11 13 14 bacis

Boulder County’s most Comprehensive resourCe for private sChools

2014 n WhiCh private sChool is Best for your kids? n Why independent learning delivers

lasting Benefits

n desCriptions of the fine sChools of

the B.a.C.i.s organization (Boulder area Consortium of independent sChools)

in partnership With

Watershed students are passionate about learning.

Can your child’s school say the same?

“

The students here learn how to work in a community and discover what an

education really is. It is where the topics we study are relevant and where we are encouraged to discuss and debate concepts rather than just memorize dates and facts…This is my second year at Watershed and I have seen myself transform from a teen without confidence or a desire to engage in academics, into a young adult who is passionate about contemporary global issues with a profound desire to better the world.” – Devaki, 12th grade

WATERSHED SCHOOL College Preparatory Grades 6-12

The World is Our Classroom Fostering critical thinking, academic excellence and character development through real world learning.

Watershed Ad BACIS 9 x 11.25.indd 4

www.watershedschool.org info@watershedschool.org 1661 Alpine Ave. Boulder, CO 80304 303.440.7520

11/3/14 9:06 AM

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Private School Guide

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ach winter, thousands of parents begin the Open Enrollment process in search of a better school option for their child. For reasons ranging from standardized test scores to school safety or differentiated student learning, parents across Boulder County and Colorado seek alternatives to their assigned neighborhood school. Embedded in the philosophy of school choice is the simple belief that one’s neighborhood school may not meet the specific needs of a child. There are countless websites and resources out there to shepherd families through the overwhelming selection process, but what School Choice ultimately boils down to is one key element: fit. The correct fit for a student could be academic, social, athletic, artistic or cultural.

There is a wide spectrum, but once a student finds the school that “fits.”

Success, by any measure, often follows.

It is this idea of fit that drives independent schools and their missions of educating kids. Independent schools operate outside state and federal education laws and testing (TCAP) minimums, which allows them to devote more time to students’ development and the Mark Saunders school’s curriculum and mission.

Boulder County is fortunate to have dozens of independent schools with programs that serve virtually every child on the educational spectrum – traditional, gifted and talented, and learning differences to name a few.* Within these educational programs are, among others, very low student/teacher ratios, ability to handle differentiated learning as well as positive and supportive learning environments. Each school has its own distinguishing factors that are worth exploring.

Open Enrollment isn’t for another few months, but in the spirit of School Choice don’t overlook independent schools as a viable option for your child. To truly see what a school is like, its students, teachers and culture, I recommend spending an hour in person to visit and ask questions about each school.

Much like the kids we serve, independent schools have different personalities and strengths and there are several schools in and around Boulder ready to welcome you. Visit bacis.org for more comprehensive profiles of each of the independent schools to see what’s best for you and your family.

— Mark Saunders, Director of Admissions, Dawson School The Independent School Guide is published annually by Boulder Weekly in partnership with the Boulder Area Consortium of Independent Schools (BACIS). No portion may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. © 2014 Boulder Weekly, Inc. All rights reserved.

