CA's REDI Lab Summer Academy is a program for youth in Denver who are interested in building community, following a passion, and creating value through sharing ideas.

The Summer Academy is a two-week entrepreneurial camp and idea incubator for current high school students in the Denver area. 
REDI—Research, Entrepreneurship, Design, and Inquiry—uses design thinking and a proprietary process to offer up to 14 students per session the opportunity to grow as problem solvers who are then better prepared for college, careers, and life.

REDI Lab is an authentic and hands-on learning experience in any discipline you choose because you get to chose the project on which you will work. You get to enjoy the freedom to explore and learn at your own pace and to find new passions, explore new ideas, and execute a project.

REDI Lab transforms education into a personalized learning journey that is creative, rigorous, and relevant while building community, following passions and interests, and creating value through sharing their ideas.

Students will leave the two-week academy with:
  • new skills and confidence
  • a unique and personalized letter of recommendation for post-high school needs
  • a professionally produced video of their final presentation
  • access to a community and network of supporters to help in
    future endeavors
For more information:
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REDI Lab Summer Academy is made possible through the generosity of Aimee and Jonathan Coleman.

Learn more about REDI Lab Summer Academy

Now accepting applications for the 2023 REDI Lab Summer Academy. Please read below for more details on our exciting pilot program for Denver high school Juniors and Seniors.

List of 10 frequently asked questions.

  • WHY should I participate in REDI Lab Summer Academy?

    The REDI Lab @ CA transforms education into a personalized learning journey that is creative, rigorous, and relevant. 

    We believe that all people are curious, especially youth, and, when given a process and structure to explore their interests and what motivates them, individual learning excels.
  • WHERE is REDI Lab Summer Academy?

    Sessions will be held in the new REDI Lab Coleman Center in the Mariposa neighborhood at 1299 W. 10th Ave., near the 10th and Osage Light Rail Station.

    Travel to and from the REDI Lab space varies per student and should be coordinated with REDI Lab Director Tom Thorpe.
  • WHEN is REDI Lab Summer Academy?

    In 2023, the REDI Lab Summer Academy will hold one two-week program. The session runs July 10-21.  

    Schedules are flexible and students can join remotely if needed.
  • What is the COST for the program?

    The cost of the two-week program is $1,500 ($2,000 if you need/want an iPad). For students who request it and qualify, the REDI Lab Summer Academy is offered at a reduced cost or for free.

    All meals, supplies, and RTD transportation are included in the tuition.
  • Will there be TRANSPORTATION provided?

    Travel to and from the REDI Lab space varies per student and should be coordinated with REDI Lab Director Tom Thorpe. Email Tom at tom.thorpe@coloradoacademy.org with questions.
  • WHO can apply for REDI Lab Summer Academy?

    The program is offered to students currently in Grades 9, 10, and 11 from ANY SCHOOL in the Denver Metro Area. 

    Participants will be chosen from an applicant pool. The REDI Lab faculty will read the applications, interview applicants and recommenders, and carefully choose the participants for this pilot program. 
  • HOW do I apply?

    Thank you for your interest in applying for the REDI Lab Summer Academy. Applications should be submitted online.

    To apply, please complete the REDI Lab @ CA Summer Academy Application Form. Once submitted, a form will be emailed to a teacher, coach, advisor, or school counselor who will proved a referral. An email will also be sent to the primary parent or guardian. Remember:
    • Complete all required information.
    • Once you hit 'submit' an email will be sent to a parent/guardian and a teacher to complete a recommendation.
    The REDI Lab faculty will read the applications, interview applicants and recommenders, and carefully choose the participants for this pilot program. 

    Registration is now open and will remain open until June 9, 2023.

  • What is the application DEADLINE?

    Registration is now open and will remain open until Monday, July 3, 2023.
  • How will students SHARE their work?

    Students will think big and bold as they identify the questions they want to research on their way to choosing a project and designing a final presentation of the one idea worth sharing. Final presentation dates and locations will be shared soon.
  • Whom do I CONTACT with questions?

    For more information, please contact Tom Thorpe, Director of the REDI Lab @ CA.

REDI Lab News




REDI Lab Faculty

List of 3 items.

  • Tom Thorpe

    Director of REDI Lab
    303-986-1501 x2722
    View Bio
  • Martha Smith

    Upper School Science
    View Bio
  • Amanda Zranchev

    Upper School Science
    View Bio
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