Schools That Support the Kindness Matters Project

Green Mountain High School is an award-winning, college- and career-preparatory school with a proven track record for helping students realize their full potential. Since opening its doors in 1973, the school’s leadership, staff and teachers have worked together to cultivate a school environment anchored in academic and athletic excellence, social responsibility and student camaraderie.

With more than 50 years of experience, Green Mountain High School continues to build upon its founding mission, charting new pathways to reinvigorate, challenge and inspire students. This is achieved by staying true to four founding principles that even today, accurately summarize the school’s daily mission.

Lakewood High School, nestled in the heart of Lakewood, Colorado, is more than just a place of learning—it’s a cornerstone of the community. Since opening its doors in 1928, the school has grown into a vibrant, welcoming space where students from all walks of life come together to learn, grow, and support one another. Known for its rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Lakewood High empowers students to think critically and engage with the world beyond the classroom. The school also shines as a hub of creativity and teamwork, with its thriving arts programs, competitive athletic teams, and dozens of student-led clubs. But what truly sets Lakewood apart is its sense of family—a culture of kindness, acceptance, and pride that unites students, staff, and alumni. Whether cheering at a game, performing on stage, or lending a hand in the community, the Lakewood Tigers embody a spirit of resilience and compassion that leaves a lasting impact.

The D’Evelyn program is based on the belief that all students, not just an elite group, should be held to rigorous academic and behavioral standards and that all students can achieve in a challenging program. We believe the purpose of education is to convey an essential body of cultural knowledge to the next generation, and that a solid liberal arts education is required for all citizens to be effective participants in their communities.

Independent, analytical reasoning, based on objective knowledge, is an essential skill and is encouraged throughout the program. There is an emphasis on year-to-year sequential continuity in the development of basic knowledge and competence, with gradually increasing complexity and requirements. A mastery of the skill and knowledge acquired through the study of the basic academic subjects is the foundation for all subsequent learning, regardless of the student’s future pursuits.

Though the academic disciplines are distinct, they are also related and reinforce each other. A sound, content-rich curriculum consists of a healthy balance of required core subjects, augmented by equally challenging electives. The classes involve teacher-led, whole-group instruction. Students will be evaluated using an objective grading system.

A good work ethic will be expected of all.

Ralston Valley High School (RVHS) fosters meaningful, thoughtful and engaging learning where we value, support and challenge each other respectfully and compassionately with the whole person in mind.

At Ralston Valley High School, excellence is a tradition that spans academics, athletics, and the arts. Ralston Valley’s diverse electives, CTE Pathways, and comprehensive AP and honors curriculum prepare students for future success. Our dedicated teachers and supportive learning environment create the perfect foundation for students to discover their passions and achieve their dreams. 

From the field to the court, our Mustangs consistently dominate, and Ralston Valley has been awarded the Steinmark Trophy for Athletics program excellence more than any other school in Jeffco. Beyond sports, our performing arts department shines with award-winning theater productions, a nationally recognized marching band, and vibrant choir and orchestra programs that inspire creativity and confidence.

Sand Creek High School in Colorado Springs a cornerstone of its community, embodying the spirit of unity and support that defines the area. With dedicated teachers and staff who genuinely care for each student’s well-being, the school fosters an environment where every young person feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Beyond academics, Sand Creek High serves as a gathering place for families and neighbors, hosting events that celebrate achievements and strengthen communal ties. The school’s commitment to inclusivity and compassion ensures that all students, regardless of their background, find a welcoming space to learn, grow, and thrive. Through its unwavering dedication to both education and the community, Sand Creek High School not only shapes bright futures for its students but also enriches the lives of those around it.

Summit High School is dedicated to fostering an environment that emphasizes student-centered learning while cultivating a culture of academic excellence. At SHS, the guiding principle is clear: “Everyone Belongs, and Everyone is Capable of Achievement.”

Students, families, and educators share a collective responsibility to empower students to meet and exceed academic standards while embodying the qualities outlined in the Summit School District (SSD) Graduate Profile. This includes developing social-emotional competencies, completing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Personal Project, engaging in career exploration, planning for post-secondary opportunities, gaining personal financial literacy, and consistently demonstrating the values of the SSD Graduate Profile.

As an International Baccalaureate school, Summit High encourages students to embrace diverse learning approaches, fostering self-awareness of their unique strengths and areas for growth. The teachers and staff take pride in nurturing compassionate, engaged learners who contribute positively to both the school and the broader community.

To ensure every student’s success, SHS offers a variety of pathways tailored to post-secondary readiness. These include the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, known for its rigorous academic standards, a wide array of Career and Technical Education opportunities aligned with in-demand career clusters, and numerous concurrent enrollment courses that provide college credit. Students can choose to specialize in one pathway or combine courses to create a personalized, meaningful educational experience, equipping them with the skills and knowledge essential for thriving in the 21st century

POSITIVE INTENT: as a core value we will seek out others with the presupposed notion they are operating with good intentions. We will be problem solvers and work towards win-win solutions. We will be active listeners and find the positives in others and situations. We will communicate with positive intent and use strategies to build this in others.

INTEGRITY: as a core value we will be role models and instill ownership in ourselves and students to do the right thing and make positive choices. We will follow through and think of others as we make decisions and act upon decisions. We will build each other up and raise the quality of performance through accountability and progress monitoring.

ADAPTIVE AND RESPONSIVE: as a core value, will not change, but we are committed to being change agents with purpose. How we adapt and are responsive to change in people, demographics, technology, industry, will guide how we make decisions to increase student learning and achievement. We will be resourceful and promote students to be resourceful in their actions, thinking and learning.

PERSEVERANCE: (stick-to-itiveness) as a core value, is the motivation and passion in all that we do. We will not allow students to give up and not give up on students. It is finding new, innovative and different ways for students to demonstrate learning and proficiency.

HOPE: as a core value is not giving up on any individual. It is the relentless pursuit to build up strengths and exhaust all opportunities to remove barriers.

RESPECT: as a core value is the way we treat others through outward and inner communication and actions. It is our purposeful manner of our actions, communication, decision making, involvement and mind set of people and situations.

EQUITY: (≠ equal) as a core value, equity is creating opportunities for all kids. It is student and stakeholder voice and access to learning.

CITIZENSHIP: as a core value is working for collective efficacy and as a member of a larger purpose. We understand that giving back and making our school, community, country and world a better place will enhance our daily lives and our family’s daily lives.