Colorado Preparatory Academy Senior Growing Through Leadership, Adventure, and Service 

Meet Daniel, a remarkable senior at Colorado Preparatory Academy (CPA) whose journey through online public school, outdoor adventures, and leadership opportunities has shaped him into a confident, grounded, and service-minded young adult. Born and raised in Colorado Springs’ Stratmoor neighborhood, Daniel has spent nearly a decade learning, growing, and discovering who he wants to become, and CPA has been a defining part of that story. 

Daniel first joined CPA, a tuition-free, full-time online public school serving K-12 students in 4th grade. After attending a traditional brick-and-mortar school, Daniel’s mom looked for an alternative where both of her children could learn in a way that would fit each of their individual needs. Online learning was a perfect match. Daniel adapted quickly and started thriving. 

“I loved CPA right away,” he shared. “I can go at my own pace and really focus. Brick-and-mortar just didn’t work as well for me.” 

CPA’s accredited curriculum, experienced teachers, and tailored learning options, allowed him to stay balanced, work comfortably from home, and still engage in meaningful activities like Class Connects, clubs, and in-person events. 

While Daniel appreciates having less day-to-day social pressure, he loves that CPA still offers a huge variety of ways to get involved outside his regular curriculum. He has participated in: 

• CPA’s student leadership Ambassador Mentor Program (AMP) – and attended camp four times and served as 2025 AMP camp squad leader 
• National Honor Society (NHS) 
• Safe2Tell and other mental health awareness programs 
• Various student clubs and blended learning meetups 
• In-person outings like museum visits, coffee shop meetups, and park days 
• Cooking Club Daniel says: “They show you the recipe, and you make it with them, it’s really fun! Here’s one of my favorites: Healthier Firecracker Chicken Meal Prep Bowls.” 

What stands out most for Daniel is his CPA’s Ambassador Mentor Program (AMP), a student leadership program where students mentor each other, forge friendships, and help navigate the online system. AMP Camp at Camp Shady Brook, is an annual CPA tradition that has shaped his high school journey. He attended all four camps and was chosen to be a 2025 squad leader, working closely with teachers and students like his friend Darray, a fellow senior whom he met in his freshman year. 

From high-ropes courses to afternoon leadership talks, AMP Camp has been, in his words, “…bittersweet to leave behind – I’d go again in a heartbeat if they’d let me come back as an alumnus!” 

Daniel is an outdoorsman at heart. When he’s not focused on schoolwork, he’s most likely outside hiking trails like his favorite at Camp Alexander, mountain biking through Bear Creek Regional Park, or camping deep in the mountains. He also trains and competes in combat sports, including MMA and Ju Jitsu, channeling the same discipline and determination he brings his academics into every practice. 

His passion for physical challenges mirrors his love for lifelong learning, something he discovered early on in Boy Scouts, now Scouting America. 

Starting as a young Cub Scout, Daniel worked his way through every rank (except Lion) and ultimately earned his Eagle Scout award, the highest rank awarded at a court of honor ceremony. Over the years, he’s achieved 49 merit badges, covering everything from cooking and wilderness survival to veterinary science. 

“Participating in Scouts made me well-rounded,” he said. “You learn a little bit about everything. It sets you up with real skills and a good purpose.” 

As a senior, Daniel is excited for graduation and everything that comes after. While he’s still exploring all his options, one dream stands out: becoming an Officer in the United States Air Force, potentially through the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA). 

Service runs in his family. Daniel’s father served 17 years as a Green Beret in the U.S. Army Special Forces, working as a Black Hawk helicopter mechanic and later becoming a pilot. His father’s commitment and example have been powerful sources of inspiration. 

Entering adulthood feels both exciting and motivating for Daniel, who hopes to continue building new skills, exploring the outdoors, and charting the next steps in his academic and personal journey.  

“Daniel approaches life with curiosity, discipline, and heart!” says Kathy Wortley, AMP Camp club advisor. “Colorado Preparatory Academy is proud to celebrate students like him, young leaders who are carving unique paths while building the confidence to take on the world.”