ate last year a book was published ments and outcomes-oriented evaluations. that poses a very valid question, “Are This type of data collection requires time private schools worth it?” and expertise, and is done well in smaller, Independent school leaders constantly more personalized school communities. reflect on this question. We engage parents Second, independent schools understand in discussion about the value proposition of and deliver the value proposition of 21st private schools — strong academics and century skills: creativity, collaboration, resilcharacter education that lead to the develience, critical thinking, communication, social opment of independent, creative and collab- responsibility and adaptability. These skills are orative leaders. considered vital to working and living in a Sarah and Christopher Lubienski, the complex and rapidly changing global society. authors of “The Public School Advantage: Independent schools believe these are just Why Public Schools Outperform Private as important as academics and data, and Schools,” represent their research by asking teach these skills actively and intentionally. this question: “Do private school students Third, small class size and dedicated, score better on standardized tests than caring teachers have been proven to be a public school students because they are huge factor in student success. Kids do well from more affluent families, or because the when they feel heard, when they are schools are actually providing a better acaknown, when they understand the kind of demic product?” learner they are, and when they have adults It is well documented in their lives who believe Juli Kovats Photography that students at private in them. At my school, our schools perform better student to teacher ratio than students in public of never more than 9:1 schools. The Lubienskis cannot be matched in speculate that private public education. schools have higher scores Fourth, the authors not because they are betcontend there is “danger ter institutions, but because in private school autonotheir students largely come my.” They equate profesfrom more privileged backsional certification and grounds that offer greater accountability through educational support. After state standards, found in correcting for demographthe public system, with ics, the Lubienskis contend excellence in education. In that gains in student more than 23 years in Steve de Beer achievement at public education, that has not schools are at least as great and often great- been my sole experience. I have found that er than those at private ones. excellence is just as likely to result from The Lubienskis’ study is flawed in that hiring teachers who are passionate, dedicatmost of the private schools in their study ed to seeing the best in their students, and are religious schools. What about private go the extra mile. Independent school schools that are accredited members of teachers are all of that and they are held organizations such as the Association of accountable. They are supported financially Colorado Independent Schools (ACIS), each year to pursue excellent professional which requires them to meet rigorous stan- development. dards? The authors respond that, “actually, Finally, our independent schools rely on that was not a category in any of the data one of the most significant and growth-orithat we worked with. There’s this category ented forms of accountability: accreditation. of ‘other private’ that doesn’t fit into There are four schools in Boulder County Christian (schools), but that’s really a very that are fully accredited by ACIS: Dawson, small sample. So we weren’t able to study Boulder Country Day, Friends’ and Shining that.” As a part of that “very small sample,” Mountain Waldorf. we independent schools are constantly surAccreditation assures parents that the prising critics by disproving their statistics. school is focused on providing a safe and There are several important arguments enriching learning environment while maintainthat set an independent education apart ing an effective operation. Accreditation proand make it worth the investment. vides an independent validation that the First, no school – private or public – school is delivering a quality educational expeshould minimalize the outcome of their rience to its students. It provides our schools educational program to student perforwith deserved recognition for demonstrating mance on standardized tests. our ongoing commitment to quality.

While independent schools do seek In the end, each family has to make its such data, it is far from the sole factor on own choice after considering all the school which we base our students’ success. options. The independent schools of Boulder Private schools contextualize tests with County are well worth the look.

— Steve de Beer, Head of School, rich narrative descriptions from teachers, Friends School portfolio assessment, student self-assess-

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

November 13, 2014 1

Courtesy of Alexander Dawson School

Dawson School 10455 Dawson Drive Lafayette, CO 80026

303-665-6679 www.dawsonschool.org

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awson School is the region’s premier K-12 independent school, offering challenging college-preparatory academics, robust athletics and arts programs as well as renowned outdoor and experiential education. We are a community of students, faculty and families who are passionate about education. The school’s 107-acre campus, exceptional teachers, small class sizes and outstanding facilities provide a unique learning environment that supports the community’s 490 students.

Dawson lays a solid academic, social and emotional foundation that supports the realization of each student’s potential and ultimately prepares students to savor life and to meet the challenges of the world. Students are consistently encouraged to try new things and to test their comfort zones: Dawson not only engages students, it ignites passions in them as well. Dawson emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and clear expression. Program highlights include a student / faculty ratio of 7:1, 13 team sports, 20 arts program options, 72 percent of faculty with advanced degrees, 10 hours of specials weekly in Lower School, 1:1 iPads starting in 5th grade, leadership and character education, an involved parent community, and a 45-year history of success. Admission at Dawson is rolling and we encourage families to visit campus for a tour and interview.

2 November 13, 2014

Courtesy of Boulder Country Day School

Boulder Country Day School 4820 Nautilus Court North Boulder, CO 80301

303-527-4931 bouldercountryday.org info@bouldercountryday.org

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ituated on a picturesque, safe, 5.5-acre campus adjacent to Open Space, Boulder Country Day School is a private school where every child has the opportunity to discover his or her own unique excellence. Distinguished by small class sizes, outstanding faculty, a rigorous and balanced curriculum and a focus on community, we strive to create a well-rounded educational environment where students can innovate, create, grow and thrive.

