IMPACTING THE PIKES PEAK REGION
SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT
At Peak Education, our focus on systems of support has led to significant achievements in empowering students to overcome challenges and succeed academically and personally. Through our mentoring program, students have built meaningful relationships with professionals, participated in community service events, and received college and scholarship application support.
In collaboration with local schools and organizations, we've enhanced community support through initiatives like the Pikes Peak State College partnership and Colorado Springs District 11 Future Centers. These efforts have provided students with vital resources, including financial aid guidance, college application support, and career exploration, ensuring they are equipped to achieve their educational and career goals. These systems of support have played a crucial role in preparing our scholars for long-term success.
OVERVIEW
2024 IMPACT STATS
18
Schools We
Serve
4
Future Centers
Across District 11
42K+
in Scholarships from
PPEF & Peak Education
10
Partners Schools
for Concurrent Enrollment
SUCCESSFUL WORKING MODEL
FOUR PEAKS MODEL
Peak Education's relationship-driven approach has proven highly effective— a 100% high school graduation rate in 2024, with graduates earning over $1 million in scholarships and financial aid.
PEAK ONE
SOCIAL SKILLS & MENTAL HEALTH
"When I was just 7 years old, my dad passed away. Losing my dad was something that really broke me. It caused me to start acting up in school, and my grades suffered.
With Peak Education, as soon as I got in, the mentors and everyone in the organization were always there for me. They kept me on track and really made me feel like a part of the Peak Ed family."
- Eric Reyes, Peak Ed Scholar
We prioritize the development of social skills and mental health by providing students with resources and support that foster emotional well-being. Through workshops, mentoring, and peer interactions, we equip scholars with the tools they need to navigate relationships, build resilience, and manage stress, ensuring they are prepared for both academic and personal challenges.
PEAK TWO
SELF ADVOCACY & LIFE SKILLS
"My daughter Arianna has always been a confident child never afraid to use her voice, so Peak guided that confidence into an interest of law. My son Eric was a super shy and quite kid who would have never gotten up and spoke in front of a room full of strangers. I always knew he was bright and very articulate, but Peak Education definitely helped develop his confidence. So I would like to wholeheartedly thank Peak Education for being apart of my village."
- Annetta, Peak Ed Parent
We emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and life skills by providing students with the tools to speak up for themselves and make informed decisions. Through workshops and hands-on experiences, we help students build confidence, set goals, manage time, and navigate everyday tasks, ensuring they are prepared for independence and success in all areas of life.
PEAK THREE
COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS
"Why not use a program that interacts with a child from the time they're in seventh grade all the way through till college? That rocks. That gives them somebody who is in their corner, who cares about them long term, who makes them believe in themselves and believe in their community and want to give back to their community. That's a win for everyone in society as a whole."
- Carl Dionsinio, Peak Ed Parent
Preparing students for their future is key to their success. Peak Education offers support in college readiness, job training, and career exploration. We provide resources like college application help, resume building, and internships to make sure our students are ready for their next steps.
PEAK FOUR
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
"Peak Ed has helped me dream a lot. When I was younger I didn't know how much support people needed and Peak Ed helped me think about all of these different things that I could do. I would have never had the idea to go and volunteer and how I can help support other people if it wasn't for Peak Ed. And I think that if I didn't dream big I wouldn't be anywhere. "
- Candelora Dionsinio, Peak Ed Scholar
We believe in the power of community and strive to instill a sense of civic responsibility in our students. Through volunteer opportunities, service projects, and partnerships with local organizations, we encourage scholars to connect with their community and contribute positively. This engagement not only enriches their personal growth but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and leadership.
DIRECT AND WIDESPREAD IMPACT
MULTI-TIERED APPROACH
Originally centered on our core program, we’ve now implemented a multi-tiered strategy to address additional needs. Today, we offer both direct impact through our core program and broader initiatives with widespread reach. Our goal is to continually expand our impact and serve as many students as possible.
SUCCESSFUL WORKING MODEL
Graduate from high school within 4 years.
Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, good behavior, and good attendance.
Give back to our community.
Pursue a post-secondary degree program after high school graduation.
OUR SCHOLAR PLEDGE
Scholars make a pledge upon joining Peak Education, promoting accountability, encouraging them to give back, and deepening their connection to the program.
Actively participate in Peak Education student and family activities throughout middle and high school.
