The Best Private Schools in Kiowa, Colorado
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kiowa. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary's Academy
St. Mary's Academy
St. Mary's Academy is a highly-regarded independent Catholic school serving students from preschool through high school. Located approximately 30 miles from Kiowa, it offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on critical thinking and character development. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, SMA provides personalized attention and comprehensive college counseling. The school's extensive extracurricular program includes competitive sports, robotics, debate, and community service opportunities.
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Colorado Academy
Colorado Academy
Colorado Academy is a prestigious independent school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, located approximately 35 miles from Kiowa. The school offers a challenging academic program complemented by outstanding arts, athletics, and outdoor education. CA's 94-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including a new innovation center, multiple athletic fields, and extensive arts spaces. The school is particularly known for its strong sense of community, dedicated faculty, and comprehensive college counseling program. With a focus on developing well-rounded individuals, Colorado Academy provides extensive extracurricular opportunities and maintains small class sizes for personalized learning experiences.
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Kent Denver School
Kent Denver School
Kent Denver School is an elite independent college preparatory school located about 25 miles from Kiowa. The school serves grades 6-12 and is known for its challenging academic program and exceptional faculty. Kent Denver offers a comprehensive curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement options, robust arts programs, and competitive athletic teams. The 220-acre campus features modern academic buildings, extensive athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. The school emphasizes global citizenship and offers numerous international travel opportunities. With a strong sense of community and outstanding college placement record, Kent Denver consistently ranks among Colorado's top private schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kiowa, Colorado
What are the realistic private school options for families residing in Kiowa, Colorado, given the listed top schools are in the Denver metro area?
While Kiowa itself is a rural town without major private school campuses, families commonly consider commuting to prestigious Denver-area schools like St. Mary's Academy, Kent Denver School, and Colorado Academy. These are typically 45-60 minute drives. More local options include smaller religious or independent schools in the broader Elbert County area, such as Lutheran High School in Parker or St. Thomas More in Centennial. The key consideration for Kiowa residents is the significant daily commute, making carpooling and school transportation policies critical factors in the decision.
How does Colorado's school choice landscape, including the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative, affect private school affordability for Kiowa families?
Colorado does not have a universal private school voucher program. However, the state's School Choice policy allows for open enrollment in public districts, which is a relevant comparison for Kiowa parents. For private schools, affordability primarily relies on institutional financial aid. Schools like Kent Denver and Colorado Academy offer need-based aid, but competition is high. Kiowa families should investigate each school's aid application process (often requiring SSS forms) and deadlines, which can be a year in advance. Additionally, Colorado's 529 College Savings plans can now be used for K-12 private school tuition, offering a state tax deduction for contributions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs at Denver-area private schools might appeal to Kiowa's rural community values and interests?
Denver-area private schools offer programs that can complement a Kiowa student's rural upbringing. Colorado Academy and Kent Denver have robust outdoor education and sustainability programs, including wilderness trips and environmental science, aligning with Colorado's natural landscape. Many also have strong equestrian programs or clubs. Furthermore, schools like St. Mary's Academy emphasize community service, which can resonate with the close-knit values of Kiowa. These programs provide a blend of elite academics with experiential learning that can bridge a student's home environment with a broader preparatory education.
What are the key enrollment timelines and admission testing requirements for top private schools accessible from Kiowa, CO?
The admission process for competitive Denver-area private schools is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, applications typically open in August/September, with deadlines between January and February. Key steps include the ISEE or SSAT standardized tests (often required for middle and upper school), interviews, and school visits. For Kiowa families, planning is crucial due to travel time for tours and testing centers. Many schools host fall open houses; attending these a full year before desired enrollment is recommended. Sibling and legacy policies can also impact timelines, so contacting admissions offices 18 months in advance is wise.
How do the class sizes and student-teacher ratios in Kiowa's public school district (Elizabeth C-1) compare to nearby private school options, and what are the trade-offs?
Kiowa is served by the Elizabeth C-1 School District, where class sizes can vary but are generally larger than those at premier private schools. For example, Elizabeth High School may have classes of 25-30 students, while Colorado Academy or Kent Denver often maintain ratios of 10:1 or lower. The trade-off for Kiowa families involves the commute, cost, and community environment. The local public district offers proximity, no tuition, and a community-centered atmosphere. The private options offer highly personalized attention, extensive resources, and college preparatory networks but at a high financial cost and with significant daily travel, which impacts family time and extracurricular participation.