The Colorado Springs School in Colorado Springs

Posted: March 12, 2026

This school is a gift. My children have thrived while at CSS and the community is a family. Thrilled to register for a fifth year this week.

Posted: March 12, 2026

Posted: March 10, 2026

CSS has been an incredible fit for our family. The small class sizes mean teachers actually know your kid, not just their name, but how they learn and what they need. Harper has grown so much this year, both academically and as a person. The community here is warm, genuine, and deeply invested in every student's success. Highly recommend for families looking for something beyond the traditional school experience.

Posted: March 9, 2026

The Colorado Springs School is a place like no other. From the campus, to the experienced and engaging teachers, to their rigorous college-level curriculum, to the personalized approach to college advising, the school comes at students from the standpoint of bringing out and nurturing each student's passions rather than forcing them to think a certain way or be a certain person. Yes, teachers teach subjects, but even more, they focus on teaching people. Students are safe to be themselves at CSS while having an opportunity to try new things - art, robotics, sports - that they would not have the chance to try at a larger institution. Perhaps more than anything else, students learn by doing, and education at CSS is anything but passive. Hands-on learning culminates in both Senior Capstone and Experiential Education programs where students are completely immersed in new cultures, settings, and ideas - an opportunity that no other school in the region can offer or replicate.

Posted: March 9, 2026

Our family loves CSS!

This is our 12th year on campus, my child started there in PreK1. We love the CSS community, the teachers and staff are amazing, and the experiential education is second to none.

My child started 9th grade at CSS in the Upper School this school year, and we couldn't have wished for a better experience so far. From college counseling to the experience centered seminars, academics, amazing theater program, arts, athletics, it's all been wonderful.
I highly recommend this school for any division or age group.

Posted: March 9, 2026

The Colorado Springs School has been an excellent place for my three children. They shine in the arts programs, whether in band, on stage, or in producing award-winning works of visual arts. The experiential learning options have elevated our family experience and have been truly life-changing for my kids.

Posted: March 9, 2026

My child was new to the Colorado Springs school this year and enjoyed a really warm reception from teachers, staff and kids alike. He has really strong math skills and the teachers worked with the class to make sure everyone was getting the advancement or extra help they needed. So now hes doing math above his grade level and is excited to keep progressing. He wasnt as strong in writing, but the teachers have been so encouraging that even though Im not sure hell ever love it, he is much more capable and takes pride in his work in a way he did not used to. I really like how they offer classes like theater and band, which my son is secretly enjoying - and its showing him he can do well at things that he didnt think would appeal to him. Teachers also do a great job of celebrating the kids learning, like after they read a novel and wrote essays on it in class, all the parents were invited to a community celebration on the themes of the book, and the kids prepared recipes that they had come across in the reading and showed off the cover art they had made for their essays. So all of their learning is integrated and experiential. We recently attended the schools middle school open house, and, man, I wish I could go there! The students have so much choice in what they pursue, while still having to participate in a broad range of subjects and specials. We have found CSS to be a kind and caring community-oriented place where a love of learning is cultivated, and Im so glad my child has gotten to experience that.

Posted: March 9, 2026

The Colorado Springs School is truly nothing short of amazing! As a new family in the area, it is very comforting to see our daughters thriving at a school that provides more than just an educational experience. Not only are our daughters excelling in academics based upon their individual needs they are also experiencing learning hands on with the methodical experiential learning programs offered. As a military family our oldest daughter has attended eight previous schools along the lines of The Colorado Springs school over the years, and CSS blows all previous schools out of the water. The school's atmosphere socially both for the students and families is apparent daily. If you are on the fence about whether or not CSS is a fit for your family, I highly encourage you reaching out to CSS as you will not be disappointed.

Posted: March 9, 2026

As a parent, we have had a very positive experience with The Colorado Springs School. The school offers a strong balance of academic rigor, individualized attention, and a supportive community environment that truly values each student.
One of the things we appreciate most is the small class sizes, which allow teachers to really know their students and tailor instruction to their needs. The faculty are both knowledgeable and deeply caring, and communication with families is consistent and thoughtful.
Weve also been impressed by the schools emphasis on experiential learning, leadership development, and global awareness. Students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, and grow as confident learners both inside and outside the classroom.
Beyond academics, the campus culture is welcoming and inclusive, and there are many opportunities for students to explore athletics, the arts, and service learning. Our child feels known, challenged, and supported here, and that has made all the difference.
Overall, we would highly recommend The Colorado Springs School to families seeking a well-rounded, student-centered educational experience.

