Schools in Denver: What Parents Need to Know
Navigating the school landscape in Denver, Colorado, can feel daunting for parents. With multiple school districts, a variety of charter and private schools, and an array of specialized programs, there's plenty to consider when determining the best educational path for your child. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the schooling options available in Denver, focusing on district boundaries, school performance, and enrollment processes.
School Districts Serving Denver
Denver is primarily served by the Denver Public Schools (DPS) district, which covers the majority of the city. However, parts of Denver, particularly those near the outskirts, fall under other school districts. Below is an overview of the main districts:
- Denver Public Schools (DPS): The largest district in the area, DPS serves neighborhoods such as Wellshire, Platt Park, and Lincoln Park.
- Cherry Creek School District: Covers parts of southeast Denver, including some areas near the Wellshire neighborhood.
- Jefferson County Public Schools: Encompasses parts of western Denver, including areas like Marston and Fort Logan.
- Adams-Arapahoe 28J School District (Aurora Public Schools): Serves portions of northeast Denver.
Elementary, Middle, and High School Overview
Elementary Schools
Elementary schools in Denver vary significantly in performance and offerings. DPS elementary schools such as South Park Hill Elementary and Lincoln Elementary are highly regarded, with strong academic performance and active parent-teacher associations. In contrast, some schools in the outskirts may have varied performance metrics.
Middle Schools
Well-performing middle schools within DPS include Morey Middle School and Hill Campus of Arts & Sciences. These schools offer robust academic programs and extracurricular activities. For those residing in areas served by the Cherry Creek School District, schools like Campus Middle School are noted for their high academic standards.
High Schools
East High School, known for its historic architecture and strong academic programs, is one of the top-rated high schools in DPS. Other notable high schools include South High School and George Washington High School, the latter offering an International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Charter and School Choice Options
Denver offers numerous charter schools, which are part of the public school system but operate independently. Some popular charter schools include:
- Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST): Known for its focus on STEM education, DSST has several campuses throughout the city.
- Rocky Mountain Prep: Offers a rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on character development.
Denver's school choice system allows parents to select schools outside their assigned neighborhood school. This process involves submitting a SchoolChoice form, typically due in February for the following school year.
Special Programs and Gifted Education
International Baccalaureate (IB) Programs
Several Denver schools offer IB programs, designed to prepare students for global citizenship and higher education. George Washington High School is a prominent IB school within DPS.
STEM Programs
STEM-focused education is a priority in many Denver schools, with specialized programs available at institutions like DSST and Denver West High School, which provides a comprehensive STEM curriculum.
Gifted and Talented Programs
DPS offers gifted and talented programs at various schools, including Ebert Elementary and Hamilton Middle School, where students can engage in accelerated learning opportunities.
Private School Options
For families considering private education, Denver has a range of options:
- Kent Denver School: A prestigious independent school offering a college-preparatory curriculum.
- Colorado Academy: Known for its strong academics and arts programs.
- St. Mary's Academy: Offers a Catholic education with a focus on community service and leadership.
School Enrollment Process
Enrollment in Denver schools generally begins with the SchoolChoice application for DPS, which allows parents to rank their preferred schools. For those in other districts like Cherry Creek or Jefferson County, enrollment processes may vary slightly but typically involve proof of residency and student records.
Neighborhoods and School Feeds
Understanding which schools your neighborhood feeds into can help in planning. Here's a quick overview:
- Wellshire: Primarily served by Slavens K-8 and South High School.
- Platt Park: Feeds into McKinley-Thatcher Elementary and South High School.
- Marston: Served by Grant Ranch K-8 and John F. Kennedy High School.
Is Denver Right for You?
Best for:
- Families seeking diverse schooling options, including public, charter, and private schools.
- Parents interested in specialized programs like IB and STEM.
- Those looking for a city with a strong school choice system.
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a smaller school district with less complexity.
- You seek a rural or suburban education setting.
- Access to specific private schools is a priority, and they are located outside Denver.
For more insights into living in Denver, visit our [Denver City Guide](/co/denver).
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the SchoolChoice process work in Denver?
The SchoolChoice process allows parents to select preferred schools for their children. Parents submit a ranked list of schools, and placements are made based on availability and priorities.
Are there good public high schools in Denver?
Yes, schools like East High School and George Washington High School offer strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
What are some top private schools in Denver?
Kent Denver School, Colorado Academy, and St. Mary's Academy are among the top private schools in Denver, offering comprehensive educational programs.
Can I enroll my child in a school outside my neighborhood?
Yes, through the SchoolChoice process, you can apply for schools outside your designated neighborhood school.
What are the options for gifted students in Denver?
DPS offers gifted and talented programs at various schools, providing accelerated learning opportunities for eligible students.
Explore more:
- [Living in Denver: A Neighborhood Guide](/co/denver/guides/living-in-denver)
- [Cost of Living in Denver](/co/denver/guides/cost-of-living)
- [Things to Do with Kids in Denver](/co/denver/guides/things-to-do-with-kids)
- [Denver Public Transportation Guide](/co/denver/guides/public-transportation)