Our curriculum is informed by the most up-to-date research, but we also push beyond traditional subjects to integrate character development, performing and visual arts, hands-on laboratory science, service, and athletics. World languages are offered to all students, even our preschoolers. Being a BCD Bulldog means participating in a balanced education in an inviting, supportive learning environment where everyone’s potential can prosper.

With 335 students in preschool through our International Baccalaureate middle school, BCD has a student/teacher ratio of 8:1. Before- and after-school care are provided as well as summer camps, offering year-round support to families. Generous financial aid is available and all who are interested are encouraged to apply.

Come visit and see the BCD Difference!

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

Courtesy of Broomfield Academy

Courtesy of Catalyst High School

Broomfield Academy

Catalyst High School

303-469-6449 www.broomfieldacademy.com

303-604-6512 www.catalysths.org

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C

7203 W. 120th Ave. Broomfield, CO 80020

roomfield Academy is a nationally accredited, high-quality, independent private preschool, elementary and middle school for children ages 2 1⁄2 – 14. It is known for having small class sizes and an individualized approach. Enrollment is open for full-day kindergarten, full- or part-time academic preschool and grades 1–8. The school also offers a variety of educational and fun summer programs including an academic preschool, a kindergarten prep class, an elementary prep class, an intermediate prep class and a summer enrichment camp.

In all of its programs there is a strong focus on learning. The school focuses on academic excellence through the development and implementation of individual student-learning plans and a well-rounded and advanced curriculum to help children reach their fullest potential. In addition to a very strong core-academic program, the school offers specialty courses to all students in world language (Mandarin Chinese and Spanish), world music, dance, swimming (in a very warm onsite saltwater swimming pool), art, technology and physical education.

Broomfield Academy maintains a focus on character development that includes a “core virtue of the month” program, along with significant community service and charitable involvement. Broomfield Academy also offers a before- and after-school program for working parents with programs throughout its five-acre campus. For more information, visit http://www.broomfieldacademy.com.

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

1376 Miners Drive, #106 Lafayette, CO 80026

atalyst High School is accredited through the North Central Association (AdvancED, CASI). Our mission is to nurture promising teens and empower them to develop responsibility for their own education. Catalyst supports students through their individual strengths, helping them to realize their unique potential and graduate from high school eager to continue learning and prepared to positively engage with the world.

Catalyst embraces students who are balancing great academic potential with life or learning challenges, and teens who may be experiencing anxiety or high-stress situations in their lives. Our model includes anytime admission, block schedules for classes lasting five to six weeks, strength-based personal learning contracts and community experience.

We have services for a variety of students with differing learning styles including gifted and talented, twice-exceptional, special education and intensive college-prep classes. We have a licensed clinical social worker and a post-secondary dean on staff. The clean, comfortable environment, comprehensive curriculum and collaborative community partnerships combine to create a unique and exceptional learning experience.

Grades served: 9-12. Principal: Ed Porritt. Enrollment: 40 Capacity: 50. Monthly tuition: $1,290 Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Open house/visitation: Available year round, by appointment.

November 30, 2014 3

Courtesy of Friends’ School

Courtesy of Tara Performing Arts

Friends’ School 5465 Pennsylvania Ave. Boulder, CO 80303

303-499-1999 friendsschoolboulder.org

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reschool, Elementary, Teacher Preparation Programs.

Friends’ School offers an independent, secular, coeducational program for children in Preschool through Grade 5, and a Teacher Preparation Program for teachers with a Bachelor’s degree. Students are challenged to reach their full potential through academic excellence, creative expression, and social responsibility. We have small, collaborative classrooms, exceptional teachers, and a connected parent community.

Preschool is play and exploration-based; Elementary emphasizes experiential and integrated curriculum; Teacher Program provides practical classroom experience and coursework to attain a teaching license and a Master’s degree. Tuition scale based on income, financial aid available, ACIS accredited, NAIS member, After School care, Enrichment classes, summer programs.

