Schools That Work

Ralston Elementary School

Public, Suburban
Grades K-6
Golden, CO

Ralston Elementary, a public K-6 school in Golden, Colorado, works to create 21st-century learners who know how to problem solve, and who will persevere not only in school but throughout life. The schoolwide practices of inquiry-based learning, departmentalization, and integration allow students to deep dive into content, take charge of their own learning, and apply what they learn across subjects.

  • 2013 National Blue Ribbon School
  • Top 8% of Colorado schools, ongoing winner of the John Irwin Award of Excellence
  • Excellent ranking on state TCAP test scores since 2003
  • Integrated Studies

    Departmentalization and Integration: Deeper Learning for Elementary Students

    See how Ralston Elementary teachers combine two subjects in one lesson, giving their students a deeper understanding of the content and its applied interconnectivity.
  • Inquiry-Based Learning

    Inquiry-Based Learning: From Teacher-Guided to Student-Driven

    Ralston Elementary School is creating a culture of inquiry to nourish 21st-century learners.
  • Integrated Studies

    Integrating Subjects in Elementary School

    Visit an elementary school where some teachers specialize in teaching math and science together, and others language arts and social studies.
    Emelina Minero
  • Inquiry-Based Learning

    Giving Students the Opportunity to Drive Lessons

    Using inquiry-based learning gives students a chance to make their learning more relevant to their lives.

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