As each school year ends, teachers and staff take time to reflect on the memories and events that made it special. It is easy to say that 2019-20 may go down in the history books as one of the most memorable.
“When students arrived on campus for the first day of school, who could have imagined completing the fourth quarter remotely,” said Jamie Frain, Mile High Academy’s VP of school culture. “The COVID-19 pandemic showed how quickly life can change. We miss our students and their families. And our hearts ache for the graduating classes who can’t celebrate with the school family, community, and their relatives and friends.”
But in the midst of the changes, good memories prevail. Although empty now, MHA classrooms were filled with laughter, learning and prayers only weeks ago. The cafeteria was filled with voices as hungry students rushed to eat so they could go outside for recess. And the gym was filled with cheers as the boys’ varsity team made MHA history by not only defending its District 8 Championship title, but also continuing to State and a Final Four appearance in the division.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our teachers and staff,” said Frain. “Their dedication to learning, not only while on campus but also during remote learning, is a testimony to what an exceptional team we have at Mile High Academy.”
There were also events and fundraisers. The first annual MHA Walk-A-Thon raised more than $25,000 for financial aid. Fall Festival once again brought the community together for a fun-filled evening while supporting the individual classrooms. The lower grade students read more than 55,000 hours during its Read-A-Thon, and Christmas programs highlighted the musical talent of MHA students.
Saying goodbye
This year also brought unimaginable sadness in the tragic loss of senior Mya Pena. It’s not easy to say goodbye to a beloved student, classmate and friend.
“The loss of Mya Pena left a notable absence in our school community,” Frain said. “Her constant smile and outgoing personality is deeply missed. To suddenly lose someone is never easy, especially someone just beginning her life’s journey. However, the strength of getting through this loss formed a bond between our students, staff and community in a way that will continue to honor Mya.”
Furthering the mission in 2020-21
As the 2019-20 year reaches completion, planning is already taking place for next school year. “2020-21 is ramping up to be an exciting year for our school,” Frain commented. “We’re looking forward to welcoming several new faces to our team, including Michael Armstrong, VP of academics, and Brady Tull, athletic director. We’re excited to welcome our alumni back to campus this fall, and we can’t wait to have our families join us for events throughout the year.”
While there are many uncertainties about the start of the school year, the team at MHA hope, pray and plan to be together soon. “One factor remains constant,” added Frain. “God is present on our campus. Please consider including us in your prayers as we continue the mission to provide a Christ-centered education at Mile High Academy.”
Mile High Academy will continue to post videos, communication and memories via social media. Visit the MHA Facebook page (www.facebook.com/MileHighAcademy), alumni page (www.facebook.com/groups/51633721439), and sign up for the school newsletter (milehigh.link/newsletter).
Karrie Meyers is development and records assistant at Mile High Academy in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.
