The Vanguard School (High)

Posted: July 18, 2024

I am a recent alumni and unfortunately my experience was nothing but negative. If you don’t fit the perfect mold they have made for all their students you are treated poorly by both staff and fellow peers, which is unrealistic given every kid is a human being and not a robot. The homework load is insane, basically insuring that your child will be burnt out almost immediately and have 0 life outside of school. The teachers claim to be there for you if you need it, but I personally was turned away or did not receive proper help whenever I required it before/after school. The school also does not understand or provide any real help to any kids that need it. If you are special needs or have a 504 plan they will do everything in their power to NOT help you academically and make you (the student) feel awful for requiring extra help with their insane work load.
Now not everything is fully negative. Outright bullying is virtually nonexistent and they have 0 tolerance for it. It is also a very clean and organized school, the class layout is small and neat, and the student body is on the smaller side so the staff to student ratio is higher than other schools. I will also mention that the school’s library is very nice, clean, and stocked well with books that both help academicly and are entertaining.
That being said, the school feels empty and soulless at any given point in the day, but I’m pretty sure thats what they are going for. To sum it up, your child will almost certainly be totally burnt out and taught to be void of any emotion and become an academic robot that just makes the schools numbers look good, as they mention themselves during almost any assembly that that is the most important thing to them.

I will also add that I attended this school from 4th grade up, and I will say the elementary and middle school was awesome. I never felt like an outsider or that I was a burden and always felt proud of what I achieved academically. But in my personal opinion they failed at creating the same environment for the 9-12 building, it was such an aggressive switch up it didn’t even feel like the same school i grew to love for the years beforehand.

Posted: July 18, 2024

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Posted: January 9, 2024

We love how our children have thrived through “supported challenge” at the Vanguard School. Emphasis on character is definitely a plus-we feel like they are helping develop our kids in to caring, compassionate AND smart citizens. Family engagement has dropped off slightly since the pandemic, but we’d still highly recommend this school.

Posted: January 9, 2024

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Posted: September 9, 2023

My daughter went to the Vanguard Junior High and now is in a 9th grader in HS. We moved from a messy district where there was chaos in everything and saw a visible change. Academically she thrives in this school, teachers care and are involved in their day to day academic wellbeing. We also went trough some rocky times related to mental health- the administration addressed concerns and worked with us, kept us informed and were there to answer any question.
There's rigorous structure in learning, organizing schoolwork, and homework, as it should be. There's nothing that students can't handle- two hours of homework on average is what I notice she gets and she's on top of it. Plenty of clubs and athletics, if they chose to.
Highly recommending this school if you strive for academic achievement and overall piece of mind.

Posted: September 9, 2023

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Posted: September 16, 2021

I could write forever on how disgusting the administration is in regards to the children and their mental health. They are not compassionate, patient, understanding, caring… If you are looking to burn your kids out emotionally and mentally then this is the school for you.

Posted: September 16, 2021

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Posted: March 16, 2020

They try to, they have character classes twice a month so students can learn. But, they are teenagers, and teenagers will be teenagers, some of them will still act however they want.

Posted: March 16, 2020

Posted: March 16, 2020

If you have the right paperwork to prove your mental disability, then they will bend classes to however you might need it. The school does not openly advertise that so, you need to talk to the principal to get help.

Posted: March 16, 2020

There's not much bullying, most of the kids there have known each other since kindergarten. I never saw anyone get shoved into a locker or belittled. That being said, it's hard to make close friends due to the fact that everyone is so tight nit. So you might feel like an outsider.

