The Vanguard School (High)

I have been going to this school since kindergarten and I have to say it is really great school, but at times it can really get on your nerves. There are some teachers who literally treat the students as college students and don't train them for college and there are others who try to teach, but don't really care, they either help the really obnoxious students or the students who have all A's and don't understand one thing, not the other students. Other than those few teachers I must say that this school is very good in academics and the way they teach them also. My freshman year I was scared to go into high school, but the teachers just invited me in and most of them helped me understand the material and if I didn't understand I went to a student in a higher grade for help and they were more than happy to help. There is not much bullying here and if there is those students get reprimanded for it. If you are looking in to sending your child here, do it! It's worth it! They will make great friends and they will learn a lot!!
—Submitted by a student

The Vanguard HS is part of Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy (CMCA). The school produces impressive results, but don't let that fool you. The HS has only been around for several years and up until now almost all of their HS students have been "lifers" i.e. students that have come up through the CMCA ranks since kindergarten. Just in the last few years they've had to deal with incoming students. And they don't handle them very well. I do agree with the 1-star reviewer that questions aren't welcome when it involves criticism. They won't say so, but in reality they will do nothing for you if your child struggles - contrary to school's motto. There are great & poor teachers. But the school won't accept challenges from parents on poor performing teachers. Freshmen classes are often taught by 1st year teachers, who lack training on school policies and procedures. The principal is virtually invisible in classrooms, caring mostly about school's publicity and fundraising. The vice principal is also an English teacher and a board member. Too busy to worry about new teacher training, etc. They figure struggling students won't return so the school will get rid of low test scores.
—Submitted by a parent

As a former student of this school, I can honestly say that this school is the best thing that could have happened to me. It has furthered my education beyond all of my expectations. I came from a public school in 6th grade to the vigorous, classical curriculum of the 7th grade at CMCA. I was really behind, but my teachers were so helpful in getting me caught up to my grade level standards. I stayed through my freshman year and had to move unfortunately. I am way ahead at my new high school in Fairfax County, VA, and I honestly feel like I could attend college now if I had to! This school prepares you amazingly in all aspects of life, and I am truly thankful I had the opportunity to attend here for three years. If your child has the drive to learn and the desire to become competitive in every aspect of life, it would be a mistake not to send him/her here. It was the best decision my family and I could have ever made.
—Submitted by a student

Think long and hard about choosing this school-- and ask questions of governing agencies. My experience is that criticism and asking tough questions at this school are NOT tolerated- and unless you join lockstep in the accolades, prepare to be treated with disprect and disdain as a parent. The vast majority of the teachers are wonderful, hardworking people. My criticism lies with the leadership who will turn a blind eye to real issues affecting kids simply because they might hurt the school's "public image." Case in point? If you read this comment now-- check to see if it is still here in a month....or if someone will make sure it is removed....thats what happened to the last one
—Submitted by a parent

The Vanguard School staff is comprised of teachers who are not only experts in their fields but are also committed to student learning! In the several schools with which I have worked, the professionalism, team spirit, and work ethic at The Vanguard School is unmatched.
—Submitted by a teacher

The Vanguard School is a safe place where students come to school eager to learn, where there is not a problem with gangs or drugs or destructive behavior. The kids are here to learn and the environment supports it.
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school because of the high academic standards that will bring out the best in my son and help him with his long term goals. I also love the development on character development that helps each child not only become a better student but a better person.
—Submitted by a parent

Why do I love The Vanguard School? 1. The teachers and their commitment to the kids. 2. The kids and their commitment to themselves and their school. 3. The administration who is devoted to working for our kids and squeezing every cent out of every dollar. Please come in for a visit, sit down, watch our teachers in action, you will not be disappointed! Our family has been a Cheyenned Mountain Charter Academy/The Vanguard School family for the past 11 years and I cannnot imagine being with a better group of people!
—Submitted by a parent

It's the best education our children can recieve before attending college
—Submitted by a parent

I love The Vanguard School because of their curriculum, staff, and general environment.The best school in Colorado.
—Submitted by a parent

Not many people know about The Vanguard School's huges successes in academics. Their 9th graders scored 100% proficient in reading and writing in the 2009-2010 school year! Their junior received the highest composite average score on the ACT test in the state of Colorado--a score of 27.8! It really is the best high school academically in the state of Colorado.
—Submitted by a teacher

Vanguard is an excellent school! Despite the challenging schoolwork and lessons, my daughter is having the time of her life. The students are very friendly, as well as the teachers. They are always ready to help any student. My daughter thinks she's learned more this semester than throughout her whole average junior high career. If you're looking for an academically rigorous education for your child, you should definitely look into Vanguard.
—Submitted by a parent