Grades served: Preschool to 5th Capacity: 172 Annual tuition: See website for sliding scale based on family income; financial aid available Daily schedule: Preschool half-day programs; K-5, 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.; after-school care and enrichment classes available Open house/visitation: Preschool parent information meetings at 6 p.m. Jan. 29 and Feb. 10, and 9:00 a.m. January 16 and Feb. 20. Kindergarten parent information meetings at 6 p.m. Dec. 3 and Jan. 13, and 9:00 a.m. Dec. 5 and Jan. 9. Email info@ friendsschoolboulder.org to schedule individual tours for first through fifth.

4 November 13, 2014

Tara Performing Arts 4180 19th St. Boulder, CO 80304 303-440-4510 tarahighschool.org

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ara is a Waldorf high school specializing in a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum with an emphasis on the performing arts. Deliberately small in size, with 12 to 15 students per class, there is no highly competitive audition process for admission. Effort, enthusiasm and attitude are the criteria for acceptance. Students who enroll do not wish to remain anonymous in life. They actively seek out an educational path that asks them to step into the light as an individual.

Grades served: 9th to 12th Administrator: Greg Fisher Enrollment: 50 Capacity: 54 Annual tuition: $14,740.

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

Dawson School Academic Excellence • Individual Attention

dawsonschool.org

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

November 13, 2014 5

Courtesy of Mackintosh Academy

Courtesy of Mountain Peak School

Mackintosh Academy

Mountain Peak School

303-501-5165 www.mackintoshacademy.com

720-494-1622 www.mountainpeakschool.com

6717 South Boulder Road Boulder, CO 80303

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s the only K-8, full-time gifted and IB program in Boulder Valley, Mackintosh Academy nurtures the unique genius in every child. Mackintosh’s distinct approach blends handson inquiry, design thinking, creativity/innovation, social-emotional learning, international-mindedness and service learning. Small class sizes and a focus on diverse learning styles lead to personalized instruction that brings out the gifts in every student.

Mackintosh stands out even among independent schools thanks to our stunning 26 acre campus, fully equipped science and design labs, visual and performing art studios, daily Spanish language, Art and PE classes and a 12:1 student-teacher ratio.

Ultimately, Mackintosh cultivates caring, innovative and inspired thinkers who are ready to contribute. Our graduates leave prepared to thrive in a complex and quickly changing world.

Grades served: Kindergarten to 8th Head of school: JJ Morrow Admissions Director: Amy Mechels Enrollment: 91 Capacity: 120 Annual tuition: $16,565 (K-6), $17,075 (7-8th) Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Open house/visitation: Campus tours and referral meetings by appointment. Visit our website for further information about our open house options.

6 November 13, 2014

1833 Sunset Place Longmont, CO 80501

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ountain Peak School is an independent, nonsectarian school offering classes for preschool through 6th grade.

At Mountain Peak we focus on educating the whole child. We offer learning experiences that reach beyond the core academic areas beginning at the preschool level. Creative thinking in a hands-on manner introduces students to exciting and challenging subjects. We strive for excellence by nurturing each child’s intellect, curiosity and social growth. We emphasize student responsibility and respect for self and others.

Our students bring diverse backgrounds, both academic and cultural, to the classroom. Our teachers bring passion, energy and enthusiasm. Small class size and individualized curriculum address each child at whatever level or levels they are functioning. This prevents any child from being “lost in the crowd” and encourages them to excel beyond the standard. Research shows small classes in the primary grades give all children a lasting academic advantage and a more positive attitude toward learning compared with peers in larger classes.

We appreciate that parents are important partners in their child’s education. Therefore, our staff forms close relationships with students and their parents, creating an open atmosphere. By working together, a balanced learning environment is achieved, allowing children to thrive.

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

Courtesy of Mountain Shadows Montessori School

Big City Sophistication With a Small Town Feel PROFESSIONAL & FRIENDLY STAFF We love to help people and provide them the best orthodontic care.

Mountain Shadows Montessori School 4154 63rd St., Boulder, CO 80301

303-530-5353 / mountainshadows.org

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he only internationally accredited (AMI) Montessori school in Colorado where children joyfully reach their individual potential through independence, academic excellence, respect and moral responsibility while learning, exploring and playing in and around our 12-acre farmhouse campus.

Classrooms are carefully and creatively prepared by highly trained teachers who guide students through hands-on discovery, experimentation and collaboration, making for an organic learning environment in which students not only know the facts, and understand them, but often perform a year or more above grade level.

