Deciding where your children will attend school when you're planning a move is a big decision. Because Colorado is an open enrollment state, you can elect to enroll your children in the assigned neighborhood school or "tuition in" to another public school either in or outside of your district at no cost to the family. Families in Colorado can also look into other schools for their children - outside of traditional public schools like public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, homeschooling, and learning pods.
When it comes to your child's education, here is a list of key things to consider when deciding what's the best choice for you and your family.
1. What is important to you about the school your child attends?
Consider these: test scores, level of teacher education, educational offerings, classroom/IEP support, extracurricular opportunities, before and after-school childcare, and more.
2. Look at the neighborhood school in your area.
Go to the school's website and the district's website and do some research. Investigate students' academic skills, curriculum, and programs to see if there is continued growth by looking at the Colorado Growth Model data. How much improvement has the school made in the last 3-5 years? Meet with the principal or offer to volunteer for a few days to learn more and get a sense of the school's community. Spending time in a school tells you much more about the school than data on a spreadsheet.
3. Is your neighborhood changing?
Are young families moving there? Would you be willing to work with your neighbors and raise money for the school's professional development, resources, or additional teachers? Good schools improve property values, and it takes little time for a school with a committed staff and parent community to make significant contributions to a school.
4. What do you do next if your neighborhood school is not the right fit for your child?
In Colorado, you can choose any school in the state regardless of where you live. However, most schools give priority to students within the same school district. There are many charter schools, magnet programs, special interest schools, and special programs within available schools. Every school in Denver is different, and the districts have put together some excellent resources to help families decide what's the best fit for them.
5. Confirm the right school environment for your kid.
If your child needs a little more support than a traditional school can offer, talk to someone in the district about specific programs for children with special learning needs. Spend some time in the classrooms and meet the school's special education teachers. Consider touring some charter, magnet, or private schools that might be a better fit for your kiddos. Colorado has so many school options; take your time and make a thoughtful, informed decision.
6. Double-check district enrollment requirements.
Each school district has specific requirements for choice enrollment. Look at the district website to find out more information.
Finding the right school environment for your child can be challenging and frustrating. If you need help navigating the process, there are consultants like those at Front Range Education Consulting dedicated to helping families navigate the school system and find the right academic atmosphere for their child to thrive in. These are just a few tips to help with your decision, but you can talk with an agent today to get the inside scoop on the schools in neighborhoods you are interested in.
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