Teolyn Bourbonnie recalled gazing at a blank plot of undeveloped land from the top of hill in southeast Aurora in the spring of 2021.
Bourbonnie, the principal of Woodland Elementary School – the Cherry Creek School District’s 45th elementary that will open its doors to students this week – could envision a remarkable transformation on the parcel, one that would see a new community hub where students would learn, grow, and thrive.
On Thursday, Aug. 11, Bourbonnie saw that vision realized, as Woodland administrators joined students, parents, district leaders, and other community members for a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially launched the Cherry Creek School District’s newest school, one that boasts 75,000 square feet for its first cohort of more than 600 students. The school will serve students in the Blackstone, Butterfield, and Serenity Ridge communities.
Like every other school in the Cherry Creek School District’s 108 square miles, Woodland is dedicated to supporting the district’s Five Core Values in its approach to instruction: Growth Mindset, Equity, Whole Wellbeing, Engagement and Relationships.
Musicians, cheerleaders and poms from Cherokee Trail (Woodland’s feeder high school) set the festive mood before Bourbonnie joined CCSD Superintendent Christopher Smith and Board of Education members to formally acknowledge the moment.
“I am thrilled, honored, and humbled to be standing here today,” Bourbonnie said. “We have created a brave space where all children can learn,” she added, thanking the Woodland community that approved the new construction in the 2020 bond measure, as well as CCSD administrators, the Board of Education, and other contributors who made the new school possible. She wrapped up by reminding the assembled crowd of Woodland’s motto, one that pays tribute to the school’s mascot: “Be bold. Be Brave. Be Brilliant. Be a Bear.”
Smith echoed those notes of hope, celebration and positivity.
“I am excited for you,” Smith said, pointing to the possibilities and promise of a new school year. “Keep this excitement going for the coming year. I know it’s going to be one full of success and growth for our students.”
- Posted 8/15/2022 at 10:30 AM
