Colorado’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cities make it a prime destination for families looking to relocate, and school districts in Colorado offer an array of educational opportunities for children. With the Mile High City, Denver, as its heart, the state offers an unparalleled quality of life. For families moving to Colorado or relocating to Denver, education is often a top priority. Choosing the right school district can significantly impact a child’s development and overall experience.
Top 20 School Districts in Colorado
To help newcomers make informed decisions, we’ve updated this guide with the top 20 school districts in Colorado for 2024, based on the latest rankings from Niche.com. Each district excels in academics, teacher quality, extracurricular opportunities, and more, ensuring your children receive a world-class education.
1. Cherry Creek School District
Location: Greenwood Village
Highlights: Cherry Creek is one of Colorado’s largest and most prestigious school districts, offering families access to a wide array of educational resources. Known for its strong academic programs, Cherry Creek excels in Advanced Placement courses, STEM initiatives, and arts education. The district places a strong emphasis on preparing students for college and the workforce. Families moving to Denver will appreciate the district’s proximity to the city while still maintaining a suburban feel. Additionally, Cherry Creek offers a robust athletics program and a variety of extracurriculars, ensuring that students have a well-rounded educational experience. With its diverse student body and high college acceptance rates, Cherry Creek is a great option for families who prioritize both academic and social opportunities for their children.
2. Boulder Valley School District
Location: Boulder
Highlights: Boulder Valley School District stands out for its commitment to academic excellence, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. Located in the scenic city of Boulder, this district offers a range of specialized programs, including strong arts, STEM, and environmental education options. The district is also known for its commitment to inclusivity and supporting students with special needs. Families moving to Boulder will appreciate the district’s focus on developing critical thinking skills and preparing students for future success. With a variety of extracurricular activities, including outdoor clubs, music programs, and competitive sports, Boulder Valley ensures that students can pursue their interests both inside and outside the classroom. The city’s progressive culture and access to outdoor activities make this district an ideal choice for families who value education and an active lifestyle.
3. Littleton Public Schools
Location: Littleton
Highlights: Littleton Public Schools is recognized for its outstanding academic programs and commitment to student success. The district boasts a strong reputation for its high-quality K-12 education and offers a wide variety of extracurricular programs in the arts, athletics, and STEM fields. Families moving to Denver will find Littleton to be a desirable suburb, offering a balance of suburban charm with easy access to the city. The district’s focus on providing personalized education, as well as its emphasis on preparing students for college and careers, makes it a great choice for families looking for a high-quality education in a family-friendly community. Additionally, Littleton is home to a number of parks, trails, and recreational facilities, which are ideal for families with active children.
4. St. Vrain Valley School District
Location: Longmont
Highlights: St. Vrain Valley School District serves the vibrant community of Longmont, offering a robust range of educational programs from early childhood to post-secondary preparation. Known for its dedication to academic excellence, the district features a variety of specialized programs, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), arts, and vocational training, providing students with a well-rounded education. Families moving to Colorado will appreciate the district’s commitment to preparing students for college and career success, along with its reputation for engaging students in extracurricular activities, including athletics, fine arts, and leadership opportunities. Longmont itself offers a unique balance of suburban living with easy access to Boulder, making it ideal for those relocating to Colorado in search of a community that prioritizes both education and quality of life.
5. Douglas County School District
Location: Castle Rock
Highlights: Douglas County School District (DCSD) is one of the largest and highest-rated districts in Colorado. Serving families in Castle Rock, Parker, Highlands Ranch, and surrounding areas, DCSD is recognized for its commitment to academic achievement, innovative teaching methods, and a wide array of extracurricular activities. The district offers specialized programs in advanced academics, sports, and the arts, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education tailored to their interests and career aspirations. Families relocating to Colorado who are looking for a district with a strong reputation for academic rigor, college preparation, and a variety of educational options will find DCSD an excellent choice. The district also values community involvement, making it a great environment for families to thrive. With its proximity to both urban and rural areas, DCSD provides a balance of modern amenities and outdoor activities, perfect for those moving to Colorado seeking the best of both worlds.
