Aspen Academy provides scholars with a well-rounded, Core Knowledge-based education that honors the intellectual, cultural, and social aspects of each scholar.
We seek to ensure our scholars experience growth, academic rigor, success, and well-being with the support of our engaged and involved Aspen community.
Tenacity
Persistence, determination, perseverance, resilience, endurance
High Expectations
Achievement, accomplishment, belief, goals
Integrity
Character, morals, fairness, turstworthiness, honesty
Notable Accountability
Responsibility, leadership, role model, taking ownsership
Kindness
Respect, tolerance, helpfulness, concern for others
Important News
2026/2027 School Calendar
We released the 2026/2027 school calendar for your viewing! You can view it here!
Spring Break 2026
Spring Break ’26 is coming soon! We will be having break from March 30th-April 3rd!
End of Quarter 2
The end of Quarter 2 will be on March 26th! There will be no school March 27th!
26/27 School Year
2026/2027 Enrollment Open Now Open!
Fine Arts Night
Fine Arts Night will be on May 7th at 6:30pm!
Last Day of School!
June 2nd is the final day of the 2025-2026 school year.
Frequently Asked Question
Awards
Minnesota School of Excellence (2025–26)
Aspen Academy has officially been named a 2025–26 Minnesota School of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA).
This prestigious recognition honors schools that complete a rigorous 1–2 year process of reflection, peer review, and continuous improvement. Aspen was recognized for its:
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Rigorous academics connected to real-world learning
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Strong family and community partnerships
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Robust enrichment in the arts, STEM, and more
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Culture of collaboration, innovation, and continual growth
“Receiving the School of Excellence Award is a validation for our teachers, learners, and community—demonstrating that we continue to learn, grow, and do better,” shared Mrs. Melanie Jiskra, Aspen’s K–8 Director at time.
National Blue Ribbon School (2019)
Aspen Academy is proud to be a 2019 National Blue Ribbon School—the highest national honor awarded to schools for exemplary academics and outstanding student achievement.
About Aspen Academy
About Aspen Academy
Founded in 2008, Aspen Academy began its journey in Savage, Minnesota serving students in grades K–3 in a rented facility. As the school community grew, Aspen Academy reached an important milestone in 2012 with the opening of its permanent home on Zinran Avenue. Continued growth and commitment to excellence led to a building expansion in 2017, enhancing learning spaces for students and staff.
Today, Aspen Academy is supported by more than 100 dedicated employees, including over 75 licensed educators, as well as a committed support staff and building staff who ensure a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment. Aspen Academy has established itself as an award-winning school recognized for academic excellence and student success. Looking ahead, Aspen Academy is proud to be approaching a major milestone – celebrating 20 years of educating and inspiring learners in 2028.
Community Partnerships
At Aspen Academy, we believe that strong partnerships with families are essential to student success. We value open communication and actively seek family voices, knowing that collaboration between home and school creates the best outcomes for students. Families are not just part of our community, they are valued partners in their child’s education.
Our active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) plays an important role in building connections and supporting school initiatives. Families are encouraged to get involved through a variety of volunteer opportunities, special events, and classroom support. Signature experiences such as our Festival of Nations and I Love to Read Month celebrate diversity, learning, and the unique cultures and traditions within our school community.
Aspen Academy is committed to listening, partnering, and growing alongside our families. Together, we create a welcoming, inclusive environment where students are supported, celebrated, and empowered to succeed.
Distinctions
U.S. News & World Report (2022)
- Best Elementary School
- Best Middle School
Niche.com Rankings
- #2 Best Public Middle School Teachers in Minnesota (2022)
- #1 in the Twin Cities
- #2 Best Public Elementary Teachers in Minnesota (2022)
- #1 in the Twin Cities
- Best Elementary School in Scott County
- 2020, 2021, 2022
Innovation & Leadership Awards
- 2021 EdTech School Leader Trendsetter Finalist
- 2021 STEM Innovation Award
State of Minnesota Commendations
- Badge of Excellence in Reading
- Badge of Excellence in Attendance
- Designated a High Quality Charter School
Why a Charter School?
At Aspen Academy, choosing a charter school means choosing flexibility, community, and personalized learning within a tuition-free public education. As an independent public charter school and its own district, District 4184, Aspen Academy has the ability to make decisions locally, always with students and families at the center.
Our smaller class sizes allow teachers to truly know each student, build strong relationships, and provide individualized instruction. This close-knit environment fosters confidence, engagement, and academic growth. The charter model also allows for an adjustable curriculum, giving educators the flexibility to respond to student needs, enrich learning, and innovate in ways that support every learner.
Aspen Academy’s charter structure supports high academic expectations while remaining responsive, student-focused, and community-driven. This balance creates an educational experience where students thrive, families feel connected, and educators are empowered to do their best work.
Our School Board
Aspen Academy is guided by an active and engaged Board of Directors who serve as stewards of the school’s mission, vision, and long-term success. As a public charter school and independent district, District 4184, the board plays a key role in governance, policy development, and strategic planning, ensuring Aspen remains true to its core values and continues to meet the needs of students and families.
Our board is made up of community members and school families who bring diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to educational excellence. Members contribute their time, expertise, and personal experience with Aspen Academy to help guide decision-making that supports academic rigor, fiscal responsibility, and a positive school culture.
Regular board meetings are open to the public, and meeting agendas, minutes, and board resources are accessible to families and community members. This transparency fosters trust and encourages community involvement in the governance of our school.
The Aspen Academy Board of Directors plays an integral role in ensuring that our school continues to thrive academically, socially, and operationally as we serve students across our community.
Fast Facts!
School Day:
9:00 a.m. – 3:55 p.m.
Drop-off: 8:35 – 8:55 a.m. | Pick-up: 3:55 – 4:15 p.m.
Transportation & Care:
Free bussing in the Prior Lake–Savage zone; additional bussing options for nearby districts.
Eagles Nest before and after care (7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.) ensures families have flexible support.
Uniforms:
Uniforms at Aspen Academy help students focus on learning, while fostering pride and community.