Posted: March 9, 2026

This school has helped our child flourish socially, emotionally, and academically. We did a lot of research before moving to Colorado. The school eased our transition by linking us with other CSS families who were very transparent about the school and its offerings. Once we arrived, we were impressed by the involvement of teachers and staff. We were particularly impressed the school has a doctor on staff to handle health issues. The experiential education is by far the most unique and impressive aspect. Weaving these experiences into the overall academic structure truly makes for well-rounded, confident kids. The lunch and after school programs are another huge plus for us.

We're hoping to see more athletic offerings such as girls lacrosse in the future. Otherwise, we've been extremely happy with our decision to choose CSS.

Posted: March 9, 2026

Posted: February 3, 2026

We truly wanted to love The Colorado Springs School. The promise of small class sizes, strong community, and student engagement was very appealing, and we went in with high hopes. Unfortunately, our experience has been deeply disappointing. The school appears to lack adequate resources and, from our perspective, is cutting corners, likely due to ongoing financial challenges. It feels as though admissions standards have been lowered to fill seats, which directly impacts the learning environment. Academically, the expectations and rigor are far below what we expected for a private school at this cost. Standards around behavior, professionalism, and accountability simply do not align with what we have seen at comparable private schools. Overall, expectations for students feel minimal. Given the tuition, this experience has been especially frustrating. There are many public and charter schools in the Colorado Springs area, at no cost, that offer significantly higher academic rigor, stronger professionalism, and clearer expectations for students. We regret that this school did not live up to its mission or its price point.

Posted: December 10, 2025

Parent of 3 in middle and high. I really wanted to love this school...the quad, the grounds, the historic Trianon. It seemed magical. But after a few years now, we've experienced what many others have as well. This is a failing school on multiple fronts. Academics: its gotten so small they can't offer the diverse classes our kids need to be competitive in the college application process. Ask their counselor off the record if you can. Social: HS kids rarely get together or hang out outside of school. It seems like some of this is because families come from Black Forest, Pueblo and everywhere in between but I never thought I would say as a teenager's parent...aren't you going to hang out with friends or go to a party? HS is sadly unsocial...the grade sizes of 10-15 mean your kids only have a few friend options and the excitment I experienced of hanging with friends, talking to boys or just HS is absent. Transparency: we've tried to be involved as parents which is way harder than it should be. They want your money but don't really want you asking questions especially about the shaky finances or safety issues around campus. It's disturbing how defensive they get immediately. Ask questions and ask to see documents that most normal school make easily available. My guess is you'll find them less than willing to show you actual documents and hide behind "we're a private school." but as a non-profit and k-12 school there are public disclosure requirements they apparently feel are optional. Save yourself a lot of heartache and keep looking. It says something that the board is the same few people that got CSS into the finanical mess its in been in for a decade. They seem more concerned about not admitting to any mistakes made and trying to convince everyone that the Titanic is just fine.

Posted: December 10, 2025

Posted: November 11, 2025

Our children have attended CSS since PreK and are now in their middle school years. Over the past decade, weve seen many changes, but what has remained constant is the schools mission and its unwavering commitment to experiential learning.

As a parent, I continue to be amazed by the opportunities available to students both inside and outside the classroom. From building their own 3D representations of ancient civilizations to spending a week canyoneering in Utah, to participating in seminars that encourage new ways of seeing and understanding the world, CSS truly cultivates curiosity and personal growth.

Students develop essential skills in leadership, collaboration, and public speaking, gaining confidence and perspective in the process. What impresses me most is the focus on educating the whole child and preparing them for the complexities of our modern world. In an era where AI continues to evolve and reshape the workforce, hands-on experiences and real-world learning have never been more important. Those are the skills no technology can replace.

Investing in an education that prepares our children for the future is worth every penny. This school nurtures engaged, thoughtful, and adventurous learners who think critically, explore freely, and actively participate in their own learning journey. I highly recommend The Colorado Springs School.

Posted: November 11, 2025

Posted: November 9, 2025

The Colorado Springs School has been a wonderful fit for our family. The academics are challenging in a way that encourages growth, curiosity, and independence. Our son genuinely enjoys going to class, and weve seen him thrive both intellectually and personally. The small class sizes allow teachers to know each student well, and that individualized attention has helped him take real ownership of his learning, grades, and goals.