Posted: March 16, 2020

It's a good school if you want to take all honors because there aren't any regular classes. EVERYONE is in their AP or honors. So, if you like a challenge and truly rigorous classes, go here. Through all that, you will feel more prepared for college. You almost always have some sort of essay or project due. There's also a junior project and senior capstone, both of those are time-consuming and difficult if you're not in top of it.
People also give it really high ratings because they've probably gone there since kindergarten, it's easy for them, they know what to expect. People who have been there since day one, are super intelligent and kinda good at every subject. It can be intimidating (unless you're really smart too). Also, there aren't a lot of clubs and the art programs feel relatively small. Not to mention there isn't a football team. You sort of miss out on the high school experience, but you trade it in for a really prepared understanding of college.

Posted: March 16, 2020

Their reasoning for giving a ton of homework is to prepare them, for college. I understand that it will help them in the long run. However, it's overwhelming and hard to keep up with. With this amount of homework, it gives them little to no time to be a teenager and enjoy themselves.

Posted: March 16, 2020

If you advocate for yourself and vocalize your needs, they will help you. If you go in after school and ask for help, you will receive it. Not to mention, most of the teachers teach to help you understand the concepts. The only downside is, you take notes every day and in almost all of your classes. Plus its in big binders, one for each of your classes, along with a heavy textbook for your classes.

Posted: July 27, 2019

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Posted: July 27, 2019

Phenomenal. Everyone there; students, teachers, parents...choose to be there.

Posted: July 3, 2019

Homework varies by grade level so it matches the student's ability level. There is no "busy work" assigned. The homework supports what students learn in the classroom. Many students complete their homework during the regular school day during study hall or in class.

Posted: July 3, 2019

The teachers are well qualified and very dedicated to their students.

Posted: July 3, 2019

The school mission discusses character and academic potential equally. Students are modeled character and are expected to treat one another with respect.

Posted: July 3, 2019

School administration is dedicated, caring, and consistent. Decisions are based on the best interest of the students.

Posted: July 3, 2019

Teachers go above and beyond to insure all students succeed. There are programs for students who need additional or specialized instruction. There are also after-school and summer classes offered.

Posted: July 3, 2019

Bullying is not tolerated at The Vanguard School.

Posted: July 3, 2019

The Vanguard School consistently ranks at the top of all schools in Colorado. Its graduates regularly comment on how grateful they are to have been given a top notch education that prepared them to succeed in college and in life. Your student will not find a better education in Colorado Springs in any other public or private school. The school also offers a variety of sports and arts programs that have produced state champions and national medal winners.

Posted: October 24, 2018

The leaders do not lead, they control and shove stuff under the carpet. They certainly do not practice what they preach. This school would be a lot better with new leaders.

Posted: October 24, 2018

I had to get a 504C for my daughter because they reduced the grade because she had a migraine and could transmit a paper by a given time (was 1 hour late).

Posted: October 24, 2018

I have not dealt with thisissue, but know of several families who claim they left the school because administration did not effectively deal with bullying.

Posted: October 24, 2018

Prior to 2016, I couldn't say enough good things about the school. Since 2016, it was a nightmare after nightmare. I kept hoping for change, but it never occurred. They have recently implemented a policy that they will not accept public comments at board meetings. They dont care about concerns. If there was a way I would love to see a study on the number of students with stressed induced migraine and the effects on their lives after high school. The stress is so high because of the demands put on the students that a lot have stressed induced migraines and I am certain other conditions. Retaliation at this school has also caused serious issues. If you just shut your mouth and let the administration shove stuff under the carpet, you will stay in good graces and survive, otherwise your students and families will suffer tremendously. Ask why 3 of the best teachers recently left the school. Also ask why the elementary principal left in the middle of the school year and why 2 other principals stepped down from their positions.

Posted: October 24, 2018

Because a child does not have time for family and friends because the homework load is over the top.

Posted: October 24, 2018

The teachers are great that have been there for a while, which are no many. They have a high turn over rate.

Posted: October 24, 2018

They do teach the students a lot of great qualities, but the students laugh because the administration does not practice any of it. I think also things are so strict that the students cant wait to get out of there so that they can do those exact things that the school wouldn't let them do. There has to be a balance and I believe it is lacking at the school.

