From IST to Pathways: Building on a Legacy of Innovation at Overland

For more than a decade, the Institute of Science and Technology (IST) at Overland High School gave students opportunities to explore fields like aviation, robotics, engineering, and technology through hands-on learning. As Cherry Creek Schools prepares to open Cherry Creek Pathways at Overland in August 2026, the transition marks both the end of an important chapter and the beginning of a new one focused on innovation, opportunity, and student success.

Since opening in 2011, IST became known for its interactive learning spaces and career-focused experiences that encouraged students to explore future pathways. Former Assistant Principal John Madden recalled the excitement surrounding IST’s opening.

“It was a great concept, new in the ideas of Career and Tech Ed,” Madden said. “Words that come to mind are innovative, groundbreaking, and first of its kind.”

The building itself reflected that spirit of creativity, with design features celebrating science, innovation, and exploration. Featuring unique design details including a sundial, the Fibonacci Plaza, Prime Number Plaza, and lines of latitude and longitude embedded into the floors. It was built with an innovative cooling system capable of producing ice at night to help cool the facility during the following day. Perhaps the most notable feature of IST was its timeline of scientists — walls throughout the building that highlighted scientists, mathematicians, and technologists, many of which were signed by notable figures such as Jane Goodall, Ben Carson, and Leland Melvin.

These details are what made IST truly one of a kind, and the care and vision poured into the building did not go unnoticed. Students and staff say IST changed the culture at Overland by creating engaging opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.

“When the IST opened, that changed a lot,” Overland Computer Science teacher Kate McDonnell said. “Students were excited to go to Overland so they could take classes in the IST.”

 “It felt like a significant upgrade to our entire educational experience,” said 2015 graduate Austin Conway. “Having access to high-level resources made learning feel fresh and exciting.”

For some in the community, the transition from IST to Pathways at Overland brings both excitement and sadness. To educators and staff members who helped build IST from the beginning, the building represented far more than a physical space. It reflected years of work, vision, and dedication to creating opportunities for students.

Social Studies teacher Kelly Jones-Wagy said she hopes the new Pathways facility continues the sense of community and opportunity that IST created for students.

“It was supposed to support all the students at Overland and promote a sense of belonging and achievement for everyone,” Jones-Wagy said. “I hope that that becomes the role that Pathways takes on.”

Overland math teacher Lara Monroe says the success of Pathways at Overland will come from building strong, consistent connections with students over time. Like the IST, Pathways has the opportunity to create a foundation of relationships that encourages students to explore new opportunities, engage in school, and inspire excitement throughout the Overland community.

As Cherry Creek Schools moves forward with Pathways at Overland, the goal is not to replace what existed before, but to build upon it. Supported by the 2024 bond, the former IST building was transformed into Cherry Creek Pathways at Overland, a new college and career readiness facility. Excitement is building within the community around a newly designed space serving the northern side of the district.

“I think it is a fantastic evolution,” Conway said. “Seeing it evolve into the Pathways model is the logical next step.”

Overland Principal Sybil Booker also shared her enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead.

“I’m very excited at the opportunity to re-imagine and design the space with state-of-the-art CTE programming that was selected with the input and support of students and the community.”

As Pathways at Overland prepares to open, educators remain focused on programs and experiences for students while continuing the spirit that made IST meaningful.

“This building was created on the promise to provide desired post-secondary pathways for the Overland community, and that’s what we will do,” said Pathways Assistant Principal Cary Reed.

When the new facility opens, it will continue Cherry Creek Schools’ commitment to helping students explore their interests, discover future careers, and prepare for success.