La Academia

03/12/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Steve Johnsen, founder of La Academia and long-time pastor of the Denver Inner City Parish.

Steve was a true visionary whose life was dedicated to young people and to the West Denver community. When he saw that many students were not being served by their neighborhood schools, he stepped forward with courage and faith to create something different. Out of that vision came La Academia — a place built on second chances, understanding, and the belief that every young person deserves to be seen, supported, and given the opportunity to succeed.

Steve’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched: the students who found their path, the families who found hope, and the educators and community members who were inspired by his commitment to justice and compassion.

We honor his vision, his faith, and the deep love he carried for the West Denver community. Rest in peace, Steve. Your vision changed lives, and your impact will never be forgotten.

08/11/2025

Rest easy, Ms. Kat 🥺

05/31/2025

Congrats to Jozer Guerrero, always doing big things and making us proud ✊🏽

We're excited to partner with
for his book Grab your Rocks and Throw: A Poetic Revolution to be published with later this year!!

Jozer Guerrero is a poet/ musician based out of Denver, CO. Jozer’s work has been featured on HBO, MTV, Univision, TED Talks, PBS and American Theater Magazine. Jozer’s poetry can be described as a Spanglish roller coaster combining comedy with political commentary. prepare yourself to laugh and cry all in one sitting. 

Bigs things are on the way for Jozer. We're honored to be a part of it.

04/09/2025

La Academia graduate, Anya, was just recognized as a Distinguished Alum by CU Denver! So freaking proud !! She is a badass and we love her ✊🏽

12/11/2024

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of La Academia graduate and amazing human, Jesse Reed. If you would like to join his family and friends in honoring his memory join us Friday the 13th at Good Sheperd Presbyterian Church (address 10785 Melody Dr. Northglenn , CO 80234) at 12 pm. A celebration of life will follow at Jesse’s Mom’s house (message me for address)

10/31/2024

If any of our La Academia fam needs help with this monster of a ballot, please feel free to reach out with questions. Remember it is too late to mail in your ballot, but you can drop them off at a 24 hour drop box until next Tuesday at 7 pm

09/13/2024

Sharing the link for a free show at the DCPA, it is one of the events that we were able to take La Academia students to in the past. Let me know if any of you get tickets and we can meet up 😉

Thursday, September 26, 2024

05/10/2024

Huge congratulations to La Academia graduate, Alicia, on receiving her Associates in Health Information Services today. We are so very proud of her and her partner, Marvin.

01/07/2024

The deadline for the Steve Johnsen Scholarship has been extended until January 19, 2024 at 5pm. That you gives you 12 days to get your applications in. Let me know if you have any questions and find the application linked below:
https://www.dicp.org/post/2023-steve-johnsen-scholarship

12/13/2023

So very proud of La Academia grad and now UNC Alumna, Camille! Si se puede ✊🏽

09/15/2023

Come support.the Parish ❤️
https://www.dicp.org/post/tequila-quesadilla-fall-fundraiser?fbclid=IwAR0neaRmrWGfeVCoDTPI2yQwwywn8PeW0b-2iNxkPyRAJNmxzXq_ok2JGLg

Get ready to spice up your autumn evenings with the most exciting DICP event of the season - the Tequila & Quesadillas Fall Fundraiser! Buy your tickets here! On October 5th, from 6 pm to 8 pm, our venue transforms into a haven of lively music, delectable flavors, and spirited games. Join us for an....

07/31/2023

Tomorrow is the deadline for the Steve Johnsen scholarship. Use this link to access the application - you can do it!

The Steve Johnsen Scholarship promotes the Denver Inner City Parish’s mission of loving and supporting individuals and families in our community and empowering them to break the cycle of poverty. Post- secondary certificates and degrees provide educational support that leads to better employment. ...