Relocating to Denver? Choosing the right school for your children is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when settling into a new community. Denver offers an impressive array of private school options, from rigorous college preparatory institutions to specialized learning environments that cater to different educational philosophies and family needs.
This comprehensive guide covers Denver’s best private schools, including tuition costs, academic programs, grade levels, and neighborhood locations to help you make an informed decision for your family.
Overview of Denver’s Private School Landscape
Denver’s private school sector serves over 18,500 students across 106 schools. The average tuition for Denver private schools is $15,923 annually, slightly higher than the Colorado state average of $14,564. This variation reflects the quality of education, school facilities, and specialized programs available throughout the metropolitan area.
For families relocating to Denver, understanding the distinct neighborhoods and their associated schools is essential. From the upscale Cherry Creek area to the family-friendly southeast suburbs, each region offers unique school options tailored to different educational needs and values.
Top-Tier College Preparatory Schools
Colorado Academy
Colorado Academy stands as one of Denver’s premier independent, coeducational day schools, serving students from Pre-K through Grade 12. Located in an accessible Denver neighborhood, the school enrolls approximately 965 students with an impressive 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Key Features:
– 100% college acceptance rate for graduates
– Comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum
– Advanced Placement and honors courses available
– Full-day Pre-K through advanced high school programs
– Strong emphasis on arts, athletics, and community service
Colorado Academy is consistently recognized for its academic excellence and offers a well-rounded education that balances rigorous academics with extracurricular involvement.
Kent Denver School
Ranked as the #1 best private high school in the Denver Area by Niche, Kent Denver serves grades 6-12 and is located in Englewood, providing easy access for families throughout the greater Denver metropolitan area.
Key Features:
– Annual tuition: $41,190
– Grades 6-12 college preparatory program
– Rigorous academic curriculum with engaging teaching staff
– Wide variety of clubs and extracurricular activities
– Welcoming, supportive community environment
– Average student review: 4.4 stars from 144 Niche users
Kent Denver is known for its excellent food program, engaged faculty, and students consistently gain admission to competitive four-year universities. The school’s location in Englewood makes it convenient for families across Denver’s metro area.
Denver Academy
Denver Academy provides a specialized college preparatory environment designed for students who learn differently. The school serves grades 6-12 with an individualized approach to education.
Key Features:
– Specialized curriculum for diverse learners
– College preparatory focus
– Smaller class sizes with personalized attention
– Located in central Denver for convenient access
– Strong college placement record
Denver Academy is ideal for families seeking a more personalized educational experience with specialized support for different learning styles.
Regis Jesuit and Catholic Education
Regis Jesuit High School
Regis Jesuit is one of Colorado’s most selective Catholic college preparatory schools, serving grades 9-12. The school maintains one of the highest academic standards in the state with impressive college placement results.
Key Features:
– Selective admission process
– Rigorous Jesuit college preparatory curriculum
– Strong STEM and humanities programs
– Active athletic programs
– Located in Aurora area
– Graduates attend top universities nationwide
St. Mary’s Academy
St. Mary’s Academy serves grades 6-12 and offers a Catholic education emphasizing values, academics, and leadership development for young women.
Key Features:
– All-girls college preparatory school
– Catholic educational foundation
– Leadership and service-oriented programs
– Strong college placement
– Accessible location within Denver metro
Independent and Specialized Schools
Holy Family High School
Holy Family High School is a selective Catholic co-educational college preparatory school that consistently places graduates into competitive universities. Recent graduates have matriculated to Princeton, Northwestern, Vanderbilt, Wake Forest, and Washington University, among many others.
Key Features:
– Co-educational high school serving grades 9-12
– Rigorous college preparatory curriculum
– Strong athletics and extracurricular programs
– Catholic values and character development
– Excellent college placement record
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School serves grades Pre-K through 8, offering a progressive independent school education with an emphasis on character development, critical thinking, and community responsibility.
Key Features:
– Pre-K through 8th grade
– Progressive independent school model
– Low student-to-teacher ratios
– Emphasis on critical thinking and social-emotional learning
– Located in a convenient Denver neighborhood
Denver Jewish Day School
Denver Jewish Day School serves students K-12 with an education that integrates Jewish values and culture with rigorous academics. Graduates have gained admission to top universities including Cornell, Dartmouth, Emory, Georgetown, and Stanford.
Key Features:
– Integrated Jewish and secular curriculum
– Grades K-12
– College preparatory focus
– Strong emphasis on community and values
– Excellent college placement
Tuition and Cost Considerations
Understanding the cost structure of Denver private schools is essential for family planning. Tuition varies significantly based on grade level and school type:
High School Tuition Range: $12,784 to $41,190+ annually
Elementary School Tuition Range: Varies, with averages around $12,784
Preschool/Pre-K Options: Available at many institutions
Kent Denver’s $41,190 annual tuition represents the higher end for elite preparatory schools, while other quality options may range from $15,000-$30,000 annually. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and payment plans to support families.
Neighborhood Context and School Locations
Cherry Creek and Central Denver
Colorado Academy and several other top schools are conveniently located in central Denver neighborhoods, making them accessible to families throughout the metro area. These locations offer proximity to shopping, dining, and cultural amenities.
South Denver and Englewood
Kent Denver’s Englewood location serves families throughout south Denver and surrounding suburbs. This area is known for excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods with good access to major highways.
Aurora and Southeast Metro
Regis Jesuit in the Aurora area serves families in southeast Denver and the growing Aurora community. This region offers newer neighborhoods with modern amenities and strong school options.