Posted: June 16, 2018

As a teacher I've found it very positive. I'd previously taught at college level, and was not sure I would like teenagers, but it has been a great experience overall. It is a challenging school, even naturally bright students need a strong work ethic to succeed, but it is within reach. All the students know each other and seem to genuinely get along and support each other. What can I say? I've taught here for years and I keep coming back.

Posted: June 16, 2018

Homework demands are a bit higher here than in other schools, but not excessively so (my children attend a different high school here in town so I have a base of comparison). I think sometimes we emphasize the challenge of this school so much that we psych our own students out. There is always room for improvement, but from what I see assigned it seems to me to be supportive of the curriculum content.

Posted: June 16, 2018

Maybe I'm not objective, being a teacher here myself, but I am very impressed with my colleagues. Most have graduate-level degrees, are passionate about their subject matter, and work hard to bring it alive with the students. Thinking back to my own high school experiences, this is a superior group. Yes, turnover is high. It is a demanding environment for the teachers, and being a charter school means that pay is lower than in standard public schools - which only makes me more impressed with my colleagues.

Posted: June 16, 2018

The school works at this more intentionally than most, including regular class-level discussions on virtues. I think some students, and occasionally some teachers, find it heavy-handed or a bit contrived, but it at least makes students think about the concept of virtue and how those look in daily life. There is of course no substitute for parenting and personal commitment when it comes to virtue.

Posted: June 16, 2018

Things get done, projects get completed, and there is opportunity for input. As a teacher I've had little difficulty getting permission, and plenty of support, for virtually anything I wanted to do.

Posted: June 16, 2018

I think this is the most difficult challenge the school faces, especially given the high academic level the school aims to maintain. Verbal and logical learners have a strong advantage here, others will struggle more. This is probably true of most schools - it is certainly true of college, so even those who struggle with those methods will gain if college is their goal. Most teachers here make an effort to reach other learning styles.

Posted: June 16, 2018

I have not seen bullying at this school - which of course is not to say that it doesn't happen, especially since some reviews below mention it. It seems a lot less than I remember from my own school years. The school is small, teachers are in the hallways between every class as well as before and after school - there isn't a lot of room here for things like that to go on unnoticed.

Posted: April 16, 2018

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Posted: April 16, 2018

This school reminds me of the show “Mad Men” with the CEO, COO, and AD in the starring roles. Misogyny, sexual harassment, racial tensions, religious fanatics, dysfunctional power-play dynamics…It's all there and a rough place if you’re not in the "Good Ole Boy" club. I prefer the modern world of 2018 and am choosing to go somewhere else.

Posted: April 11, 2018

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Posted: April 11, 2018

The students are not respected by the leadership at this school. The athletic director is downright rude and the principal, CEO, and COO don't seem to care about students either. They say that students are the priority but this is not true. Modeling basic human respect for each other seems to be an unreachable goal from the leadership level. From negative tone of voice to non-verbal communication, the message is clear. Some teachers are nice, but I can't really recommend this school.

Posted: April 4, 2018

The Vanguard School values character and it shows when you are on campus and walk the hallways. Students are thoughtful and courteous and definitely represent the school well.

Posted: April 4, 2018

The administration extend themselves above and beyond to make themselves available. Coffee with the principal, open board meetings reflect their approachability. They actually listen and find solutions to concerns of parents.

Posted: April 4, 2018

Posted: April 4, 2018

The school feels very inclusive. The smaller size allows for connections across the grades. A kindergartner ran up to hug my 9th grade son after they completed a science cohort event. Kids feel like they matter and contribute to their school.

Posted: April 4, 2018

The Vanguard School has been a wonderful environment for our children. The teachers are outstanding and the strong academic curriculum has been impressive.

Posted: April 4, 2018

There is a reasonable amount of homework that teaches our children time management with balancing sports and extra curricular activities.

