James Irwin Charter Schools is a network of five charter schools in Colorado Springs, Colorado named after the late Apollo 15 Astronaut James Benson Irwin. Founded in 2000, it has 3 campuses and nearly 2,000 students. The mission of James Irwin Charter Schools is to help guide students in the development of their character and academic potential through academically rigorous, content-rich educational programs. Our K-12 schools (James Irwin Charter High School, James Irwin Middle School, James Irwin Charter Elementary School and James Irwin Charter Academy) have been recognized nationally, statewide and locally for academic excellence and achievement. Beginning with our academic “College Kindergarten” and culminating in our rigorous, college-preparatory high school, the schools’ mission and passion are to provide the highest quality education while developing the character of its students. James Irwin Charter Schools opened its fifth school, Power Technical Early College in the fall of 2016. This grades 6-14 vocational school is for students interested in construction or manufacturing. Through a partnership with Pikes Peak Community College, El Paso County School District 49, the Housing and Building Association and multiple manufacturers, Power Technical Early College will pay for its students to earn an Associate’s Degree in a skilled trade.