DENVER METRO - On December 6, 2024, Governor Polis visited Rocky Mountain Prep Westwood to see the exemplary work coming from students in Colorado and to highlight the importance of skills based learning to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and future careers. 

“In Colorado, we are working to make sure our students gain the necessary skills to succeed in their careers and strengthen Colorado’s economy. I am excited to be at Rocky Mountain Prep Westwood today to visit with students and teachers who work everyday to achieve excellence,” said Governor Polis. 

As chair of the National Governors Association, Governor Polis launched “Let’s Get Ready: Educating All Americans For Success” an initiative focused on ensuring that students gain the skills needed to succeed in the classroom and beyond, building strong workforces and economies. 

Governor Polis also joined a renaming ceremony to honor Kendrick Castillo, who lost his life in the 2019 STEM School shooting protecting his classmates. The ceremony renamed the intersection at Plaza Drive and Lucent Blvd in Highlands Ranch as Kendrick Castillo Way. 

“The new Kendrick Castillo Way is a reminder for all who travel on this route of Kendrick’s life and his heroic legacy. Kendrick was a hero taken far too soon, and this street name, along with the monument underway for Highlands Ranch’s Civic Green Park, are part of our lasting commitment to honor his memory and carry on the legacy of his bravery. His bravery will never be forgotten,” said Governor Polis. 

Later in the day, Governor Polis will meet with members of Las Mamas de Piloto, at Celebracion de Comunidad y Salud, to celebrate and bring awareness to healthy foods in schools and the work to help provide healthier and more cultural food options. 

“Proper nutrition is important for a student’s success, it provides mental clarity, emotional well-being and the energy needed to thrive throughout the day. Thank you to the community members working hard to provide Colorado students with locally sourced lunch options that helps our agricultural economy and our students succeed,” said Governor Polis.