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Selection & Enrollment Information for Local High Schools 2025-26

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Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the enrollment period for the next academic year, we understand the importance of finding the right high school for your child. This newsletter provides an overview of high schools in the area, highlighting their specializations, programs, and key contact information to help you make an informed decision.

Sincerely,

Mr. Kyle Speller 
GVA-A Middle School Counselor 
720-571-2303 ext.2135 
[email protected]

Spotlight: New Charter High School

United Academy

  • Focus Areas: Spanish and Mandarin language immersion programs.
  • Grade Levels: 9–12
  • Launch Year: 2025–2026 school year.
  • Key Features: Advanced Placement (AP) language courses, European standards alignment (CEUs), and strong advocacy for language immersion students.
  • Contact: [email protected]

Language Advocacy and Opportunities

Why Language Matters

Language-focused high schools provide students with tools to excel in a globalized world, including college credit and advanced placement opportunities.

Parental Advocacy

Ensure your child is placed in the appropriate language track by requesting placement tests and discussing academic goals with school counselors.

Advanced Placement (AP)

AP language courses and exams provide students with college credit and advanced standing in university programs. 

Action Items for Parents

Explore Partnerships

Look into programs offered by local colleges for advanced language courses.

AP Strategy Classes

Consider enrolling your child in AP strategy classes to prepare for AP tests.

Review Options

Review memorandums of understanding with schools offering advanced language programs to understand enrollment agreements.

International Baccalaureate Programs

Consider if IB programming is right for your student. The International Baccalaureate program is an internationally recognized school curriculum that aims to foster open-minded and well-rounded students who are not only critical thinkers but also globally minded and culturally aware. It is rigorous but impactful and can help your student grow into a responsible global citizen.

School District Requirements

Aurora Public Schools (APS) Open Enrollment Process

The initial open enrollment period for APS schools for the 2025-2026 school year is January 15 to May 1, 2025. Applications received after May 1st will be wait-listed in the order received until there is a vacancy or the school year ends. Open enrollment paperwork can be found on APS Open Enrollment Policy.

Cherry Creek School District (CCSD) Enrollment Process

The Cherry Creek School District accepts students who live in other school districts on a staffing and space available basis. The enrollment will be completed online beginning on March 3, 2025.

Denver Public Schools (DPS) School Choice Process

School Choice, in the Denver Public School system, is for any student who wants or needs to attend a new school for the following school year, particularly “transitioning” students, typically incoming kinder, sixth- and ninth-grade students.

To participate in School Choice, families submit one School Choice Application per student, on which they rank their top schools in order of preference, up to a limit of 12. DPS then uses a computer algorithm that matches students to schools based on those preferences, as well as school admission priorities and available space.

Round 1 is Now Open! Apply before February 18 at 4:00 PM.

Local High Schools with Language Programs

Below is a list of some of the schools you may be interested in and links to their websites for specific instructions for enrollment. We strongly suggest you visit these websites as enrollment requirements vary from school to school.

For further assistance or inquiries, feel free to connect with the High School Registrar's office of your choice for more specific information regarding enrollment.

Aurora West College Preparatory Academy

Aurora West College Preparatory Academy, serving 1,106 students in grades 6-12, offers a rigorous program aimed at preparing students for four-year colleges and universities. Students in grades 10 through 12 are empowered to learn the content knowledge, skills, and habits of mind required to become college-educated men and women in a changing world. Beginning in 10th grade, qualified students may begin taking classes from the Community College of Aurora and earning college credit for their coursework.

Students have the opportunity to graduate from Aurora West College Preparatory Academy with concurrent degrees: a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree from the Community College of Aurora. 

Colorado Early Colleges - Aurora

Colorado Early Colleges Aurora (CECA) is a tuition-free public charter high school offering students in grades 9-12 the chance to earn both high school and college credits, including an Associate degree or higher, at no cost. CECA covers tuition, fees, and textbooks, and provides transportation to and from campus.

  • World Languages Offered: only available through Community College of Aurora
  • Career Pathways Offered: varies; students work towards an Associate’s Degree, Professional Industry Certificate, or obtain (60) college credits towards a degree/program of their choice. 

