Mountain Song Community School in Colorado Springs

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	4/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) data from Colorado Department of Education.

Posted: February 28, 2025

There is no school in town that puts as much love, care, beauty, and thought into the curriculum or classroom. Take a tour!

Posted: February 16, 2025

Hi there, I am a current student at this school and would love to write a review as it has been a good experience so far! I feel like this school is overall good but there are a few flaws, but hey! Even the best of us have a few flaws. This school has a very hands-on learning experience including art, lots of class discussion, VERY awesome projects, and the most wonderful, insightful staff and students. this school has taught many of us how to love ourselves, others, and the (somewhat) wonderful world we live in. My teacher being Miss Siebert (A wonderful kind amazing teacher/mother figure by the way) Ever since I have come here, I have felt supported and loved by all teachers and staff. They have a wonderful Special ED system and now offer free bagged lunch! They don't have busses yet but hopefully soon, the families are super engaged (my mom being on the board and other committees herself) and they support any students regardless of differences. It is pretty much always safe here. They are located in a great neighborhood and if your child gets bullied, expect the staff and executive director (lovely, amazing person by the way) to get right on top of it and work to solve the problem. Don't believe me? well here is my story. I have gone to this school for as long as I can remember, recently I started getting bullied A LOT. the staff noticed I was not my happy cheerful self and met with me. I told them and they immediately started to handle the kid with class meetings, and talk it outs. well, the kid didn't stop like he said he would, and I stopped coming to school due to anxiety that would make me throw up. well, they started giving him warnings and all of the sudden, it stopped, and he was gone from the school. slowly I started coming back and now, I enjoy school again. thank you for reading my review.

Posted: November 12, 2024

Would not recommend for students or prospective teachers.

Posted: September 26, 2024

TEN STAR REVIEW
-This is a very special school :D.
-They are a Waldorf inspired charter.
-It's free so you don't have to pay for your child to go to a nice school.
-They spread so much love and kindness.
-Deep love for nature and encourages a healthy lifestyle.
-More natural and connected way of learning, they follow the Waldorf 7 year cycle and year by year set up the lessons to align with my child's development in a way I've never seen before.
-Making sure they are being nurtured through physical movement, psychologically, spiritually and usually in a very graceful beautiful way.

My kids teacher is Mrs. Arzate and she has been so wonderful, I've had a lot of support from her and I can tell she loves her students. Her way of doing things is truly inspiring and magical for my child I'm so glad my child gets to learn from her. I have learned about how the true forms of simplicity and imagination really help young children. She has been my kids teacher since 1st grade because the teachers here move up through the grades with their class offering a wonderful way for kids to bond with their teacher who really gets to know them well and can cater to their specific needs.

I can't recommend this school enough.

Posted: September 26, 2024

Posted: August 23, 2024

Mountain Song is beautifully unique in so many ways and at every level throughout the school. The classrooms and teaching styles incorporate so many things that benefit neurodiversity (lots of movement, mindfulness, soft lights and colors, singing, kindness & empathy, etc). The curriculum really allows children the freedom to want to learn and to focus their interests - there's no burning out by third grade or hating reading because they were forced into seeing reading as a chore. The "Waldorf curve" is something to be mindful and appreciative of rather than afraid of. We love that kids are given the benefit of blossoming at their own pace - they can excel in one subject and take their time with another without being shamed or felt to be less. Our own kiddo was slow to read, but would come home and teach us math and loved to be asked to solve math problems for fun. We were able to let her take the lead and now she's so excited about reading; she hasn't had her joy for reading killed by countless tests and worksheets telling her she's not good enough. The extra curriculars are one of our favorite things as well- especially the agricultural arts! Children get to grow, tend to, prepare, and eat so many wonderful things in the huge garden! There are chickens and fish. Vegetables and fruits. My child still complains that my own beet brownies are nothing compared to the ones they had in Ag Arts! The focus on the whole child - head, heart, and hands - is well demonstrated throughout the entire Mountain Song experience. It takes a lot of parental commitment, but it is so worth it.

Posted: August 23, 2024

Posted: July 26, 2024

We have absolutely loved our mountain song community. Our teachers are warm and bright. They love our children. They foster their individuality and cultivate their love of learning as well as engage our families to grow with the school. The festivals are so much fun. There is such a community that it feels like a family. You really do get out of it what you put in.

