Board spotlights Early College Academy, counselor and Colorado Teacher of the Year

Greeley Evans School District 6’s board on Oct. 13 used its superintendent’s honor roll to recognize Early College Academy’s recent national ranking and to honor district staff who received statewide awards.

Superintendent Dr. Michael Pilch said Early College Academy — which opened 10 years ago in partnership with Aims Community College — earned high national and metro area rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025–26 best high schools list. Pilch cited the school’s graduation rate and an average SAT score of 1,084 in the past spring as major contributors. Principal Bill Fern told the board ECA had 76 graduates in 2025, 62 of whom completed associate of arts degrees and three more who finished over the summer; he said about 85% of that graduating class earned two years of college credit.

The board also recognized Claudia Kessler, a counselor at Greeley Central High School, who was named Colorado High School Counselor of the Year by the Colorado School Counselor Association; Kessler accepted a certificate and thanked colleagues, administrators and families for their support. The meeting included an on‑screen celebration of Steven Paulson, a Greeley Central teacher who was named Colorado Teacher of the Year; Dr. Pilch said Paulson will return in November for a formal board recognition. Education Commissioner Susanna Cordova attended the meeting and praised Paulson’s work.

Board members and community speakers lauded the honorees. Pilch and others credited the district’s partnership with Aims Community College for Early College Academy’s dual‑enrollment model. Board members said they will offer a more formal celebration for Paulson in November and thanked staff for the work that led to the statewide recognitions.