To Whom It May Concern,
I am the mother of two students of color at Golden View Classical Academy, a sister school to the proposed Ascent Classical Academy.
Frankly, I’m shocked that anyone would suggest GVCA is anything but inclusive and supportive. Not only are my two high school boys minority students of color, they are also adopted and one of them has an IEP, requiring extensive teacher and school support for his learning challenges.
At other schools in Jefferson County, which were hailed as places of inclusivity, my son had been subject to some ridicule and bullying. This has not been his experience at GVCA, where he has been embraced and accepted as a vital part of the school culture, despite having significant academic challenges.
I am truly humbled and appreciative of the teachers, faculty, administration, and parents at GVCA, who consistently strive to create a nurturing, safe, and inspirational environment for all students in which to learn how to be responsible citizens and life-long learners.
To those who may be tempted to think there is no diversity at GVCA, we parents are happy to report that diversity is alive and well at our school. We support our children’s exploration into the big questions of life and no one is told what to think, but rather, are given the tools and resources in which to make important life decisions. The culmination of this excellent education comes when all graduating seniors are required to defend a thesis answering the question: “What is the Good Life?” Last year’s graduating class had divergent answers to that question, but they were all called to defend their answers. Therein lies a great education, when a student must formulate important answers to life’s questions and defend his or her answers with well-thought out responses.
I urge you to approve the application of Ascent Classical Academy so that more families can experience the same type of fulfillment my boys have found at GVCA. If we can be of an assistance to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. My family would be happy to answer any questions you might have about our experience at GVCA.
Respectfully yours,
Deborah
Arvada, CO