30 Best Public High Schools in Colorado: Top Enrollment Programs – Rankings and Admission Guide
Colorado’s public high schools play a vital role in shaping the educational landscape of the state. From rigorous academic programs to innovative learning approaches, these institutions strive to prepare students for future success.
The top 30 public high schools in Colorado stand out for their exceptional academic performance, high graduation rates, and diverse range of specialized programs that cater to various student interests and career paths.
These schools demonstrate excellence through advanced placement offerings, STEM initiatives, and strong college preparation resources.
Here are the 30 best public high schools in Colorado:
1. Fairview High School
Located in Boulder, Fairview High School ranks as one of Colorado’s premier public educational institutions. The school serves approximately 2,300 students across grades 9-12.
Fairview stands out for its rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program and comprehensive Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings. Students can choose from over 25 AP classes and pursue the full IB Diploma.
The school maintains a 94% graduation rate, with 89% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges. Its average SAT score of 1320 consistently ranks among the highest in Colorado.
Fairview’s STEM programs excel through partnerships with local tech companies and the University of Colorado Boulder. The school features modern science labs and a dedicated engineering workshop.
Students participate in over 60 clubs and 23 varsity sports teams. The performing arts department produces award-winning theater productions and maintains nationally recognized band and orchestra programs.
2. Cherry Creek High School
Cherry Creek High School, located in Greenwood Village, ranks among Colorado’s premier public schools. The institution serves approximately 3,700 students from grades 9-12 in the Cherry Creek School District.
The school maintains an impressive 94% graduation rate and boasts strong academic performance, with students consistently scoring above state averages on standardized tests. Its Advanced Placement program offers over 30 courses, with a remarkable 85% AP exam pass rate.
Cherry Creek High School features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and modern athletic complexes. The campus spans 80 acres and includes specialized learning spaces for technology and career education.
Students participate in more than 100 clubs and activities, along with 25 varsity sports teams. The school has earned multiple state championships in various athletic programs and activities.
The school’s college preparation program connects students with top universities across the nation. More than 90% of graduates continue to post-secondary education.
3. D’Evelyn Jr/Sr High School
D’Evelyn Jr/Sr High School stands as a distinguished public school in Jefferson County, located in Denver. The school serves grades 7-12 and maintains a reputation for academic excellence.
The school follows a classical liberal arts curriculum that emphasizes core subjects including mathematics, science, English, and social studies. Students engage in rigorous coursework designed to prepare them for college success.
D’Evelyn consistently ranks among Colorado’s top-performing schools, with high standardized test scores and AP exam pass rates. The school maintains small class sizes and a student-to-teacher ratio of 20:1.
The school offers numerous Advanced Placement courses and encourages all students to participate in challenging academic programs. Students must complete a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum to graduate.
Extracurricular activities include competitive sports teams, music programs, debate club, and various academic competitions. The school’s dedicated teachers and strong parent involvement contribute to its educational success.
4. Peak to Peak Charter School
Peak to Peak Charter School, located in Lafayette, Colorado, serves grades K-12 with a strong focus on college preparation and academic excellence. The school consistently ranks among the top public high schools in the state.
The school maintains small class sizes, averaging 22 students per classroom, enabling personalized attention and enhanced learning opportunities. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses.
Peak to Peak boasts impressive academic achievements, with SAT scores consistently exceeding both state and national averages. The school maintains a 100% graduation rate, with over 95% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges.
Beyond academics, Peak to Peak offers diverse extracurricular activities, including competitive sports teams, music programs, and academic clubs. The school’s debate team and Science Olympiad participants regularly earn state-level recognition.
Students participate in required community service projects, fostering civic responsibility and leadership skills. The school also provides comprehensive college counseling services starting in ninth grade.
5. Boulder High School
Boulder High School stands as a distinguished public institution in Boulder, Colorado, serving grades 9-12 with approximately 2,000 students. The school maintains an impressive 92% graduation rate and consistently ranks among Colorado’s top academic performers.
The school offers 23 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive International Baccalaureate program. Students can choose from diverse pathways including STEM, humanities, and performing arts.
Boulder High’s campus features modern science laboratories, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school’s location near the University of Colorado Boulder creates opportunities for dual enrollment and academic partnerships.
Athletic programs at Boulder High include state-ranked teams in cross country, soccer, and tennis. The school’s debate team regularly achieves state championships and national recognition.
