University School of Colorado Springs

I ve had the privelege of teaching at USCS since its first year. It s a young school (7years), so it has, of course, experienced growing pains. We've not been able to serve every family in the way they ve desired. But in the majority of cases, students blossom in the unique structure of our school. The strong ties between parents and teachers is crucial as we work to help students discover strengths and overcome weaknesses. The emphasis on student community and growing in Christ is stronger than most church youth groups. When there are issues with cliques (as in any group of teens), we do our best to address them. Extra-curricular activities include Bible studies, retreats, canyoneering, all-school challenge-type games, an incredible drama program, and mission/service opportunities. If your student plays team sports, USCS kids are welcomed onto the teams at ECA -- our teachers and students love to attend games and cheer them on. The best indicator of our school's impact on students is the lunch-time visits from USCS alumni who are still in town, or visiting from out-of-town colleges. When they pop in to see teachers and former classmates, it s like a family reunion every time.
—Submitted by a teacher

No school is the perfect fit for every child. But as a parent who's had children in home school, virtual school, charter school, and public school environments, I can say without hesitation that we've found what we were looking for at USCS, for both our girls. As with most private schools, not all of the teachers are certified, but having an anatomy teacher that used to teach medical students in hospitals works just fine for us! All of the teachers come either from public school backgrounds, or real-world occupations that relate to the subject they're teaching. We love the family atmosphere, and the partnership that we're blessed to have with the teachers (make no mistake: it's a partnership, and parents must be prepared to be the co-teacher -- that's the strength of the model). We look forward to seeing our girls graduate from this wonderful school (and we're grateful for the guidance in how to apply for college scholarships -- our older daughter got the second-highest scholarship possible at her private college of choice, which she'll be attending in the fall).
—Submitted by a parent

Love this school! My son has been attending this school the last six years and he loves it! How many high school students do you know that love going to school? That is amazing in itself. He is challenged academically and spiritually in his classes as well as in the adventure class. He has scored very well in achievement tests each year which I do credit, in part, the excellent teachers. While it is a small school it has given hugely to the community and other organizations world-wide. We are so blessed to be part of this family.
—Submitted by a parent

This was a unique school, yes, but the teachers aren't the highest quality that some have stated. Overall there was a poor, or lack of, communication between their staff, teachers, and parents. The school does not prepare students for college and in no way helps their students with college scholarships. It is basically an expensive alternative to home education. If you are looking for a private school a full-time local Christian school such as CSCS is where you should go as you get more for your money and they also have sports, extra curricular activities, scholarships, extra support for their students, and a professional atmosphere.

USCS has a unique way of relating to students, families, and the faculty. People that are use to the traditional institutional mindset of school may find it difficult to relate to. However, if you desire a place where the faculty truly love the students, desire them to grow in their faith, and excel in academics, this school is for you. Highly satisfied and encouraged regarding the new additions to the administration and the future of the school.
—Submitted by a teacher

Pros: great teachers, small classrooms, families, attempt to be Christ centered. Cons: Unorganized administration. Out of touch with Parents. School cliques. High Priced. Appears better on paper than in real life..
—Submitted by a parent

Great Christian school. small classes, attentive teachers. My son has grown spiritually and academically. Is learning to be responsible outside of the classroom with 3 day class schedule (yes they have school work the other 2 days). At first he did not want to go, now he can't wait to go back after summer break. Scored very well on achievement tests which supports academic soundness. Wish I could have gone to a school of this kind.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is a GREAT SCHOOL! My daughters have attended this school going on year number 6. Their desire is to graduate from high school from here. They are presently in elementary! We love the balance of classroom teaching with homeschool teaching. I can not imagine having my daughters anywhere else. The staff and administration have a heart for God, the students and for the families!
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been attending this school for the past 3 years. He is in High school now and has really enjoyed it. As a parent, I have enjoyed the freedom of combining the elements of homeschooling and a private school. The school is small enough to meet our needs yet large enough to have a great variety of class offerings. I have found all my son's teachers to be excellent and willing to sit down with my son one on one when he needs it. The Adventure program is just the topping on the cake. It allows him to gain leadership experience, learn new skills and just enjoy the outdoors.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has been great for our family and a real answer to prayer. We have loved being involved with our son's education and having the support of the amazing staff. This school is the perfect combination of challenging academics, fun, and adventure which allows students to grow and excel. The teachers are wonderful and always willing to give a little extra help to students when they need it.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been going to this school now for two years, it has been such a blessing for us as a family. He loves the adventure class and the friends he has made. My wife very much likes the curriculum plus the fact that she can work with the teachers to best help Matthew. I would recommend this school to anyone.
—Submitted by a parent

University School of Colorado Springs acted in a very unprofessional manner towards my child. Be cautious before considering this school.

A great hybrid combining many of the best qualities of both traditional classroom and home school experiences. Dedicated staff and caring administration with a number of excellent programs including drama and adventure leadership that keep our kids on the go.
—Submitted by a parent

As a teacher at USCS, I strongly believe the administration, faculty and staff truly care about the success of the students both in academics and in the student's personal futures. The strong emphasis in academic success and greater emphasis on Christian values has proved to be very influential in all K-12th grade students and it's been a tremendous joy and pleasure to join this team of teachers and parents.
—Submitted by a teacher

Very disappointing experience at this school. Administration and faculty were very unorganized. Classroom management and methods were unprofessional. When we asked for help for our student, a plan and hope were given, but nothing was ever done. This school was very different in reality than "on paper".
—Submitted by a parent

I've had 3 children attend this school. It has given them an excellent academic preparation with a strong Christian influence. The drama program and outdoor adventure training is first class. I have been SO impressed
—Submitted by a parent

USCS has a very high academic profile. With a private school/home education combination your students will be well prepared to enter any Academy or University. (They have students in both West Point and the US Naval Academy) Next year they are adding over 70 classes to their already amazing course of study line up. (AP, Honors and Dual Credit classes) They also have programs for the students that would like to accelerate their high school career, all the while receiving college credits. This school is simply amazing. We love it!
—Submitted by a parent

I graduated from this school, and if I could redo it, I would have stayed at my previous school. It did not prepare me for college/university at all. I believe you deserve to know the statistics and the amount of the graduates that actually attended university, two or four year college after this school. So ask before you sign. Do not get me wrong, the elementary is the ONLY thriving part about this Adventure School. It is nothing but that. It is barely christian.

We have truly enjoyed this school this year. This is our first year and the caliber of teachers at this school is top notch. My daughter enjoys learning under the direction of her teachers. It truly is a place which extends a 'team spirit' environment...the teachers truly desire for the students to learn! Well worth the drive to the westside and the tuition.
—Submitted by a parent

Our children have done very well at this school. The small sized classrooms and tremendously caring teachers are wonderful. If you are looking for a Christian school atmosphere with attention to the character of your children and are interesting in them having a servants heart this is a great school. This school also allows the parents to still be involved in the education of your children. It has been a great blessing for our family.
—Submitted by a parent