January 26, 2023 • Golden, Colorado

The governing board for Ascent Classical Academy Charter Schools unanimously approved and appointed a head of school for a campus opening in the 27J school district (Brighton/Thornton/Commerce City) during its regular board meeting on Tuesday, January 24, 2023.  

Dr. Thomas Tacoma will serve as the inaugural headmaster for Ascent Classical Academy of 27J. He joined the Ascent Classical network last year as a headmaster fellow, training and teaching in Windsor, Colorado, at Ascent Classical Academy of Northern Colorado.

“I’m excited to work with the families and students of 27J,” said Tacoma. “While we have a lot of work to establish our school in the coming months and years, the joy of working in education is seeing the success and benefits that our school can provide.” 

Dr. Tacoma holds a Ph.D. in politics from Hillsdale College’s Graduate School of Statesmanship and most recently worked as an assistant professor of history and government at a liberal arts college in Mississippi. 

“Over the last several months, our team has been fortunate to work alongside Dr. Tacoma as part of Ascent’s classical school leader fellowship,” said Derec Shuler, executive director of Ascent Classical Academies. “As an experienced educator, he is well equipped to serve 27J families in providing a high-quality classical education preparing students for life.”

Ascent Classical Academy of 27J will open this fall, serving grades K-6 and adding additional grades in the coming years until reaching K-12 matriculation. The school is licensed to use Hillsdale College’s K-12 curriculum which emphasizes math, science, literature, and history, with attention to music, art, physical education, and foreign languages. Ascent’s program offers students a content-rich and rigorous academic program, preparing students to flourish in life. 

To learn more about Ascent’s tuition-free classical education, find an upcoming information session, and apply online, visit 27j.ascentclassical.org.