Littleton Public Schools (LPS) is proud to announce a new partnership with Colorado Mesa University (CMU) that will create a direct admission pipeline for LPS students, expanding access to higher education opportunities and helping students confidently plan for their futures.

Through a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), CMU will grant guaranteed admission and scholarship opportunities to LPS juniors making satisfactory academic progress (defined as a 3.2 weighted or unweighted GPA). In addition, LPS seniors with a 3.0–3.19 cumulative GPA will receive guaranteed full admission, while students with GPAs below 3.0 will receive guaranteed full admission or admission with specialized support. Eligible students will receive formal guaranteed admission letters from CMU.

As part of the agreement, application fees will be automatically waived for all LPS students applying to CMU. Students who submit their applications and required documentation by November 1 will receive an admissions decision by mid-November.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment between LPS and CMU to support college readiness, remove barriers to higher education, and provide students with clear, accessible post-secondary pathways. The collaboration goes beyond admissions, providing dedicated CMU admissions staff for in-person high school visits, application workshops, targeted campus visits, financial aid guidance, and ongoing retention support to ensure LPS graduates thrive throughout their college journey.

To formally launch the partnership, LPS and CMU hosted a signing ceremony on October 20, featuring LPS Superintendent Dr. Todd Lambert and Dr. Montoya, CMU Senior Vice President for Student Services. High school students interested in attending CMU were invited to attend to celebrate the new initiative.

“This partnership is an exciting opportunity for our students and families,” said Dr. Lambert. “We want every student to graduate with clear opportunities for their future, and this agreement with Colorado Mesa University creates another meaningful pathway for students to pursue their goals with confidence. We are grateful for CMU’s collaboration and commitment to supporting LPS students beyond graduation.”

The direct admission agreement aligns with the district’s ongoing efforts to provide students with future-ready experiences and real-world opportunities through strong community and higher education partnerships.

"We're pleased to partner with Littleton Public Schools to offer guaranteed admission for their students,” said John Marshall, President of CMU. “Making this partnership announcement during CMU's Free Application Week is just another example of breaking down barriers that may hold students back from pursuing higher education. At CMU, we want students to know that they can find opportunities here at an affordable cost."