Our Summit to Success series showcases the key areas of excellence at The Colorado Springs School. Explore the spotlights below to see how CSS prepares students for growth, leadership, and success in a dynamic world. Each feature offers a behind-the-scenes look at how we elevate education and enrich student experiences through innovation and creativity.
Summit to Success Events in the Trianon
Support Summit to Success: Elevating Academic Excellence at CSS by making a gift here to the Kodiak Pride Fund.
Student wellness at The Colorado Springs School is embarking on a new, innovative journey with the Kodiak Compass — a holistic framework that helps students grow through academics, relationships, equity, and wellbeing.
"I genuinely believe this is going to be a game-changer for how we support our students,” said Dr. Teneshia Taylor, Dean of Student Life.
From restorative practices to lifelong skills in reflection and repair, the Kodiak Compass is transforming how CSS supports every child’s journey.
“Before, our approach to behavioral challenges was more punitive,” School Counselor Emily Warren said. “With the Kodiak Compass, we now have a student-centered, holistic framework that considers every aspect of a student’s life."
Learn more and meet Dr. Taylor and Ms. Warren at Summit to Success: Elevating Student Wellness on October 8, 2025, at 8 a.m. in the Trianon. RSVP here
At The Colorado Springs School, AP classes have expanded across every core discipline—with students now expected to take the corresponding exam, ensuring they experience the full rigor of college-level work.
Paired with highly personalized college counseling, students gain the guidance and confidence to find their best-fit schools.
“We haven’t just added new courses—we’ve changed expectations. The expectation now is that students prepare for and take the AP exam,” said Dr. Ira Pernick, Director of Upper School. “That changes the mindset for students and teachers alike.”
Learn more and meet Dr. Pernick, Upper School Director, and Erik Playe, Director of College Counseling, at Elevating Academic Excellence in Upper School on October 15, 5:00-6:30 p.m. in the Trianon. RSVP here
At The Colorado Springs School, STEM education now spans from PreKindergarten through Grade 12, both in the classroom and through after-school robotics clubs.
From PreK play-based sequencing to Lower School sumo bots, Middle School 3D modeling, and Upper School engineering projects, STEM cultivates creativity, logical thinking, technical fluency, and teamwork at every stage.
“At CSS, STEM education from PreK through 12th grade engages students in hands-on robotics, coding, engineering, and design experiences that build problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration skills while preparing them to navigate a technology-driven world,” said Dr. Bradley Hayes, Director of STEM Innovation and Institutional Research.
Learn more and meet Dr. Hayes at Summit to Success: Elevating STEM & Innovation at CSS on November 6, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. in the Trianon. RSVP here
At The Colorado Springs School, experiential education (ExEd) has been central since 1962, rooted in John Dewey’s philosophy of learning by doing. Today, students grow through hands-on, inquiry-based learning in the classroom and immersive field experiences across Colorado and around the world.
For senior Tristan K. ’26 (pictured on the far right), the Tall Ships Experience-Centered Seminar—a 10-day voyage through the U.S. Virgin Islands—was “life-changing,” helping him build confidence, embrace teamwork, and discover a stronger sense of self.
His experience reflects the broader purpose of ExEd at CSS for students in PreK through 12th grade: to expand comfort zones, foster resilience, and prepare students for life beyond the classroom.
“ExEd gives students opportunities to be challenged and to grow,” said Emily Fuller, Experiential Education and Auxiliary Programs Coordinator. “They gain confidence, build stronger relationships, and leave CSS ready to face life’s challenges with resilience and purpose.”
Learn more here about Ms. Fuller.
At The Colorado Springs School, Middle School Passion Classes spark curiosity through seminar-style experiences that extend learning beyond traditional academics. Launched this year based on student and teacher input, classes meet twice a week and include Outdoor Skills, Mountain Biking, Games & Strategy, Miniature Architecture, Weights & Sports Nutrition, and Global Sports.
“These classes expand horizons, build curiosity, and provide experiences that linger long after Middle School,” said Erin Cerezo, Director of Lower and Middle School.
Through hands-on learning, teamwork, and real-world application, students gain confidence and independence while exploring diverse topics. What began as an experiment in
student-driven learning has quickly become a weekly highlight, inspiring curiosity and exploration for years to come.
Learn more here about Ms. Cerezo.
At The Colorado Springs School, Kodiak Athletics are about more than games—they’re about growth, character, and community. Students from PreK through 12th grade have the chance to try new sports, build confidence, and form lasting connections.
“Kodiak Athletics instills a growth mindset, encouraging students to try new sports, face challenges with courage, and celebrate effort and improvement,” said Director of Athletics Nathan Johnson. “Success is measured not just by results, but by the relationships built, resilience shown, and character forged through sport.”
Kodiak spirit shines through teamwork and support: athletes cheer on other teams, leave encouraging notes, share ice cream outings, and join cross-sport workouts. Kodiak Athletics: building skills, confidence, and community—one game, practice, and connection at a time.
Learn more here about Mr. Johnson.
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