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How a Colorado Preparatory Academy 9th Grader is Rising as a Leader on the Ice and Across the Globe 

Stories & Spotlights
Brook

Brook has been with Colorado Preparatory Academy (CPA) since 5th grade, following in the footsteps of her older sister, who enrolled first and loved the school’s environment. Now in 9th grade, Brook says CPA’s balanced structure and opportunities make it possible for her to excel academically while pursuing her passions. 

Originally from Fountain, Colorado, Brook and her family now live in Monument, Colorado, with their four-legged companions Buddy, a Golden Retriever, and Hank, a Great Pyrenees. Here, Brook has found the perfect blend of outdoor beauty, community charm, and fun local spots. Her favorites include the Monument Ice Rink just steps away from home, paddleboarding on Monument Lake, and exploring beautiful hiking spots like Garden of the Gods and 11 Mile Reservoir. 

She’s an avid soccer player (and a major Messi fan) and also plays hockey, waking up early for morning practices from 4:30 to 6:30 a.m. Her dedication on the ice mirrors her drive in the classroom: focused, determined, and always giving her best. 

A Strong Academic Start and a Rising Student Leader 

Brook joined the National Honor Society (NHS) last year and quickly stood out for her initiative, kindness, and commitment to service and was selected as NJHS president. This year, she continues at NHS and credits her confidence and growth to the close relationships she’s built with her teachers and CPA’s student leadership mentors. 

“Having teachers and student leaders who believe in me has made all the difference,” she shared. “They push me to try new things and step into leadership.” Those leadership opportunities include participating in a special event at the Colorado State Capitol, where Brook proudly said the Pledge of Allegiance, an unforgettable moment that strengthened her love for community and connection. 

Student climbing

This year, Brook joined CPA’s Ambassador Mentor Program (AMP), a leadership program, where students mentor each other, forge friendships, and help guide others through the online learning world. Brook enjoyed her first camp experience at Camp Shady Brook where she developed personal and team-building skills through various team and individual activities. Her favorites were ziplining, the high and low ropes course, all the water activities, field games, and the blindfolded team exercise. Brook loved meeting new people, practicing teamwork, and pushing herself outside her comfort zone. She plans to return next year and is excited to continue growing as a student ambassador and leader. 

Looking ahead, Brook plans to join Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) next year when she reaches 10th grade. She sees it as another chance to build leadership skills, meet new friends, and explore career pathways 

Passions, Personality & Creative Hobbies 

When she’s not studying or practicing sports, Brook enjoys making jewelry, especially bracelets and necklaces, and would love to turn that hobby into a meaningful business. Her favorite subjects in school include English, history, and social sciences, which tie closely to her curiosity about the world and the stories that shape it. 

That love of history and culture also fuels her passion for travel, something she’s already experienced extensively thanks to her family’s military background. Brook has explored several countries and cultures, with unforgettable trips that have shaped her dreams and interests. 

Assorted colorful beaded jewelry pieces, including bracelets and earrings, arranged on a wooden surface.

She visited Munich, Germany, in 2023; her dad served 30 years in the military and was previously stationed in Nuremberg. She loved exploring castles, historical artifacts, and ancient city gates. 

Cathedral

She visited Lanzarote on the Canary Islands in Spain, where she experienced mountain overlooks, horseback riding, volcanic beaches, salt mounds, and crystal-clear water. Her grandfather, a photographer, lives in Spain and inspires her creative side. Brook’s family is lovingly spread across two homes. She visits her dad three times a year in Alabama and enjoys spoiling her cat, Aggy, and dogs, Cooper and Clifford, there. 

Brook plans to graduate from CPA and attend Colorado Christian University, where she hopes to study Marriage and Family Therapy, a career inspired by her experience growing up in a blended family and her desire to help others strengthen their relationships. 

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