11+ Best Boarding Schools In Colorado

Boarding schools in Colorado offer students a unique educational experience that combines rigorous academic programs with a supportive residential community. These institutions provide students with the opportunity to live on campus, engage in extracurricular activities, and develop strong relationships with their peers and teachers.

With a variety of schools to choose from across the state, families can find the right fit for their child's individual needs and interests.

Attending a boarding school in Colorado can provide many benefits for students. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who are committed to academic excellence can foster intellectual growth and inspire students to reach their full potential.

Additionally, living away from home can help students develop independence, self-discipline, and time-management skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Boarding schools also offer unique opportunities for travel, service learning projects, and cultural experiences that broaden students' perspectives and deepen their understanding of the world around them.

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Overview of Boarding Schools in Colorado

Colorado offers a diverse selection of boarding schools, providing students with unique educational opportunities in a supportive and structured environment. These institutions offer various benefits to students, including rigorous academic programs, access to extracurricular activities, and exposure to different cultures.

Additionally, boarding schools provide an opportunity for students to develop independence, self-discipline, and time-management skills. However, attending a boarding school also presents some challenges.

Students may feel homesick or experience difficulty adjusting to the new environment. Furthermore, the high cost of tuition may make it difficult for some families to afford this type of education.

It is essential that families carefully consider these factors before applying to a boarding school. Admission requirements for Colorado's boarding schools vary depending on the institution.

Generally, most schools require applicants to submit transcripts from their current school as well as standardized test scores such as the SSAT or ISEE. Other application components may include personal essays and interviews with admissions staff or alumni.

Some schools also require letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who can speak to the student's character and academic abilities.

It is important for families to research each school's admission requirements thoroughly and begin preparing early in order to maximize their chances of acceptance into their desired program.

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Benefits of Attending Boarding School

Attending a boarding school provides students with an opportunity to develop independence, self-discipline, and time-management skills while fostering a sense of community and academic excellence. The benefits of attending boarding school extend beyond just the academic aspect.

Here are some advantages of residential education:

• Personal Growth: Living away from home offers students the chance to discover their identity and strengths in a safe environment. They learn how to manage their responsibilities, build relationships, and make decisions independently.

• Holistic Education: Boarding schools offer holistic education that focuses on developing a student's character, social skills, creativity, and physical fitness along with academics. They provide extracurricular activities such as sports teams, music bands or clubs that encourage students to explore diverse interests.

• Global Exposure: Attending boarding school allows students from different backgrounds to live together in one place. This exposure provides them with insights into different cultures and perspectives, which is integral for personal growth.

Overall, the benefits of attending boarding school are numerous; it helps shape well-rounded individuals who possess not only knowledge but also life skills necessary for success in college and beyond.

It is an excellent choice for parents who want their children to receive a quality education within a supportive community setting where they can grow both academically and personally.

Best Boarding Schools In Colorado

#1. Colorado Academy

Colorado Academy is a prestigious boarding school that offers exceptional academic programs to its students.

The school provides opportunities for students to excel in athletics and the arts through various extracurricular activities.

Campus life at Colorado Academy is vibrant and engaging, providing students with a supportive community that fosters intellectual growth and personal development.

Exceptional Academic Programs

With a strong emphasis on rigorous academics, the top boarding schools in Colorado offer exceptional academic programs that prepare students for success in college and beyond.

These schools are dedicated to providing their students with the best possible education, and they have developed a range of programs that cater to different interests and abilities.

Here are five reasons why these schools are renowned for their exceptional academic programs:

• Study Abroad Programs: Many of the top boarding schools in Colorado offer study abroad programs that give students the opportunity to explore other cultures while continuing their studies. These programs allow students to gain new perspectives, learn about different ways of life, and develop important skills such as independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication.

• Academic Excellence: The top boarding schools in Colorado are known for their commitment to academic excellence. They provide challenging curricula that prepare students for college-level work, as well as opportunities for advanced study in subjects such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math), humanities, arts, music and athletics.

