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Schools in Aurora: What Parents Need to Know — Aurora, CO

Everything you need to know about schools in aurora: what parents need to know — practical, honest guidance for families considering Aurora.

Schools in Aurora: What Parents Need to Know

Aurora, Colorado is a city that spans multiple school districts, each offering a variety of educational opportunities. Whether you're moving to Aurora or considering a change within the city, understanding the school landscape is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the different school districts, school quality, and educational programs available.

School Districts Serving Aurora

Aurora is served by three primary school districts:

1. Aurora Public Schools (APS)

2. Cherry Creek School District (CCSD)

3. Adams-Arapahoe 28J School District

Each district covers different parts of the city and provides a unique set of educational offerings.

Aurora Public Schools (APS)

APS serves a significant portion of Aurora and includes neighborhoods like Alamo Placita, Sandown, and the Curtis-Champa Streets Historic District. The district operates 63 schools, including 25 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, and 7 high schools. APS is known for its diverse student body and offers programs such as International Baccalaureate (IB) and STEM.

Cherry Creek School District (CCSD)

The Cherry Creek School District is known for its high-performing schools and serves the southeastern part of Aurora. Neighborhoods like Glenarm Place Historic District and Swallow Hill Historic District fall under CCSD. The district includes 42 elementary, 11 middle, and 8 high schools, with a strong emphasis on college preparatory programs.

Adams-Arapahoe 28J School District

This district covers parts of northern Aurora and includes neighborhoods like San Rafael Historic District and Sherman Street Historic District. It offers 55 schools, including a mix of elementary, middle, and high schools. The district is committed to providing a wide range of educational opportunities and extracurricular activities.

School Quality Overview

Elementary Schools

Elementary schools in Aurora vary in quality depending on the district and neighborhood. APS offers several schools with specialized programs, such as the Gifted and Talented program at Tollgate Elementary School. CCSD's elementary schools, such as Cherry Hills Village Elementary, consistently rank high in state assessments.

Middle Schools

Aurora's middle schools provide a bridge to high school with robust academic and extracurricular programs. Aurora Hills Middle School in APS offers a unique STEM curriculum, while Prairie Middle School in CCSD is known for its strong arts program.

High Schools

High schools in Aurora are diverse, with options catering to different academic interests and career paths. Rangeview High School in APS offers an IB program, while Grandview High School in CCSD is renowned for its athletics and Advanced Placement courses.

Charter and Choice Options

Aurora offers several charter schools that provide alternative educational approaches. Aurora Academy Charter School and Global Village Academy are popular choices for parents seeking a different educational environment. Additionally, open enrollment policies in APS and CCSD allow parents to apply to schools outside their designated neighborhood, though availability can be limited.

Special Programs

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Several schools in Aurora offer IB programs, providing a rigorous international education framework. Rangeview High School and Hinkley High School, both in APS, offer the IB Diploma Programme.

STEM

STEM programs are a focus in Aurora, with schools like Aurora Science & Tech Middle School offering specialized curricula in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Gifted and Talented

APS provides a district-wide Gifted and Talented program, with services available at multiple schools, including Tollgate Elementary and Aurora Quest K-8.

Private School Options

Aurora also hosts a variety of private schools, catering to different educational philosophies and religious backgrounds. Regis Jesuit High School is a well-known private institution offering a faith-based education, while Montessori del Mundo provides a bilingual Montessori curriculum.

How School Enrollment Works

Enrollment processes in Aurora vary by district. APS requires parents to register online and submit necessary documentation, while CCSD allows for both online and in-person enrollment. It's important to check individual school requirements, as some may have additional steps for specialized programs.

Neighborhoods and School Feeds

Understanding which neighborhoods feed into which schools is crucial for making informed decisions. For example, families in Alamo Placita are typically zoned for Aurora Central High School, while those in Swallow Hill Historic District attend Overland High School in CCSD.

Is Aurora Right for You?

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For more detailed information about Aurora, visit our [Aurora City Guide](/co/aurora).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best school district in Aurora?

The Cherry Creek School District is often rated the highest due to its academic performance and college preparatory programs.

2. How can I enroll my child in a different school outside our neighborhood?

Both APS and CCSD offer open enrollment, but availability is limited and based on space.

3. Are there any schools in Aurora offering bilingual education?

Yes, Global Village Academy offers bilingual education in several languages.

4. What private school options are available in Aurora?

Regis Jesuit High School and Montessori del Mundo are notable private schools in the area.

5. How do I find out which school my neighborhood feeds into?

Check the district maps on the APS and CCSD websites for detailed boundary information.

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