Posted: July 26, 2024

Posted: July 9, 2024

Hello my name will not be showed in this review for privacy reasons. I am a student here at mscs i am in middle school. And i have many reasons why you shouldnt come to mscs and if your here you should transfer.
1. Bullying. I am transgender and am questioning whether or not i am going to come out to my class. With how much i get bullied already I dont necessarily want to. 2. Questions. If you ask a teacher for help or advise they usually tell you to figure it out yourself. 3. Asking to get water or use the bathroom. Some teachers say you cannot use the bathroom in my class and use the excuse you should have gone before class 4. Staffing problems. They are struggling very badly to find and keep staff due to the behavior of the executive director. 5. Lunch and transportation. There are no buses and there is no free lunch or cafeteria so it is hard for low income families to attend this school. 6. Playgrounds and building. The playgrounds are small and very boring and 2 classes are in the back right 3 classes are in the back playground and 4 are in the front all at the same time. So it is always busy. And the building is old and small. 7. Advanced classes are not available for gifted students like myself so math and English are very boring and basic for me and other advanced students. 8. Nurses office. If you really hurt yourself they will give you an ice pack and send you back to class. 9. Students are USED TO BULLYING! Which is unacceptable. They will refer to a certain person or group of people as the class bully or bully group. 10. Teachers do not do anything about bullying and dont keep their eyes on students. Thanks for reading my review and i hope this is helpful.

Posted: July 9, 2024

Posted: June 7, 2024

I have fallen in love with school. Their emphasis on nature, slow rhythms, whole foods, and healthy relationships have really impressed me. My daughter who was scared to start kindergarten was treated with great kindness and care that she quickly loved going.

Posted: June 7, 2024

Posted: May 7, 2024

My experience with MSCS thus far has been everything I would hope for in early childhood education for my children. They feel known, safe and therefore able to learn in every way - academically, emotionally and socially. I am incredibly grateful for each of my childs teacher; they clearly strive to form meaningful connections with their students to further facilitate deeper learning and growth.

Posted: May 7, 2024

Posted: April 25, 2024

I have two children at Mountain Song, one in Kindergarten and one in 2nd grade and have been delighted with their experience! The teachers and staff are so nurturing and caring, while also holding very high expectations for the kids. It's been a joy watching them fall in love with learning!

Posted: April 25, 2024

Posted: April 12, 2024

Mountain Song Community School has been an integral part of our family for 8 years. With 4 children who have all thrived within its nurturing environment, we've witnessed the magic of holistic education. The heart, hands, and head approach of Waldorf education has allowed our kids to blossom creatively, intellectually, and emotionally. Beyond academics, Mountain Song fosters a sense of communitya warm tapestry where parents, teachers, and staff collaborate seamlessly. The school's commitment to individualized attention and nature-inspired learning is commendable. Our oldest child, now in high school, entered with a solid foundation from Mountain Song. Their love for learning and ability to think independently have served them well. We credit Mountain Song for instilling a lifelong curiosity and a strong work ethic. Having a public Waldorf option like Mountain Song has aligned perfectly with our values and enriched our lives. We're immensely grateful for this educational haven.

Posted: April 12, 2024

Posted: March 29, 2024

Our family is in our sixth year at Mountain Song, and I cant imagine sending our kids anywhere else. My kids love their teachers, enjoy learning, and feel safe. Rather than have their imaginations stifled, their imaginations and curiosity continues to grow.

I know Waldorf education might not be for everyone, but it fits our family so well! The story-driven curriculum introduces students to a range of cultures throughout history and across the world. The Ag Arts class ensures our kids get their hands dirty helping in the garden, learning firsthand where food comes from and what it means to tend to the Earth. And the emphasis on music, art, storytelling, and handwork means that our kids brains are engages in all facets, and their self-expression is a valued asset that the staff and faculty foster.

If youre looking for a place where you can be assured your kids will be loved and cared for as people (not just pupils), I couldnt recommend Mountain Song more. Its the sort of education I wish I had when I was growing up, and I am forever grateful that my children are getting to experience it every day!

Posted: March 29, 2024

Posted: September 25, 2023

I was very disappointed with how dishonest and misleading this school is. This school gives Waldorf education a bad name.

There is a lot of talk about how safe and supportive the school is, and its not. Bullying was so prevalent that the students have referred to their bully. As if it was completely normal to be bullied and have a bully.