Posted: April 4, 2018

Amazing teachers make this school wonderful. They truly care about the students and connect with them in an inspiring way.

Posted: March 13, 2018

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Posted: March 13, 2018

The Athletic Director seems to NOT want kids to be active and involved in sports. There are so many hurdles to participate and she will actually discourage you from participating. It's really crazy stuff! The principal isn't any better and says one thing but does another. I can't recommend this school at all even though the other kids are super nice.

Posted: March 13, 2018

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Posted: January 21, 2018

The leadership is lacking to make this school as great as it can be. From the Board to the athletic director, power corrupts. There is no oversight so I wouldn't recommend this school. I guess it's the downside of a charter.

Posted: January 21, 2018

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Posted: November 21, 2017

Athletics at this school are a joke due to poor management by the Athletic Director. Policies are random and coaches are frustrated with the incompetence and lack of support. The CEO and COO don't care and neither does the Board. The focus is academics at the expense of kids that want to be active.

Posted: November 21, 2017

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Posted: October 25, 2017

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Posted: October 25, 2017

Posted: October 25, 2017

This school's admin is all about manipulating the deck to justify its charter. They do not care about an average kid, they only want kids who will make them look good. Their teachers are underpaid and are subpar as a result - either they don't have credentials and knowledge, or they're not good with kids. They give way too much homework - literally about 4-5 hours every night 7 days a week. If you want a happy balanced child, this is not the place. If you want administration that isn't primarily motivated by politics and image, this is not the place. My kid transferred to Coronado and is so much happier - and has earned tons of college credits and 5s on AP exams there and also has a life - friends, sports, clubs - lots of fun that Vanguard totally lacks - teachers who actually know what they're doing and administration that is qualified and reasonable. So glad we got out of there!

Posted: October 21, 2017

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Posted: October 21, 2017

There are a lot of positives with this school in spite of its leadership. Negligence pervades. The athletic director is especially careless and vindictive. Retaliation awaits you if you complain.

Posted: September 30, 2017

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Posted: September 30, 2017

Teachers are great but administration needs a lot of improvement. The athletic department is unorganized, lacks customer service, and shows favoritism to the boys programs. Principal and vice principal turn a blind eye to the athletic director, and have hypocritical virtue discussions.

Posted: March 24, 2017

This school has top notch academics, but what I love just as much is the small school atmosphere. This isn't a gigantic school with a million kids. It has an intimate cozy feeling with a lot of school pride and friendliness. My son dreaded going to his last school but loves this school, and that means a lot to me.

Posted: March 6, 2017

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Posted: March 6, 2017

There are strong academics and the study body is amazing. Smart, hard-working students are valued. There are serious problems in admin, however. The Athletic Director is corrupt and the principal covers up problems. Sadly, the leadership lacks the character to do the right thing.

Posted: March 8, 2016

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Posted: March 8, 2016

They teach virtues, but obviously not by example. The administration has their favorite families and favorite teachers. Ask the teachers which ones have dinner with the principal on a regular basis. Then ask them which teachers received an "extended contract."

Posted: March 8, 2016

Academically and socially, The Vanguard School earns 5 stars. The students learn so much and more important than that, they learn to think for themselves. Also, the social atmosphere for students is so positive. Since so many students transcend stereotypes, there are no cliques! Most athletes are also very successful in the classroom. The students support each other in every sport and activity - it is so refreshing to see!

But then there's the administration, the rampant, unabashed nepotism and the teacher turnover rate.
The board is simply a formality and actually bows to the admin - they voted multiple times against the very public blue field that you can see from the interstate. However, the admin wanted the blue field.
I'm all for high accountability for the teachers - but who does the admin answer to?

Posted: October 7, 2015

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Posted: October 7, 2015

Yes, there is a lot of homework. No, it is not excessive. My daughter was a little overwhelmed when she transitioned from a different Middle School into Vanguard High School, especially since she plays a sport at the beginning of the school year, but she has a handle on it now. There are plenty of opportunities for student to receive council from a teacher if need be. Parents are kept informed, and the school is always willing to work with you.
It is NOT a school for every student. IF you kid is cruising thru MS with minimal effort, because C is a passing grade, this is not the school for you.