Specialty Schools and Alternative Learning Models
While not traditional college prep, Denver also offers:
Montessori Schools: Multiple Montessori options provide child-centered learning environments
Project-Based Learning: Some schools emphasize hands-on, project-based curricula
Arts-Focused Programs: Several schools offer enhanced arts integration
STEM-Emphasis Schools: Technology and science-focused options for interested students
Application and Admission Timeline
Most Denver private schools follow similar admission timelines:
- Fall: Schools announce admission information
- November-January: Application submission period
- January-February: Campus visits and interviews
- March-April: Admission decisions
- May: Enrollment deposits and confirmations
Making Your Decision: Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating Denver private schools for your family, consider:
- Academic Philosophy: College preparatory, progressive, specialized learning
- Religious or Values-Based: Catholic, Jewish, secular options available
- Grade Span: Pre-K through 12, or specific grades
- Location: Proximity to home and workplace
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Budget and scholarship availability
- Extracurricular Options: Athletics, arts, clubs, and activities
- School Culture: Community, diversity, values alignment
- Special Programs: STEM, arts, language immersion, or specialized curriculum
Visiting schools, attending open houses, and connecting with current families provides invaluable insights into school culture and educational approach.
Why Choose Private Schools in Denver?
Denver’s private schools offer distinct advantages for families seeking alternatives to traditional public education. With smaller class sizes, individualized attention, and specialized curriculum options, private schools provide educational approaches that may better suit your child’s learning style and developmental needs.
Many Denver private schools emphasize character development alongside academics, with values-based curricula that support the whole child. Students benefit from strong community connections, engaged parents, and faculty members who are passionate about their educational mission.
The diverse range of private schools means families can find an institution that aligns with their specific values, whether seeking a rigorous academic environment, progressive learning methods, religious education, or specialized support for different learning needs.
School Visits and Application Process
Visiting potential schools is an essential part of your decision-making process. During campus visits, you’ll observe classroom instruction, interact with students and faculty, and get a genuine feel for the school’s culture and community.
Prepare questions about curriculum philosophy, teacher qualifications, college placement records, and how the school supports students with different learning styles. Ask about class sizes, the availability of extracurricular activities, and financial aid opportunities.
Most Denver private schools welcome prospective family visits and offer dedicated information sessions. Many schools host virtual tours or webinars for families unable to visit in person. Taking advantage of these opportunities helps you make an informed decision that best serves your family’s needs.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
While private school tuition represents a significant investment, many Denver schools offer financial aid packages and scholarships to qualifying families. Colorado Academy, Kent Denver, and other top schools maintain commitment to socioeconomic diversity and make efforts to ensure qualified students can attend regardless of financial circumstances.
Investigate each school’s financial aid process, scholarship opportunities, and payment plan options. Some schools offer merit-based scholarships for academic achievement or talent in specific areas, while others provide need-based aid. Understanding these options helps you evaluate the true cost of private education.
Don’t assume your family won’t qualify for aid. Many schools encourage families to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit school-specific financial aid applications. Schools often have more flexibility than families realize regarding financial support.
Transition Support and New Family Resources
Moving to Denver and enrolling children in a new school involves significant transitions. Top private schools recognize this and typically offer transition support programs for new students.
Many schools provide orientation activities, buddy systems pairing new students with current students, and specialized programs for younger children adjusting to new school environments. Faculty and staff understand that transitions require time and patience, and they work proactively to help new families integrate into the school community.
Connect with parent associations, volunteer opportunities, and social events early in your child’s enrollment. Building relationships within the school community accelerates your family’s integration and helps children develop friendships and connections.
Denver’s Educational Excellence and Community Values
Denver has long been recognized as a center of educational innovation and excellence. The city’s commitment to education extends across both public and private sectors, creating a dynamic ecosystem where schools compete to offer quality programming and resources.
The presence of multiple top-tier private schools creates opportunities for educational diversity. Parents can choose institutions that match their family’s values, academic goals, and learning style preferences. This competitive landscape benefits families through expanded choices and pushes schools to continuously improve their offerings.
Denver’s private school community actively engages in professional development for teachers, maintains connections with local universities, and participates in educational networks that promote best practices. Many schools contribute to local educational research and serve as model institutions for innovative pedagogy.
Specialized Programs and Extracurricular Excellence
Beyond traditional academics, Denver’s private schools offer impressive extracurricular programming. Many schools maintain strong athletic programs, award-winning debate and speech teams, active arts programs, and leadership development opportunities.
Colorado Academy offers exceptional arts integration and outdoor education programming. Kent Denver emphasizes leadership development and community service. Other schools specialize in Model United Nations, robotics competitions, entrepreneurship programs, and outdoor expeditions.
These extracurricular opportunities develop the whole child, building confidence, leadership skills, and connections among students. College admission officers recognize the value of sustained involvement in meaningful activities, making robust extracurricular programs an important factor in your school selection.
Conclusion
Denver’s private school options provide excellent alternatives to public education, with schools ranging from elite college preparatory institutions to specialized learning environments. Whether you’re seeking a rigorous academic curriculum, values-based education, or personalized learning approach, Denver offers high-quality private schools to meet your family’s needs.
Take time to research, visit schools, and connect with school communities before making your decision. The right school can significantly impact your child’s academic success and overall development during these formative years. Denver best neighborhoods and discover neighborhoods that match your family’s lifestyle and school preferences.
For more information about Denver neighborhoods and schools, explore our comprehensive Denver housing market update and connect with local real estate professionals who can guide you through the house-hunting process alongside your school selection journey.