Aspen Center for Environmental Studies has served students and teachers of the Roaring Fork Valley since 1975. Ecological concepts form the foundation of ACES’ schools programs that blend scientific inquiry with hands-on exploration and creative expression. The lessons are designed to impart a more sophisticated level of comprehension of physical and life sciences as well as contribute to the meeting of Colorado Academic Standards. Beyond content, curriculum is designed to provide students with an opportunity to build critical thinking skills, analyze environmental issues and engage in problem solving.
ACES' experienced education staff make 45,000 student contacts, teach over 2000 in-school class lessons, and provide over 350 field trips each school year to pre-school through high school students. ACES supports over 40 schools within Pitkin, Garfield and Eagle counties.
ACES School Programs have received many awards and recognition including:
North American Association for Environmental Education award for Most Outstanding Local Environmental Education Organization
Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education k-12 Education Partnership Award
Colorado Department of Education recognized ACES work in the Aspen Elementary School as a model program
Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education Agriculture Award for Rock Bottom Ranch educational program