Boulder High maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, enabling personalized attention and strong academic support. The school’s college acceptance rate exceeds 85%, with graduates attending prestigious universities across the nation.
6. Aspen High School
Aspen High School sits in the heart of Colorado’s renowned ski resort town, serving grades 9-12 with approximately 550 students. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, enabling personalized attention and strong academic support.
The school’s rigorous academic program includes 15 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors classes. Students consistently achieve high standardized test scores, with 95% meeting or exceeding state proficiency standards in mathematics and reading.
Aspen High offers unique programs that leverage its mountain location, including an outdoor education program and competitive skiing opportunities. The school partners with local organizations to provide internships and real-world learning experiences.
The campus features modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art performing arts center, well-equipped science laboratories, and a dedicated technology wing. Athletic programs benefit from access to world-class skiing facilities and training resources.
Students participate in various clubs and activities, from robotics to environmental conservation. The school’s college acceptance rate stands at 98%, with graduates attending prestigious universities across the nation.
7. Grandview High School
Located in Aurora, Colorado, Grandview High School serves grades 9-12 in the Cherry Creek School District. The school maintains a student population of approximately 2,800 students and holds a prestigious reputation for academic excellence.
Grandview offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement program with over 25 AP courses. Students consistently achieve high scores on AP exams, with many earning college credits before graduation.
The school’s STEM program provides specialized coursework in engineering, computer science, and biomedical sciences. Students gain hands-on experience through state-of-the-art laboratories and industry partnerships.
Athletic programs at Grandview have earned multiple state championships. The school fields competitive teams in 23 different sports, fostering both individual achievement and team collaboration.
The performing arts department features award-winning theater productions, choir performances, and instrumental music programs. Students regularly participate in state and national competitions, showcasing their artistic talents.
8. East High School
East High School in Denver stands as a cornerstone of academic excellence since 1875. The school serves grades 9-12 and maintains a student population of approximately 2,500 students.
Located near City Park, East High School offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate program and Advanced Placement courses. The school’s academic curriculum emphasizes college preparation and STEM education.
The school boasts a graduation rate of 89% and sends a high percentage of students to prestigious universities. Students can participate in over 50 clubs and organizations, including award-winning speech and debate teams.
East High School’s athletic programs compete at the 5A level, with notable achievements in basketball, track and field, and soccer. The historic clock tower building, completed in 1925, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The school maintains strong community partnerships and offers specialized programs in performing arts, environmental science, and engineering. East High School consistently ranks among Colorado’s top public schools for academic achievement and college readiness.
9. Monarch High School
Monarch High School stands as a distinguished public institution in Louisville, Colorado, serving grades 9-12 in the Boulder Valley School District. The school maintains high academic standards with a graduation rate of 96%.
The Advanced Placement program at Monarch offers 23 different AP courses, enabling students to earn college credits while in high school. Students consistently achieve above-average AP exam scores, with 85% earning passing scores.
The school’s STEM program features robotics labs and advanced computer science courses. Students participate in regional science competitions and technological innovation projects.
Monarch’s athletic programs excel in multiple sports, including soccer, cross country, and swimming. The school has earned several state championships across various sports categories.
The campus includes modern facilities with a performing arts center, dedicated science labs, and updated technology infrastructure. Class sizes average 22 students, promoting individualized attention and engagement.
10. Rock Canyon High School
Rock Canyon High School serves grades 9-12 in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. The school opened its doors in 2003 and operates within the Douglas County School District.
The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. Students have access to more than 20 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors classes.
Rock Canyon maintains high academic standards with a graduation rate above 95%. The school’s average SAT scores consistently exceed both state and national averages.
The school offers comprehensive STEM programs and competitive robotics teams. Students can participate in over 50 clubs and activities ranging from debate to environmental science.
Rock Canyon’s athletic programs compete in Colorado’s 5A classification. The school fields teams in traditional sports like football and basketball, as well as mountain biking and lacrosse.
The student-to-teacher ratio stands at 21:1, allowing for personalized attention. Teachers average 11 years of experience in education.
11. Legend High School
Legend High School in Parker, Colorado, maintains high academic standards with a 96% graduation rate. The school serves approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12 and employs over 100 dedicated educators.
Students at Legend benefit from a comprehensive curriculum featuring Advanced Placement courses, STEM programs, and Career Technical Education pathways. The school offers 25 AP classes and boasts an 85% AP exam pass rate.
