Exploring Denver's School Districts: What You Need to Know
Understanding Denver's Educational Landscape
Denver school districts offer families a wide range of educational options across the metro area. Here's what you need to know at a glance:
Quick Overview of Denver School Districts:
| District | Students | Schools | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Public Schools | 90,452 | 191 | B |
| Jefferson County (Jeffco) | 74,251 | 162 | A- |
| Douglas County | 61,409 | 88 | A- |
| Cherry Creek | 51,808 | 70 | A |
| Adams 12 Five Star | 34,998 | 55 | B+ |
The Denver metro area includes 19 different school districts, each with its own approach to education, enrollment processes, and community culture. The largest is Denver Public Schools (DPS), which serves over 90,000 students and uses a unique SchoolChoice system with lottery-based enrollment. Other highly-regarded districts like Cherry Creek, Douglas County, and Jefferson County offer neighborhood school options with strong academic programs and diverse extracurricular activities.
Choosing the right school district is one of the most important decisions you'll make when relocating to or within the Denver area. Where your child goes to school shapes not just their education, but your daily routine, your sense of community, and often which neighborhoods you'll consider for your home search.
As Heidi Cox and my team work with families relocating across the Denver Metro area, we've seen how understanding Denver school districts helps buyers make confident decisions that align with both their educational priorities and lifestyle goals. We're here to help you steer these options so you can find a home in a community where your family will truly thrive.
A Snapshot of the Largest Denver School Districts
When you're considering a move to Denver or one of its vibrant surrounding communities, understanding the local school districts is often a top priority. The Denver metropolitan area is home to a variety of districts, ranging from large urban systems to extensive suburban networks. We often find that families are looking for the best fit for their children, and that often starts with knowing the sheer scale and scope of the options available.
Here's a closer look at some of the largest Denver school districts by student enrollment, which often translates to a broader range of programs and facilities.
The largest districts in the Denver area, based on student enrollment, include:
- Denver Public Schools (DPS): As the largest district within the city of Denver itself, DPS serves a vast and diverse student body. It’s a central point of interest for many of our clients looking at properties in neighborhoods like Park Hill, Congress Park, Curtis Park, City Park, Five Points, Downtown Denver, and Capitol Hill.
- Jefferson County School District (Jeffco): Covering a significant portion of the western Denver metro area, Jeffco is the second-largest district by student count.
- Douglas County School District (DCSD): Located south of Denver, this district is Colorado's third-largest, serving a substantial number of students in communities like Highlands Ranch and Castle Rock.
- Cherry Creek School District: Situated in the southeastern metro area, including parts of Aurora and Centennial, Cherry Creek is known for its strong academic reputation.
- Adams 12 Five Star Schools: This district covers several northern Denver suburbs, including Thornton and Northglenn.
- Aurora Public Schools (Aurora Joint School District No. 28): Serving the city of Aurora, this district is another major player in the metro area's educational landscape.
An Overview of Key Statistics for Major Denver School Districts
Let's explore some of the numbers that help paint a picture of these significant Denver school districts. We believe it’s helpful to see these statistics side-by-side as you begin your research.
| District | Student Enrollment | Number of Schools | Niche Overall Grade (2025) | Graduation Rate (DPS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Public Schools (DPS) | 90,452 | 191 | B | 79.9% |
| Jefferson County School District No. R-1 | 74,251 | 162 | A- | Not provided |
| Douglas County School District No. RE-1 | 61,409 | 88 | A- | Not provided |
| Cherry Creek School District | 51,808 | 70 | A | Not provided |
| Adams 12 Five Star Schools | 34,998 | 55 | B+ | Not provided |
| Aurora Joint School District No. 28 | 38,178 | 60 | C+ | Not provided |
| St. Vrain Valley School District | 31,757 | 54 | A- | Not provided |
| Boulder Valley School District | 28,357 | 56 | A | Not provided |
| School District 27J | 23,139 | 32 | B- | Not provided |
| Colorado Charter School Institute | 19,593 | 40 | B | Not provided |
| Littleton Public Schools | 13,251 | 22 | A | Not provided |
| Westminster Public Schools | 7,631 | 18 | C | Not provided |
| Mapleton Public Schools | 7,016 | 20 | C | Not provided |
| Adams County School District No. 14 | 5,484 | 12 | D+ | Not provided |
| Englewood Schools | 2,368 | 9 | C+ | Not provided |
| Elizabeth School District | 2,346 | 7 | B- | Not provided |
| Weld County Reorganized School District No. RE-8 | 2,497 | 6 | C+ | Not provided |
| Bennett School District | 1,645 | 6 | C | Not provided |
| Sheridan School District No. 2 | 1,058 | 5 | C- | Not provided |
Note: Graduation rates for all districts were not uniformly available in the provided research, so we've highlighted DPS's rate where it was specifically mentioned.
