As students return to Outdoor Lab this year, those heading to Mt. Blue Sky will meet an exciting new addition to the team. We're delighted to introduce Ms. Paschke as the new principal! Ms. Paschke brings a wealth of experience in enriching student experiences, having served as a dedicated teacher at Dennison Elementary, D'Evelyn Jr.-Sr. High and also as an Assistant Principal at Conifer High. We had the opportunity to chat with Ms. Paschke and learn more about her background and vision for the future of Outdoor Lab at Mt. Blue Sky. 

Q: To start us off on the right foot, what animal best represents your teaching style?

A: Hummingbird. I love to be in the action of teaching and learning! I wish that I was more like a hummingbird and could travel the beautiful Mt. Blue Sky site as fast and gracefully as them. 

Q: What drew you to outdoor education, and why did you want to become the principal of Mt. Blue Sky? 

A: When I was a younger, I attended Girl Scout camp each summer but also participated in a similar program to Outdoor Lab in Colorado Springs called High Trails. I was able to experience outdoor education as a 6th grader and then as a high school leader. I love that outdoor education pushes learners out of their comfort zones to build confidence. There is no better place to be than the great outdoors!

Q: Can you describe a moment you've had exploring the Mt. Blue Sky Campus that's made you smile?

A: I just love it when I hear kids laughing, singing, and just being kids. One of my highlights from the summer was seeing a moose near Jackson Pond!!! The wildlife here never ceases to amaze me.

Q: What excites you most about the future of Outdoor Lab, and what are you hoping to achieve in the coming years? 

A: It is so amazing that Jeffco Public Schools had the foresight to invest in two beautiful campuses almost 70 years ago. I truly feel that it is my duty to ensure that this legacy continues on into the future. I hope to create lifelong memories for all that visit and that our students are able to apply our mission of stewardship into their lives. 

Q: How do you hope students describe Outdoor Lab when they reflect on their time as a student here?

A: I hope that their week at Outdoor Lab is something they cherish forever. I hope that students share with their families and loved ones the lessons they've learned here. I also hope that they are in awe of Colorado's beauty!

Since 1957 the Outdoor Lab Program has provided life-changing, experiential learning experiences for Jeffco students. We're thrilled to welcome Ms. Paschke as she joins the legacy of principals who have stewarded this exceptional program fostering growth, curiosity, and lifelong memories for our youth!