Changing Times

During World War I, the school trained soldiers in radio communications and civilians for special mathematics, drafting, tractor and ambulance driving, and gas engine work. New programs continued to be added after the war. They provided valuable assistance to Denver citizens during the depression. The school mobilized for a second time during World War II. Under the government's War Production Board it operated around the clock, training more than 24,000 people for defense work. Separate departments in War Production training, food conservation, and victory gardening were established.

Since then, the school has turned its efforts toward meeting technology demands of the 21st century. The school occupies an entire block in the heart of downtown Denver. It also holds classes at a variety of sites around the city and has an airframe and powerplant program at the Front Range Airport. Currently, over 14,900 students take advantage of classes taught by over 350 instructors. The 350 classes offered day and night, many with an open entry/open exit format, would not be recognized by Miss Emily, but they would please her as they continue her mission. In all, she has touched the lives of over 1,500,000 people through Opportunity School.