Moving to Denver with kids? Understanding the education landscape is key. From top-performing public schools to elite private institutions, Denver offers a wide range of options. Here’s your Denver Schools Guide to public and private options for education.
Top-Ranked Public School Districts in the Denver Metro
Denver and its surrounding suburbs are home to some of Colorado’s highest-performing school districts. Here are five public school districts consistently ranked among the best:
- Cherry Creek School District – Known for academic excellence and extensive extracurriculars.
- Boulder Valley School District – High test scores, diverse programs, and strong STEM focus.
- Douglas County School District – Large district with high graduation rates and competitive sports.
- Littleton Public Schools – Award-winning arts programs and college readiness.
- Denver Public Schools (DPS) – Urban diversity, innovation programs, and school choice model.
Top Private Schools in the Denver Area
Private education in Denver encompasses a range of options, from traditional college-preparatory academies to progressive and faith-based institutions. Notable options include:
- Kent Denver School –Grades 6–12; college-preparatory focus with outstanding arts and athletic programs. Tuition: $35,000+/year.
- Colorado Academy –Independent PK–12 school with a progressive approach, small class sizes, and strong community culture.
- Graland Country Day School –PreK–8th grade; emphasizes leadership, creativity, and hands-on learning.
- St. Mary’s Academy – Co-ed K–8 and all-girls high school; strong Catholic tradition.
- Denver Jewish Day School – Dual-curriculum program that combines strong general education with Jewish studies in a close-knit community.
School Choice in Denver
Denver Public Schools operates under a robust SchoolChoice enrollment system, allowing families to apply for schools citywide rather than being limited to their neighborhood school. Applications typically open in late November, with deadlines in mid-January for fall enrollment. This makes planning your move and housing decisions even more critical.
Resources for Research
- GreatSchools.org – Compare test scores, parent reviews and school ratings.
- Colorado Department of Education – Provides school ratings, accountability reports, and district performance records.
- Individual district websites for boundary maps and enrollment details
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