denver academy program, curriculum, teaching model
Source: http://www.denveracademy.org/about-us
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:09
denver academy program, curriculum, teaching model
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Designed to be Different
Denver Academy is a unique place of teaching and learning. Since 1972, our approach has been evolving and developing, drawing on the best educational practices and research.
At the core of the Denver Academy experience is a Partnership Model based on committed student-teacher-family relationships. An in-depth analysis and evaluation are used to create a learning profile for each student, addressing cognitive abilities, language skills, attention, memory, social functioning, and other areas that impact learning. Informed by individual student learning profiles, teachers truly get to know and understand each child and their family.
Our highly-qualified teachers participate in weekly training and professional development totaling more than
100 hours per year
.
Philippe Ernewein, Director of Education
With small class sizes of 12-14, teachers are able to deliver a curriculum customized for the individual and for the classroom as a whole.
List of 4 items.
Honoring a Diverse Group of Learners
Teachers have a sophisticated understanding of each student’s unique learning profile. This is developed through the student-teacher-family Partnership Model, along with collected observations, and cognitive and achievement tests.
Student-Centered Focus
At the center of learning at Denver Academy is the student. Their readiness level, interests, and learning profile are critical for successful learning. Students are encouraged to demonstrate learning through multiple learning pathways, modalities (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile), and forms of expression.
Relationship-Based Development
We are committed to the development of people. Through a relationship-based approach, we inspire students to be curious self-advocates and lifelong learners.
Differentiated Curriculum
We make adjustments as needed for each student to challenge and remediate. Flexible placement in several academic levels within each core subject allows faculty to teach to each student’s optimal level. Accelerated Honors classes are offered for high school students.
Katy B., DA Parent
At DA, my daughters are learning in a way that works for them individually. They dive into subjects with energy and excitement that they never had before. My girls have flourished and we couldn't be happier with the outcome!
Stephanie N., DA Parent of a Graduate
Words can not express the difference DA has made for my son. Being at DA paved the way for his current confidence.
Our Curriculum
List of 6 items.
Arts & Media
Our Arts & Media Department provides Elementary and 6th Grade students with a quarter of drama, art, and music each year and they then choose their own elective class for the fourth quarter. Arts & Media courses are available as electives for Middle School (Grades 7-8) and High School (Grades 9-12) students.
Arts & Media
Experiential Education
Experiential Education is an integral part of the Denver Academy curriculum and is designed to provide students with a wide range of academic, personal, physical, community, and social challenges outside of the regular classroom.
We incorporate Experiential Education in learning year-round and a special Experiential Education Immersive (EEI) unit takes place annually the week before Spring Break. EEI experiences are provided on campus for Elementary/6th Grade students. Beginning in 7th Grade, students have the opportunity to select the Experiential Education Immersive in which they would like to participate, including both on- and off-campus opportunities.
Health Education
Health courses at Denver Academy inform and help students lead healthy and happy lives. A health curriculum is integrated into daily physical education classes for grades two through 6. Health is a required class for middle and high school students (grades 7-12). Nutrition, fitness, healthy choices, and effective communication are among the topics covered. When students reach adolescence, they learn about anatomy, age-appropriate adolescent growth topics, and the physiological effects of drugs and alcohol, all within the context of their courses.
Physical Education
Grades 2-6 at DA have Physical Education (P.E.) classes five days a week! P.E. is an elective for Middle and High School students. Our P.E. Department provides opportunities for the Denver Academy community to develop healthy lifestyles with a safe and challenging environment that meets the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual needs of the individual.
STEM
Denver Academy has Campos SmartLabs for elementary/6th grade, middle school, and high school students. In the labs, students pursue project-based learning in the areas of science, math, art, robotics, and technology. During a High School STEM Week in the spring, students participate in projects and hands-on learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math, ranging from the popular Egg Drop Challenge to Popsicle Stick Bridges, Ping-Pong Pickup, and more!
Campos Foundation video featuring Denver Academy
Technology
Technology is integrated into the classroom through the use of personal devices for all divisions. School-provided Chromebooks are used daily for grades 2-6 while those in grades 7-12 are asked to provide their own personal devices. In addition to Google Workspace for Education, we provide assisted technology software designed to support those in our community with learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, and more. Technology and online etiquette are taught through our character education course, utilizing programs such as Common Sense Media.
Denver Academy Curriculum
Denver Academy Approach: Frequently Asked Questions
List of 5 frequently asked questions.
How does Denver Academy support twice-exceptional (2e) students?
