State honors seven schools for top performance

CDE Commissioner talking about school and district awards

Leadership
Student Achievement

May 18, 2026

In April, the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) recognized and celebrated the state's high-performing schools and districts who won performance awards in the 2024-2025 school year. Schools across Colorado received the following awards: Centers of Excellence, John Irwin School of Excellence, Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award, High School Academic Growth Award and Districts Accredited with Distinction.

In Adams 12 Five Star Schools, seven schools received awards for the 2025 school year.

The Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award goes to schools that demonstrate exceptional student growth over time, exceeding state expectations for longitudinal academic growth across all grade levels. The John Irwin Award goes to schools that demonstrate exceptional academic achievement over time in Math, English Language Arts, and Science.

Arapahoe Ridge Elementary, 2025 Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award

Four adults stand in front of a brick wall with a sign that reads "ARAPAHOE RIDGE," while a poster about a "Customer Service Excellence" award is displayed in the foreground.

The Studio School, 2025 Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award

Four people stand on a stage in front of a large screen displaying a seal that reads "Colorado Department of Education Governor's Distinguished Improvement."

The John Irwin Award goes to schools that demonstrate exceptional academic achievement over time in Math, English Language Arts, and Science.

Coyote Ridge Elementary, 2025 John Irwin Award

Two people stand in front of a wall decorated with handprints, holding up awards for "John Irwin School of Excellence" and "Governor's Distinguished Improvement."

Hulstrom K-8, 2025 John Irwin Award

A group of eight people stand in an office, holding a certificate and a basket of gifts, with desks and office supplies visible in the background.

Meridian Elementary, 2025 John Irwin Award

Adults present an award to children in front of a rock climbing wall and bookshelves in a library.

Stargate Charter School, 2025 John Irwin Award

Six adults stand in front of a yellow wall with "STARGATE" written on it, holding a certificate and a framed award, with a doorway and shelves visible in the background.

Thunder Vista P-8, 2025 John Irwin Award

Thunder vista staff holding the state award banner and smiling

All five John Irwin Award recipient schools continued their excellence winning the award for the third straight year.

“Across Colorado, we’re seeing schools and districts turn bold ideas into meaningful action for students,” said Colorado Education Commissioner Susana Córdova. “These awards highlight the real progress happening in classrooms every day—where strong teaching, thoughtful leadership, and a clear focus on student engagement and outcomes are helping more young people build the skills, confidence, and readiness they need for what comes next.”

CDE selects award-winning schools based on their academic achievement, academic growth, reduction of academic growth gaps, and postsecondary and workforce readiness.