Our Why Many students are feeling isolated and alone and are struggling with mental health. They are spending a majority of their time indoors on screens. Students are craving meaning, purpose, and community. At the same time, students are inheriting the most challenging issues we have ever faced in human history. Many students don’t… Read more »
When it comes to knowing what items go in the recycling or other bins, it can be hard. The rules always seem to be changing and there are always exceptions. Mixing waste in the wrong disposal bins can contaminate batches of recycling or compost. This fall, the Earth Task Force tried to find a creative… Read more »
In fall of 2014, Community Adventure Program (CAP) students at New Vista High School in Boulder, Colorado, chose to study the controversial topic of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). After watching documentaries, visiting Alfalfa’s Market, and conducting extensive research, they invited speakers from both sides of the issue to their class. Speakers from Right to Know… Read more »
This past Friday, on September 26th, a student led environmental action team at New Vista High School called the Earth Task Force coordinated a Local Lunch event. With the invaluable help of The Kitchen Next Door and donations of ingredients by vendors from the local community, the Earth Task Force served a delicious lunch to… Read more »
In September of 2014, Community Adventure Program (CAP) students at New Vista High School embarked on their first overnight backpacking trip of the quarter! Led by Cottonwood Institute (CI) instructors Katie and Sandy, the group of 10 students hiked up the trails at White Ranch Park in Golden, Colorado. Once arriving at their campsite for… Read more »
We’ve been busy here at Cottonwood Institute this spring! Take a look at this fun slideshow of many of our spring 2014 programs with Colorado Academy, Colorado Youth for a Change, Johnson & Wales University, Littleton Academy, Logan School, New Vista High School, and STRIVE Preparatory Schools. To learn more about past, current, and future… Read more »
It has been a fantastic year for the Learning Gardens at New Vista High School! The action packed year was filled with student-initiated and implemented garden projects. There were many opportunities for students to engage with and learn in the garden during academic classes and Gardening Workshops. Students learned about gardening in Colorado and practiced… Read more »
On April 22nd 2014, to celebrate Earth Day, the Earth Task Force (ETF) hosted a bike repair day at the front of New Vista High School. This event inspired more students to bike to school, and provided a free opportunity for people to get their bike repaired or tuned up. Many students also enjoyed the… Read more »
This spring, the Community Adventure Program (CAP) at New Vista High School had many amazing outdoor experiences! Each adventure built upon the last, as the students grew into competent and excited outdoor enthusiasts. On most Friday afternoons throughout their few months together, CAP class headed to the nearby trails at the base of the Flat… Read more »
The 2014 Base Camp Bash was an incredible success for the Cottonwood Institute. We raised critical funds for our programs, met some amazing supporters, and celebrated the impact our students are having in the community. One way we honor our students is through our annual Ripple Effect Awards. The Ripple Effect Award is given each… Read more »