We believe that brilliance and challenge can exist side by side. Our
educational programs, based on differentiated instruction,
are well-suited for students who demonstrate exceptional strengths in one or more areas while also navigating learning differences or disabilities. We see these learners not through the lens of limitation, but through the possibilities that emerge when their strengths and needs are equally honored. Our twice-exceptional students are both
challenged and supported,
growing as learners, problem-solvers, and self-advocates, ready to thrive in school and beyond.
How does DA support students with reading comprehension challenges?
Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes are designed to help students learn to read and comprehend.
DA teachers are trained in Visualizing and Verbalizing, a specific Lindamood-Bell program.
How are students with dyslexia supported?
Orton-Gillingham employs a phonetics-based approach to teaching reading instruction. It is widely considered to be among the best reading programs for dyslexic students.
All Denver Academy Lower School (Grades 2-8) teachers and Literacy Specialists (who work throughout the school) are trained to use Orton-Gillingham methods.
Do all Denver Academy students work with a Literacy Specialist?
All Lower School (Grades 2-8) teachers are fully trained in all of our literacy programs. If students need additional help, they will be referred to our literacy specialists by their homeroom teacher. We use a multi-sensory approach to reading instruction and use Visualizing and Verbalizing and Orton Gillingham methods.
Meet Our Literary Specialists Team
What is the Partnership Model?
Denver Academy’s Partnership Model refers to the joint partnership among teachers, students, and families to ensure the success and development of the student.
General FAQs
Meet the Program Team
List of 4 members.
Philippe
Ernewein
Director of Education
Read Bio
As Director of Education, Philippe is responsible for training all new Denver Academy teachers, as well as facilitating the continued professional development of all our veteran instructors.
Prior to his current role, Philippe spent many years as a classroom teacher, Head of the Core High School, and cross country coach. He is a Teach for America Alumni member and continues to stay involved with TFA and collaborate with their Special Education teachers.
Mr. Ernewein earned his B.A. from Longwood College in Modern Languages and his M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in teaching English at the secondary level from the University of Colorado, Denver.
Mindy
Adair, Ph.D.
Director of Mathematics & Technology Integration Specialist
Read Bio
Dr. Adair joined Denver Academy in 2016 with almost three decades of experience in education. Previously, Dr. Adair was a math department chair, college counselor and dean of students at a local independent school. Dr. Adair is DA's Director of Mathematics and is also a Technology Integration Specialist. Passionate about learning and constantly curious, Dr. Adair believes that all students can learn math, gain confidence and explore ideas. She also enjoys supporting teachers in their investigation of how technology can help support student learning.
Dr. Adair earned a B.A. in Mathematics and a diploma in Education from the University of Colorado and an M.A. from the University of Phoenix in Education Administration and Supervision. She holds a professional teacher license and a professional principal license for the state of Colorado. Dr. Adair completed her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Research Methods and Statistics at the University of Denver.
Jessica
Bodden
Instructional Coach & Literacy Specialist
Read Bio
Ms. Bodden works as both a Literacy Specialist and Instructional Coach. Jessica aims to instill a love of literature in her students and build their self-confidence. Some of her favorite books include The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, The Giver by Lois Lowry, and anything by Roald Dahl, Judy Blume, or Beverly Cleary.
Ms. Bodden holds a B.A. in Psychology and a Certificate in Education from the University of Colorado, Boulder. She earned her M.A. in Teaching with a Reading Endorsement from Lewis and Clark College.
Casie
Myers
ACT Special Testing & Accommodations Coordinator, Program Development Assistant, 11th Exec Assistant
Read Bio
Ms. Myers began her journey at Denver Academy in the middle school and seasonal programs. As part of the College & Transition Counseling team she looks forward to helping high school students with their continuing journey in life. She served as a Peace Corps Education Volunteer in Micronesia and has facilitated study abroad programs for students at the SIT Graduate Institute and Willamette University.
Casie earned her B.A. in German language & literature from the University of Oregon.
Find Us
4400 E. Iliff Ave. Denver, CO 80222
Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870
Admissions: 303.777.5161
General:
info@denveracademy.org
About
Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DA
inspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education.
Sign Up for DA Dateline Monthly Newsletter
Member
© 2022 Denver Academy. All Rights Reserved.