• Individualized Attention: Boarding schools pride themselves on offering individualized attention to each student. Teachers get to know each student personally and work closely with them to help them achieve their goals. This personalized approach helps ensure that every student is challenged appropriately and receives the support they need to succeed.

• Internship Opportunities: Many of these boarding schools partner with local businesses or organizations to provide internship opportunities for their students. These internships give students real-world experience in fields such as science research or business management while also helping them build valuable connections with professionals who can mentor them throughout their careers.

• College Preparation: The ultimate goal of many boarding schools is not just ensuring academic success but preparing students for success in college too. These institutions have dedicated staff members who guide seniors through the college application process from start-to-finish.

Top boarding schools in Colorado offer an outstanding education characterized by rigorous academics and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

They provide students with opportunities to challenge themselves academically, explore new interests and develop important life skills such as independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication.

With a focus on academic excellence, individualized attention, and preparation for college and beyond, these schools are among the best in the country.

Athletic and Artistic Opportunities

Both athletic and artistic talents are fostered in the top boarding schools of Colorado through various programs and opportunities. These schools recognize the importance of extracurricular activities beyond academics in providing a well-rounded education to their students.

They offer a wide range of athletic opportunities such as basketball, football, volleyball, track and field, cross country, soccer, tennis, golf, and swimming. Students can participate in competitive sports at both local and national levels while receiving professional coaching from experienced coaches.

In addition to athletics, these boarding schools also provide ample opportunities for students interested in pursuing artistic interests. They offer programs in music, theater arts, dance, and visual arts with facilities that include state-of-the-art performance spaces and studios.

The curriculum is designed to develop skills across different art forms with an emphasis on creativity and self-expression.

Through participation in these programs, students not only gain knowledge but also learn important life skills such as teamwork and collaboration that will be invaluable throughout their lives.

Campus Life

The campus life at these top boarding schools in Colorado provides a supportive and engaging environment for students to learn and grow outside of the classroom.

These schools offer state-of-the-art facilities that are designed to provide students with everything they need to succeed academically, socially, and personally.

The campus facilities at these schools include libraries, science labs, art studios, music rooms, sports fields, and fitness centers.

Students have access to a wide range of student activities such as clubs, organizations, leadership opportunities, community service projects, cultural events, and outdoor adventures.

They can also participate in athletics programs such as football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, or skiing. Overall the campus life at these top boarding schools offers an enriching experience that fosters personal growth and development while creating lifelong friendships.

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#2. Fountain Valley School of Colorado

Fountain Valley School of Colorado is a co-educational, college-preparatory boarding school located in Colorado Springs. The school has a unique focus on outdoor education and experiential learning, which is evident from the wide range of opportunities that students get to explore.

Students can participate in activities such as rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, and skiing among others. The outdoor education program at Fountain Valley School of Colorado is designed to help students develop their leadership skills, teamwork abilities, resilience, and independence.

Through these activities, students also get to learn about environmental conservation and sustainability.

Additionally, the school's location provides ample opportunities for students to explore nearby natural attractions such as Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.

Experiential learning is an integral part of Fountain Valley School's curriculum with programs that are tailored toward helping students apply classroom concepts to real-world situations.

The school offers various academic courses ranging from traditional subjects like English and Mathematics to more specialized fields such as Environmental Science or Entrepreneurship.

Furthermore, students have access to internships, research opportunities, and independent studies in order to gain hands-on experience in their areas of interest.

With its unique approach towards education that combines both academic rigor and practical application through outdoor experiences – Fountain Valley School of Colorado stands out as one of the best boarding schools in Colorado for those seeking an adventurous educational journey.

#3. The Colorado Springs School

Situated in the heart of Colorado Springs, The Colorado Springs School (CSS) is a boarding school that emphasizes experiential learning. Established in 1962, CSS offers a diverse range of academic courses to equip students with practical skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving.

Students at CSS can choose from various programs including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, arts, athletics, and community service. CSS has excellent boarding facilities that provide students with a safe and comfortable living environment.