One of the things we value most is the schools community. Its welcoming, supportive, and deeply engaged. Our son has made close friends, and his class feels like a tight-knit group that learns and grows together. The environment fosters collaboration, respect, and a sense of belonging qualities that matter just as much as academics.

The immersive learning style keeps students engaged and challenged. Its not just textbook learning its hands-on, discussion-based, and designed to help students think critically and creatively. The college prep program has also impressed us. Its thoughtful and personalized, helping students explore their strengths and interests while preparing them for competitive college admissions and life beyond high school.

Campus safety is another standout. Our son feels secure and supported every day, and that peace of mind is invaluable to us as parents.

For families seeking a school that blends academic rigor, character development, and a nurturing environment all within a high-caliber, close-knit community CSS is a place where students are truly known and set up to succeed.

Posted: November 9, 2025

Posted: October 22, 2025

Save yourself the money. This school used to be great, but its not anymore. So many issues start at the top with the board and head of school. Academics in the high school feel really weakhonestly, compared to Cheyenne or Vanguard (or even the local publics) kids come out behind. We had to get tutors and when we switched schools our kids were about a year behind.

The place still acts fancy and Broadmoor-exclusive, but it doesnt feel financially healthy. From talking with other parents, we just dont think the value matches the price, and full-pay families dont seem to be getting what they pay for.

The campus looks nice from the street but some parts look worn out. Anyone whos owned an old house knows how fast things fall apart if maintenance slipsits that kind of vibe. Leadership sounds polished but follow-through just isnt there, at least from what we saw.

This school needs a full resetfrom the boardroom to the buildings.

Posted: October 22, 2025

Posted: September 19, 2025

CSS has lost its way. Once a respectable school with great reviews, now it has lowered its standards and reputation by scrubbing poor reviews from noteworthy platforms. Do your research when school shopping and reach out to the number of families who have left the school. CSS has financial woes, high teacher and leadership turnover, retention concerns, and lack of integrity when it comes to dealing with curious parents and staff. If youre not part of the influential families who run the school, you are left out of the loop. Transparency is an issue compounded with lack of trust. Promises made often are broken. Programming fees are added on, so be sure to build in a cushion for your budget. Facilities are adequate but not well cleaned or maintained. Why is there one director/principal for the Middle and Elementary Schools, especially when these divisions are in two different buildings? Why are so many CSS parents in leadership positions? Seems like a conflict of interest! Why is the high school losing so many kids? Many questions remain, but one in particular stands out: will CSS simply survive another year, or will CSS thrive?

Posted: September 19, 2025

Posted: September 14, 2025

Constant changeover in teachers and administration is disturbing and the school has a historic issue of poor finances and underfunding of maintenance needs in its aging buildings. Many of the best teachers and admin leave or appear to have been forced out. The board has a lack of transparency and seems to operate on the "good ol boys" system - mostly white men and they choose who they want to replace them. Many of the teachers do not have teaching licenses.

Posted: September 14, 2025

Posted: October 2, 2023

Although we have been at the school a short time, my son has blossomed and loves coming to school each day. The opportunities for hands on learning and outdoor education are unmatched. I have found the teachers to be extremely caring and hardworking.

Posted: October 2, 2023

Posted: May 30, 2023

As appealing as the campus may be, within the walls is a disorganized, unstructured, undisciplined, and unaccountable learning environment.

There were many claims and promises the school made during the admissions process that were not met. The school mission is to shape the students into leaders who are committed to serving others and leaving their mark on the world. Living up to the mission of serving others does not seem to be a focus of day to day activities. There was regular bullying, which was never addressed and mostly disregarded.

Despite promises that accommodations for dyslexia would be provided, they were not.

Posted: May 30, 2023

Posted: December 26, 2022

We had a terrible experience with this school. There are almost no opportunities for parents to engage with on-site school events or interact with other families. There is basically zero diversity but they try to promote themselves as this socially woke school that is so diverse. Its so performative and fake. Its a great place for affluent families that want to be around other affluent families. All the administration cares about is that you keep the checks coming - they do not care about your kid or things you are going through at home. For a small school, they make no effort to get to know you or your family. So many frustrating policies and red tape. Not accommodating to normal working families.