Menu
Login
Styles
Templates
About Us
arrow
The DA Difference: How We Teach & Learn
From the Head of School
Administration & Faculty
Board of Trustees
Employment
Press Room
Strategic Plan
Campus Map
Admissions
arrow
Why Denver Academy
Apply to DA
Tuition & Tuition Assistance
Inquire About DA
Visit Denver Academy
FAQs
Connect with DA Parents
Academics
arrow
Elementary School
Sixth Grade
Middle School - Grades 7-8
High School - Grades 9-12
Physical Education
Arts & Media
Meet the Teachers
Denver Academy Curriculum
Athletics
arrow
DA Athletics
Athletics Calendar
Community
arrow
Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging
Clubs & Organizations
Counseling & Wellness
DA Parent Association
Online DA Spirit Store
Distinctive Programs
arrow
Summer Program
College & Transition Counseling
Tutoring
Library
Elementary After-school Activities
Experiential Education
Denver Academy Symposium 2026
Give to DA
arrow
The Fund for Denver Academy
Performing Arts Center
Ways to Give
Giving FAQs
Denver Academy Gala 2026
Alumni
News
Calendar
Non-Discrimination Policy
Privacy Policy
About Us
The DA Difference: How We Teach & Learn
Visit
Inquire
Give
Designed to be Different
Denver Academy is a unique place of teaching and learning. Since 1972, our approach has been evolving and developing, drawing on the best educational practices and research.
At the core of the Denver Academy experience is a Partnership Model based on committed student-teacher-family relationships. An in-depth analysis and evaluation are used to create a learning profile for each student, addressing cognitive abilities, language skills, attention, memory, social functioning, and other areas that impact learning. Informed by individual student learning profiles, teachers truly get to know and understand each child and their family.
Our highly-qualified teachers participate in weekly training and professional development totaling more than
100 hours per year
.
Philippe Ernewein, Director of Education
With small class sizes of 12-14, teachers are able to deliver a curriculum customized for the individual and for the classroom as a whole.
List of 4 items.
Honoring a Diverse Group of Learners
Teachers have a sophisticated understanding of each student’s unique learning profile. This is developed through the student-teacher-family Partnership Model, along with collected observations, and cognitive and achievement tests.
Student-Centered Focus
At the center of learning at Denver Academy is the student. Their readiness level, interests, and learning profile are critical for successful learning. Students are encouraged to demonstrate learning through multiple learning pathways, modalities (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile), and forms of expression.
Relationship-Based Development
We are committed to the development of people. Through a relationship-based approach, we inspire students to be curious self-advocates and lifelong learners.
Differentiated Curriculum
We make adjustments as needed for each student to challenge and remediate. Flexible placement in several academic levels within each core subject allows faculty to teach to each student’s optimal level. Accelerated Honors classes are offered for high school students.
Katy B., DA Parent
At DA, my daughters are learning in a way that works for them individually. They dive into subjects with energy and excitement that they never had before. My girls have flourished and we couldn't be happier with the outcome!
Stephanie N., DA Parent of a Graduate
Words can not express the difference DA has made for my son. Being at DA paved the way for his current confidence.
Our Curriculum
List of 6 items.
Arts & Media
Our Arts & Media Department provides Elementary and 6th Grade students with a quarter of drama, art, and music each year and they then choose their own elective class for the fourth quarter. Arts & Media courses are available as electives for Middle School (Grades 7-8) and High School (Grades 9-12) students.
Arts & Media
Experiential Education
Experiential Education is an integral part of the Denver Academy curriculum and is designed to provide students with a wide range of academic, personal, physical, community, and social challenges outside of the regular classroom.
We incorporate Experiential Education in learning year-round and a special Experiential Education Immersive (EEI) unit takes place annually the week before Spring Break. EEI experiences are provided on campus for Elementary/6th Grade students. Beginning in 7th Grade, students have the opportunity to select the Experiential Education Immersive in which they would like to participate, including both on- and off-campus opportunities.
Health Education
Health courses at Denver Academy inform and help students lead healthy and happy lives. A health curriculum is integrated into daily physical education classes for grades two through 6. Health is a required class for middle and high school students (grades 7-12). Nutrition, fitness, healthy choices, and effective communication are among the topics covered. When students reach adolescence, they learn about anatomy, age-appropriate adolescent growth topics, and the physiological effects of drugs and alcohol, all within the context of their courses.
Physical Education
Grades 2-6 at DA have Physical Education (P.E.) classes five days a week! P.E. is an elective for Middle and High School students. Our P.E. Department provides opportunities for the Denver Academy community to develop healthy lifestyles with a safe and challenging environment that meets the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual needs of the individual.
STEM
Denver Academy has Campos SmartLabs for elementary/6th grade, middle school, and high school students. In the labs, students pursue project-based learning in the areas of science, math, art, robotics, and technology. During a High School STEM Week in the spring, students participate in projects and hands-on learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math, ranging from the popular Egg Drop Challenge to Popsicle Stick Bridges, Ping-Pong Pickup, and more!