The dormitories are equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi internet access and study areas to facilitate academic pursuits. Additionally, the school provides healthy meals for its boarding students through its dining services program.

Apart from academics, CSS offers extracurricular activities such as sports teams, music ensembles, and clubs catering to different interests. These activities allow students to develop their talents further while also fostering camaraderie among their peers.

With the support of qualified teachers and staff members who are dedicated to providing holistic education for each student's success, CSS aims to prepare young individuals who will make significant contributions to society.

#4. Kent Denver School

Kent Denver School is a co-educational, college preparatory day school located in Englewood, Colorado. The school serves students from grades 6 to 12 and provides them with a challenging and supportive environment to develop their intellectual, creative, and ethical potential.

One of the benefits of attending Kent Denver School is its academic rigor. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in core subjects such as English, math, science, history, and foreign language.

Aside from the rigorous academics offered at Kent Denver School, there are also various extracurricular activities available for students to participate in. These activities range from athletics to fine arts programs such as drama and music.

Students can also participate in community service projects that allow them to give back to the community while developing their leadership skills. Additionally, the school's location provides easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities such as skiing and hiking.

As with any educational institution, there are both pros and cons associated with attending Kent Denver School. One potential drawback is its relatively high tuition fees compared to other boarding schools in Colorado. However, the school offers financial aid packages for qualified applicants.

On the positive side of things, student life at Kent Denver School is excellent due to its small class sizes which foster close relationships between teachers and students.

This creates an engaging learning environment where students can receive individualized attention from their instructors while building lasting friendships with their peers.

#5. St. Mary's Academy

St. Mary's Academy is an all-girls school that places a strong emphasis on empowering women through education.

The school's mission is to provide girls with the tools and skills necessary to become confident, independent, and successful leaders in their communities.

St. Mary's Academy also offers global education programs designed to foster cultural understanding and prepare students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

All-Girls Education

Research has shown that all-girls education can offer unique advantages for girls to develop their leadership skills and excel academically.

All-girls schools provide a supportive and empowering environment where young women are encouraged to take on leadership roles, speak up in class, and pursue their interests without any gender stereotypes.

Studies have found that girls in single-sex schools consistently outperform those in coeducational settings, particularly in math and science subjects.

Furthermore, all-girls schools tend to foster a sense of confidence among female students by providing them with strong role models who are successful women.

However, there are also challenges associated with all-girls education. Critics argue that such an environment may not adequately prepare students for the real world where they will need to work alongside men.

Additionally, some individuals believe that segregation based on gender is discriminatory and goes against the principles of equality.

Despite these concerns, many families choose single-sex education as it offers young women a chance to explore their potential without gender biases holding them back.

Ultimately, the decision whether or not to enroll a child in an all-girls school should be based on individual needs and preferences as well as careful consideration of both the advantages and limitations of this educational model.

Strong Focus on Empowering Women

Empowering women is a strong focus in many educational institutions today, with an emphasis on promoting gender equality and providing opportunities for female students to succeed.

Boarding schools in Colorado are no exception, as they recognize the importance of empowering women to become leaders in their communities and beyond.

Through various programs and initiatives, these boarding schools strive to create a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and development.

One way that boarding schools in Colorado promote women's empowerment is by offering leadership development programs specifically designed for girls. These programs aim to build confidence, develop communication skills, and provide opportunities for girls to learn from successful female leaders.

Additionally, boarding schools often have robust extracurricular activities that allow girls to explore their interests and passions while building valuable skills such as teamwork and time management.

By prioritizing women's empowerment, these institutions not only prepare their students for academic success but also equip them with the necessary tools to thrive in a rapidly changing world where gender dynamics continue to shift.

Global Education Programs

Building on the strong focus on empowering women, the best boarding schools in Colorado also offer a range of global education programs. These programs provide students with study abroad opportunities and cultural immersion experiences that broaden their perspectives and prepare them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Study abroad opportunities are an integral part of many Colorado boarding schools' academic curricula. Students can choose from a variety of destinations, including Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

Cultural immersion programs allow students to fully immerse themselves in local cultures by living with host families or participating in community service projects.