Athletic programs at Legend High School include 23 varsity sports teams competing in the Continental League. The school’s facilities feature modern science labs, a performing arts center, and state-of-the-art technology.
Legend High School emphasizes college preparation through its counseling services and college readiness programs. The school maintains partnerships with local colleges and universities to provide concurrent enrollment opportunities.
Students participate in over 40 clubs and organizations, ranging from robotics to student government. These extracurricular activities enhance student engagement and leadership development.
12. Lewis-Palmer High School
Lewis-Palmer High School stands as a distinguished public institution in Monument, Colorado, serving grades 9-12 in the Lewis-Palmer School District 38.
The school maintains a strong academic record with a graduation rate of 97% and an average SAT score of 1230. Its student-to-teacher ratio of 20:1 enables personalized attention and effective learning.
Advanced Placement courses form a cornerstone of the curriculum, with 22 AP classes available to students. The school’s AP exam pass rate reaches 85%, showcasing student achievement in rigorous coursework.
Athletics and extracurricular activities thrive at Lewis-Palmer, featuring 20 varsity sports teams and over 40 student clubs. The school’s Rangers compete successfully in the 4A classification of Colorado High School Activities Association.
The campus features modern facilities, including well-equipped science laboratories, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic facilities. Students benefit from up-to-date technology integration across all subjects.
13. Pine Creek High School
Pine Creek High School in Colorado Springs maintains high academic standards with a graduation rate of 96%. The school serves approximately 1,500 students in grades 9-12.
Advanced Placement participation rates exceed state averages, with students taking AP courses in subjects ranging from calculus to environmental science. The school offers 25 AP classes and has an 85% pass rate on AP exams.
Athletics play a significant role at Pine Creek, with teams competing in 5A classification sports. The school has won multiple state championships in football and track.
Pine Creek’s STEM program emphasizes hands-on learning through robotics competitions and engineering projects. Students can participate in the Project Lead The Way curriculum.
The school’s performing arts department stages several productions yearly and maintains award-winning band and choir programs. Students regularly earn spots in all-state music ensembles.
College readiness indicators show strong performance, with SAT scores averaging 1230, above both state and national averages.
14. Cheyenne Mountain High School
Cheyenne Mountain High School stands in Colorado Springs, offering comprehensive education to grades 9-12. The school maintains a strong academic record with a graduation rate of 95%.
The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. Students have access to 15 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors classes.
With approximately 1,200 students enrolled, the school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 20:1. The teaching staff includes 65 certified educators, with 75% holding advanced degrees.
The school excels in STEM education, offering specialized programs in robotics and computer science. Students consistently perform above state averages in standardized testing, with 87% meeting or exceeding expectations in mathematics.
Athletic programs at Cheyenne Mountain include state-recognized teams in tennis, swimming, and cross country. The school also offers 30+ clubs and activities ranging from debate to environmental science.
15. NiWot High School
NiWot High School, located in NiWot, Colorado, serves approximately 1,200 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a strong academic reputation within the St. Vrain Valley School District.
Students at NiWot benefit from a comprehensive Advanced Placement program offering 15 AP courses. The school boasts an impressive 95% graduation rate and an 85% college acceptance rate among its graduates.
The school features modern science laboratories, a performing arts center, and state-of-the-art technology in classrooms. NiWot’s STEM program has earned recognition for its innovative curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities.
Athletic programs at NiWot include championship-winning teams in cross country, soccer, and tennis. The school also offers diverse extracurricular activities ranging from robotics club to student government.
Teachers at NiWot hold an average of 12 years of experience, with 75% holding advanced degrees. The student-to-teacher ratio stands at 22:1, enabling personalized attention in the classroom.
16. Colorado Springs Charter Academy
Located in central Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs Charter Academy ranks among the state’s top public high schools. The school serves students from grades K-8 with a current enrollment of approximately 500 students.
The academy follows a Core Knowledge curriculum, emphasizing academic excellence through rigorous coursework and character development. Their program integrates classical education principles with modern teaching methods.
Students benefit from small class sizes, averaging 22 students per classroom. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, enabling personalized attention and support.
The academy consistently achieves high standardized test scores, with mathematics and reading proficiency rates exceeding state averages. Their eighth-grade students regularly outperform district averages in academic assessments.
Teachers receive ongoing professional development to stay current with educational best practices. The school offers various enrichment programs, including Spanish language instruction, music education, and competitive sports teams.