As you can see, the student population varies greatly across these districts, from Denver Public Schools with over 90,000 students to smaller districts like Sheridan and Bennett. This diversity means that whether you're looking for a large system with extensive program offerings or a smaller, more intimate school setting, you'll likely find options that fit your family's preferences within the Denver metro area. The number of schools per district also correlates with size, offering more localized options within larger districts.
A Closer Look at Highly-Regarded Districts
Beyond size, many families are interested in which Denver school districts are consistently recognized for their quality. Rankings, while not the only factor, can offer a starting point. We understand that "best" is subjective and depends on your family's unique needs and values. However, based on rigorous analysis of statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents (like those compiled by Niche, which considers factors such as state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, and teacher quality), several districts stand out.
- Cherry Creek School District: Consistently ranked among the top, Cherry Creek School District boasts an Overall Niche Grade of 'A'. Parents and students often praise its high academic achievement and a strong sense of community, particularly in its high schools. What's more, Cherry Creek has been named to the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Employers for five consecutive years, which speaks volumes about its commitment to its staff and, by extension, its students. This recognition highlights a focus on creating a supportive environment for both educators and learners.
- Boulder Valley School District: Also earning an 'A' grade from Niche, Boulder Valley is recognized for its exceptional commitment to student achievement and community engagement. Its educational approach emphasizes academic excellence, innovation, critical thinking, and creativity, preparing students for a dynamic future.
- Littleton Public Schools: With an 'A' grade, Littleton Public Schools is often appreciated for its smaller district feel and high teacher ratings. Reviews frequently highlight the supportive nature of teachers and a close-knit community. However, some reviews have noted a desire for more diversity within the student body.
- Douglas County School District: Graded 'A-' by Niche, Douglas County School District offers compelling programs like the Legacy Campus and ProStart, which provide career-focused opportunities for students. Reviews often commend the passionate teachers and the variety of programs available. However, some feedback suggests areas for improvement in technology accessibility and academic support for struggling students.
- Jefferson County School District: Also an 'A-' district, Jeffco is known for its academically rigorous environment and college-preparatory focus. With a wide variety of school types, including charter and option schools, it offers diverse choices for families. While academically strong, some reviews mention that the intense focus on achievement in certain schools (like D'Evelyn) can impact student mental health or school spirit. As you explore these options, our team can help you find a home in a neighborhood that provides easy access to the schools that best fit your children's needs. You might also want to explore top neighborhoods for first-time buyers that offer great school options.
Navigating Denver Public Schools (DPS) and the SchoolChoice Process
For those considering a move into the heart of Denver, understanding Denver Public Schools (DPS) is paramount. As the largest school district in Colorado, DPS plays a huge role in the lives of many families. Their mission, "Every Learner Thrives," underscores their commitment to building a system designed to help every student succeed. This involves creating vibrant classrooms where caring teachers engage students in rigorous, culturally responsive experiences. This focus on culturally responsive learning is a key part of how DPS addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that education is relevant and meaningful for its diverse student population.
With 191 schools serving 90,452 students, DPS is a significant entity. We also see that DPS has a total revenue of $1,763,790,000, which breaks down to $19,838 per student, with a substantial 70% coming from local revenue. This financial backing supports a wide array of programs and services for its students.
Understanding the DPS SchoolChoice System for Denver School Districts
One of the most distinctive features of Denver Public Schools is its SchoolChoice system. We know that navigating this process can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but we're here to break it down for you. The goal of SchoolChoice is to provide equitable access to schools for all families, allowing them to choose the schools that best fit their students' needs, regardless of their address within the district.
The SchoolChoice process works primarily through a lottery-based system, especially for the initial application round.
Round 1: The Primary Application Window
Round 1 is the main application period for families seeking to enroll their children in a DPS school other than their assigned neighborhood school. It’s a lottery process, meaning that families rank their preferred schools, and then seats are allocated based on a random lottery number and pre-determined priority levels for each selected school.
It’s crucial to be aware of the key dates: for the 2026-27 school year, the SchoolChoice Round 1 window will open on December 2, 2025, at 10 a.m. and close on January 20, 2026, at 4 p.m. Families will typically be notified of their placement results in late February. You can find more detailed information and prepare for this process by visiting the official SchoolChoice Round 1 information page.