TODDLER — More than daycare, Toddler is an environment rich in exploration and developmentally appropriate activities, which guide young children in their quest for independence and mastery of self.

• Exploration • Language acquisition • Developmentally appropriate activities • Gross/fine-motor skills • Grace, courtesy, care for the environment and self • Coordination, Independence PRIMARY — Colorful, exciting and stimulating materials encourage children to move, touch, explore and learn!

• Mathematics demonstrates abstract ideas • Language is more than reading and writing • Practical Life develops independence and self-direction • Sensorial materials refine the five senses • Cultural experiences from art to zoology ELEMENTARY — The ability to use reason and imagination allows children to explore, discover and learn in abstract ways.

• Mathematics, Algebra, Geometry, Physics and Chemistry • Geography, Language • Zoology, Botany, Ecology, History and Culture • Research, Discovery, and Problem Solving • Task Evaluation and Time Management • Experiential and Real-World Education Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

Bring in this Ad for a FREE

MYSTERY GIFT!

We offer Damon and Invisalign treatment and Orthodontic Coaching.

1717 Folsom St. Boulder, CO 80302 • www.orthodontistinboulder.com 303-443-3774 Like us: www.facebook.com/yamashiro.orthodontics

Does your student have an IEP? What about an IEQ?

At Temple Grandin School our student-centered

Individual Educational Quest helps students explore:

• Identity • Interaction • Intellect • Independence Check out our strength-based socio-academic program for middle and high school students with Asperger’s Syndrome or similar learning profiles.

Open House: 5:30-6:30 on January 14, February 18, and March 9, or call 303-554-7363 for an individual appointment.

Temple Grandin School 6446 Jay Road, Boulder, CO 80301 • 303-554-7363 www.templegrandinschool.org November 13, 2014 7

ONE STEP AHEAD

Courtesy of Running River School

LORI LUCAS SAT / ACT COACH

• 25 years experience

• 1 on 1 sessions

• Proven results

• College application essays

• College acceptances

• References available

COMPETITIVE HOURLY RATE Call Today: 303-545-6215 Or email: lori.lucas@colorado.edu

Running River School 1370 Forest Park Circle Lafayette, CO 80026 303-499-2059 runningriver.org

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hat do we most want for our children? Love.

Education should be based on love. What does this mean practically? It means balancing inner and outer development. Inner meaning: to know who you are, how you learn, what you are passionate about, how you feel, think, and relate to others. It means focus on kindness, presence, creativity, love of work, conscience, responsibility, living in a community and understanding the foundations for lifelong health. External meaning: developing talents, passions, interests and academic skills through a deeply meaningful, integrated, nature-based, experiential, hands-on curriculum that keeps kids turned on and engaged.

This can only be done with love and dedication from teachers who truly get to know every single student. This requires small classrooms, staff training and development and a curriculum where everyone is learning together – collaborative, creative, challenging, and full of opportunities for the exploration and discovery of how life works – authentic learning. When nurturing a child’s inner life goes hand-in-hand with learning about their world, when as much value is put on a child’s being as on what they can do or accomplish, when we educate the whole person, only then does education bring forth the fruit of the seed that lies within every child. This is what we do at Running River, a completely unique Boulder school.

8 November 13, 2014

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

ed Anc v d

BrAin TrAin

ing

A Holistic, A Self-Guided Technology for Increased Learning, Optimal Performance ne ck and Well-Being ur A B opTi ® mAl neurofeed Helps Kids and their Families to: • increase self-regulation, focus and attention • support both alert and relaxed brain states • integrate and balance brain functioning • enable access to inherent skills and resources • promote calm, balance and self-confidence • decrease reactivity and distractibility • decrease social and performance anxiety • lessen ADD/ADHD (children and adults) • better mood and sleep

Courtesy of Hillside School

Parents report improved school performance and kids feel more relaxed and calm while relating better to friends and family.

Joy Om M.A., Certified Structural Integration and Neuroptimal Practitioner 303 449-8664 • mindbodyneurofeedback.com

Mountain Peak School

Hillside School

An independent, nonsectarian school offering classes for preschool through 6th grade.