These experiences help students develop a greater understanding of different cultures, languages, customs, and perspectives – qualities that are highly valued by colleges and employers alike.

Overall, the best boarding schools in Colorado recognize the importance of global education and strive to provide their students with the tools they need to succeed both academically and personally.

#6. The Academy at SOAR

Located in the scenic mountains of Colorado, The Academy at SOAR offers a unique blend of academic rigor and outdoor adventure for students seeking a challenging and enriching boarding school experience. With an emphasis on personalized learning, students are able to tailor their education to fit their individual needs and interests.

The Academy at SOAR is renowned for its exceptional outdoor education programs that provide students with hands-on experiences in activities such as rock climbing, hiking, camping, and skiing.

To further highlight the unique opportunities available at The Academy at SOAR, here are four reasons why it stands out among other boarding schools in Colorado:

1. A focus on experiential learning – At The Academy at SOAR, students have numerous opportunities to engage in experiential learning through outdoor adventures. This approach allows students to not only learn new skills but also develop important life skills such as leadership abilities and problem-solving.

2. Small class sizes – With an average class size of just seven students, teachers at The Academy at SOAR are able to provide individualized attention and support to each student.

3. Integrated academics – Students' academic courses often integrate with their outdoor adventures, allowing them to apply what they've learned in real-world settings.

4. Support for diverse learners – The Academy at SOAR is committed to supporting all types of learners through various educational approaches including project-based learning and differentiated instruction.

The Academy at SOAR offers a truly unique boarding school experience by providing personalized learning opportunities alongside exceptional outdoor education programs.

As one of the best boarding schools in Colorado, it's clear that this institution is dedicated to helping its students succeed both academically and personally while fostering a love for the great outdoors.

#7. Eagle Rock School and Professional Development Center

Founded in 1993, Eagle Rock School and Professional Development Center is a non-traditional residential high school that aims to re-engage disengaged youth through an innovative approach to education.

The school provides its students with a unique experience that combines academic learning with outdoor education programs and professional development opportunities. This combination of approaches helps students develop self-esteem, leadership skills, and intellectual curiosity.

The outdoor education program at Eagle Rock School allows students to experience nature in a way that fosters personal growth and character development. Students participate in activities such as rock climbing, backpacking, kayaking, and snowboarding. These experiences help them build teamwork skills, resilience, problem-solving abilities, and physical fitness.

In addition to outdoor education programs, the school also offers professional development opportunities for educators who want to learn how to work effectively with at-risk youth. The Professional Development Center provides training sessions on topics like culturally responsive teaching practices, restorative justice principles, and project-based learning strategies.

Educators can attend workshops or enroll in a year-long residency program where they live on campus and work alongside Eagle Rock staff members. Overall, the school's holistic approach has helped it earn recognition as one of the best boarding schools in Colorado for students seeking an alternative path toward success.

Outdoor Education Programs	Professional Development Opportunities
Rock Climbing	Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices
Backpacking	Restorative Justice Principles
Kayaking	Project-Based Learning Strategies
Snowboarding	Year-Long Residency Program

Table: A comparison of the outdoor education programs offered by Eagle Rock School along with its professional development opportunities for educators seeking training sessions on working effectively with at-risk youth.

#8. The Colorado Rocky Mountain School

The Colorado Rocky Mountain School is one of the best boarding schools in Colorado that offers a unique educational experience to its students.

The school provides a combination of academic rigor, outdoor adventures, creative arts, and community service programs that help students grow academically, socially, and personally.

The school's philosophy is based on experiential learning where students acquire knowledge through hands-on experiences rather than just reading books.

One of the school's unique features is Outward Bound – a leadership and personal development program that emphasizes outdoor adventure activities such as rock climbing, mountaineering, backpacking, and kayaking.