Build leadership potential and community service through volunteering to help others.
Keep communication strong and ongoing among Peak Education, my family, and my school.
DIRECT IMPACT - CORE PROGRAM
Schools We Serve
We serve 18 schools in Districts 2, 3, 11, and 14.
Carmel Community School
Doherty
High School
Fox Meadow Middle School
Harrison High School
Janitell Jr.
High School
Manitou
Middle School
Manitou
High School
Mann
Middle School
Mesa Ridge
High School
Mitchell
High School
Mountain Vista Community School
North
Middle School
Palmer
High School
Panorama
Middle School
Sand Creek
International School
Sierra
High School
Sproul Jr
High School
Widefield
High School
COMMUNITY NEEDS
COMMUNITY HEALTH
NEEDS ASSESSMENT
A 2024 Peak Education Community Health Needs Assessment was conducted by HighRoots Wellness to highlight the crucial connection between education, economic stability, and community health in Colorado Springs. Since many of our students face significant barriers to health and opportunity, this assessment helps identify resource gaps affecting them and their families.
By deepening our understanding of these challenges, we can continue providing holistic support that empowers students to thrive, both in and beyond educational systems.
KEY OUTCOMES
Education as a Social Determinant of Health
Higher education is linked to better job opportunities, economic stability, and overall well-being.
Individuals with higher education levels have a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Peak Education plays a vital role in ensuring that students from low-income backgrounds can access post-secondary education and career pathways.
Addressing Economic Disparities
Nearly 87% of Peak Education families live at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, making them eligible for various social services.
The median income for Peak Education families is significantly lower than the Colorado Springs average ($83,215), affecting access to healthcare, housing, and nutrition.
Many students come from neighborhoods with lower graduation rates and fewer economic opportunities, which can impact their ability to reach their full potential.
Mental Health & Social Well-Being
At Peak Education, we know that students need more than just academic support, they need a strong sense of belonging and well-being.
Peak Education students reported lower levels of persistent sadness 15% compared to the 40% county-wide average, reinforcing the importance of mentorship, self-advocacy, and mental health support through the Four Peaks model.
Healthcare Workforce Development & Career Pathways
33% of Peak Education high school students are interested in healthcare careers, highlighting an opportunity to develop workforce programs and create pathways into high-demand fields.
Expanding career-connected learning experiences through a Youth Ambassador certificate program will ensure students are prepared to step into leadership roles and serve their communities.
Community Partnerships & Social Services Access
Nearly 87% of Peak Education families qualify for essential resources like food, housing, and healthcare assistance, yet many are not receiving the support. Highlighting a significant gap in awareness and access.
Peak Education is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between students, families, and the broader network of support services, ensuring every student has the stability they need to thrive academically and beyond.
THE ASSESSMENT REAFFIRMS WHAT WE KNOW– EDUCATION, ECONOMIC STABILITY, AND SOCIAL SUPPORT ARE KEY DRIVERS OF STUDENT SUCCESS AND LIFE-LONG WELL-BEING.
By expanding our partnerships, strengthening our Four Peaks programming, and continuing to walk alongside students from middle school through college, we can ensure that every Peak Education student has the tools, resources, and support to build a bright future.
CONTINUING SUCCESS
MENTORING
Peak Education offers the opportunity to be paired with a community mentor. The Peak Education mentoring program recruits professionals in various fields to find meaningful personal and professional matches between volunteer mentors and students. Program highlights include a community service event, a skating event, and an end-of-year dinner. Older students (juniors and seniors) receive college and scholarship application support. Being paired with a mentor is an opportunity for all high school students who are interested.
Kelajanae Curry, a Peak Ed Scholar in our College Success program, has been mentored by Peggy Henjum for multiple years, and their connection remains strong today.
CONTINUING SUCCESS
PEAK EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS
Peak Education, through the Pikes Peak Educational Foundation, is dedicated to reducing financial barriers and supporting students as they navigate their educational journey after high school. Providing scholarships and ongoing assistance to ensure students have the resources and guidance they need from the beginning to the end of their education.