17. Ralston Valley High School
Ralston Valley High School, established in 2000, serves students in Arvada, Colorado, as part of the Jefferson County Public Schools district. The school maintains high academic standards with a graduation rate of 95%.
The school offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement program with 23 AP courses, allowing students to earn college credits while in high school. Students consistently perform above state averages in standardized testing.
Ralston Valley’s STEM program provides hands-on experience in robotics, engineering, and computer science. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities include modern science labs and a maker space.
Athletics play a significant role at Ralston Valley, with teams regularly competing at state championships. The school fields 23 varsity sports teams and has won multiple state titles in football and baseball.
The school emphasizes arts education through its music, theater, and visual arts programs. Students can participate in award-winning marching band, choir, and theater productions.
18. Evergreen High School
Evergreen High School stands in the scenic mountain town of Evergreen, serving grades 9-12 in Jefferson County Public Schools. The school maintains high academic standards with a graduation rate of 95%.
The school’s International Baccalaureate program attracts students seeking rigorous college preparation. Students can choose from 15 AP courses and numerous IB classes across multiple subjects.
Evergreen High School’s mountain location influences its unique outdoor education programs. Students participate in environmental science projects and field studies in the surrounding Rocky Mountain ecosystem.
The school’s athletic programs excel in mountain sports, including skiing and rock climbing. Its theater and music departments consistently receive state recognition for their performances.
With approximately 1,100 students, Evergreen maintains small class sizes averaging 23 students. The school employs 65 teachers, with 80% holding advanced degrees in their subject areas.
19. Castle View High School
Castle View High School, located in Castle Rock, serves grades 9-12 in the Douglas County School District. The school opened its doors in 2006 and maintains high academic standards.
The school’s curriculum emphasizes college preparation through Advanced Placement courses and concurrent enrollment options. Students can choose from over 15 AP classes, including sciences, mathematics, and humanities.
Castle View’s STEM program stands out with specialized courses in engineering, computer science, and robotics. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 21:1, promoting individualized attention.
The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. Sports teams compete in the 5A classification of the Colorado High School Activities Association.
Students participate in more than 40 clubs and activities, ranging from competitive academic teams to creative arts groups. The school consistently achieves above-average scores on standardized tests and maintains a graduation rate exceeding 95%.
20. Heritage High School
Heritage High School in Littleton ranks among Colorado’s premier public schools with a student body of approximately 1,650 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a strong academic focus and consistently achieves high standardized test scores.
The campus features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. Students have access to over 20 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors classes.
Heritage offers specialized programs in STEM, business, and visual arts. The school’s graduation rate exceeds 95%, with most graduates continuing to four-year colleges and universities.
Athletic programs at Heritage compete at the 5A level, fielding competitive teams in football, basketball, soccer, and track. The school’s theater and music departments stage multiple performances throughout the year.
Heritage maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 21:1, enabling personalized attention while fostering academic excellence. The school emphasizes college preparation through dedicated counseling services and career planning resources.
21. Dakota Ridge Senior High School
Dakota Ridge Senior High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Littleton, Colorado. The school opened its doors in 1996 and operates within the Jefferson County Public Schools district.
The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. Dakota Ridge maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 21:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.
Students can choose from 15 Advanced Placement courses and several honors classes. The school’s academic program emphasizes STEM education through specialized coursework in engineering, computer science, and robotics.
The Eagles compete in the 5A Jefferson County League across multiple sports. Dakota Ridge also offers diverse extracurricular activities including debate club, theater productions, and student government.
Graduation rates at Dakota Ridge consistently exceed state averages, with 94% of students graduating on time. Many graduates continue their education at top colleges and universities throughout Colorado and beyond.
22. Fossil Ridge High School
Fossil Ridge High School stands as a distinguished educational institution in Fort Collins, Colorado. The school serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 21:1.
The school excels in academic achievement, with students consistently performing above state averages in mathematics and reading proficiency. Advanced Placement participation rates reach 45%, with a notable pass rate of 85%.
Fossil Ridge offers comprehensive STEM programs and maintains state-of-the-art science laboratories. The school’s robotics team regularly competes in regional competitions and has earned multiple awards.
Athletics play a significant role at Fossil Ridge, with the SaberCats competing in 5A classification sports. The school’s music program has earned recognition for excellence, receiving superior ratings at state festivals.
The campus features modern facilities, including a performing arts center and specialized technology labs. Students can choose from over 50 clubs and organizations, fostering leadership and community engagement.