6717 S. Boulder Road Boulder, CO 80303

303-494-1468 www.hillsidelearning.org

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illside School is a leader in the development of innovative teaching strategies for students with learning differences and serves as a community resource about learning and the well-being of children. Using evidence-based practices, Hillside provides specialized instruction enabling students with learning differences, such as dyslexia, to reach their academic potential and become capable and confident learners. The school serves students in 1st through 9th grade and features: • classes of four students • specially-trained faculty • a half-day program using multi-sensory approaches • individualized instruction where students advance at their own pace While students make significant academic gains, the development of their confidence and self-esteem makes the most lasting impact, rekindling their love of learning.

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

• • • •

Affordable Private School Education Guaranteed Small Class Sizes Individualized Curriculum Instruction That Allows for Different Learning Styles • Daily Physical Education • State Certified Teachers

Visit MountainPeakSchool.com or call 720-494-1622 to set up a tour.

November 13, 2014 9

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10 November 13, 2014

from BestOfBo Sign up for Best of Boulder Deals online and get weekly updates for additional discounts.

Courtesy of September High School

September High School 1902 Walnut St. Boulder, CO 80302

303-443-9933 www.septemberschool.org

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t September High School, our accredited program has been changing lives for more than 40 years. Located on a beautiful downtown-Boulder campus, the small class sizes and respectful atmosphere provide students with an ideal environment to engage in rigorous academic and creative coursework within a culture of challenge, empowerment and support.

This is relationship-based education.

Many new students come to us disenchanted with their experiences in school, which is why we focus on building relationships that will help reawaken students’ love of learning. We celebrate individuality by welcoming all students with patience and nurturing so they feel comfortable engaging with the community. By posing open-ended and compelling questions both in and out of the classroom, September School helps students become critical thinkers and creative problem solvers.

Interactions between staff, students and families are guided by principles of trust, candor and acceptance which keep everyone connected and help build authentic community. In larger settings where test taking drives the mission, this dynamic is rarely achieved but, within the framework of these relationships, September School delivers its stellar academic and creative programming. For all those who are not thriving in a large and impersonal system, September High School is a top-notch alternative.

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

I love BCD! I love the library, computer lab and having so many friends.

I AM A BULLDOG. —Elementary school student

Shepherd Valley Waldorf School 6500 W. Dry Creek Parkway Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-0130 www.shepherdvalley.org

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re-schoolers and kindergarteners enjoy a play-based curriculum with an emphasis on movement and sensory integration. Children learn mathematics, literacy and science through practical activities indoors in natural, home-like classrooms and outside in nature.

In 1st through 5th grades, our unique approach to education guides elementary students with a remarkably rich Waldorf curriculum of mathematics, sciences, language Courtesy of Shepherd Valley Waldorf School arts, literature, history and geography as well as German, Mandarin, Eurythmy (an expressive dance style), physical education, handwork, painting and instrumental music.

In middle school, our students embrace rigorous learning that addresses the intellectual, social, emotional and physical development of older children. The academic curriculum helps students make connections among diverse subject areas which helps to cultivate the seeds of critical thinking.

At Shepherd Valley, we are excited about our expanded farming activities, including permaculture and the introduction of farm animals, on our spacious, 38-acre campus.

If you are looking for an independent school in Boulder County and would like more information about Waldorf education, then please feel free to contact our Admissions Director, Ruth Godberfforde at (303)652-0130 or enrollment@shepherdvalley.org.

DISCOVER your EXCELLENCE Nobody knows the meaning of excellence quite like a BCD Bulldog. With small class sizes that span from preschool (begins at age 3) to eighth grade, plus an authorized International Baccalaureate middle school, every day offers a chance to innovate, create, grow and thrive.

