DENVER — Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II and his foundation are empowering two Denver high schools through new S.T.E.A.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) rooms.

The process began in Oct. 2023 at The Patrick Surtain II Foundation’s Game Plan Pitch Day, when Title I high schools shared why they should have an “Inspiration Room” installed at their school. George Washington High School and Manuel High School were selected to receive $50,000 grants for the rooms.

“They gave their pitches and their speeches, and everything was pretty innovative. I was very excited to be able to help build a S.T.E.A.M room,” said Surtain.

The rooms offer a creative environment for students to explore and excel. Surtain said his goal is to empower the next generation and provide access and resources to disadvantaged communities.

Richard Butler

The Inspiration Room at George Washington High School is a rejuvenated space complete with new paint, carpet and technology to get kids excited about learning. The school was able to invest in equipment to further its student broadcast.

“Our students needed an opportunity and a space to do the work. We have an incredible robotics team that’s also state qualifiers and have gone on to nationals, as well. It gives them the true space to do their work,” said George Washington HS Principal Dackri Davis.

Richard Butler

Advertisement

Manuel High School is using its Inspiration Room to expand its robotics program.

“I was able to see what you all were working with with the robotics, with the cars. Y’all got some nice toys, some nice tools y’all could use at y’all’s disposal,” said Surtain.

Richard Butler

“A lot of times, students in the middle of the city might not have the same access to what everyone else does, if it’s in Denver or outside. At Manual, we’re so excited that our students have the same as everyone else,” said Manual HS Principal Chris DeRemer.

The Patrick Surtain II Foundation helps to level the playing field for students in financially disadvantaged communities by ensuring they have similar opportunities to their suburban peers. The foundation will host its annual Inspire the Dream Gala on Oct. 11 at The Ritz-Carlton Denver.

After bringing in 10 players for workouts on Monday, the Denver Broncos had another round of tryouts on Tuesday.

Cornerback Micah Abraham had a “strong workout” with the Broncos this morning, according to KPRC-TV’s Aaron Wilson. Denver has not signed Abraham, though, and he’s now set to visit the Houston Texans on Wednesday.

Abraham (5-10, 185 pounds) was picked by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round of this year’s NFL draft out of Marshall. He made a good impression against the Broncos in Week 2 of preseason with a team-high six tackles and one forced fumble that he recovered and returned 45 yards for a score.

The forced fumble and recovery for the touchdown by Micah Abraham was an amazing play but I am impressed by him not allowing the TE to lock his hands on him for the block which allowed him to put himself in position to make the play on the ball. pic.twitter.com/hzIiTK9rZF

— Cody Manning (@CodyTalksNFL) August 12, 2024

Advertisement

Denver also worked out three offensive tackles, according to the Denver Post‘s Parker Gabriel: Tyler Beach, Anim Dankwah and Matt Nelson. Of those tackles, Nelson is the most notable. He spent four years with the Detroit Lions and has made 14 starts in his career.

The Broncos’ 53-man roster and 17-player practice squad are both full, so if any new players are signed, Denver will need to make room for them.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation issued a missing Indigenous person alert for a 15-year-old girl last seen in Lakewood more than a week ago.

Valerie Ayala-Griego was last seen at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 23 in the 6100 block of West 13th Avenue. She also made a phone call at about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 25, but hasn’t been heard from since.

Ayala-Griego is about five-foot-six and 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. The last time anyone saw her, she was wearing a white hooded sweatshirt with “Paris” written on it, light-colored pants and black-and-white shoes.

If you see Ayala-Griego, call 911 or police dispatch, 303-980-7300, and mention case number LK24-027185.

Originally Published: September 3, 2024 at 8:32 a.m.