05/28/2026
Through the 1980s, more and more technology was introduced into Longmont schools, and high-tech businesses were thriving in Longmont. In a 1992 Times-Call photo, students enjoyed the new computers in the computer lab at Loma Linda Elementary School, which merged with Heritage Middle School to become Timberline K-8 in 2013.
Technology and innovation continued to be a hallmark of Longmont and our schools. In 2012, the St. Vrain Valley School District was awarded the Race to the Top Grant, providing an additional $16.6 million to implement STEM integration and personalized learning approaches. As part of this grant, the Innovation Center was created, opening in 2018, to provide professional STEM experiences to students through industry partnerships and paid work for students. Today, focus areas at the Innovation Center include aeronautics, artificial intelligence, bioscience, cyber security, game development, video arts, robotics and many more.
You may have seen the work of the students with the Innovation Center of St Vrain Valley School District Drone Performance Team. Beginning in 2024 they have presented original drone light shows as part of the City of Longmont’s July 4 celebrations. Piloted by students, each holding a commercial drone pilot license and following all FAA regulations, their inaugural 15-minute show featured hundreds of drones and was created by students specifically for Longmont’s celebration.
Join us every Thursday for the rest of the year as we celebrate the triple anniversary of Longmont turning 155, Colorado turning 150, and America turning 250. We will share stories and photos on specific monthly themes tied to the history of the city we call home. Next month, we’ll shift our focus to water and how it’s shaped our community.
Visit LongmontColorado.gov/CO150 and check back every Thursday to learn more.
Captions:
Image 1: Students enjoy computer class at Loma Linda Elementary School. Published in the Times-Call on February 2, 1992 (Staff photographer / Longmont Times Call)
Image 2: 2026 Photo of the Saint Vrain Valley School District Innovation Center at 33 Quail Road in Longmont.
Image 3: Students with the Innovation Center of St Vrain Valley School District Drone Performance Team prepare for their 2024 July 4 drone show.
Image 4: Community members enjoy a July 4, 2025 drone performance created by students with the Innovation Center of St Vrain Valley School District Drone Performance Team.