Nestled in the foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains lies a small town that time seems to have forgotten. Gold Hill, with a population of just 220, spans the divide between the 21st century and the 19th century’s Gold Rush. Colorful, wooden cabins line the town’s dirt Main Street, and at the northwest corner stands Colorado’s oldest school: the Gold Hill School, the most unique of Boulder Valley School District’s public schools. Since its founding in 1873, the children of Gold Hill and surrounding canyon communities have benefitted from generations of passionate educators inspired by the majestic mountain environment.

The school employs two classroom teachers: Johanna Morrison, who teaches kindergarten through second grade, and Christine Maedke, who teaches third through fifth grades. Though small, with just two rooms, the Gold Hill School is a place where BIG things happen. The school’s goal is to provide engaging, hands-on learning opportunities through project-based learning while upholding high academic standards and a rigorous course of study that meets the needs of each student. Every child’s unique social, emotional, and academic needs are nurtured, helping them grow into individuals who not only love themselves and others but also develop a lifelong love of learning.

The Gold Hill School is a truly unique treasure in today’s world. While the Industrial Revolution ushered in a factory approach to education, the Gold Hill School has remained steadfast in its commitment to what is best for children. Here, students’ natural curiosity is encouraged, and each individual is valued. For over 150 years, the Gold Hill School has remained a small, shining gem in the mountains. Every morning, the school bell rings across the valley, signaling that school is in session, and that the traditions of community, authenticity, and integrity will be passed down to another generation of mountain children.