The next generation of health professionals will soon be learning in a STEM-focused school next door to the world-class CU Anschutz Medical Campus.
Aurora Public Schools (APS) recently announced that the Fitzsimons Innovation Campus will be home to the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) school for grades 6-12. The school is scheduled to open during the 2019-20 school year to sixth-graders. A new grade will be added each subsequent year.
The new school, in partnership with the Denver School of Science and Technology, will provide APS students with a robust STEM program and access to the CU Anschutz Medical Campus and its pioneering research labs.
CU Anschutz Chancellor Don Elliman said having a STEM school next door provides outstanding opportunities for the medical campus. “Not only does it give our faculty, staff and students another avenue for community outreach and health education, but the addition of a school in our immediate neighborhood will positively affect the quality of life for our nearby residents now and into the future,” he said. “Coupled with other new amenities such as a food market, hotel and light rail, the school will contribute to a stronger community for those who work and live here.”
Students and educators at the school will enjoy the easy proximity to internships, externships and job-shadowing opportunities. CU Anschutz has a long history of exposing students from neighboring communities to potential health care careers.
Superintendent Rico Munn said APS, which has enjoyed partnering with the Community-Campus Partnership at CU Anschutz, is committed to providing opportunity and impact for its students. “We are eager to grow the next generation of APS doctors, researchers and medical professionals who will be inspired to learn, work and give back to our community,” he said.
At the new STEM school, students living in northwest Aurora will be given preference for enrollment. Then, enrollment will open up to other APS students.