Desiderata School`s mission is to support and foster young minds using a variety of techniques, resources, and approaches. Students are encouraged to learn concepts and subjects in ways specific to their own understanding, which builds self-esteem and confidence.
Desiderata School is a re-imagining of the one room school house. Desiderata School has been serving students and the community since 1989 and we believe that educational success is the shared responsibility of the student, home, school, teachers, and community.
We also offer Umbrella School services as well as an adult diploma program.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CO School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 18 students
- Yearly Tuition: $12,000
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Desiderata School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1989
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
Student Body
Total Students
18 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
2 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
71%
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$12,000
Tuition Notes
Cost listed is per student per year, for the most intensive program. Other programs are less expensive.
Summer Program Cost
$1,000
% on Financial Aid
30%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$2,000
Acceptance Rate
85%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Abbi Reese
Admissions Associate
Erika McHenry
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Volunteer Service Opportunity
Volunteer Service Opportunity
School Notes
Desiderata School has been serving students and the community since
1989. We are a nationally recognized and accredited non-traditional
private school specializing in small-group instruction and
utilizea wide variety of trusted curriculum sources and
publishers. Our 10:1 maximum student to instructor ratio, combined
with our proficiency based model, makes our programs ideal for
advanced or gifted students, students with challenges, and everyone
in between.
What this means for your child:
What this means for your child:
- Homework is not required.
- Students who can complete coursework in under traditionally allotted time-frames may receive credit and move on.
- Students who struggle in a subject and require more time to meet mastery levels may take the time to do so.
- Students who participate in community activities, such as local sports team, and other learning-worthy activities, may also calculate those hours towards their schooling requirements.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Desiderata School cost?
Desiderata School's tuition is approximately $12,000 for private students and $1,000 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of Desiderata School?
The acceptance rate of Desiderata School is 85%, which is lower than the national average of 91%. Desiderata School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Colorado with low acceptance rates.
Does Desiderata School offer a summer program?
Yes, Desiderata School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What is Desiderata School's ranking?
Desiderata School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for Desiderata School?
The application deadline for Desiderata School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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