STEM School Highlands Ranch
STEM School Highlands Ranch General Information
About (Overview)
STEM School Highlands Ranch is a public charter K–12 institution located in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, committed to placing innovation at the heart of education. As a tuition-free school, it strives to unleash the potential of each student by integrating real-world problem solving, inquiry-driven learning, and a rigorous STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) focus. The school’s philosophy emphasizes not only academic excellence, but cultivating adaptability, creativity, and resilience in an ever-changing world. Students engage in standards-based learning, where teachers prioritize critical standards and align them vertically across grade levels, using proficiency scales to communicate learning progress. The school’s structure supports a continuous pathway from early childhood through high school, fostering a unified culture of inquiry, collaboration, and innovation. Over time, it has expanded its programs, infrastructure, and reputation, becoming a recognized leader among charter STEM schools in the region. The school motto, “Never Stop Innovating,” reflects its enduring commitment to pushing boundaries, embracing change, and preparing students for exponential challenges ahead.
Contact Informations
Address: 8773 South Ridgeline Boulevard, Highlands Ranch, Colorado 80129
Phone Number: (303) 683-7836
Email Address: communications@stemk12.org
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2011 |
| Type | Public charter school (K–12) |
| Grades Served | Kindergarten (half-day) through Grade 12 |
| Motto | Never Stop Innovating |
| Student Enrollment | ~1,399 students (2023–24) |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | ~18.7 : 1 (varies by report) |
| Campus Size / Type | ~10 acres / repurposed office park campus |
| Mascot / Colors | Stanley the Spartan / Navy blue & gold |
STEM School Highlands Ranch Rankings
| Category | Position / Metric |
|---|---|
| Colorado High Schools | Ranked No. 10 in state based on SAT performance |
| Achievement Rating (State Framework) | Performance Plan rating, scoring ~88.1% in latest evaluation |
| John Irwin School of Excellence Awards | Awarded consecutively for excellence |
STEM School Highlands Ranch Academics
STEM School Highlands Ranch Faculties / Departments
- English / Humanities / Language Arts
- Mathematics / Quantitative Studies
- Science / Biology / Chemistry / Physics
- Social Studies / History / Civics
- World Languages
- Engineering / Design / Innovation
- Technology / Computer Science
- Fine Arts / Music / Visual Arts
- Physical Education / Health / Wellness
- Student Support / Academic Intervention / Counseling
STEM School Highlands Ranch Courses and Programs / Majors
Though it is a K–12 institution and does not offer majors in the collegiate sense, STEM School Highlands Ranch maintains robust academic programming, including:
- Core subject courses with STEM integration across grades
- Advanced Placement (AP) offerings in high school
- Electives in engineering, robotics, coding, design thinking
- Project-based and inquiry-based units
- P-TECH (post-secondary early college) courses in a specialized building
- Standards-based learning modules with proficiency scales
- Full schedules (eight classes per semester in grades 9–10) with flexibility in upper grades
- Intervention and enrichment pathways for diverse learners
Online Learning
While in-person instruction is central to the school’s identity, STEM School Highlands Ranch supports blended learning and digital supplementation. Technology platforms support curriculum delivery, flipped classroom modules, and online collaboration. During disruptions or for advanced electives, remote or hybrid components may support continuity and enrichment. The school leverages digital tools to extend learning beyond the classroom and scaffold student agency.
Average Test Scores
| Test / Measure | Reported Average / Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | Among highest in Douglas County (specific average not publicly published) | The school records top SAT scores in its county |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | Historically strong across AP offerings | Reflects high-level student preparation |
Retention and Graduation Rates
STEM School Highlands Ranch demonstrates strong retention across lower and middle levels, with most students continuing through to high school. Graduation rates have been above district and state averages per external performance reporting. The school’s integrated support, advisory structures, and rigorous curriculum foster high persistence and steady progression toward diploma completion.
STEM School Highlands Ranch Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
STEM School Highlands Ranch does not rely on prior high school GPA or SAT/ACT metrics for general admissions, especially at younger grades. For upper school entry, students typically demonstrate strong academic preparation, though standardized test thresholds are not published.
STEM School Highlands Ranch Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Admission Process | Enrollment is subject to district open enrollment policies and availability; when oversubscribed, lottery may apply |
STEM School Highlands Ranch Application Requirements
Prospective students must complete an enrollment application and submit necessary documentation such as birth certificate, immunization records, proof of residency, and parent/guardian identification. The school may consider prior records, assessment results, learning plans (e.g. IEP or 504), and readiness in STEM contexts. Because of charter regulations, selection is often governed by capacity and fairness rather than selective screening. The school supports equitable access through the open enrollment process managed by the district.
