The Best Private Schools in Denver: Where Does Aspen Academy Rank?

When you are looking for the best private schools in Denver, there are several factors to consider. Learn why Aspen Academy is ranked so highly among private schools in the area.

For many families in Denver choosing the best private school is a significant decision, as it sets the foundation for their children's academic, personal, and future success. With a wide array of private schools to choose from, it's important to understand the options available.

Today, we'll explore the best private schools in Denver and unpack where Aspen Academy ranks amongst private high schools in the area.

What Factors to Consider When Choosing a Private PK-8 School?

Finding the perfect private PK-8 school for your child involves careful consideration. Start by evaluating the school's academic approach – does it prioritize a broad curriculum or specialize in a specific area? Match this to your child's strengths and interests. Next, consider class size and student-teacher ratio. Smaller classes offer a strong community feel. In addition to their academics, a variety of extracurricular activities are crucial for social and emotional development. Look for a school environment that fosters positivity and aligns with your family's values. Finally, consider the school's size and location –  a shorter commute and a setting that matches your child's personality (thriving in a larger or smaller environment) are important factors to a successful fit.

Where Does Aspen Academy Rank in Denver?

In October, 2024, Colorado Sun readers voted Aspen Academy the Best K-8 Private School in the Denver Metro Region. On Niche.com, Aspen Academy has an A+ rating and 30 five star reviews. One parent wrote, ”I have two sons attending Aspen Academy for six years now and the experience has been great for both the parents and students. The academic focus is strong— managed challenges. My boys love the school, the environment, and the friends. The school provides tools needed for their academic learning which is important for learning curves.”

Privateschoolreview.com placed Aspen Academy in the “Top 10 Top 10 Best Arapahoe County Private Elementary Schools (2024)” and “Top 10 Best Arapahoe County Private Preschools (2024)” with Aspen Academy ranked 1st on both lists.

Aspen Academy has been featured in multiple local and statewide news publications, including but not limited to:

• PBS American Portrait
• ColoradoBiz Magazine
• Denver Business Journal
• USA Today
• Newsweek
• Consumer Reports

In addition, Aspen Academy has been the recipient of a multitude of awards.

Aspen Academy’s Awards:

• Denver Business Journal Best Places to Work (2022)
• Future Holders (LiFE Program): Denver Startup Week Pitch Competition Finalist, 3rd Place (2020)
• U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Award (2020)
• ColoradoBiz Magazine Top Company Finalist (Nonprofit) (2020)
• ColoradoBiz Magazine’s Top 100 Woman-Owned Companies (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
• Colorado Environmental Leadership Program Bronze Award (2019)
• Denver Business Journal Largest Denver-Area Private Schools (2019, 2020-2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
• Colorado Parent Top 5 Winner Family Favorites (2019, 2021, 2022)
• National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat (2019)

Senior Leadership Awards

• Dana Kohls, lower school director: Colorado Parent Magazine Best Private Elementary School Principal Runner-up (2023)
• Kristina Scala, founder, president, and head of school: Denver Business Journal Outstanding Women in Business (2022)
• Kristina Scala: Colorado Titan 100 (2022)
• Nicole Witcher, comptroller: NBOA Professional Achievement Award (2021)
• Kristina Scala: U.S. Patent (2019)
• Lynda Sailor, founder and chief business officer: NBOA Will Hancock Unsung Hero Award (2019)
• Kristina Scala: Denver Business Journal Leadership Trust Member (2018 - present)
• Kristina Scala: Thrive Global’s Top 15 Women to Watch (2018)
• Kristina Scala: Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce Top 25 Most Powerful Women (2018) 

We appreciate this recognition of our school as one of the top private schools in Denver. We would like to share some of the ingredients that have helped us create a highly ranked educational experience for your child.

What Does Aspen Academy Have to Offer?

For more than 19 years, Aspen Academy has focused on real-world skills, including the nation's first integrated entrepreneurial development program. To date, we've helped launch more than 450 student-run businesses. Our students receive 90+ hours of leadership per student per year, and 85% of Aspen Academy students are in the top 10% of U.S. students in math and reading.

Students spend an average of 206 hours annually in our STEAM Lab, preparing them for higher education and careers in STEAM.

Aspen Academy is committed to developing individual passions and interests and offers students a wide variety of experiences both before and after school. Our Extracurricular catalog boasts over 50 activities each semester, and there is something for everyone!

We give our students practical skills in leadership, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship by the time they graduate 8th-Grade, creating the foundation for an extraordinary future.

Our school has been ranked among the top private schools in the area for several years through multiple school directories. If you want to sign your child up at our PK-Grade 8 school in Denver, contact us today!