Through Outward Bound, students learn teamwork, problem-solving skills, risk-taking abilities as well as self-awareness and self-confidence. This program aims to help students develop their physical strength while building their emotional resilience.

In addition to Outward Bound and experiential learning programs; the Colorado Rocky Mountain School offers an excellent academic curriculum with small class sizes for individualized attention from teachers. The school has experienced instructors who are experts in their fields and dedicated to providing high-quality education to their students.

Overall the Colorado Rocky Mountain School provides a well-rounded educational experience that prepares its graduates for success in college and beyond.

#9. The Bement School

Moving on from the Colorado Rocky Mountain School, another prestigious boarding school in Colorado worth mentioning is The Bement School. Founded in 1925, The Bement School has established itself as a leading educational institution for students from kindergarten to ninth grade.

Located in Deerfield, Massachusetts, this boarding school offers a unique educational experience that fosters intellectual curiosity and social growth.

The Bement School provides an exceptional boarding experience for its students. Boarding at Bement allows students to immerse themselves fully in their academic pursuits while also developing essential life skills such as independence, responsibility, and time management.

Students live in dormitories with faculty members who serve as mentors and support systems throughout their time at the school. The close-knit community fosters lifelong relationships among peers and teachers alike.

Community involvement is a crucial aspect of life at The Bement School. Students are encouraged to take part in various clubs and organizations that align with their interests and passions.

From student government to environmental sustainability clubs, there are numerous opportunities for students to engage with their peers and contribute positively to the community.

Additionally, service learning projects allow students to give back by supporting local charities or volunteering their time to help those in need. Such initiatives instill values of empathy and compassion that prepare students for responsible citizenship beyond the walls of the school campus.

#10. Aspen Academy

Aspen Academy is a renowned boarding school in Colorado that offers an innovative STEAM curriculum, emphasizing science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.

The school also provides entrepreneurship and leadership programs for students to develop their skills in these areas.

Additionally, Aspen Academy focuses on character education to shape students into well-rounded individuals who possess qualities such as integrity, respect, responsibility, empathy, and grit.

Through its comprehensive approach to education, Aspen Academy prepares students to excel academically while becoming successful leaders in the future.

Innovative STEAM Curriculum

The innovative STEAM curriculum at Colorado's top boarding schools fosters students' creativity and empowers them to excel in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics beyond their wildest dreams.

Students are encouraged to think outside the box and explore new ideas through hands-on project-based learning experiences.

The curriculum integrates multiple disciplines such as science, math, art, and computer programming to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for success in the 21st century.

To achieve this goal, Colorado's top boarding schools implement an innovative STEAM curriculum that includes four key components:

1. Project-based learning: This approach encourages students to take ownership of their learning by engaging in projects that align with their interests and passions.

2. Interdisciplinary integration: By integrating multiple disciplines into one cohesive curriculum, students gain a deeper understanding of how different subjects relate to one another.

3. Emphasis on creativity: Through open-ended assignments that encourage experimentation and exploration, students develop their creative thinking skills.

4. Technology integration: In today's digital age, it is essential for students to have access to technology tools that will help them succeed in college and beyond. By incorporating technology into the classroom experience early on, Colorado's top boarding schools ensure their graduates are well-equipped for whatever challenges they may face in the future.

Entrepreneurship and Leadership Programs

The Entrepreneurship and Leadership programs offered at top Colorado boarding schools equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in business and management.

These programs are designed to foster an entrepreneurial mindset and provide opportunities for leadership development. Students learn about identifying market opportunities, creating business plans, managing resources, networking, and communicating effectively.

One of the ways that top Colorado boarding schools promote entrepreneurship is by organizing competitions such as Shark Tank-style events where students pitch their ideas to a panel of judges who are venture capitalists or successful entrepreneurs.

Through these competitions, students have the opportunity to receive feedback from experienced professionals and potentially secure funding for their ventures. Additionally, leadership development programs help students cultivate important skills such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, teamwork, and project management.