6. Cheyenne Mountain School District
Location: Colorado Springs
Highlights: Known for its academic rigor, Cheyenne Mountain School District is a top choice for families relocating to Colorado Springs. The district offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses, helping students prepare for higher education. Additionally, it boasts strong athletic programs and a commitment to extracurricular activities, making it an excellent option for families seeking both academic excellence and well-rounded development. For those interested in a suburban lifestyle with easy access to nature, this district provides a blend of city amenities and outdoor activities like hiking in nearby Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Families will also appreciate the tight-knit community, which encourages parental involvement and fosters a safe, supportive environment for children.
7. Aspen School District
Location: Aspen
Highlights: Aspen School District is widely recognized for its strong academic reputation, personalized approach to education, and stunning mountain views. The district is a great fit for families moving to Colorado who want a world-class education for their children while living in a renowned resort town. Aspen’s small class sizes and emphasis on individualized attention create a nurturing environment for students. The district’s arts programs, particularly in music and visual arts, are highly regarded, as is its commitment to preparing students for college and career success. Aspen is ideal for families who value both academics and an active, outdoors-oriented lifestyle, with easy access to skiing, hiking, and other recreational activities.
8. Telluride School District
Location: Telluride
Highlights: For families relocating to Colorado in search of an exceptional school district in a picturesque, mountain town, Telluride School District No. R-1 is an excellent choice. The district is known for its small class sizes, which allow for personalized learning experiences. The district’s focus on environmental education, coupled with its strong academic curriculum, makes it a great fit for families who appreciate an experiential and outdoor-focused education. Beyond the classroom, Telluride provides incredible recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, ensuring that children can enjoy a balance of learning and outdoor adventure. This district is perfect for families looking for a close-knit community and a high quality of life.
9. Steamboat Springs School District
Location: Steamboat Springs
Highlights: Known for its scenic beauty and strong community ties, Steamboat Springs School District offers a small-town feel with big-city academic opportunities. Families relocating to this district will appreciate the district’s emphasis on outdoor education and its close proximity to world-class ski resorts. The district’s strong academic foundation is complemented by its commitment to the arts, music, and extracurricular activities, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. Steamboat Springs itself is a great location for families looking for an active lifestyle with year-round outdoor activities, making this district an ideal choice for those who value both education and adventure.
10. Lewis-Palmer School District 38
Location: Monument
Highlights: Lewis Palmer School District is recognized for its strong academic performance, with high test scores and graduation rates. The district offers a variety of specialized programs, including advanced academic tracks and gifted education. Families moving to Colorado who are looking for a district with a small-town feel and excellent community involvement will find Lewis Palmer an ideal option. With access to both outdoor activities in the nearby Pike National Forest and a variety of cultural and recreational events, Monument provides a family-friendly environment with strong educational options.
11. Poudre School District
Location: Fort Collins
Highlights: Poudre School District is one of the largest in northern Colorado, offering an array of academic programs, including AP and honors courses, as well as a robust selection of extracurricular activities. Families relocating to Colorado will appreciate the district’s focus on preparing students for higher education and their future careers. Poudre’s diverse selection of sports, arts, and community programs ensure that children have ample opportunities to grow both academically and socially. Fort Collins itself is a vibrant college town, with a strong emphasis on the arts and outdoor recreation, making it a great choice for families who want both educational and lifestyle advantages.
12. Academy School District No. 20
Location: Colorado Springs
Highlights: Academy District 20 is known for its academic excellence and commitment to preparing students for college. With numerous AP courses, competitive athletics, and a range of extracurricular activities, the district offers families a comprehensive educational experience. The district also focuses on student leadership and community involvement, making it an attractive option for families relocating to Colorado who want their children to be well-rounded individuals. Located in the heart of Colorado Springs, it offers families easy access to a variety of outdoor activities in the nearby mountains, providing a balanced lifestyle.
13. Ouray School District
Location: Ouray
Highlights: Ouray School District No. R-1 offers a small, close-knit community where personalized education is the priority. Located in the charming town of Ouray, known for its natural beauty and hot springs, this district offers a tight academic community with a focus on individual attention. The district may be small, but it provides strong educational programs and is highly regarded for its student-to-teacher ratio. Families moving to Colorado who are seeking a slower pace and a family-oriented environment will find this district an ideal choice. With outdoor activities like hiking and mining tours available year-round, students benefit from an educational experience that’s enriched by Colorado’s rugged natural beauty.
