Karrie Meyers – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, opened its doors on August 18 to 255 students for the start of the 2026–2027 school year, with additional students currently finishing the admissions process.
Students and parents were especially excited to welcome back Mrs. Denae Yuros, a former MHA teacher who has returned to step into the role of vice principal for the 2026–2027 school year. Warm greetings of “Welcome back, Mrs. Yuros!” echoed throughout campus as families arrived.
“It is so good to be back at Mile High Academy,” said Yuros. “Walking through the doors this morning and seeing our students and families reminded me just how special this school community is. I’m eager to jump into this new role and support our staff, students, and families as we grow together this year.”
The morning started with all-call announcements followed by the first all-school chapel of the school year. Principal RD Gallant welcomed families back to campus, and students cheered loudly as the 2026-2027 teachers and staff were introduced.
Before moving into the worship portion of chapel, MHA recognized several sophomores for outstanding academic achievement through the national PreACT Rising Stars program. The program honors the nation’s top academic performers based on PreACT 8/9 Composite scores earned during their freshman year, distinguishing the top 3% as Distinguished Scholars, the top 4% to 10% as Rising Scholars, and the top 11% to 50% as Early Scholars. MHA celebrated four students who earned the Rising Scholar recognition and seven who earned Early Scholar status.
To set the spiritual tone for the year around MHA’s 2026–2027 school theme, “Made for More,” Chaplain and Upper School Bible Teacher Gerson Martinez spoke during chapel. He encouraged students that “the best decisions come from clear convictions” and to remember two key convictions: “God is Love and Jesus Saves.” Following chapel, students, staff, and parents participated in the school’s annual prayer walk, coming together to ask for God’s guidance and presence on campus throughout the year.
MHA remains deeply grateful for the ongoing guidance and support of the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC). Dianne Harris, RMC’s director of Education, was on campus helping with the annual prayer walk and sharing in the morning’s excitement.
“There’s something special about the energy and possibility of the first day of school,” said Harris. “I’m thankful for the strong community at Mile High Academy and excited to support our students, educators, and families throughout the year. I pray that God continues to bless the school community with joy, wisdom, friendship, and a deeper walk with Jesus.”
With classes now underway, the Upper School looks forward to heading to Glacier View Ranch later this week, while Middle Schoolers prepare for their day trip to the lake next week. Meanwhile, the younger grades are happily settling into their classrooms for what promises to be a wonderful year ahead.
—Karrie Meyers is the Mile High Academy marketing and development coordinator. Photos supplied.