Campos Foundation video featuring Denver Academy
Technology
Technology is integrated into the classroom through the use of personal devices for all divisions. School-provided Chromebooks are used daily for grades 2-6 while those in grades 7-12 are asked to provide their own personal devices. In addition to Google Workspace for Education, we provide assisted technology software designed to support those in our community with learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, and more. Technology and online etiquette are taught through our character education course, utilizing programs such as Common Sense Media.
Denver Academy Curriculum
Denver Academy Approach: Frequently Asked Questions
List of 5 frequently asked questions.
How does Denver Academy support twice-exceptional (2e) students?
We believe that brilliance and challenge can exist side by side. Our
educational programs, based on differentiated instruction,
are well-suited for students who demonstrate exceptional strengths in one or more areas while also navigating learning differences or disabilities. We see these learners not through the lens of limitation, but through the possibilities that emerge when their strengths and needs are equally honored. Our twice-exceptional students are both
challenged and supported,
growing as learners, problem-solvers, and self-advocates, ready to thrive in school and beyond.
How does DA support students with reading comprehension challenges?
Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes are designed to help students learn to read and comprehend.
DA teachers are trained in Visualizing and Verbalizing, a specific Lindamood-Bell program.
How are students with dyslexia supported?
Orton-Gillingham employs a phonetics-based approach to teaching reading instruction. It is widely considered to be among the best reading programs for dyslexic students.
All Denver Academy Lower School (Grades 2-8) teachers and Literacy Specialists (who work throughout the school) are trained to use Orton-Gillingham methods.
Do all Denver Academy students work with a Literacy Specialist?
All Lower School (Grades 2-8) teachers are fully trained in all of our literacy programs. If students need additional help, they will be referred to our literacy specialists by their homeroom teacher. We use a multi-sensory approach to reading instruction and use Visualizing and Verbalizing and Orton Gillingham methods.
Meet Our Literary Specialists Team
What is the Partnership Model?
Denver Academy’s Partnership Model refers to the joint partnership among teachers, students, and families to ensure the success and development of the student.
General FAQs
Meet the Program Team
List of 4 members.
Philippe
Ernewein
Director of Education
Read Bio
As Director of Education, Philippe is responsible for training all new Denver Academy teachers, as well as facilitating the continued professional development of all our veteran instructors.
Prior to his current role, Philippe spent many years as a classroom teacher, Head of the Core High School, and cross country coach. He is a Teach for America Alumni member and continues to stay involved with TFA and collaborate with their Special Education teachers.
Mr. Ernewein earned his B.A. from Longwood College in Modern Languages and his M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in teaching English at the secondary level from the University of Colorado, Denver.
Mindy
Adair, Ph.D.
Director of Mathematics & Technology Integration Specialist
Read Bio
Dr. Adair joined Denver Academy in 2016 with almost three decades of experience in education. Previously, Dr. Adair was a math department chair, college counselor and dean of students at a local independent school. Dr. Adair is DA's Director of Mathematics and is also a Technology Integration Specialist. Passionate about learning and constantly curious, Dr. Adair believes that all students can learn math, gain confidence and explore ideas. She also enjoys supporting teachers in their investigation of how technology can help support student learning.
Dr. Adair earned a B.A. in Mathematics and a diploma in Education from the University of Colorado and an M.A. from the University of Phoenix in Education Administration and Supervision. She holds a professional teacher license and a professional principal license for the state of Colorado. Dr. Adair completed her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Research Methods and Statistics at the University of Denver.
Jessica
Bodden
Instructional Coach & Literacy Specialist
Read Bio
Ms. Bodden works as both a Literacy Specialist and Instructional Coach. Jessica aims to instill a love of literature in her students and build their self-confidence. Some of her favorite books include The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, The Giver by Lois Lowry, and anything by Roald Dahl, Judy Blume, or Beverly Cleary.
Ms. Bodden holds a B.A. in Psychology and a Certificate in Education from the University of Colorado, Boulder. She earned her M.A. in Teaching with a Reading Endorsement from Lewis and Clark College.
Casie
Myers
ACT Special Testing & Accommodations Coordinator, Program Development Assistant, 11th Exec Assistant
Read Bio
Ms. Myers began her journey at Denver Academy in the middle school and seasonal programs. As part of the College & Transition Counseling team she looks forward to helping high school students with their continuing journey in life. She served as a Peace Corps Education Volunteer in Micronesia and has facilitated study abroad programs for students at the SIT Graduate Institute and Willamette University.
Casie earned her B.A. in German language & literature from the University of Oregon.
Find Us
4400 E. Iliff Ave. Denver, CO 80222
Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870
Admissions: 303.777.5161
General:
info@denveracademy.org
About
Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DA
inspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education.
Sign Up for DA Dateline Monthly Newsletter
Member
© 2022 Denver Academy. All Rights Reserved.