14. Kiowa County School District No. RE-1
Location: Eads
Highlights: Kiowa County School District, located in the rural town of Eads, offers a tight-knit community and small class sizes that foster individualized learning. Families relocating to Colorado who are looking for a more rural lifestyle with excellent community engagement will find this district welcoming. Despite its rural setting, the district provides a solid curriculum with a particular focus on preparing students for the future with a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Kiowa County is an ideal choice for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful lifestyle while still prioritizing education.
15. Ridgeway School District
Location: Ridgeway
Highlights: Ridgeway School District provides a top-tier education in the picturesque town of Ridgeway, known for its beautiful mountain views and outdoor recreation opportunities. For families moving to Colorado who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle, this district offers an ideal balance between academics and nature. The district is small but highly rated for its commitment to student success, offering both rigorous academics and strong community involvement. Its strong programs in both arts and athletics provide students with plenty of opportunities to develop diverse skills and interests.
16. Arickaree School District No. R-2
Location: Anton
Highlights: Arickaree School District is located in the small, rural town of Anton. Known for its low student-to-teacher ratio, the district focuses on personalized education that ensures each child receives the attention they need to succeed. Families relocating to Colorado in search of a quieter, more rural setting will appreciate the small, close-knit community that Arickaree offers. Despite its small size, the district works hard to provide students with access to high-quality education and extracurricular activities, including competitive sports programs.
17. Hinsdale County School District No. RE-1
Location: Lake City
Highlights: Hinsdale County School District serves the community of Lake City, offering a small, rural educational experience with a focus on individualized learning. Families moving to Colorado who are seeking a more laid-back and rural lifestyle will find this district a great fit. Located in a town that’s surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, this district provides students with opportunities to engage in outdoor learning experiences. The district’s small size allows for a close connection between students, staff, and the community, fostering a supportive learning environment.
18. Edison Joint School District No. 54
Location: Yoder
Highlights: Edison Joint School District offers an exceptional educational experience in the rural town of Yoder, where small class sizes and a family-like atmosphere are the norm. The district is known for its academic achievements and its focus on preparing students for success in high school and beyond. Families relocating to Colorado in search of a more rural environment that emphasizes personalized education will appreciate the unique opportunities this district offers. While Yoder is small, the community is close-knit, and the district supports both academic and extracurricular activities that enrich students’ learning experiences.
19. Revere School District
Location: Ovid
Highlights: The Revere School District, located in Ovid, provides families with an education that is rich in community spirit. The district’s small size allows for personalized attention and strong community involvement, which is ideal for families moving to Colorado seeking a more rural yet tight-knit community. Students at Revere benefit from strong academic programs, as well as a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Ovid is a great place for families looking for a slower-paced lifestyle while prioritizing quality education.
20. Eaton School District
Location: Eaton
Highlights: Eaton School District is highly regarded for its strong academics and commitment to student success. Located in a town that offers both suburban and rural charm, the district boasts an excellent record of preparing students for higher education. Families moving to Colorado will appreciate Eaton’s balance of small-town living with easy access to major cities like Greeley and Fort Collins. The district has strong academic programs, as well as a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs. Eaton is an ideal location for families looking for high-quality education while still enjoying a close-knit community.
Why These Districts Matter to Families Relocating to Colorado
Whether you’re moving to Denver, relocating to Colorado, or seeking the best schools for your children, these districts represent some of the finest educational options in the state. From the bustling suburbs of Greenwood Village and Longmont to the quiet rural communities of Lake City and Yoder, there’s a school district in Colorado for every family. These districts prioritize high academic standards, well-rounded education, and opportunities for all students to thrive.
Colorado is known for its outdoor lifestyle, vibrant communities, and strong educational foundations. The school districts listed above reflect these values, offering exceptional learning environments that will help your children succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
When relocating to Denver or anywhere in Colorado, these districts will provide you with peace of mind knowing that your children will have access to some of the best education available in the state.
Finding the Perfect School District for Your Family’s New Beginning
Choosing the right school district plays a critical role in setting your children up for success. With so many exceptional options in Colorado, families relocating to Denver or moving to Colorado can feel confident knowing their children will thrive in one of these top-rated districts. Whether you’re looking for academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, or a supportive community, this list of 2024’s top districts ensures you’re making an informed choice for your family’s future.
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