303-527-4931 info@bouldercountryday.org bouldercountryday.org

Dedicated to providing opportunities for emotional growth and renewal through involvement in the performing arts

Next Open House

Sunday, November 23 • 12:15pm - 1:30pm Nomad Theatre • 1410 Quince Ave., 1410 Boulder, CO

Next Curriculum Sampler

Wednesday, December 10 • 4:00pm - 6:15pm Please RSVP to office@tarahighschool.org or call 303.440.4510 4180 19th Street • Boulder, CO 80304 • 303.440.4510

www.tarahighschool.org

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

November 13, 2014 11

Academic Preschool, Elementary & Kindergarten

On-site Swimming

Courtesy of Shining Mountain Waldorf School

An individualized Education

Helping Children to be Exceptional, Accelerated and Creative Open House & Tour:

Dec. 3, Jan. 7 and Feb. 4 9am or 5pm

(or call to schedule a personal tour)

7203 W. 120th AVENUE, BROOMFIELD

Now Enrolling for Spring, Summer & Fall 2015

(303) 469-6449

broomfieldacademy.com

We Don’t Rush Childhood

Shining Mountain Waldorf School 999 Violet Ave. Boulder, CO 80304 303-444-7697 smwaldorf.org

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Learning begins as soon as we enter the world.

Students at Shining Mountain find a passion for learning that lasts throughout their lives.

Our students emerge healthy, thinking, whole human beings. We nurture their emotional, spiritual, physical and intellectual capacities. Rigorous academics, diverse arts, hearty athletics and an imaginative approach to information technology develop creative, capable, resilient young people who are prepared for 21st century life.

Attend One of Our Admissions Events And discover how Shining Mountain Waldorf School anchors these ideas in a proven philosophy, rich history, and co-creative community for pre-K–12.

hining Mountain is a Pre-K–12th grade school fully accredited by the Association of Colorado Independent Schools, the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America and the National Association of Independent Schools. The Waldorf curriculum provides a well-rounded, academic education that is enlivened by the arts, music, movement, foreign languages and community festivals. The program fosters independent, imaginative thinking, healthy social interaction and a love for learning that prepares students for college and university admissions.

Grades served: Parent/child program and Preschool to 12th grade.

School Director: Jane M. Zeender Enrollment: 315 Annual tuition: $6,825 to $17,955 Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mon., Tues., Wed. and Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday Open house/visitation: School Tours are 9-11 a.m. on Dec. 11 and Jan. 8. Visit the website for a tour schedule.

smwaldorf.org | 303 951 8579 | Fully Accredited 12 November 13, 2014

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

Our specialty is flexible instruction for unique learners.

Courtesy of Temple Grandin

Personalized Education 6:1 Student - Teacher Ratio Grades 9 – 12 303.604.6512 Rolling Admission www.catalysths.org

Temple Grandin 6446 Jay Road Boulder, CO 80301

Friends’ School

303-554-7363 templegrandinschool.org

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GS is more than just a school — it’s a community. We want our students to experience caring adults as supports for all aspects of their lives. Our words and actions communicate this daily, and the result is a safe, supportive environment where students can transcend their labels, grow from their strengths and soar to heights they never thought possible.

At TGS, each student’s team of family members, academic teachers and support specialists are in constant communication as we integrate proven, research-based strategies throughout the day. TGS provides a comprehensive program to address all of the socio-academic needs of our students: • Serving 6th-12th grade students with Asperger’s and similar learning profiles • Adult-to-student ratio of 1:3 • Full academic program • Integrated social skills support • School-wide positive behavior program • Executive function instruction and coaching • Comprehensive life skills curriculum • Student-centered transition planning • Individualized enrichment activities • Accredited by the National Commission on Exceptional Schools (NCES) “The teachers at TGS are like none you’ve ever encountered. These are gifted educators who are inspired by the children they teach. We are involved seamlessly with the educational plan. TGS is not just a school…it is a model of excellence in educating and supporting the whole child.”

— Current Parent

Preschool through Elementary Small classes, exceptional teachers, and individualized curriculum.

Call today to schedule a Parent Information Meeting & Tour 303-499-1999 FriendsSchoolBoulder.org

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 FriendsAd_BoulderWeekly_Summer)V1.indd 1

November 13, 2014 13 2/27/14 2:48 PM

Shepherd Valley weaves the academic, the artistic, and the practical into our curriculum. With a nurturing pre-school/kindergarten emphasizing physical movement and a rigorous grades program, the children are guided to cultivate self-knowledge and meet the world by awakening within them warmth of heart, clarity of thought, and strength of purpose.

