CULTURE, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Celebrating Culture, Diversity & Inclusion

At Aspen Academy, we proudly uphold the values of being kind; doing good, working hard, and making the world better. These principles are at the heart of our commitment to fostering cultural competency, diversity and inclusion. 

Cultural competency is defined as the ability to effectively interact with people from cultures different from one’s own, especially through a knowledge and appreciation of cultural differences.

Cultural dimensions can include, but are not limited to:

  • Race/ ethnicity
  • National origin/ nationality
  • Age/ generation
  • Religion- practicing, background, affiliations, etc.
  • Ability/Disability
  • Geographic Origin
  • Occupation
  • Education
  • Sexuality
  • Language spoken
  • Gender
  • Neurodiversity
  • Socio-economic
  • Family culture
  • Political affiliation

Our Mission and Vision
Mission: We edify and inspire students, parents, and educators to grow, learn, and lead.
Vision: We are a national leader in innovative and transformative education.

Our mission and vision are a testament to our dedication to nurturing leaders who not only excel academically but also embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential components of their journey to be an effective and culturally competent citizen and leader.

We are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive community among our students, families, professional team members and stakeholders. Our commitment to being kind and doing good create a welcoming environment where every individual feels valued and included.

Diversity Fosters Excellence
We firmly believe that a broadly diverse community fosters empathy, enriches teaching and learning, and promotes intellectual excellence and strong character. Our excellence is intrinsically linked to the diversity within our community.

Mutual Regard and Respect
We hold everyone within our school community in mutual regard and respect. Our multitude of histories, perspectives and identities are an essential part of the Aspen experience. Conduct that is disrespectful, disparaging, or unprofessional is strictly prohibited, as is harassment based on any protected basis, including but not limited to race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.

Leadership Through Inclusivity
We recognize that the leadership skills of our students are shaped by their ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. We actively engage our students with the broader community, encouraging them to become responsible, thoughtful contributors to society.

A Foundation for Tomorrow's Leaders
A learning environment enriched with diverse viewpoints and backgrounds is essential to a complete educational experience. Our commitment to making the world better is deeply rooted in our belief that cultural competency, diversity and inclusion serve as anchors for the leaders of tomorrow.

Aspen Academy stands as a beacon of values-driven education, where Be Kind, Do Good, Work Hard, and Make the World Better intersect with our mission, vision, and unique leadership development program to create an exceptional educational experience for all.

Join us on this journey of embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion, where our values guide us toward a brighter, more inclusive future. Together, we learn, grow, and strive for a more inclusive world, where every individual's voice is heard, valued, and respected.

At Aspen Academy, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, and cultural competency. Our commitment extends to students, families, and faculty, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, valued and deeply cared for within our school community.

Religion & Spiritual Life

At Aspen Academy, we celebrate the many faith traditions and spiritual diversity within our community, and along the way, nurture discovery, understanding, and dialogue. We recognize that varying perspectives exist within different faith traditions. We are clear that in our role as school, it is our role to teach students how to think critically, but not what to think. Respect and deference for our families’ beliefs and norms is a cornerstone in culturally competent educational leadership.

We encourage open dialogue on all aspects of cultural diversity, including religion. In partnership with our families, we host programs and events that deepen our cultural awareness and understanding of others' histories, norms, and beliefs, fostering appreciation for our community's spiritual tapestry.

We deeply cherish this beautiful tapestry of beliefs that our families bring, and we embrace the opportunity to learn from one another. This commitment reflects our dedication to fostering an inclusive and soulful community where all are valued and respected for their individual journeys and beliefs.

Learning, Growing, Leading: Relevant Blogs

Fostering Curiosity, Belonging, and Understanding
Jessie Skipwith

At Aspen Academy, our core values — Be Kind, Do Good, Work Hard, Make the World Better — are woven into everything we do. This week, students across multiple grades participated in a series of enriching experiences that nurtured curiosity, a sense of belonging, and deeper understanding of themselves and others.

Read More about Fostering Curiosity, Belonging, and Understanding
Halloween is Coming: Costume Guidelines for 2024
Dana Kohls & Jessie Skipwith

It is our continual commitment to be a community committed to being kind, doing good, and raising socially responsible global citizens together. Please review our guidelines for 2024 in this blog.

Read More about Halloween is Coming: Costume Guidelines for 2024
Hispanic Heritage Month: Explore, Learn, and Celebrate
Jessie Skipwith

From September 15 to October 15, Aspen Academy recognizes National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the rich, diverse heritage of Hispanic Americans and their lasting contributions to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.

Read More about Hispanic Heritage Month: Explore, Learn, and Celebrate