Round 2: First-Come, First-Served
If you miss Round 1, or if you're new to DPS after Round 1 results are released, don't worry! Round 2 is designed for you. This round operates on a first-come, first-served basis, processing applications based on submission date and time, within school admission priorities. Round 2 typically opens in late April and continues until late August. This is a great option for families who are new to the Denver area, or who simply need to explore different options after Round 1. You can learn more about Round 2 on the DPS website.
Preschool Enrollment: Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado
For families with younger children, it's important to note that ECE-4 (Early Childhood Education for 4-year-olds) enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is managed separately by Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado. Families applying for ECE-4 should submit the Colorado Universal Preschool application through that state-level initiative.
Helpful DPS Tools
To assist families in navigating their options, DPS offers several helpful resources:
- Find Your School tool: This online tool helps you identify your neighborhood school and explore other DPS options. You can access it directly at Find Your School tool. Your neighborhood school is where your student has a guaranteed seat.
- Enrollment Guides: These comprehensive guides provide detailed information about school options and the enrollment process.
- SchoolChoice Hotline: If you have questions or need assistance, you can contact the Choice Hotline at 720-423-3493 or email schoolchoice@dpsk12.org.
Understanding the DPS SchoolChoice system is a significant step in finding the right educational environment for your children in Denver. We're here to help you consider how these school options align with the neighborhoods you're exploring.
Key Factors in Evaluating Denver's Educational Landscape
When we work with families, we often discuss that choosing a school district involves looking beyond just a single ranking or a simple number. There are many layers to what makes a school district a good fit, and we encourage you to consider a holistic view.
Here are the key factors that contribute to a school district's overall standing and should be part of your evaluation:
- Academic Performance: This includes metrics like state test scores and, for older students, college readiness indicators. While standardized test scores are important, it's also about how well a district prepares students for future academic and career paths.
- Graduation Rates: A strong graduation rate, such as DPS's 79.9%, indicates a district's success in supporting students through high school completion.
- Teacher Quality: The caliber and dedication of teachers are paramount. Factors like teacher-to-student ratios, teacher experience, and parent/student reviews often highlight the quality of instruction. As noted in the Niche rankings, positive comments about "amazing elementary teachers" in Cherry Creek or "nice teachers" in Littleton speak to this directly.
- School Culture and Values: Each district and even individual school has its own unique atmosphere. Some might emphasize innovation and creativity (like Boulder Valley), while others focus on a rigorous, college-preparatory environment (like certain schools in Jefferson County). Understanding the school's philosophy and how it aligns with your family's values is crucial.
- Parent and Student Reviews: These accounts offer invaluable qualitative insights into the daily experience within a district. They can reveal strengths, like the "strong community feel" in Cherry Creek, or highlight areas for improvement, such as technology accessibility in Douglas County or diversity in Littleton.
- Extracurricular Programs: From sports to arts, clubs, and vocational training (like the Legacy Campus and ProStart programs in Douglas County), the availability and quality of extracurriculars contribute significantly to a student's well-rounded development and overall school experience.
The Role of the CDE
It's also helpful to understand the broader oversight of education in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) plays a critical role in overseeing all school districts in the Denver metropolitan region and across the state. The CDE sets state standards, provides resources, and offers guidance to districts. They also maintain regional contacts and information on Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), which provide shared services to multiple districts. This state-level framework ensures a baseline of quality and consistency across public education. You can gain a better understanding of the geographical layout of districts by viewing the CDE's district map.
Connecting these schools to neighborhoods is what we do best. For instance, if you're interested in the vibrant community feel and diverse housing options of discover the Park Hill neighborhood, you'll primarily be looking at DPS schools. Similarly, learn about Congress Park, another sought-after Denver neighborhood, also falls within the DPS system. We help you connect the dots between your desired lifestyle, preferred schools, and the perfect home.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Family
Choosing a school district in the Denver area is a deeply personal decision. As you've seen, there's no single "best" district for everyone; rather, it's about finding the environment that best supports your child's individual needs and aligns with your family's values and priorities. Whether that means a large district with a wide range of programs, a smaller community-focused school, or a system with a specific educational philosophy, Denver offers a wealth of choices.
At The Heidi Cox Team, we understand that a home is more than just a house—it's a community, a lifestyle, and a foundation for your family's future. The schools your children attend are an integral part of that foundation. We pride ourselves on combining our local real estate expertise with a genuine understanding of what matters most to families moving to or within the Denver Metro area.
We can help you find a property in a neighborhood that not only meets your housing needs but also aligns seamlessly with your educational goals. Our aim is to make your home search feel less overwhelming and more confident, knowing you have a trusted guide by your side.
Let us be your trusted guide as you explore your options in the Denver area. We're ready to help you find the perfect community and home where your family can thrive. Start your Denver home buying process with us.