The Waldorf pedagogy was very well explained, but not well implemented. The principal discouraged families from socializing before and after school. The only Community existed amongst a small group of staff and adults who are not kind.

There are some things young children need to learn and decide for themselves as they grow older, that boundary doesnt exist here. Sexuality is open and uncomfortable.

Waldorf education had a historically Christian background so I was surprised to see that this school practices many Pagan holidays and rituals. To each his own, but at least be honest about it.

As far as the education goes, my kids learned more watching Brightside on YouTube. I dont blame all of the teachers, they are very overworked. This school has a hard time staying properly staffed. This is definitely a top down issue. One the board of directors is aware of and complacent.

Im sure I am forgetting to include something but I think my point has been made.

Go elsewhere, unless you dont like your children, then this is a great place.

Posted: September 25, 2023

Posted: August 14, 2023

If you are thinking about enrolling your child in this school, please rethink it. There is no community and very little parent participation, not by choice.

Bullying is a huge issue. Sadly it is experienced by many students, parents and staff. Not only is nothing done to help the victims, the director and some staff actively participate in it. They dismiss and shame the bullied and the example they set, empower the bully.

The turnover rate is very high. The Director is rude and harsh to the students, staff and parents. The administration is dismissive and very difficult to deal with due to lack of leadership.

If this was a true Waldorf curriculum, being behind is ok because in the upper grades it all comes together. But this is not a Waldorf school and it ends at 8th grade.

Sadly many parents that want to leave the school are unsure where to go, knowing their child will likely be behind at a new school.

Some students that complete 8th grade have a very hard time when leaving due to the level of education they experienced at MSCS.

They claim to be Waldorf inspired but the only thing I see that remotely resembles Waldorf education are the school supplies, the hand works class and the Kindergarten classrooms.

All the pictures they post online
are a show. My childs classmates (Staffs Kids) were in some beautiful pictures they posted on the website and when I asked my child about the activity, I was told they had no idea it even happened.

Unless something is done about the Directors behavior, this school will only continue to decline. And the Board is a joke. None of your concerns will be addressed and you and your children will suffer for trying to bring major issues to them for some sort of resolution.

One Kindergarten class had so many issues, many parents pulled their kids out mid year. The teachers assistant left as well. Im not sure if she was fired or quit but either way there was little to no communication to the parents from the director or teacher, about all the issues in that classroom. And they were VERY serious issues. Many of the parents only found out after the school year was over by the parents that were directly involved.

They do a great job at looking like a magical place. Its all lies. The idea of it is so beautiful but the reality is quite the opposite.

My advice is RUN

Posted: August 14, 2023

Posted: July 7, 2023

Terrible school. Doesn't resemble a Waldorf education at all, and those YouTube videos are far from accurate. While the younger grades show some promise, the quality declines significantly after 2nd grade. The administration resorts to dishonesty and concealing facts to shirk their responsibilities as accountable professionals. The principal's behavior is absolutely absurd and unprofessional, warranting her immediate dismissal. If you possess any shred of common sense, those nagging concerns you're experiencing are valid, and keeping your children in this school will only result in their academic setbacks and emotional suffering in the long run.

Posted: July 7, 2023

Posted: March 1, 2023

This review is to help families thinking about sending their child(ren) to this school. I highly recommend finding a different school. They say they have zero tolerance for bullying but thats false, I know this because I witnessed it myself as a parent of a student attending Mountain Song.
Its extremely difficult to communicate with any staff at the school and my daughters teacher told me to my face that she doesnt check her emails. Even trying to get a meeting with the principal was like pulling teeth because she is too busy. When I spoke up about a student that was bullying and harassing my child, my child and our family was made to feel like we were the ones doing something wrong. The leadership staff at the school started being very cold toward us after we spoke up about the issue. The school thought separating the two children would solve the issue, but they are in the same class- so how much can you really separate them? Thats not a solution. After speaking up, my daughter was made to feel like an annoyance, her teacher told us that shes had to spend SO much extra time on this situation, and when my daughter spoke up about the bully the teacher would just brush it off and tell her to ignore it.
The teacher also discussed other students with us which is a huge concern because if shes telling me about other students, I can only imagine what she tells other parents about my kid. I used to teach 2nd grade and I know for a fact that is not appropriate.
I did pull my daughter from this school, not to give in to them pushing us out, but to save my daughter the stress, anxiety and depression that the bullying was causing her.
When I finally got a meeting with the principal, I was asked what would you like for us to do?.its absolutely mind blowing that the leader of the school has to ask me that. And my reply was that I simply wanted my daughters teacher to build a relationship with her, show her that she cares, and keep her safe when bullying situations arise. The principals reply was that shed talk to the teacher about it, which again is unreal. A teacher should already know these things. A principal should want teachers in their school who care about their students and SHOW IT. Actions speak much louder than words. Its only a matter of time before the bully chooses a new victim.
Its really a shame, but at least I now have the peace of mind that my daughter is safe and cared for at school.

