, enabling students to achieve their goals and contribute to a positive learning environment.
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Responsibility:RMSEL emphasizes taking ownership of one's actions, both in the classroom and in the wider community, encouraging students to be accountable for their choices and contributions.
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Integrity:This core value centers on honesty, fairness, and ethical behavior, guiding students to make sound decisions and build trust with others.
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Compassion:RMSEL cultivates empathy and care for others, encouraging students to understand and respond to the needs of those around them.
These five values are not taught in isolation but are interwoven into the fabric of the school's culture and curriculum. They serve as guiding principles for both students and staff, shaping the learning experience and fostering a positive and supportive community.