Application Process
- Submit application during the district’s open enrollment window
- Provide documentation (residency, birth record, immunization)
- Indicate any special learning plans (e.g. IEP, 504)
- Application may feed into a lottery if seats are limited
- Notification of acceptance or waitlist
- Accept or decline offer and complete registration
STEM School Highlands Ranch Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Timing / Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open Enrollment Round | Begins mid-January of each year | District-managed process |
| Application Submission Window | 2025–26 Round opens January 22 at 8:00 a.m. | Space-based selection |
| Notification | Following lottery or application review period | Applicants informed of status |
| Enrollment Confirmation | Shortly after acceptance | Families must commit to attend |
| Orientation / Onboarding | Summer prior to school year | Introduce families and new students to campus |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
If required, an optional prompt might read: “Describe a time when you applied creative thinking to solve a real-world problem. How might you bring innovation to our STEM community?” This encourages insight into student mindset, resilience, and alignment with the school’s mission.
STEM School Highlands Ranch Scholarships
As a public charter school, STEM School Highlands Ranch does not charge tuition; therefore, traditional scholarships are not applicable. All admitted students attend tuition-free. The school may provide support or waivers for optional programs, materials, or extracurricular costs for students requiring assistance.
STEM School Highlands Ranch Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount / Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | None | As a public charter, no tuition is charged |
| Fees | Minimal | Some electives, labs, materials, or extracurricular options may incur fees |
STEM School Highlands Ranch Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
According to Niche data, the gender distribution is approximately 39% female and 61% male. In racial and ethnic composition: White ~49.8%, Asian ~25.8%, Hispanic ~12.8%, Multiracial ~8.5%, African American ~2.2%. Ages span from kindergarten age through high school age (~5–18).
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Per public data sources, around 11.7% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a modest representation of lower-income families. The school supports students with disabilities through IEPs or 504 accommodations, ensuring access to rigorous curriculum and appropriate interventions or support as needed.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~1,399 (2023–24) |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | ~18.7 : 1 |
| Free/Reduced Lunch | ~11.7% |
| Gender Split | ~39% female / ~61% male |
University Diversity
Although STEM School Highlands Ranch is a K–12 institution, its commitment to diversity is evident in its student demographics and mission-driven culture. The school draws students from across the Denver metro area, creating a mix of backgrounds in ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and experiences. The relatively diverse composition—including nearly half of students identifying as White, over one-quarter Asian, and representation of Hispanic and multiracial populations—provides opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and perspective sharing. The school endeavors to foster inclusion through culturally responsive teaching, project-based learning that addresses real-world issues, and advisory or community-building structures. Equity and access are central to its charter identity, and the school continuously seeks to lower barriers to enrollment and support students from underrepresented groups. This diversity enhances student collaboration, global mindedness, and readiness to engage in a pluralistic society—essential qualities in STEM fields where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
Average Earnings
As a K–12 school, STEM School Highlands Ranch does not track alumni earnings post-graduation. However, the school’s intensive focus on STEM thinking, innovation, and preparation for advanced coursework positions many graduates for success in high-demand fields. Alumni often pursue degrees in engineering, computer science, biology, mathematics, and other STEM disciplines, which tend to yield competitive starting salaries. The school’s culture of inquiry, problem-solving, and cross-disciplinary thinking further enhances graduates’ ability to excel in evolving industries. While specific earnings data is not available, graduates of rigorous STEM-focused schools generally enter well-compensated professions and advanced educational tracks, benefiting from early exposure to deep thinking and innovation.
STEM School Highlands Ranch Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
STEM School Highlands Ranch employs a combination of instructional, support, administrative, and specialist staff to serve its K–12 population. The student–teacher ratio is moderate (~18.7 : 1), with faculty organized by grade levels, departments, and interdisciplinary teams. The staff includes classroom teachers, technology and engineering instructors, special educators, counselors, librarians, operations and facilities staff, and management roles overseeing academic innovation.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty at STEM School Highlands Ranch are selected for subject mastery, experience in inquiry-driven pedagogy, and alignment with the school’s mission of innovation. Many hold advanced certifications or specialized training in STEM education, project-based learning, and standards-based instruction. Teachers collaborate in departments to develop proficiency scales, vertical alignment, and cross-disciplinary units. Some faculty are leaders in educational conferences or research in STEM pedagogy, and they mentor students in robotics, engineering fairs, and design challenges. The school’s teaching staff often lead integrative projects, build community partnerships, and support student innovation projects, reinforcing their role as both content experts and guides in the learning process.
STEM School Highlands Ranch Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
STEM School Highlands Ranch is a day school and offers no residential housing. Students commute from surrounding areas to the campus, which is located in a repurposed office park environment. The campus includes laboratories, engineering and computer labs, chemistry facilities, gym space, design studios, and common areas. While housing is not offered, student life thrives through clubs, engineering teams, robotics, arts, athletics, and project-based extracurriculars. Students often stay after school for innovation labs, design challenges, or collaborative projects. Costs for student life are generally limited to optional program fees, material costs, or competition participation fees rather than housing.
Transportation
Access to campus is facilitated via roadways and school district transportation options, including buses, carpooling, or private vehicles. Students travel across campus via walkways connecting different instructional and lab spaces, facilitating movement between classes, labs, and common areas. The compact campus design supports ease of internal mobility. Because students come from the metro area, transportation coordination is key, especially for after-school programs and project work.