Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy: 2025 School Performance Highlights and Continued Growth

Posted February 1, 2026

Dear Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy Parents, Guardians, and Community Leaders,

I hope this message finds you and your families well. I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for the trust, partnership, and commitment you continue to show to the students and mission of Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy. Our school thrives because of a shared belief that every child deserves access to high-quality, relevant learning experiences that prepare them not only for graduation—but for life.

As we kick off Black History Month, it is especially important to pause and reflect on both our progress and our purpose. I am proud to share encouraging news from our 2025 School Performance Framework (SPF), which highlights meaningful growth and momentum across key indicators.

Most notably, Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy earned a 72.5% rating in Academic Growth, placing our school among the highest growth schools in the state. This means our students are growing academically faster than the state and national averages—a direct result of the hard work of our scholars, educators, and support staff, as well as the partnership we share with families. Academic growth is one of the strongest indicators that students are learning, progressing, and being effectively supported.

In addition, our Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness indicator earned a “Meets” rating, reflecting our continued focus on preparing students for success beyond high school—whether through college, career, technical pathways, or workforce opportunities. Our teachers and support teams hold high expectations and work tirelessly to ensure students experience rigor, relevance, and real-world application in their learning.

We also want to be transparent about areas where your partnership is essential. Our current attendance rate is approximately 87%, just three points shy of our school and district goal of 90%. Daily attendance matters. Being present in class directly impacts student learning, achievement, and engagement. We ask for your continued support in helping students arrive on time and ready to learn each day—together, we can reach this goal.

At Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy, we remain deeply committed to cultivating curiosity, innovation, and purpose through science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Beyond academics, we prioritize strong relationships, social-emotional wellness, and a positive school culture where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.

Over the next two weeks, our scholars will have several opportunities to engage with the community and our corporate partners through events, learning experiences, and exposure to real-world pathways. Please be on the lookout for permission slips and additional communication from Mrs. Jackson with details.

Thank you for entrusting us with your children and for standing alongside us as partners in this work. Together, we are building a school community rooted in excellence, equity, and opportunity, preparing scholars who are confident, capable, and ready to lead in a rapidly changing world.

With gratitude and commitment,

Dr. Fernando Branch, Principal
Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy

📄 2025 School Performance Framework Report:
https://cedar2.cde.state.co.us/documents/SPF2025/Informational/0880-2025-1-Year.pdf