Compass Academy

Over the last couple of weeks, our ELD students at Compass Academy have had the opportunity to meet with local Latino news reporters Karen Gutierrez from Univision Colorado and Raul Blanco from Colorado Ya. Students were able to interview the reporters, learn about their journey in journalism and their immigration to the United States, and even practice how to present the news—thinking about research, writing, and delivery.

Thank you so much to Ms. Gutiérrez and Mr. Blanco for spending the time with us, and thank you to our amazing ELD teacher Mr. Cristian for arranging this engaging, real-world experience for our students. They won't forget it any time soon!

Looking for a middle school that truly cares?
Check out Compass Academy for the 2026-2027 school year!

Compass Academy is a tuition-free 6-8 Middle School in Southwest Denver that offers...
- A small, supportive environment of approximately 200 students
- Small class sizes & individualized attention
- Unique community building trips for each grade level, including a 3-day orientation camp for all new 6th & 7th graders
- Hands-on learning experiences both inside and outside of the classroom
- Bilingual language programming
- A variety of enrichment opportunities both during and after school (music, art, sports, leadership, business, and more)
- A caring staff committed to the success of all learners

Limited spots remain in grades 6, 7, and 8. Contact us today for application support or to set up a tour!

Call: 720-424-0096
or send us a message here on Facebook!

Ms. Candie enriches the lives of our 8th graders every day!

Educator Spotlight: Candie Dunbar, Compass Academy

For Candie Dunbar, what makes Compass Academy truly unique is how deeply adults champion students. Care isn’t an idea—it’s a daily practice. Teachers build strong relationships that help students feel comfortable expressing themselves, taking academic risks, and thinking critically about their work.

With 17 years of teaching experience, Ms. Dunbar says she’s only felt this level of community at one other school in her career. And as a parent of an 8th grader at another school, she sees firsthand how much it matters when students feel genuinely supported by the adults around them.

At Compass, that connection shows up every day. Students know they’re cared for—and that makes all the difference.

Compass Families, we hope to see you tomorrow for our annual Posada and winter work showcase!

We are so lucky to benefit from the love and care Ms Henrietta gives our students every day!

Educator Spotlight: Henrietta Sandoval @ Compass Academy

Ms. Henrietta became a school counselor to provide the type of support she didn’t have as a student. At Compass Academy, she’s found a mission that matches her belief in every student’s potential.

She describes Compass as a place where staff build strong relationships, create joyful and safe learning environments, and help students navigate difficult moments with care.

“What makes Compass feel like home,” she says, “is the acceptance, understanding, and belonging shared among staff, students, and families—a true community rooted in support.”

SAVE THE DATE: Back to School Night, but make it a BLAST!
Our Back to School Bash is next Wednesday, September 10! Come enjoy a fun evening with our school community to celebrate the start of our new school year.

Our 8th graders just returned from our annual 8th grade retreat! It was a special two days of stepping outside their comfort zone, making new connections, and reflecting on who they want to be in their last year of middle school. We are so proud of them and cannot wait to see how they grow throughout this important school year!

Compass Families: save these important dates!

All families should select one day to attend registration prior to the start of school! We look forward to seeing you there.