Posted: April 19, 2015

If you want to have no social life, lots of homework, and be treated like a child by the teachers, then this is the school for you. I use to enjoy learning and school but after Vanguard i was given so much homework that i no longer care about grades or missing assignments. Any other high school would be a better choice.

Posted: November 29, 2014

The Vanguard School has an exceedingly HIGH teach turn-over rate. There are new teachers every year. Most times there are new ones in the middle of the school term. This is very disruptive to the students. The students are given a least 5 hours of homework a night. It's exhausting for my family and myself. My child attends simply because the alternatives here in Colorado Springs are worse. The Vanguard High school has been placed smack dab in the middle of the worst area in Colorado Springs. This is an area you do not want your child walking to school in. What should I do? Leave the state?

Posted: July 2, 2013

I have essentially nothing bad to say concerning this school. I'm about to go into Sophomore year and I'm exceedingly happy with The Vanguard School. It's one of the best schools in Colorado, and rightfully so. It's expanded my education so much, introduced me to classical literature, taught me excellent grammar (something a scary amount of people lack these days), fueled my work ethic, and given me some serious discipline. Being in a zero hour class for my freshman year, I had to be at school every day at seven in the morning. There's tons of homework, and while that can be frustrating every once and a while, it's definitely worth it. Getting an A on a test here makes me ecstatic! It's not easy, for sure. To succeed at Vanguard you need to have confidence, a great attitude about learning, tolerance, and self-restraint. It's no walk in the park to pass a class here. Now, one thing I will say is that if you think your child seriously lacks in any of that or isn't very smart or open to learning, do not send him here. Classes don't slow down just because one or two people aren't up to the challenge, and I've seen many students leave solely because of that reason.

Posted: February 11, 2013

I have been going to this school since kindergarten and I have to say it is really great school, but at times it can really get on your nerves. There are some teachers who literally treat the students as college students and don't train them for college and there are others who try to teach, but don't really care, they either help the really obnoxious students or the students who have all A's and don't understand one thing, not the other students. Other than those few teachers I must say that this school is very good in academics and the way they teach them also. My freshman year I was scared to go into high school, but the teachers just invited me in and most of them helped me understand the material and if I didn't understand I went to a student in a higher grade for help and they were more than happy to help. There is not much bullying here and if there is those students get reprimanded for it. If you are looking in to sending your child here, do it! It's worth it! They will make great friends and they will learn a lot!!

Posted: August 16, 2012

The Vanguard HS is part of Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy (CMCA). The school produces impressive results, but don't let that fool you. The HS has only been around for several years and up until now almost all of their HS students have been "lifers" i.e. students that have come up through the CMCA ranks since kindergarten. Just in the last few years they've had to deal with incoming students. And they don't handle them very well. I do agree with the 1-star reviewer that questions aren't welcome when it involves criticism. They won't say so, but in reality they will do nothing for you if your child struggles - contrary to school's motto. There are great & poor teachers. But the school won't accept challenges from parents on poor performing teachers. Freshmen classes are often taught by 1st year teachers, who lack training on school policies and procedures. The principal is virtually invisible in classrooms, caring mostly about school's publicity and fundraising. The vice principal is also an English teacher and a board member. Too busy to worry about new teacher training, etc. They figure struggling students won't return so the school will get rid of low test scores.

Reviewed: September 26, 2015

The Vanguard School is ranked 2nd within Colorado. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement® course work and exams. The AP® participation rate at The Vanguard School is 84 percent. The student body makeup is 47 percent male and 53 percent female, and the total minority enrollment is 33 percent. The Vanguard School is 1 of 12 high schools in the State Charter School Institute