Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … The third- through fifth-grade students at Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, recently experienced the magic of live orchestral music at Boettcher Concert Hall during the Colorado Symphony’s annual Youth Concerts.
The concert, guided by a central theme connecting people, places, and ideas, left a lasting impression on students.
Fourth grade student Davina shared her excitement, saying, “I love that the performer who wrote her own song and hyped up all the students with her energy!”
MHA fourth-grade teacher Elizabeth Negrete added, “My favorite was the jazz band’s rendition of ‘Rocky Mountain High.’” The performance had such an impact that her students were singing “Rocky Mountain High” all day the following day.
Fifth grade student Keanu added, “I enjoyed being at a concert with my friends,” highlighting how the field trip combined music appreciation with social connection.
The excitement didn’t stop at the concert hall. On the walk to lunch at Maggiano’s, students were singing praise songs together, reflecting the energy and joy they had experienced during the performance. Many bystanders commented on how well the students behaved. At the restaurant, students practiced dining etiquette lessons they had recently learned in class with Cindy Roldan, MHA’s director of Student Services, demonstrating both poise and courtesy.
Parents who joined the trip expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, and special thanks go to Jessica Gleason, MHA vice principal, for organizing the event.
Field trips like this one continue to enrich the Mile High Academy experience by combining cultural exposure, hands-on learning, and community building in ways that leave a lasting impression on students.
—Cindy Roldan is MHA Student Services director. Photos supplied.
