Missy Franklin Takes Time To Promote Education & The ACE Scholarship Program

DENVER (CBS4) - Olympic gold medalist and Colorado's own Missy Franklin was in Denver spreading the word about the importance of education Tuesday morning.

Franklin dropped by the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Academy on West Dakota Avenue near Alameda Avenue. She told the students about her remarkable experience at the 2012 Summer Games in London and answered questions from students.

Franklin says she realized she'd become a household name when she flew back from the games.

"When I walked into the Dallas airport, when we walked into my gate, everyone at the gate stood up and started clapping," Franklin told the students. "That for me was such a surreal moment."

Growing up in Centennial, Franklin attended Regis Jesuit High School. At the school and a luncheon at noon she promoted the ACE Scholarship Program serving Colorado's low-income families. CBS4's Karen Leigh was on hand for the event and said she was very impressed with Franklin and she's a great role model.