The Best Private Schools in Monument, Colorado
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Monument. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Fountain Valley School of Colorado
Fountain Valley School
Fountain Valley School is a prestigious independent college preparatory school located in Colorado Springs, serving students from Monument and the surrounding region. As a boarding and day school, FVS offers a rigorous International Baccalaureate curriculum alongside traditional college preparatory courses. The school is renowned for its exceptional faculty, beautiful 1,100-acre campus, and unique outdoor education program that leverages Colorado's natural environment. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students receive an education that balances academic challenge with character development and global perspective.
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The Classical Academy - College Pathway
The Classical Academy
The Classical Academy is a highly-regarded charter school network serving the Monument and Colorado Springs area with a comprehensive college preparatory program. Located just south of Monument, TCA offers a rigorous classical education model combined with modern academic standards. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, extensive athletic programs, and robust fine arts offerings. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, TCA consistently achieves high academic performance and college acceptance rates. The school serves students from kindergarten through high school with a focus on character development and academic excellence.
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St. Mary's High School
Catholic Schools of Greater Colorado Springs
St. Mary's High School is a longstanding Catholic college preparatory school that serves families throughout the Pikes Peak region, including Monument. With a rich history dating back to 1885, the school combines rigorous academic preparation with faith-based education. St. Mary's offers comprehensive STEM programs, competitive athletics, and outstanding performing arts facilities. The school maintains small class sizes and provides individualized college counseling, resulting in high college acceptance rates. Their campus features modern academic buildings, science labs, and athletic facilities while maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Monument, Colorado
What are the primary private school options serving families in Monument, Colorado, and are they located directly in town?
Monument itself is home to The Classical Academy - College Pathway (TCA), a highly-regarded charter network with a private school option. For traditional independent private schools, families often look to nearby Colorado Springs. Top options include Fountain Valley School of Colorado (a boarding/day school in Colorado Springs) and St. Mary's High School (a Catholic college-prep school in downtown Colorado Springs). Many Monument families commute south to these schools, taking advantage of their specialized programs while living in the Monument community. There are also smaller faith-based academies in the Tri-Lakes area.
How does tuition at private schools in the Monument, CO area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition varies significantly. The Classical Academy's College Pathway is a public charter, so there is no tuition. For private institutions, St. Mary's High School tuition for the 2023-24 year was approximately $13,000, while Fountain Valley School's day student tuition is over $30,000. Most Colorado private schools offer need-based financial aid, and Colorado has tax-advantaged savings programs like the Colorado 529 CollegeInvest Savings Plan, which can also be used for K-12 private school tuition up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary. It's crucial to inquire directly about aid packages and deadlines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools accessible from Monument, Colorado offer?
Schools provide distinct specializations. Fountain Valley School emphasizes experiential learning, global perspectives, and a renowned equestrian program alongside a rigorous college-prep curriculum. St. Mary's High School offers a strong Catholic education with a focus on service and a comprehensive STEM program. The Classical Academy - College Pathway integrates classical education with dedicated tracks for concurrent college credit and career readiness. Given Monument's proximity to outdoor recreation and military installations (like the US Air Force Academy), many schools incorporate outdoor education and have significant populations of military-connected students.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Monument/Colorado Springs area?
Timelines are school-specific but generally follow an annual cycle. Fountain Valley School, as a boarding school, has application deadlines in January/February for the following fall, with decisions released in March. St. Mary's High School often has a fall/winter application period for the next academic year, including placement tests. The Classical Academy has an open enrollment lottery period, typically in January, for its charter seats. For all schools, especially those with limited space, starting the process 12-18 months in advance is advisable. Tours, shadow days, and financial aid applications often have separate, earlier deadlines.
For families in Monument, what are the key considerations when choosing between the high-performing public schools (like Lewis-Palmer D38) and private options?
The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, class size, and specific program needs. Lewis-Palmer School District 38 is consistently top-ranked in Colorado, offering excellent academics, sports, and activities with no tuition. Families may choose private schools for a specific religious foundation (St. Mary's), a particular pedagogical approach like classical education (TCA) or experiential learning (Fountain Valley), or smaller, more intimate learning environments. The commute to Colorado Springs private schools is a practical factor, as is the desire for a boarding school experience. It's recommended to closely compare the culture, values, and outcomes of each specific school against your child's needs.
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