Denver Academy's History

Denver Academy has been housed at the former Bethesda campus since 2000, but Denver Academy was formed in 1973. A timeline follows, or learn more by reading the attached PDF file.

Denver Academy Timeline

1972: Denver Educational Clinic tutoring service is founded by Dr. Paul Knott.

1973: Denver Educational Clinic is expanded to become a school, Denver Academy, and moves from a storefront location to an Episcopal Church. The school opens with 36 students, 5 teachers, 1 secretary, and Headmaster Knott.

1974: Denver Academy moves to the “Little Red Schoolhouse” at 320 South Sherman Street, leasing the former St. Francis de Sales High School.

1979: Denver Academy moves to the former St. Francis de Sales Elementary School at 235 South Sherman Street and enrollment grows to more than 100 students.

1984: Denver Academy purchases Myrtle Hill/Washington Park Elementary building at 1101 South Race Street. This was the first time a Denver Public School facility was purchased by a private school.

1985: Denver Academy enrollment grows to over 200 students.

1987: Denver Academy begins a construction/renovation project. A larger gymnasium, library, science lab, greenhouse, art room, and main office are all made possible through this project.

1988: Denver Academy is accredited by the Association of Colorado Independent Schools.

1992: Jim Loan becomes Headmaster.

1996: Denver Academy enrollment grows to over 300 students and Denver Academy earns accreditation from the National Association of Independent Schools.

1999-2000: Denver Academy purchases Bethesda campus and administrative staff moves to Bethesda.

2001: Denver Academy students and teachers move to Bethesda campus.

2002: Denver Academy enrollment grows to over 425 students.

2004: Richardson Hall is built.

2008: Jim Loan retires as Headmaster after 36 years at Denver Academy (and 26 years as Headmaster); Kevin Smith becomes Headmaster.

2013-14: Mark Twarogowski becomes Headmaster of Denver Academy.

Denver Academy's library at 1101 South Race Street

Denver Academy's library at 1101 South Race Street