23. Mountain Vista High School
Mountain Vista High School, located in Highlands Ranch, serves grades 9-12 in the Douglas County School District. The school maintains high academic standards with an impressive graduation rate of 98%.
The school offers 25 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive International Baccalaureate program. Students consistently perform above state averages in standardized testing.
Mountain Vista’s STEM program provides specialized coursework in engineering, computer science, and biotechnology. The school features modern science laboratories and a dedicated technology center.
The campus includes state-of-the-art athletic facilities, a performing arts center, and a media center. Students can participate in over 50 clubs and activities.
The school’s student-to-teacher ratio of 21:1 allows for personalized attention. Mountain Vista employs experienced educators, with 85% holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields.
24. Valor Christian High School
Located in Highlands Ranch, Valor Christian High School ranks among Colorado’s premier college preparatory institutions. The private school serves grades 9-12 with approximately 1,100 students enrolled.
The school maintains rigorous academic standards with a 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Students have access to 23 Advanced Placement courses and achieve an average ACT score of 27.
Athletics play a significant role at Valor Christian, with the school winning multiple state championships across various sports. The Eagles compete in CHSAA 5A classification.
The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. Students participate in over 40 clubs and activities ranging from robotics to debate.
Valor Christian boasts a 100% graduation rate, with 98% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges. The school integrates technology through a 1:1 laptop program and digital learning platforms.
25. Regis Jesuit High School
Regis Jesuit High School stands as a prestigious Catholic college preparatory institution in Aurora, Colorado. The school operates with separate divisions for boys and girls while maintaining a shared campus environment.
The school’s academic program features rigorous Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and comprehensive college preparation. Students can choose from over 20 AP classes across multiple subjects.
Athletics play a significant role at Regis Jesuit, with teams competing in the 5A classification of Colorado High School Activities Association. The school has earned numerous state championships in various sports.
The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. Students have access to state-of-the-art technology and learning resources.
Regis Jesuit maintains a strong focus on spiritual development and community service. Students complete service hours each year while participating in retreats and religious education programs.
26. St. Mary’s Academy
St. Mary’s Academy in Englewood stands as a prestigious private Catholic school serving students from kindergarten through grade 12. The high school division maintains selective enrollment standards and consistently achieves strong academic results.
The school’s college preparatory curriculum emphasizes STEM education, with advanced placement courses available in sciences and mathematics. Students benefit from small class sizes averaging 15 students per teacher.
St. Mary’s Academy features modern facilities including science laboratories, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. The school maintains partnerships with local universities for dual enrollment opportunities.
The academy reports a 100% college acceptance rate, with graduates attending top-ranked universities across the United States. Students participate in competitive athletics through the Colorado High School Activities Association.
St. Mary’s Academy requires students to complete service learning hours and offers leadership development programs. The school provides financial aid and merit scholarships to qualified applicants.
27. Vail Mountain School
Vail Mountain School stands as a private college preparatory school in Vail, Colorado, serving students from kindergarten through grade 12. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-to-teacher ratio of 7:1.
The campus spans 11 acres in the heart of Vail Valley, featuring modern facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic fields. Students benefit from the location’s natural environment through outdoor education programs and winter sports activities.
The school’s curriculum emphasizes academic excellence while incorporating experiential learning opportunities. Advanced Placement courses are available in multiple subjects, and students consistently achieve high scores on standardized tests.
Athletics play a significant role at Vail Mountain School, with competitive teams in skiing, soccer, volleyball, and other mountain sports. The school’s ski program takes advantage of its proximity to Vail Mountain.
College placement rates are strong, with graduates attending selective universities across the country. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate among its graduating seniors.
28. Colorado Academy
Colorado Academy, established in 1906, stands as a prestigious private school in Denver offering education from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. While primarily a private institution, it maintains a select public enrollment program for high school students.
The school boasts a 94-acre campus featuring state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced science laboratories, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic fields. Students benefit from small class sizes with a student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1.
The curriculum emphasizes academic excellence through rigorous coursework, including 24 Advanced Placement courses. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate among its graduating seniors.
Colorado Academy’s public enrollment program admits students based on academic merit, extracurricular achievements, and demonstrated leadership potential. The program provides financial aid options for qualified applicants.
Students participate in competitive athletics programs across 23 different sports teams. The school also offers comprehensive visual and performing arts programs, including theater, music, and studio arts.
