Principal's Page


Dear Ute Pass Community,

powellIt is an honor and privilege to serve as the principal at Ute Pass Elementary School. UPES creates a truly unique experience for preschool through sixth grade students to explore, create, discover, and grow. Seated beautifully at the foot of Pikes Peak, Ute Pass Elementary takes environmental learning to the next level! Our amazing staff extends education far beyond the four walls of a classroom. Students at Ute Pass Elementary receive a challenging education and become active participants in their own learning. We believe in fostering an inclusive environment and creating a safe place for all students to find and use their voice.

Ute Pass Elementary embodies Manitou School District 14's core values: Relationships, Opportunities, and Deep Learning. With one class per grade level (and two in sixth grade), students receive personalized instruction with enrichment and intervention opportunities. Our dedicated staff educate the whole child- leading to academic growth and achievement while also creating environmental stewards and compassionate humans who love coming to school! Beyond the core content areas, students at Ute Pass Elementary participate in music, physical education, environmental education, art, and Spanish. Our sixth grade program, Mountain Academy of Arts and Sciences offers a unique hands-on experience where students participate in water science and ecology studies, multiple camping experiences, design and engineering projects, photography, caving, mountain biking, band and various music opportunities, and so much more.

Ute Pass Elementary is a true gem, with a culture that is unsurpassable. In a society where many children are ingrained all day in technology, students at Ute Pass are able to experience and drive their own learning through collaboration, inquiry, and exploration. Simply driving by the beautiful school, you will see and hear students working together, challenging one another, creating beautiful music and art, taking risks, and certainly not being afraid to get a little dirty in one of our outdoor classrooms or nearby resources.

We are incredibly connected to the amazing families and Ute Pass community, and look forward to extending our partnership with you. Please contact our front office to schedule a tour of our very special small school, or even to volunteer in one of our incredible classrooms. Thank you for your interest in Ute Pass Elementary School!

Jackie Powell
Ute Pass Elementary Principal
[email protected]