CSS

Frequently Asked Questions

Admission

When is the application deadline?

Students who have completed their files by March 1 will be given priority consideration by the Admission Committee. Applications received after March 1 will be reviewed as soon as the candidate's file is complete.

Is an interview required for admission?

Yes, an interview is a required component of the interview process. Your application is not complete until all materials are received and you have had an on-campus interview.

Academics

What does ECS stand for, and what is it?

ECS stands for Experience Centered Seminar. These seminars are a central element of the school's academic year. Each March, Upper School students participate in a 3 1/2 week program which immerses them in academic subjects through a first-hand, interdisciplinary approach. Academic requirements include oral and written presentations, term papers, group work, projects, and final exams.

What is the advisor system?

One of our unique programs is the advisory system. Each student in the Middle and Upper School has a faculty advisor who monitors progress and establishes a supportive relationship. Each advisee group is made up of approximately 12 students. In Middle School, the advisory group is comprised of students in the same grade. In Upper School, the advisory group includes students representing 9th through 12th grades. The advisor stays with the advisee group through the students tenure in each Middle and Upper School. Regular meetings with advisors help students stay on target academically, physically, and socially by setting focused goals. The advisor becomes the advocate and mentor for the student and is another point of contact for the parents.

What is the average class size?

Upper School: Average class size is 16 students.
MiddleSchool: Average class size is 14 students.
Grades 1-5: 16:1 maximum
Kindergarten: 14:1 maximum
Pre-Kindergarten: 8:1 maximum

What are the school hours?

Classes begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. and commence at 3:15 p.m. daily Monday through Friday. Faculty and staff are on campus for extended hours.

What accreditation does the school hold?

Accredited by The Association of Colorado Independent Schools and The National Association for the Education of Young Children, and a proud member of The National Association of Independent Schools.

National Association of Independent Schools-
    The NAIS is the national voice of independent education which represents approximately 1,400 independent schools and ensures these schools uphold high education standards.
The Association of Colorado Independent Schools-
    The ACIS is dedicated to the improvement of member schools by accrediting, supporting, and promoting each school by fostering excellence in teaching and learning.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children-
    NAEYC sets professional standards for early childhood education programs by providing comprehensive training and education to early childhood educators.

Athletics

Are students required to participate in an organized team?

Competitive athletics is an integral component of our physical education program. At CSS, students have many opportunities to participate in team sports, and any student who wishes to participate may do so. In Middle and Upper School, athletic teams compete against other teams in the Pikes Peak region and along Colorado's Front Range. In Upper School, students must have 50 hours in an athletic/activity credit per semester. To fulfill this requirement, students can participate in two CSS sports, 2 plays or 50 hours in an approved, monitored activity outside of CSS.

What competitive sports are offered at CSS?

Our offerings include soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross-country, tennis, lacrosse, and golf. Visit the Athletics page for more information.

Student Life

Is there a before and after school program?

New Horizons is an after-school enrichment program offered in the Childrens School that provides creative approaches to learning including recreational sports and the fine arts.

The Children's School also offers caring, on-campus supervision for an additional charge from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and from 3:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. After care is not available for Pre-K students. Morning care is a charge of $3.25, Drop-In Reservations are a charge of $6.50 per hour.

Homestay Program

Are international students required to participate in the Homestay program?

No, it is not required but highly recommended that international students participate in a Homestay experience. Some international students live with family members who reside locally.

Transportation

Yes, bus stops are located at the following locations:
    Woodmen and Lexington,
    King Soopers Constitution and Powers,
    Safeway Garden of the Gods and Centennial,
    Ace Hardware Uintah and Cooper,
    Mesa Hills Baptist Church Woodland Park,
    Safeway Monument,
    Baptist Road King Soopers Pueblo,
    Sams Club

Is there transportation for after school activities?

Yes, there is an activity bus that leaves campus at 5:10 p.m. and delivers students to limited locations.

Financial Aid

What opportunities are available for scholarships and financial aid?

The Colorado Springs School offers merit scholarships and need-based financial aid. For more information, please visit the Financial Aid page.

When is my financial aid packet due?

In order to qualify for financial aid, you must file your SSS by February 1 and file your most recent 1040 by March 15.