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Colorado Preparatory Academy Students Blaze their Own Path to Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy: Brothers in Business Spotlight 

Stories & Spotlights
group photo

When most people launch a business, they think of profits, but for Colton and Tyler, their goal is to give back. The two brothers from Colorado Springs attend Colorado Preparatory Academy and are the student entrepreneurs behind Ugly Ducklings and Their Dog, a small business with a big mission. What began as a birthday project, a custom-designed water bottle and sports tassel, has grown into a full-fledged gift shop powered by three 3D printers, creative designs, and a heart for service. 

For every ten items they sell, the brothers donate a sensory bag to local first responders. These kits, filled with calming fidgets and tools, are intended for people experiencing stressful situations. Their idea was inspired by a video highlighting a similar project, and they immediately saw the opportunity to contribute. To date, Colton and Tyler have donated over 140 sensory bags, offering comfort to those who need it most. Their products, which include custom keychains, fidgets, and sports-themed accessories, are sold online and at youth entrepreneur markets around Colorado Springs. Customers range from local school staff to community members, including grandparents and even businesses placing custom orders. 

group toys sandcastle

Outside their business, both boys lead exciting lives full of passion and exploration. Tyler is enrolled in the Colorado Preparatory Academy Flex Program and especially enjoys working with his math and English Language Arts teachers. He also participates in Falcon AeroLab, where he built both a remote-controlled plane and drone this year and is looking forward to taking a drone-focused course next year. Baseball is another favorite hobby, and when he’s not in the classroom or on the field, you’ll likely find him designing their next 3D print or gearing up for a soap box derby race. 

Colton is just as active. He’s learning to play guitar and recently competed at the USA Hockey Sled Nationals in Florida alongside his brother, both playing for the Colorado Avalanche youth team. He also attends a wheelchair sports camp each summer and is a regular participant in local entrepreneur markets. 

ice sled group photo

This May, the brothers will take their talents to the All-American Soap Box Derby Rally in Omaha. While Tyler will also compete at the Pikes Peak race, Colton has another exciting destination, heading to Minnesota for more hockey competition. 

group photo

Both boys shared, “We absolutely love Colorado Preparatory Academy, especially our teachers.” Their mom added that the school’s structure allows them to thrive, balancing academics with their many interests, appointments, and extracurriculars. Whether learning from the couch, desk, or on the go, Colorado Preparatory Academy gives them the freedom to work at their own pace, and the support to aim high. As they head into 5th and 8th grade, Colton and Tyler are already planning for a summer filled with camps, racing, printing, and giving back to initiatives they care deeply about. 

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