Awards & Recognition
CIVA’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, and innovative education has been recognized at the state, district, and national levels. These awards reflect the dedication of our teachers, staff, students, and families.
CIVA recognized as one of the "Best High Schools" by U.S. News & World
“Best of the Springs” 4 years running!
Honoring Exceptional Teachers
Students and families have expressed deep appreciation for CIVA teachers by nominating and voting for them in the Gazette’s Best of series.
Gazette’s Best of High School Teacher
2022 – Haley Wolfe, Winner
2023 – Sean Dineen, 2nd Place
2024 – Krasi Daskalov, 2nd Place
2025 – Keith Benson, Winner
2026 – Our prognostications imply Rachel Van Scoy will also earn this award
Best Places to Work Recognition
CIVA was recognized at the Gazette’s Gala as the 6th Best Place to Work in Colorado Springs, among hundreds of organizations considered. This recognition reflects the strong culture at CIVA and the way our staff consistently care for and support one another. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such an exceptional team each day.
Colorado Department of Education Recognition
The Colorado Department of Education featured CIVA in its documentary series, Stories of Promising Practices. This series highlights schools and districts that have implemented innovative strategies to improve student outcomes, developed exemplary practices, and validated results through data and other verifiable demonstrations of student performance.
Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award
CIVA earned the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award in 2016, 2017, and 2019.
The Art and Soul of Education
The Quantum Learning Network focuses on increasing student achievement through teacher effectiveness. Quantum’s model is based on brain-based research and a pedagogy designed to maximize student learning.
CIVA staff members have received ongoing training through Quantum Learning, and in the fall of 2010, CIVA became a certified Quantum Learning School, making CIVA the only school in Colorado to specialize in this pedagogy.
A Proven Educational Approach
Since the onset of its partnership with Quantum Learning, CIVA has seen demonstrable growth in student achievement and positive peer culture.
Today, CIVA uses academic achievement principles gleaned from the Hyde School and the Quantum Learning Network to better serve three main categories of students:
Students seeking to be well prepared for collegiate success
Students who seek an education in the arts
Students who desire to develop their character in a safe and supportive environment
Our focus on empowering and equipping teachers with the Quantum Learning pedagogy has resulted in outstanding achievements for our students.