17
2023 Scholars Awarded in Scholarships
12
2024 Scholars Awarded in Scholarships
$21,250
Dollars Awarded to 2023 Scholars in Fall Semester
$20,885
Dollars Awarded to 2024 Scholars in Fall Semester
FINANCIAL AID SUPPORT
Harrison District 2 has joined forces with the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI) and Peak Ed to bolster financial aid support for students at Harrison and Sierra High Schools. This collaborative effort has resulted in a dedicated College and Financial Aid Advisor at both campuses. This position supports Harrison School District 2 seniors secure Financial Aid for college and trade school by applying for Federal and State grants. The College and Financial Aid Advisor provides specialized guidance on all aspects of financial aid, including FAFSA/CASFA completion, scholarship applications, and understanding various funding options for higher education.
Students met with Financial Aid Advisor Two or More Times
113
Individual Students Served
Student Interactions
485
596
COMMUNITY IMPACT
DIFFERENCE MAKERS
HOVER OVER EACH TO FIND OUT MORE
We have partnered with Colorado Springs District 11 to enhance college and career readiness for student across district high schools (Palmer, Doherty, Mitchell and Coronado). This collaboration has led to the establishment and staffing of College & Career Advisors at multiple campuses called Future Centers. Through this partnership, we provide experienced advisors who work directly with schools in offering support on college applications, financial aid, career exploration & scholarship opportunities. By combining the district’s framework with Peak Ed’s expertise in college and career development, this partnership creates a strong support system for our District 11 scholars.
D11 FUTURE CENTERS
Future Centers Across D11
4
32
College and Career Advisor Hours in Schools
64
3
Hours in Workshops, College Visits, Classroom Presentations, 1:1's
Future Centers Newly Opened in 2024
CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT
Peak Education has partnered with Pikes Peak State College to provide additional support for prospective and current Concurrent Enrollment students at various partner schools. Throughout the school year Peak Ed’s Assistant Program Director for Concurrent Enrollment, hosted various events & workshops at partner schools. This partnership provides additional support for Spanish speaking students & families entering the Concurrent Enrollment process.
PPSC Increased Threshold was Met with Peak Education's Assistance
2%
Students Met with Over Three Months
100
10
Partners Schools
CONTINUING SUCCESS
FUTURE SCHOLAR ACADEMY UPDATE
Future Scholar Academy focuses on empowering middle school scholars to embrace and share their unique stories while aligning with Peak Education's mission of community service.
To broaden their horizons, we immerse scholars in various community activities, exposing them to new hobbies and interests. This exploration helps them gain insights into their own passions and strengths. A recent highlight was our visit to the Olympic and Paralympic Museum, where scholars engaged with USA Skating Olympic athletes and learned about their inspiring journeys. This experience aimed to motivate our students to share their own stories with confidence and pride.
65 SCHOLARS PARTICIPATED
IN EXPERIENCES BEYOND THEIR REACH TO EXPLORE NEW FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES THEY MAY HAVE NEVER ENVISIONED FOR THEMSELVES
TESTIMONIALS
WORDS FROM PARTNERS
Our partnerships are at the heart of everything we do. We're deeply grateful for the incredible support and collaboration from our community, which drives meaningful change and creates lasting impact. Together with our partners, we are shaping the future of education and opportunities in the Pikes Peak region.
I have had the honor of working with Peak Ed in Manitou Springs School District for the past 5 years. At times we don't know our impact in the moment, but with Peak Ed we get to see in real time, students who bloom with skills, passions, and goals. Even after 27 years, I still believe that education and mentorship are the keys to finding and obtaining the American Dream. In our public schools we need partners to support us in the collective goal of shaping our nation's future through our children. PeakEd believes that all children can and should achieve that dream. As a first generation college graduate I look at Carlos and his team in awe.They make sure kids like me have every chance in attending the school of their dreams. Any investment we make as a community in the educational advancements of a child ring for generations to come. Whether you are a bleeding heart or a economic conservative, we can all get behind supporting our children in achieving the mighty American Dream! They are the quiet stars in the sky looking at our region's children with the belief that if they dream it we can make it happen.
Kolleen Johnson
D14 Executive Director of Secondary Schools
Peak Education has propelled Widefield School District 3 students toward success through their personalized guidance and mentorship.
Shane Skalla
D3 Director of Innovation and Alternative Education
Peak Education plays a transformative role in shaping students' futures by providing mentorship, career/college preparation, and life-changing opportunities. Through this support, D2 students gain the skills, confidence, and pathways they need to achieve their dreams, leading to brighter outcomes and limitless possibilities.
Dr. Wendy Birhanzel
D2 Superintendent