By participating in these programs, students develop confidence in their abilities and gain valuable experience that will prepare them for success in any industry they choose to pursue.

Focus on Character Education

The importance of character development has been recognized by many educational institutions as an essential component of a well-rounded education. Boarding schools in Colorado are no exception, as they strive to instill values such as integrity, responsibility, respect, and empathy in their students.

These boarding schools understand that academic excellence alone is not enough for students to succeed in their future endeavors. Teaching values through character education helps students become responsible citizens who can contribute positively to society.

Students who have developed strong character traits are better equipped to handle difficult situations and make ethical decisions throughout their lives. Furthermore, these values also prepare them for leadership roles where they can inspire others with their positive behavior and actions.

Overall, the focus on character education is crucial for the holistic development of students in boarding schools in Colorado.

#11. Bishop Machebeuf High School

Bishop Machebeuf High School has a rigorous academic program that emphasizes both faith and reason, providing students with a well-rounded education. As a boarding school, it offers a unique experience that allows students to live on campus and immerse themselves in an environment that fosters personal growth and academic excellence.

The school's commitment to character education is evident through its emphasis on community service, leadership development, and spiritual formation.

The academic program at Bishop Machebeuf High School is designed to challenge students intellectually while also supporting their spiritual growth.

The curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses in various subject areas as well as opportunities for students to participate in research projects and independent study.

Additionally, the school offers a comprehensive college counseling program that helps students navigate the college application process and prepare for success in higher education.

In addition to its strong academic program, Bishop Machebeuf High School provides numerous extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests outside of the classroom. These include athletics, music programs, drama productions, and clubs focused on topics such as robotics or social justice issues.

With its focus on character education and commitment to academic excellence, Bishop Machebeuf High School is an excellent choice for families seeking a top-quality boarding school experience for their children.

#12. Vail Mountain School

Moving on from Bishop Machebeuf High School, the next best boarding school in Colorado is Vail Mountain School. As an independent, college-preparatory school, Vail Mountain School offers a rigorous academic program that caters to students from kindergarten through grade twelve.

The school's mission is centered on academic excellence, character development, and community engagement.

One of the notable features of Vail Mountain School is its outdoor education program. The program provides students with opportunities to engage in experiential learning outside the traditional classroom setting.

Students participate in various activities such as hiking, rock climbing, rafting, and camping. Through these experiences, they develop leadership skills, teamwork abilities and cultivate an appreciation for nature and the environment.

Another highlight of Vail Mountain School is its ski program. Located near one of the world-renowned ski resorts in Vail Valley, students can take advantage of this winter sport as part of their educational experience.

The school has partnered with Vail Resorts to provide students with access to skiing facilities and professional instruction during the winter season. This unique offering allows students to develop their physical fitness while fostering a passion for sportsmanship and competition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Boarding schools in Colorado offer outstanding educational opportunities for students seeking a rigorous academic curriculum, a supportive community, and a chance to develop life skills. Attending boarding school can provide students with the opportunity to gain independence, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships.

Colorado Academy is one of the best boarding schools in Colorado that offers an excellent education with a focus on character development. Fountain Valley School of Colorado provides an exceptional college preparatory program with outdoor adventure opportunities.

The Colorado Springs School is renowned for its innovative approach to education, while The Bement School offers a nurturing environment for younger students.

Aspen Academy provides a personalized learning experience that fosters creativity and critical thinking skills. Bishop Machebeuf High School offers a comprehensive Catholic education that focuses on academic excellence and spiritual growth. Vail Mountain School combines rigorous academics with outdoor experiential learning to help students become well-rounded individuals.

In conclusion, attending one of the best boarding schools in Colorado can be transformational for students who seek academic excellence, personal growth, and lifelong friendships. These institutions provide an environment where students can learn from experienced educators and engage in meaningful activities that foster intellectual curiosity and social responsibility.

If you are considering sending your child to boarding school in Colorado, rest assured that they will receive an exceptional education that prepares them for success in college and beyond.

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