Denver's Education Landscape

March 19, 2025

Denver's Education Landscapea grey background with a white square and a black square

Denver, Colorado, is a city that's constantly growing, attracting families with its vibrant culture, outdoor activities, and booming job market. Or if you're already a resident, understanding the local school system is crucial. This article provides the full information you need to make informed decisions about your children's education.

Finding the right school can be a major factor in a successful move. We understand that moving is more than just packing boxes; it's about building a new life. That includes knowing where your kids will learn and grow. 

Understanding Denver's School Districts

Denver's school system is organized into several districts, each with its own characteristics and focus. The most prominent district is Denver Public Schools (DPS), but surrounding districts also play a significant role.

  • Denver Public Schools (DPS):
    • DPS is the largest district in Denver, serving a diverse student population.
    • It encompasses a wide range of schools, from traditional neighborhood schools to innovative charter and magnet schools.
    • DPS strives to provide equitable access to quality education for all students.
  • Surrounding Districts:
    • Districts like Cherry Creek, Aurora, and Littleton offer alternative options for families.
    • These districts may appeal to those seeking specific programs or smaller school environments.
    • People considering these districts should consider commute times, and the location of their new home in relation to the school district.

How Denver's School Districts Are Structured

Denver's school districts are structured around a combination of neighborhood-based assignments and school choice programs.

  • Neighborhood Schools: Students are typically assigned to schools based on their residential address.

SchoolChoice: DPS, in particular, utilizes a SchoolChoice system, allowing students to apply to schools outside their neighborhood. This system promotes choice and diversity but can also be competitive.

Denver Public Schools (DPS)

Denver Public Schools (DPS) is the heart of education in Denver, serving a large and diverse student body. 

DPS: A Detailed Look

  • Size and Number of Schools:
    • DPS is a large urban district with over 200 schools, including traditional, charter, and magnet schools.
    • It serves over 90,000 students, making it one of the largest districts in Colorado.
  • Mission and Vision of DPS:
    • DPS aims to provide every child with a quality education that prepares them for success in college, career, and life.
    • The district emphasizes equity, access, and innovation.
  • Types of Schools Within DPS:
    • Traditional Neighborhood Schools: These schools serve students living within specific attendance boundaries.
    • Charter Schools: Publicly funded but independently operated schools with greater flexibility in curriculum and operations.

Private Schools in Denver

For families seeking alternatives to public education, Denver offers a diverse range of private schools. Understanding the private school landscape is an important part of a complete article.

  • Overview of the private school landscape in Denver.
    • Denver's private schools cater to a variety of educational philosophies, religious affiliations, and specialized needs.
    • These schools range from small, specialized institutions to larger, more comprehensive academies.
    • Many private schools offer smaller class sizes and personalized attention.
  • Types of private schools (e.g., religious, secular, Montessori, Waldorf).
    • Religious Schools:
      • These schools are affiliated with a specific religious denomination, such as Catholic, Jewish, or Christian.
      • They often incorporate religious instruction and values into their curriculum.
    • Secular Schools:
      • These schools are not affiliated with any religious organization and focus on academic excellence.
      • They may offer specialized programs, such as STEM or arts education.
    • Montessori Schools:
      • These schools follow the Montessori method of education, which emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and self-directed activity.  

Attractions and Places Must Visit in Denver, CO

Denver is bursting with exciting attractions and delicious dining experiences! Here are some must-visit spots to add to your itinerary, like the Root Down: Farm-to-table dining with creative and delicious dishes in a hip setting. Root Down aims to connect the neighborhood to a dining experience in the same way ingredients

are connected to food. There should be a seamless bond between the elements and experience, which stimulates the senses and draws people in.

Higher Education in Denver

While this blog focuses on K-12 education, it's important to acknowledge the impact of higher education on the overall educational environment in Denver. A strong higher education presence contributes to a city's intellectual and cultural vibrancy, and provides valuable opportunities for lifelong learning. This section provides a brief overview of the higher education landscape.

  • Brief overview of universities and colleges in Denver.
    • Denver is home to a variety of universities and colleges, offering diverse academic programs and opportunities.
    • University of Denver (DU): A private research university known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.
    • Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver): A public university offering affordable and accessible education to a diverse student body.
    • University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver): A public research university located in the heart of downtown Denver.

Embrace Your Peaceful Move to Denver, CO

Navigating can seem daunting, but with the right information and resources, you can make informed decisions that support your child's educational journey. This full guide has provided a detailed look at the various aspects of Denver's school system, from public and private schools to early childhood education and community resources.

However, active involvement in your child's education is crucial for their success. Research schools, visit classrooms, talk to teachers and parents, and utilize the available resources to make the best choice for your child. Whether you're moving to Denver with American Moving & Storage, Your Denver, CO, Movers, We're here to support you on your Moving day, to find the perfect educational fit for your child in Denver.

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