News Summary

Vista Charter School in Montrose is showing what’s possible when charter flexibility meets real-world learning. From bike tech and outdoor science to culinary arts and wild horse therapy, Vista blends strong academics with hands-on pathways that prepare students for life after high school.

Colorado charter schools have faced a massive, long-overlooked facilities gap. New research reveals just how deep the inequity runs—an estimated $1.4B in lost funding over the last decade. Learn what’s driving the disparity and how our community can unite to demand the fair share charter school students deserve.

The ballots are counted, but the impact is still unfolding. This post-election reflection breaks down why victory isn’t the finish line, why loss isn’t the end of influence, and what the new board must do to stay connected to communities.

Colorado’s school board elections didn’t follow a single narrative—they reflected each community’s priorities. After hundreds of voter conversations, one theme stood out: when people understand charter schools, they support them. Explore what the results reveal, why they were so distinctly local, and what it means for charter school advocacy moving forward.

In Cortez, Southwest Open School is proving that food is education. 🍽️ Through the Rural School Food Project, students are gaining hands-on culinary skills, healthier meals, and stronger connections to community.

With more than $830,000 in federal funding through Great Schools Colorado, C2E is expanding its middle school program, adding new classrooms and collaborative spaces, and strengthening its STEAM-based curriculum — all while keeping its close-knit community feel.

From rural mountain towns to busy city corridors, Colorado’s charter schools are redefining what it means to put kids first. Discover how these schools are expanding opportunity—one charter at a time.

A new study shows that Healthy School Meals for All is improving participation, attendance, and equity in rural charter schools—helping students learn better and communities thrive.

By blending expert insights with student voices, Beyond the Bell demonstrates how schools can become hubs of thought leadership and innovation. It also engages families, students, and communities in shaping the future.

Effective communication isn’t just about sharing information — it’s about building trust. Schools can strengthen relationships, shape perception, and foster transparency through clear, consistent, and courageous communication.

CIVA Charter High School is kicking off the year with its signature Forum assemblies, where student voice, creativity, and community spirit shine through music, storytelling, and shared celebration.

Pagosa Peak Open School is excited to announce the grand opening of the Playground for the People — Uptown Pagosa’s first public, multi-tiered play space designed to spark curiosity, movement, and community connection.

See stats on Enrollment, Demographics, CMAS and more in this recap of where we stand at 2024