1. Cherry Creek School District 

Rating: A
Total Schools: 70
Students: 52,392

Located in Greenwood Village, the Cherry Creek School District consistently ranks as one of Denvers Best School Districts With a broad range of schools offering diverse educational experiences, it has earned its reputation for excellence. The district serves the suburbs of Greenwood Village and surrounding areas, offering a mix of academic rigor, extracurricular activities, and support for students of all backgrounds. It is particularly known for its strong high school programs and diverse community.

One of the key benefits of relocating to Denver and choosing this district is its wide array of programs aimed at fostering community involvement. Whether your child is interested in sports, arts, or academic clubs, Cherry Creek has something to offer. The district prides itself on preparing students for success, both academically and socially, ensuring that newcomers feel welcomed and integrated into the vibrant school community.

Newcomer Insight: Cherry Creek’s strong academic performance and ample resources make it a great choice for families looking for a well-rounded education in a supportive environment. With a variety of programs, your child will find plenty of opportunities to thrive.

2. Littleton Public Schools

Rating: A
Total Schools: 22
Students: 13,698

Littleton Public Schools, serving Littleton, Colorado, is ranked second among Denvers Best School Districts. Known for its strong arts programs and college preparation, the district offers a well-rounded education. Littleton has earned high marks for its academic rigor and the overall quality of life for students. The district offers a mix of traditional and innovative learning experiences, with a special focus on arts and music.

For families moving to Denver, Littleton’s proximity to downtown Denver makes it an attractive option. The district is recognized for its commitment to fostering a strong sense of community, helping students find their place within the school environment. The International Baccalaureate (IB) programs at its high schools are especially noteworthy, offering an academically challenging curriculum that sets students up for success in college.

Newcomer Insight: Littleton is an ideal district for families who value a balance between strong academics and extracurricular activities. The district’s smaller size ensures personalized attention, making it a great option for newcomers seeking a more intimate school environment.

3. Douglas County School District 

Rating: A-
Total Schools: 88
Students: 62,341

Douglas County School District is one of the largest in the Denver area and provides exceptional education to students from Castle Rock and surrounding towns. The district offers a variety of programs for students with different learning needs, including special education services, advanced placement courses, and leadership development opportunities. Students here also benefit from strong community involvement, which helps create a welcoming environment for newcomers.

One of the unique features of Douglas County is its focus on personalized learning. Teachers in this district are known for their commitment to students’ academic and personal growth, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to succeed. The district also emphasizes communication with families, though some students have noted room for improvement in this area.

Newcomer Insight: With a large but well-supported network of schools, Douglas County is a great option for families looking for a district with a variety of programs and a community-focused approach to education.

4. St. Vrain Valley School District

Rating: A-
Total Schools: 54
Students: 31,894

The St. Vrain Valley School District, located in Longmont, Colorado, holds the fourth position among Denvers Best School Districts and is known for its strong academic programs, including its IB offerings. The district focuses on providing a well-rounded education, with particular attention to preparing students for both college and career paths. The district also emphasizes community involvement, with extracurricular activities, clubs, and events that support students’ growth outside the classroom.

For newcomers, the district’s commitment to academic excellence combined with a focus on student well-being makes it a top choice. The teachers and staff are dedicated to providing students with the resources they need to succeed, making it an ideal place for families looking for a nurturing and academically rigorous environment.

Newcomer Insight: St. Vrain Valley School District offers a welcoming environment for families relocating to Denver, especially those who value international education and a focus on personal growth.

5. Jefferson County School District 

Rating: A-
Total Schools: 162
Students: 75,327

Jefferson County School District, based in Golden, Colorado, ranks fifth among Denvers Best School Districts. The district is known for its broad array of educational programs, including highly rated sports teams, arts programs, and college prep courses. Jefferson County schools also offer a variety of special education programs to meet the needs of all students.

Though large, Jefferson County’s schools maintain a personal approach to education, focusing on individual student success. For newcomers to the area, the diversity of options available for both public and charter schools makes it an appealing choice for families.

Newcomer Insight: With over 75,000 students, Jefferson County’s sheer size offers a wide variety of educational experiences. Whether you’re seeking a specialized academic focus or a diverse extracurricular offering, this district has something for everyone.

6. Adams 12 Five Star Schools

Rating: B+
Total Schools: 55
Students: 35,747

Adams 12 Five Star Schools in Thornton provides a variety of programs designed to support academic excellence, with strong offerings in arts, sports, and career preparation. The district has earned positive reviews for its commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education, although some have suggested that the atmosphere around school spirit and extracurricular activities could be improved.

Newcomers to the area will appreciate the supportive environment and the district’s efforts to provide resources for students, particularly those interested in vocational or technical education. Adams 12 is an excellent choice for families looking for a district with a wide array of educational options, from traditional learning to more hands-on career preparation.

Newcomer Insight: For families seeking a balance between academics and extracurriculars, Adams 12 offers plenty of opportunities for students to grow. It’s a solid choice for newcomers looking to settle in Thornton and surrounding areas.

7. Denver Public Schools

Rating: B
Total Schools: 198
Students: 87,883

As the largest school district in the area, Denver Public Schools (DPS) is the seventh-ranked district among Denvers Best School Districts. The district is diverse and offers a broad range of academic and extracurricular programs. While DPS has received mixed reviews due to safety concerns and administrative issues, many students report positive experiences in individual schools within the district, particularly in terms of academic support and community engagement.

For newcomers moving to Denver, DPS offers numerous educational options across a range of neighborhoods. It’s particularly appealing for families seeking diversity and a wide array of specialized programs, including magnet schools and charter schools.

Newcomer Insight: Denver Public Schools’ sheer size means that there’s a school for nearly every need, from STEM programs to arts and humanities. However, families should research specific schools within the district to find the best fit.

8. Colorado Charter School Institute

Rating: B
Total Schools: 40
Students: 19,239

Rounding out the top eight, the Colorado Charter School Institute, located in Denver, ranks eighth among Denvers Best School Districts. These schools offer unique educational experiences, often with specialized curricula that focus on particular academic fields, including STEM, arts, and language immersion. While smaller than many public school districts, the Charter School Institute is ideal for families looking for an alternative educational model.

For families moving to Denver who are interested in charter education, the Colorado Charter School Institute offers a range of options. These schools are often known for their flexibility and focus on innovation, making them a good choice for students who thrive in non-traditional learning environments.

Newcomer Insight: If you’re relocating to Denver and prefer charter schools, this district offers a variety of educational models that can provide a customized approach to your child’s education.

Finding the Right School District for Your Family in Denver

Choosing the right school district is a key factor when relocating to Denver. Whether you’re looking for academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, or specialized programs, the districts listed here provide top-notch education for students of all ages. From Cherry Creek’s community-centered approach to the innovative programs offered by the Colorado Charter School Institute, these school districts cater to a wide range of needs for newcomers moving to Denver.

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