Colorado Preparatory Academy

Fully Online High School through K12.com

Colorado Preparatory Academy (CPA) is a statewide, multi-district online school partnering with Education reEnvisioned to provide rigorous, personalized learning. Highly qualified teachers work with parents and use K12’s award-winning curriculum to create Individualized Learning Plans tailored to each student’s strengths and needs. These plans guide students throughout their education, preparing them for success in college and the workforce.

  • World Languages Offered: Spanish, French, German, Latin, & Chinese
  • Apply Today: Enroll Here

Destinations Career Academy of Colorado

Fully Online High School through K12.com

Destinations Career Academy of Colorado offers students a head start on college and career goals while completing high school online. With instruction from state-certified teachers and K12-provided materials, students learn from home or anywhere with internet access. As Colorado’s first full-time, online career technical education program, Destinations blends core academics with real-world skills for future success.

  • World Languages Offered: Spanish; Other World Languages are available through Concurrent Enrollment
  • Career Pathways Offered: Business, Information Technology, Health & Human Services, Agriculture, Manufacturing and the Trades 

Gateway High School (APS School)

With 1,456 students, Gateway High School offers diverse learning opportunities, including college prep, honors, AP courses, career/technical programs, and the chance to earn an Associate degree through Concurrent Enrollment. As an inclusive community, Gateway welcomes students ready to explore their passions and challenge their potential.

  • World Languages Offered: Spanish & French 
  • Career Pathways Offered: Project Lead the Way, Wood Manufacturing, Digital Media, Design & Multimedia Arts, & Culinary Arts
  • Apply Today: 9th Grade Application - Gateway High School accepts students year-round so families can apply at any time!

Hinkley High School (APS School)

Hinkley High School is a public high school consisting of approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12. The school offers a wide range of academic programs including: International Baccalaureate (IB). Biomedical Science, Engineering, and Dual Enrollment. Hinkley High School also offers intensive language courses for ELD students as well as Exceptional Student Services to assist students with specific needs.

Overland High School (Cherry Creek School)

Overland High School is a comprehensive public, suburban, college-oriented institution. The Overland-Prairie community is committed to providing innovative, educational opportunities that promote academic excellence and empower students to become leaders in their local, national, and global society. Overland offers a bold new approach to education featuring a creative focus in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics with a strong liberal arts foundation.

Rangeview High School (APS School)

Rangeview High School’s purpose is to develop and honor the curiosity of their students by uncovering their passion and motivation to learn in a fun and relevant environment, creating dynamic citizens who will strengthen their community and add to the narrative of the school. There are approximately 2,200 students who attend Rangeview.

  • World Languages Offered: Spanish & French
  • Career Pathways Offered: Visual Arts & STEM pre-engineering
  • Future Freshman Showcase Open House: February 11, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Apply Today: 9th Grade Application. Applications must be submitted in person to the Rangeview Main Office by May 1, 2025.

Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy (DPS School)

A new high school in Denver Public Schools. Founded upon the principles of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy honors students’ history, individuality, cultural experiences, and future potential while providing a rigorous and high-quality academic experience. Join the Founding Class of Change Agents, Innovators, and Thought Leaders! 

  • World Languages Offered: TBD 

The STEAD School (Brighton 27J School)

The STEAD School, a new project-based learning high school in Commerce City’s Reunion community, focuses on science-driven, hands-on education. STEAD stands for Science, Technology, Environment, Agriculture, and Systems Design, and it operates as a charter school within the Brighton 27J School District.

Vista PEAK Preparatory (APS School)

Vista PEAK offers an innovative program focused on real-world, connected learning, fostering creativity, responsibility, and student choice. Its vision ensures every graduate leaves with a diploma, college credits, or industry certifications for success in college or the workforce.

  • World Languages Offered: Spanish, Italian, American Sign Language (ASL)
  • Career Pathways Offered: Business, Biomedical Sciences, STEM, Fine Arts, Digital Media & Communications, and Graphic Design & Multimedia Arts
  • Apply Today: APS Open Enrollment*

* The Vista Peak Preparatory Administration and/or District may rescind or amend any or all approved open enrollments at the end of any semester, if, in their opinion, there is overcrowding of facilities or programs for those residing in the school attendance area or other undesirable conditions develop including behavior, truancy or academic issues. 

William Smith High School (APS School)

William Smith High School serves approximately 380 students in grades 9 through 12. As an EL Education school, it is recognized locally and nationally for its exemplary project-based learning program. The school's mission is to provide a diverse student body with outstanding academic and character education through engaging project-based work.