Defined in Colorado
Defined connects classrooms to careers through deeper learning. Our vision is to transform learning environments where every student discovers their potential through authentic learning experiences that bridge education and future success. Explore how the Defined ecosystem aligns with and supports career-connected deeper learning in Colorado!
Alignment with Colorado Standards
Defined's content aligns with the Colorado Academic Standards (CAS) and the state's Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) by helping bridge classroom content with authentic career applications, enabling students to develop and transfer knowledge while building essential future-ready skills.
In addition, Defined supports statewide initiatives helping districts guide students in exploring careers, setting goals, and tracking readiness for college, career, and life. Our comprehensive ecosystem of career-connected deeper learning resources also empowers schools to advance locally defined Portraits of a Graduate through high-quality content and assessments aligned to Colorado's priorities.
Career-Connected Learning
Defined’s comprehensive career-connected learning platform supports the implementation of Colorado's ICAP, Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR), and CTE Programs of Study as well as the state’s vision for college and career readiness. Our ecosystem empowers schools and districts to deepen career exploration, foster student engagement, and align instruction with Colorado’s in-demand industry sectors.
Defined features hands-on, minds-on projects that span all CTE pathways, immersing students in authentic industry scenarios that build real-world skills and foster deeper learning. Students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills while gaining exposure to career opportunities empowering them to make informed choices about college, career, and life after high school. Defined also supports districts in meeting locally established Portrait of a Graduate competencies equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to make informed decisions about their futures — whether entering the workforce, pursuing postsecondary education, or both.
Computer Science & STEM
From artificial intelligence to sustainable technologies, Colorado's growing innovative economy demands strong computer science and STEM skills. Defined helps educators prepare K–12 students for these high-demand, high-growth fields through career-connected deeper learning experiences that bridge academic concepts with real-world applications.
Defined’s engaging projects support the implementation of Colorado's Academic Standards for Mathematics and Science and STEM Pathways. Our content engages students in meaningful exploration of computer science and STEM fields including computing, engineering, scientific practices, and more. Defined empowers students to think critically, solve complex problems, and imagine their place in the future workforce.
By integrating career awareness and technical skills development into computer science and STEM instruction, Defined helps schools and districts meet Colorado’s goals for equity, access, and workforce readiness.
Notable Partnerships in Colorado
Computer Programmer: App Designer
Backpack Designer
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Veterinary Assistant
Wildlife Biologist: Bats
Students step into the role of a wildlife biologist studying bats. Acting as an expert, students explore the important role bats play in the environment while working to dispel common myths about these fascinating and beneficial creatures. Students will also explain how bats use echolocation to navigate and survive. Their ultimate goal: to get the public excited about welcoming bats into the neighborhood!
Biomedical Engineers
Food Truck Entrepreneur
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Game Designer
Webinar: Leading to Create a PBL Culture
In this webinar, educators and administrators from across the country, including Ellie Foust, the Dean of Instruction at Denver Public Schools in Colorado, cover topics related to students, teachers, leaders, parents, and the community as they relate to and affect the creation of a PBL culture. Our presenters discuss success stories on implementing and maintaining a supportive PBL culture in their schools or districts and how you can do the same. View the Webinar >
Interested in learning more about how Defined can support Colorado's goals and initiatives?
Ready to see how Defined can transform education in your school or district? Request a demo with Colorado's designated partnerships representative today and witness how our platform bridges classroom learning with future success.