29. Mullen High School
Mullen High School stands as a prestigious private Catholic college preparatory school in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1931, this institution maintains a strong academic tradition while serving students from diverse backgrounds.
The school offers rigorous college preparatory programs with an emphasis on STEM education and the humanities. Students benefit from advanced placement courses, honors programs, and specialized academic tracks.
Mullen High School boasts a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, enabling personalized attention and mentoring opportunities. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art science laboratories and a performing arts center.
Athletic excellence is a significant part of Mullen’s identity, with numerous state championships across various sports programs. The school also encourages student participation in community service and leadership development activities.
The school maintains high academic standards with a 99% graduation rate, and most graduates continue to four-year colleges and universities. Admission is competitive, requiring entrance exams and interviews.
30. Kent Denver School
Kent Denver School stands as a prestigious private college preparatory school in Englewood, Colorado. The school serves grades 6-12 with a student population of approximately 700 students.
The campus spans 200 acres and features modern facilities including science labs, arts centers, and athletic fields. Students benefit from small class sizes, with an average of 15 students per classroom.
Kent Denver maintains rigorous academic standards with a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses and innovative STEM programs. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate.
The school offers extensive extracurricular activities ranging from competitive sports teams to performing arts programs. Students can participate in over 50 different clubs and organizations.
Kent Denver emphasizes character development and community service alongside academic excellence. The school requires students to complete service learning projects throughout their enrollment.
Enrollment Process and Criteria
Public high schools in Colorado follow specific enrollment procedures and selection criteria to manage their student populations effectively. Most schools operate on a competitive basis with strict academic requirements and documentation needs.
Application Timelines
Applications for Colorado’s top public high schools typically open in November for the following academic year. The first round of applications closes in January, with decisions announced in March.
Many schools use a lottery system for qualified applicants when demand exceeds available spots. Second-round applications run from March to May, subject to space availability.
Key application dates vary by district. Denver Public Schools accept Choice Applications from January 15 to February 15. Jefferson County schools process applications from December 1 to January 15.
Admission Requirements
Most selective public high schools require students to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in core subjects during middle school. Some schools set higher standards of 3.5 or above.
Standardized test scores from state assessments must typically fall in the 75th percentile or higher for math and reading.
Common Academic Prerequisites:
- Advanced math completion through Pre-Algebra
- Strong performance in 8th-grade English
- Satisfactory attendance record (95% or better)
- Clean disciplinary record
Important Documents
Required Application Materials:
- Completed online application form
- Current report card
- Standardized test scores
- Proof of residence within district boundaries
- Birth certificate or valid ID
- Immunization records
Two letters of recommendation from current teachers must accompany applications for STEM and IB programs.
Middle school transcripts need to show grades from 6th through current semester of 8th grade.
Educational Programs and Opportunities
Colorado’s top public high schools offer extensive academic programs, competitive sports teams, and innovative STEM education pathways that prepare students for college and future careers. These schools maintain high academic standards while fostering student growth through diverse learning opportunities.
Advanced Placement and Honors Courses
Colorado’s leading public high schools provide an average of 25-30 AP courses, with some schools offering over 35 options. Popular AP subjects include Calculus BC, Physics C, and English Literature.
Students can enroll in honors-level courses across core subjects starting freshman year. These accelerated classes feature enhanced curriculum depth and faster pacing.
Many schools partner with local universities for dual enrollment, allowing students to earn college credits while still in high school. Common dual enrollment subjects include mathematics, composition, and world languages.
Extracurricular Activities
Most top Colorado high schools sponsor 50+ student clubs and organizations, from academic competition teams to cultural interest groups.
Popular Competition Teams:
- Speech and Debate
- Science Olympiad
- DECA Business Club
- Mock Trial
- Math League
Athletic programs typically include 15-20 varsity sports teams competing in the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) leagues.
Performing arts departments stage multiple theatrical productions yearly and maintain award-winning band, orchestra, and choir programs.
STEM Initiatives
Leading schools feature specialized STEM academies and pathways with advanced coursework in computer science, engineering, and biotechnology.
Common STEM Programs:
- Robotics and AI Labs
- Engineering Design Studios
- Research Partnerships with Tech Companies
- Scientific Research Methods Courses
- Coding and App Development Classes
Many schools maintain modern STEM facilities with 3D printers, CNC machines, and professional-grade laboratory equipment.
Student research opportunities include science fair competitions, internships with local tech firms, and mentorship programs with industry professionals.