We have small class sizes, exceptional teachers, a 38-acre campus and a vibrant community.

Experience for yourself how Shepherd Valley Waldorf School successfully integrates academics and the arts, and why Waldorf education is the fastest growing educational movement in the world.

Open House: January 10th

Individual Tours: 303-652-0130 enrollment@shepherdvalley.org

Shepherd Valley Waldorf

6500 West Dry Creek Parkway, Niwot, CO 80503 303-652-0130 • www.shepherdvalley.org

14 November 13, 2014

The Watershed School 1661 Alpine Ave. Boulder, CO 80304

303-440-7520 watershedschool.org

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Courtesy of Watershed School atershed School prepares middle and high school students for college and for life.

Founded a decade ago on research-based best practices, Watershed connects everything students learn to the real world, both on and off campus.

Students study real-world problems in the Front Range, Silicon Valley, and around the world -and they apply their knowledge in real-world ways. Watershed offers a socially and emotionally intelligent environment with low teacher / student ratios, where students are known, supported and challenged. As a result of these traits, students love coming to Watershed. 100 percent of our students go on to college, and our students show more improvement in assessments of creative problem solving (CWRA) than 95 percent of peer schools.

Grades served: 6th to 12th Head of School: Greg Bamford Admissions Director: Mishel Gantz Enrollment: 58 Student-Teacher Ratio: 6:1 CWRA Scores: 95th Percentile last five years Annual tuition: $20,100 Daily schedule: 8:10 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.

Visitation: Check our website for New Parent Information Sessions; Private tours available Monday through Thursday by appointment.

Events: Open Houses/Program Previews; Dec. 6, 2014 and Feb. 7, 2015.

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

Dyslexia?

Learning differences?

We can help.

Courtesy of Jarrow Montessori School

Jarrow Montessori School

303-494-1468 www.hillsidelearning.org

3900 Orange Court Boulder, CO 80304

303-443-0511, ext. 113 jarrow.org

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ounded in 1964, Jarrow is the oldest Montessori school in Colorado. Jarrow is a private, nonprofit, co-ed school. Located in North Boulder, the three-acre campus is graced by a canopy of century-old trees and is “home” to students from throughout Boulder County. Jarrow’s curriculum combines the Montessori method with the best educational practices. Students thrive within its child-centered approach and small class sizes.

Grades served: Toddler to 6th Principal: Michael Girodo Enrollment: 171 Annual tuition: Call for information.

Daily schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; before-and after-school care available.

Open house / visitation: Open house is Nov. 18. Visits available by appointment.

Colorado’s only internationally accredited AMI Montessori school Download your FREE eBook: ebook.mountainshadows.org 12 Months - Sixth Grade 303.530.5353 www.mountainshadows.org 4154 63rd Street at Jay Road, Boulder

Boulder Weekly Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14

November 13, 2014 15

Courtesy of Bixby School

Bixby School

4760 Table Mesa Drive Boulder, CO 80305 303-494-7508 bixbyschool.org

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t Bixby, an environment has been created in which the naturally inquisitive, open mind of a child is not restricted by exercises that set a predetermined path to success. The focus, rather, is on embracing the intrinsic way children learn by providing them the freedom to venture out, explore, and experiment in an unimpeded journey to knowledge.

Facts and skills have a context and a purpose.

Problems and projects are designed to extend thinking, creativity and the authentic learning that comes from trial and error. Questions are prized.

Bixby is a school where children can experience joy

Discover Jarrow

in something that is already in their nature: learning.

The world of Bixby is a small but compelling one, where teachers view and respond to children as individuals, where children are expected to respect their teachers and fellow students and where the challenge of being a member of a variety of communities (i.e., family, school, neighborhood, town, country, world) is embraced as another important aspect of learning. The merit in this approach reveals itself in children who are confident, creative, less likely to give up on challenges, and who, generally, have a deep understanding of concepts across disciplines.

at www.jarrow.org

Inspiring confidence, lifelong learning and compassionate citizenship rooted in a rich Montessori curriculum for Toddler through 6th grade since 1964.

16 November 13, 2014

Boulder Area Independent School Guide ’14 Boulder Weekly

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