World Compass Academy
Preparing Students for a Connected World

At World Compass Academy, middle school is viewed as a time when students begin discovering not only what they can learn, but also who they can become. Located in Castle Rock, Colorado, the school has built its approach around academic achievement, meaningful relationships, and preparing students to understand an increasingly connected world.

For Principal Bethany Merkling, one of the most important skills students can develop is global competency. The school believes that students need more than strong academic foundations; they also need the ability to communicate, collaborate, and appreciate perspectives beyond their own experiences.

That belief is reflected in the school’s academic performance. World Compass Academy’s middle school students have achieved strong CMAS results, including percentile rankings of 95 in math, 95 in science, and 92 in reading. However, the school’s vision extends beyond test scores. It focuses on helping students become curious learners who are ready to engage with the world around them.

“Students need to be able to work with people with different backgrounds from all over the world,” says Merkling. “Developing those skills intentionally is something that is very important for us as a school.”

Building Confidence through Connection

Middle school can be a challenging stage for students as they navigate academic expectations, friendships, and personal growth. World Compass Academy has created systems designed to help students feel supported throughout that journey.

The school uses the Second Step social-emotional learning curriculum, which gives students opportunities to develop communication skills, resolve conflicts, and understand how to respond to challenges. Students also participate in the Sources of Strength program, where they take leadership roles in creating projects that improve the school community.

Through these initiatives, students have developed projects focused on kindness, inclusion, and making classmates feel welcome. The school also follows the Capturing Kids Hearts approach, where teachers greet students at the door and work with them to establish classroom expectations built around respect and trust.

World Compass Academy also creates opportunities for students to build relationships naturally. Its free-range lunch structure allows students time to connect with peers and teachers in a less structured environment, helping strengthen the sense of community throughout the school.

Developing Independent Thinkers

A key goal at World Compass Academy is creating students who know how to think, ask questions, and find solutions. Teachers focus on student ownership of learning rather than simply delivering information.

Students engage in activities such as discussions, Socratic seminars, and inquiry-based learning experiences that encourage them to analyze ideas and develop their own understanding. The school’s approach challenges students to become active participants in their education.

The academy also places emphasis on language learning and cultural awareness. Every middle school student studies a language, reflecting the belief that understanding another language helps students build deeper connections with people from different backgrounds.

A Community Built Around Students

Strong partnerships between families, teachers, and students are an important part of World Compass Academy’s culture. The school encourages parent involvement through volunteer opportunities, an open-door policy, and active participation in school activities.

For students who need additional support, the school focuses on meeting them where they are. Merkling shares the example of a student who arrived after struggling in previous school environments. Through mentorship, consistent support, and intentional relationship building, the student was able to return to the classroom successfully and experience both academic and social growth.

Looking ahead, World Compass Academy continues to focus on belonging, critical thinking, and preparing students for future opportunities. The school is also exploring responsible ways to incorporate artificial intelligence into learning while ensuring students develop the skills needed to use technology thoughtfully.

With its focus on academic excellence, global awareness, and a supportive community, World Compass Academy continues to provide students with an education designed for the future. The school has been named as Top Public Middle School for 2026.