Posted: December 26, 2022

Posted: March 4, 2022

CSS was once a fantastic school, leading with excellent academics and experiential education, keeping the students at the forefront. It is slowly and continuously falling into a politically-led institution, focusing on finances and dictatorial rule. The overall student experience, especially in upper school, is demoralizing, frustrating and negative reinforcement driven. Individuals are not necessarily held accountable, yet the group punishment is usually over the top and not commensurate with the issue. The Board should be more in touch with the entire family community and ensure the school is leading the way in education, not following political playbooks.

Posted: March 4, 2022

Posted: August 6, 2020

Superb. As with life, reward is commensurate with effort.

Posted: January 7, 2020

CSS is an amazing place for kids! If you want your child to be engaged and love learning make this school a priority. It's an investment, but worth it. Your kid will still face adversity, social challenges, disappoints, and homework as this school is not a utopia. Challenges are handled by thoughtful teachers and administrators who care about kids and parents. Thank you to the teachers, coaches, and parents that make this such a wonderful school community.

Posted: January 7, 2020

Homework assignments practice skills learned in class and make real-world connections.

Posted: January 7, 2020

Learning challenges are by nature challenging. This school cares about kids and connecting families with resources. They are also honest about their limitations.

Posted: January 7, 2020

Posted: August 14, 2019

Look out for bullying, they cover it up and dont have to live up to state regulations, been through it.

Posted: August 14, 2019

If your child is not a cookie cutter kid they wont be treated well.

Posted: August 14, 2019

They cover it up over and over.

Posted: August 14, 2019

We left because of the way they handle bullying and for the attitude of some on the board, if your child is not perfect, find a friendlier school.

Posted: August 14, 2019

Posted: April 24, 2018

This school offers an amazing education. My three kids each started the school when they were 3 years old. This school has supported them, given them opportunities at every turn, and challenged them to grow as people. Two of my kids have now graduated from the high school, and the third will graduate next year. It has been an amazing combination of strong academics with experiential education... a place where my kids could call home all while taking AP classes, diving into immersive seminars, join in the tennis team, the robotics club, the many band opportunities, the theater program... lots of opportunities to be involved at this amazing school. 18 years, and I wouldnt have sent my kids anywhere else!

Posted: June 20, 2017

Where you send your kids to school is a decision you make with your heart. When both of your kids are born premature some 30 years ago and from the beginning are in a fight for their lives, you pray, you plead and you promise. You promise that if somehow they can live that you will give them the best. That is where the Colorado Springs School came in. It was the right decision.
It was FAMILY from the beginning. In a setting out of Gatsby, with small classes, a progressive educational system focusing on children getting experiential learning and planned trips all over the world, this school built confidence, built experience, and built lifelong friendships. My kids still have many close friends from their days at CSS.
The CSS education started with ice cream socials, proceeded to big friend, little friend, was a flurry of intensive and personal education and trips all over the world, and ended with graduation as the kindergartners sang to the seniors. It was a dream.
The Colorado Springs school was the best decision we ever made. Let's be clear: deciding where your kids go to school is exercising control. You are controlling where your kids are educated, by whom they are educated, and who they get to grow up with in a real and personal way. Just as you decide what they eat and what sports they play and many other facets of their lives, giving your kids an education at this school gives you the ability to give your kids your best shot. None too soon your kids will use their fresh, clear eyed (and all knowing) 18 year old knowledge of the world to choose their college and oh boy is that an eye opener. Until then though you can guide them, and guide them well, by sending them to the Colorado Springs School. You are choosing FAMILY. The Colorado Springs School is FAMILY.
My wife and I have always thought that the job of parents is to give their children roots and wings. Our hearts tell us that a tangible part of the roots we provided was CSS. You love em up and then send them off as preschoolers and kindergartners to be educated by others; a leap of faith as you hold back your tears. The trust we gave to CSS was rewarded beyond anything we could have dreamed. It was the job of CSS to help us protect them and prepare them until their wings were ready for the next step. CSS came through in spades and they still do.

Posted: June 20, 2017

Posted: May 19, 2017

For the money, unfortunately, the Colorado Springs School does not deliver at the level one would expect. Teaching quality ranges from excellent to utterly mediocre and input regarding the latter is ignored by leadership. Struggles to maintain academic variety and quality are understandable with such a small student population, but families leave for many reasons. Can be excellent for the right kid, but overall, not a good investment in your child's future given the alternatives.