Mission & Vision

Mission & Vision

Welcome to STEM School Highlands Ranch

STEM School Highlands Ranch is a tuition-free, public K-12 charter school located in Douglas County, Colorado, with an ambitious mission and vision for STEM education.

IT IS OUR MISSION TO:

NEVER STOP INNOVATING

OUR VISION
OUR HISTORY

Founded in 2011, STEM School Highlands Ranch transitioned from an afterschool program to a public charter school serving 480 middle school students. By 2014, we expanded to include a full high school, and by 2016, we grew further to offer a complete K-12 education.

In 2017, we underwent a rebranding process, solidifying our identity as STEM School Highlands Ranch and adopting the mission statement “Never Stop Innovating.” This dedication to continuous improvement and resilience has been the driving force behind our success.

From 2020 to 2022, we focused on strengthening our social-emotional learning initiatives, ensuring that students receive comprehensive support for their personal growth and well-being. We also reinforced our leadership and board, positioning ourselves for a period of revitalization and expansion in 2024 and beyond as the premier STEM School in the Mountain West.

OUR CORE VALUES

Prioritize Students

Every decision we make is focused on ensuring students thrive, lead, and succeed. The community that surrounds students exists for the purpose of their growth and development.

Build A Strong Community

We are more than a school, we are a community. We all have equal value and seek to encourage each other to maximize our unique strengths, gifts, and passions. The true power of a charter school is in the strength of its community.

Do Right, Always

Honesty, trust, and ethical decision-making guide our actions, fostering respect, accountability, and a safe environment, even in challenging circumstances or when recognition is absent.

Embrace Innovation

Never Stop Innovating. Innovation thrives on continuous growth, bold problem-solving, and a willingness to push boundaries, transforming ideas into meaningful progress.

Take Steady Steps

We play the long game with people and projects by implementing strategic planning, clear communication, systems and process, ample resources, and appropriate pacing - setting a strong foundation for a supportive environment for our community to thrive.

Lead With Care

Dedicated to making a difference through personal ownership, care, and compassion, creates lasting impact in our students, colleagues, and community.

Elevate the Standard

A commitment to continuous growth, where skills are refined, applied, and adapted to achieve the highest standards and empower everyone to reach their fullest potential.

Laugh Together

Having fun makes the team work! Creating an environment where joy is encouraged. Strengthens our teams, fosters a positive culture, and fuels creativity, making everyone feel valued, energized, and motivated to contribute.