School Choice in Colorado: Finding the Right Fit

In Colorado, families are not limited to enrolling their children in their neighborhood schools. Thanks to the state's robust School Choice policies, parents and caregivers have the opportunity to choose the public school that best fits their child's needs, interests, and goals—regardless of where they live.

What Is School Choice?

School Choice in Colorado allows families to enroll their students in schools outside of their designated home attendance area. This includes district-run schools, charter schools, magnet programs, innovation schools, and online or blended learning options. While each district may have its own process, the overall system reflects Colorado's commitment to equity, access, and flexibility in public education.

Who Can Participate?

All families in Colorado can participate in School Choice, and it may be especially important for:

• Students entering key transition years (such as kindergarten, middle school, or high school)

• Students with unique needs or learning styles

• Families seeking a specialized program or academic focus, such as STEM, dual language, the arts, or career/technical education

• Students wanting to attend a school in a different district or a charter program

  
  

How Does It Work?

The process varies slightly depending on your school district, but here are the common steps across most of Colorado:

1. Explore Options: Use your local district’s school finder tools, enrollment guides, and school websites to learn about different offerings.

2. Submit an Application: Many districts have a unified School Choice window during which families submit applications, often ranking multiple schools in order of preference.

3. Wait for Notification: Schools or districts notify families if a seat is available based on space, priorities (such as sibling attendance), and sometimes a randomized lottery system.

4. Register and Enroll: Once placed, families complete registration through the district or school’s enrollment system.

It’s important to check local district deadlines and eligibility requirements. Many districts hold their Round 1 or priority enrollment periods between January and February, with additional opportunities later in the spring or summer.

Key Things to Know

• No tuition is required for attending a public school through School Choice.

• Transportation is not always provided, so families should ask about bus routes or make their own arrangements.

• Specialized programs or charter schools may have different application timelines or additional admissions requirements.

  
  

Why It Matters

Colorado’s School Choice system is designed to give families the freedom to find an educational environment that works best for their child. From small schools with project-based learning to larger schools with robust athletics and extracurriculars, families have the power to choose—not just settle.

Need Help Navigating School Choice?

Whether you’re exploring options for your kindergartner or helping your high schooler find a better academic fit, I’m here to help. As someone with experience in education and advocacy, I can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you find the resources your family needs.