Academic Program
Empowering Students Beyond the Classroom
Our academic program is based on the principles of EL Education’s approach to curriculum, which makes subjects come alive for students by connecting learning to real-world issues and needs. It inspires students to think and work as professionals do, contributing high-quality work that can be appreciated beyond the classroom.
Learning experiences grounded in asking culturally responsive questions can have transformative outcomes for students.
Whitney Emke, the associate director of communications for EL Education
Expeditionary Learning (EL) Education
Founded in 1991 through a collaboration between The Harvard Graduate School of Education and Outward Bound USA, Expeditionary Learning (EL) Education began as a concept and has since grown into a powerful educational movement. EL Education's mission is to create classrooms where teachers can fulfill their highest aspirations, and students can achieve more than they ever thought possible, becoming active contributors to a better world. Over time, the program evolved from Expeditionary Learning Outward Bound to simply EL Education.
EL Education’s approach to instruction blends challenge with joy in learning, emphasizing student collaboration, voice, critical thinking, and reflection. The program is committed to developing character and empowering students to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world. EL Education fosters a school culture that nurtures a sense of belonging and supports character development through intentional, high-level thinking and engaging, challenging work for students of all learning levels.
Students engage with a curriculum that aligns with Colorado State Standards and district learning targets. While the state and district curriculum provides the content, EL Education offers the structures and practices that enrich and expand student learning, creating a dynamic and transformative educational experience.