Posted: March 1, 2023

Posted: October 31, 2022

Only send your children to this school if you don't care about their education. The vast majority of teachers have no Waldorf training, or even basic teacher training. Classes have extensive behavioral problems, fail to adhere to basic standards (Waldorf or Colorado State) and the administration is completely unwilling to take responsibility for anything that happens in the school.

My son attended Mountain Song for 2 years, and a day doesn't go by that I don't regret sending him there. The first year he was assigned an untrained first year teacher, who tried hard but wasn't supported, and ultimately quit. The second year, his new teacher was yet another untrained teacher, who left halfway through the year after receiving no support from the administration.

Untrained teachers are hired every year, who have lack teaching experience or even a basic understanding of Waldorf education. Many are well meaning, but they are overwhelmed in the class and not provided enough support to succeed. Most don't make it to a second year, some not even a full year. Mountain Song has experienced at least a 33% turnover in teachers in from 2022 to 2023. This has led to students falling further behind, and a host of behavioral issues in the classroom as more untrained teachers or long-term substitutes are used. The school's leadership is toxic, and refuses to admit they have a problem, as a result many families and teachers are abandoning the school. There are some good teachers at the school, even some who are Waldorf trained, but you are gambling with your child's future if your teacher gets fed up and quits because they are done with the toxic administration.

It is a shame because Mountain Song could really be a great experience for students and families, but the administration continues to hold this school back and make meaningful changes. The school board fails to hold the administration accountable, and is composed of some well-meaning, but disinterested members who are looking to add a bullet to their resume or to get hired by the school at the end of their term.

Posted: October 31, 2022

Posted: July 3, 2022

Mountain Song Community School is a school that inspires, empowers and educates. Located in the most beautiful setting of Crestone, Colorado, Mountain Song provides a unique and transformative educational environment for young children and their families.
The school has a strong focus on academics, with teachers who are passionate about teaching and a curriculum that is relevant to the 21st century. There is a high level of parent involvement and communication, which we found to be critical to the development of our child's character and sense of community.

Posted: July 3, 2022

Posted: June 19, 2022

If youre looking for mediocre education for your children this is the place.

The entire school admin and board are as about as incompetent as they come. Never following through on promises or changes that need to be made.

Teacher turnover is horrendous. Our child had 4 teachers in 2 years.
Dont let the pretty classrooms and videos of the one actual Waldorf classroom make you think this is some place special.
Do you and your child a favor and choose any other school in Colorado.

Posted: June 19, 2022

Posted: April 16, 2018

That's funny. The kids at the inner city schools that I went to had more character and were better behaved than these kids. They swear, boyfriends hit the girlfriends, They hit each other, they gang up on each other. No manners what-so-ever. The adults either have blinders on or just don't care.

Posted: April 16, 2018

Horrible. The kids are bullied kids that came to this school to BE bullies.

Posted: April 3, 2018

Homework assigned is geared towards appropriate ages and states of development, rather than given in an overwhelming way for younger learners. Highly appreciate the approach of completing most school work at school and allowing children adequate family time in the evenings.

Posted: April 3, 2018

The teachers truly care about my kids. I love the structure of a teacher graduating the grades alongside their students, which gives my children a long term bond with their educators.

Posted: April 3, 2018

There is ample play time compared to other schools, and when problems arise the teachers take the time to help children problem solve to resolve things.

Posted: April 3, 2018

My daughter has special needs and the entire staff has welcomed her and made tremendous efforts in giving her the support needed to thrive in school.

Posted: April 3, 2018

Having experienced multiple schools in the local area, this one has been a family favorite for over two years now.

