Nestled in the vibrant cityscape of southeast Aurora, Woodland Elementary is the grade school Overland Ranch kindergarteners through fifth graders can attend. The Cherry Creek School District stands as a beacon of educational excellence throughout the region. The District is known for its commitment to academic achievement, inclusivity, and holistic development, and within its constellation of schools, Woodland Elementary shines with distinctive characteristics that feed students’ intellectual curiosity and enrich their young lives.

One mother, Ann Fosters, whose children attend the school says, “Our kids love Woodland Elementary! What a special place to learn and grow.”

Woodland Elementary: Building Foundations

Woodland Elementary is a relatively new addition to the Cherry Creek School District, having opened in 2022. It continues to be a nurturing environment where young learners can begin their educational journey. School principal Teolyn Bourbonnie says that her team of “passionate educators is dedicated to building strong relationships, promoting student agency, and ensuring every child feels seen, heard, and supported.”

Student agency — for those of you without children in the system — helps students take ownership of their learning by encouraging them to be active participants in their education.

A Standards-Based Approach

What’s more, Bourbonnie says, is that Woodland is committed to a standards-based instructional approach that ensures students not only understand what they are learning, but also how to succeed and grow – confidently and capably.

The approach emphasizes foundational skills, character development, and a sense of belonging:

• Emphasis on Early Literacy and Numeracy: The school’s curriculum is meticulously designed to develop strong reading, writing, and math skills in the primary years, using research-based instructional strategies. Teachers employ different instruction to meet each student where they are, ensuring that each child receives the support and challenge they need.

• Whole Child Approach: Beyond academics, Woodland Elementary is known for integrating social-emotional learning, promoting kindness, empathy, and resilience. Programs that teach how to resolve conflict, regulate emotions, and act responsibly in community helps develop well-rounded young people, ready to engage positively with the world. The clubs for children at Woodland are wide-ranging from Fibers, Game, Choir, Minecraft, Girls on the Run, Newscast, Theater (and more!) Woodland offers a variety of activities for different youth interests.

• ‘Innovative Instruction: Woodland leverages technology and hands-on learning, including STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) initiatives that encourage curiosity and exploration. Maker spaces, outdoor classrooms, and interactive projects stimulate creative problem-solving.

• Engaged Families and Community: Woodland Elementary works in close partnership with families, fostering open communication and parent involvement through events, volunteer opportunities, and regular updates. Community partnerships bring enrichment activities and resources into the school, which creates a dynamic learning environment.

• Safe and Inclusive Atmosphere: Safety and inclusivity are top priorities, with anti-bullying programs and culturally responsive teaching practices ensuring every student feels accepted and valued.

Overland Ranch – Checks All the Boxes!      

Woodland Elementary provides five- to 11-year-olds in Overland Ranch access to one of the best educational foundations for little humans in the region. The master-planned community, now rolling out onto the plains of southeast Aurora, is a fit for families of all ages, thanks to the planned amenities and variety of homes offered by Century Communities, Pulte, Richmond American, and Toll Brothers. And with its proximity to shopping, entertainment and recreation – there’s no better place to build new and live life!