One year after launching its work in Colorado, Blueprint is already helping charter schools move from planning to construction, laying the groundwork for permanent learning spaces that will serve more than 1,500 students across the state.
Blueprint entered Colorado in January 2025 to address a persistent challenge in the charter sector: securing high-quality, financially sustainable facilities that support long-term growth. Across the state, many schools still rely on temporary or leased spaces while navigating rising real estate and construction costs, making access to permanent facilities a defining factor in whether they can grow.
In its first year, Blueprint has partnered with four public charter schools to help move long-term solutions forward, each shaped by its community’s needs.
Supporting Schools Across Colorado
In Aurora, Lotus School for Excellence is constructing a new 31,000-square-foot building designed to improve campus safety, strengthen circulation, and expand capacity for students and families.
In Fort Collins, Academy for Arts and Knowledge is renovating its second floor to add 12 new classrooms, along with a commercial kitchen to better support students throughout the school day.
In Colorado Springs, Colorado International Language Academy is transforming a 38,000-square-foot commercial office building into a school through a full interior renovation, paired with reimagined outdoor space for play and recreation.
In Fairplay, High Rockies Community School (working in partnership with Mountain Area Land Trust) is renovating an existing barn into a multi-use Education Center that will serve both students and the broader community.
Meeting a Growing Need
These projects reflect a broader reality: facilities remain one of the most significant barriers to charter school growth. Even as demand for high-quality public school options continues to rise, many schools lack access to permanent spaces that support stability, long-term planning, and strong student outcomes.
Blueprint’s work in Colorado is grounded in a simple idea: facilities shouldn’t limit a school’s ability to serve families. By working closely with school leaders and community partners, Blueprint helps align real estate solutions with each school’s model, enrollment, and long-term plans.
Building with Partners
This first year of work has been made possible through collaboration with school leaders, philanthropy, and local partners. Blueprint’s efforts in Colorado have been supported by the Gates Family Foundation, The Anschutz Foundation, and Colorado Schools Fund.
Looking Ahead
One year in, the need—and the opportunity—remain significant. With enrollment growing in many communities, access to permanent facilities will continue to shape how schools expand.
Blueprint’s first year offers an early look at what’s possible when long-term thinking and strong partnerships come together. By helping schools move beyond temporary spaces and into permanent homes, this work is creating more stability for schools and better outcomes for students across Colorado.