Posted: March 22, 2018

I'm going to go with disagree on this. They are constantly changing leadership. Past teachers played favorites and literally would do NOTHING about concerns brought to them. They currently have an interim teacher in charge and she is doing a good job from what I can tell. But it would be great if they didn't schedule everything during the time where most parents work and with little notice. Many of the Moms are stay at home and can drop what they are doing to help. There is little consideration for working parents.

Posted: March 22, 2018

I think they do. There are several kids in the class that have learning issues and they work with them accordingly. When mine had a low state test score they were helped and their score was greatly improved upon.

Posted: March 22, 2018

I'm going with neutral on this one because it just depends on your teacher. Currently my child has a GREAT teacher who really looks out for them. Last year their teacher would blame them when kids were mean or did things to them. Keep in mind (I did not know this before) TRADITIONAL WALDORF SCHOOLS BELIEVE THAT BULLYING IS THE KIDS KARMA FROM PRIOR LIVES!!! While it is a state school and they have to follow the state rules on bullying, it does NOT guarantee that the teacher does not hold that core belief and how they will (or if) they will work to resolve their issue. If you are not active and diligent your child could be left to feel isolated and bad about themselves. I have seen improvement from the current leadership and staff this year though and have high hopes that this will continue to improve.

Posted: March 22, 2018

There are good days and bad days but overall, my child literally HATES this school. They are bored, they think the kids are pretentious and mean. I'm begged at least once a month to do homeschooling. It is only a strong community if you are 100% onboard with everything that they believe and if you are in the "Crunchy Mom Club" Real parents with real jobs and lives that are not 100% organic, no TV, no media of any kind, are looked down upon. I was so excited and thought that this would be a great fit but things are not always what they seem. They are not BAD and their intentions I believe ARE good but lack of follow through, last second planning and minimal funding doesn't help. this is a school that you really need to tour, talk to people and REALLY dig in to see if it aligns with you and your families life, values and culture. If it does- you will probably love it and I hope that you do. OH THE SCHOOL HAS NO CAFETERIAN AND NO BUSSES so there's that.

Posted: March 22, 2018

Well, at first they NEVER got homework which was concerning to me. But then they had a teacher change and now they get homework. Many of the other parents were angry about that but I am glad. The old teacher let them play around too way too much.

Posted: March 22, 2018

Again, this year I do think that they have an effective teacher. I like how they are taught many different skills. I am NOT happy with the language that they let the kids use.

Posted: February 5, 2018

My daughter has incredible support from the SPED Team and the rest of the faculty and staff!

Posted: February 5, 2018

There is a strong community feeling at this school and children are friends across grades.

Posted: February 5, 2018

We adore Mountain Song! It's the best school for our daughters.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Mountain Shadows	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	4.4 mi
2	Cheyenne Mountain	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	5.2 mi
3	Windmill Apartments	Apartment Complex	Colorado Springs	CO	6.6 mi
4	Comanche Village	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fort carson	CO	7.8 mi
5	Dakota Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	8.1 mi
6	Pronghorn Meadows	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	9.8 mi
7	Briargate - Fairfax	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	9.9 mi
8	Security Valley	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	10.2 mi
9	Cordera	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	10.6 mi
10	Wolf Ranch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	10.6 mi
11	Stetson Hills	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	10.8 mi
12	Wolf Ranch (Briargate)	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	11.1 mi
13	Flying Horse	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	12.1 mi
14	Fountain Valley	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Colorado Springs	CO	13.4 mi
15	Falcon	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Peyton	CO	14.4 mi
16	Forest Lakes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Monument	CO	14.5 mi
17	Meridian Ranch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Peyton	CO	16.8 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Colorado Springs Co	Colorado Springs	CO	2.8 mi
2	North Cheyenne Canyon	Colorado Springs	CO	4.8 mi
3	Manitou Springs	Colorado Springs	CO	5.8 mi
4	North Gate Blvd	Colorado Springs	CO	12.9 mi

Base	Distance
Cheyenne Mountain Air Station	7.6 mi.
Fort Carson	8.8 mi.
Peterson AFB	9.6 mi.
US Air Force Academy	10.4 mi.
Schriever AFB	18.5 mi.

Mountain Song Community School

Colorado Springs, CO 80904

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Mountain Song Community School

Colorado Springs, CO 80904

School Ratings

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