The Best Schools Near Homes in Fort Collins, CO: What Buyers Should Know

Families often prioritize proximity to high-quality schools when considering a move to Fort Collins, CO. With a reputation for strong public education and a variety of schooling options, Fort Collins attracts buyers looking to settle down in a community that fosters academic excellence. In this guide, we'll cover the best schools in Fort Collins, CO, and discuss how the local school system affects real estate in Fort Collins, CO.

Fort Collins is served by the Poudre School District (PSD), one of Colorado’s largest and most respected districts. Spanning 1,856 square miles, PSD is home to more than 50 schools, providing diverse educational opportunities for elementary and high school students. The district is known for its high academic standards, innovative programs, and strong community involvement. Many buyers specifically choose Fort Collins for its access to schools within the PSD.

For families with younger children, the quality of local elementary schools is often a top consideration. Fort Collins offers several highly-rated options.

Bacon Elementary School is recognized for its academic achievements and emphasis on project-based learning. The school has received high marks for its strong teacher-student relationships and commitment to fostering a positive school culture.

Traut Core Knowledge School

Traut Core Knowledge School is another standout in Fort Collins. It follows the nationally recognized Core Knowledge curriculum, which emphasizes content-rich learning and a strong academic foundation. Many families choose Traut for its rigorous program and focus on parental involvement.

Tavelli Elementary School consistently ranks high for its student performance in reading, math, and science. Tavelli also offers various extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore interests beyond the classroom.

When it comes to middle school options, Fort Collins provides several strong choices.

Lesher Middle School is one of the district's International Baccalaureate (IB) World Schools, which means it offers a globally recognized program that encourages students to think critically and independently. Lesher Middle School is recognized for its challenging curriculum, supportive environment, and high student achievement. The school’s strong academic reputation makes the surrounding neighborhoods particularly attractive to homebuyers.

Preston Middle School is another top-rated option. Its focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education and robust athletics and arts programs make it an appealing choice for families. Many buyers looking at homes in the southeast Fort Collins area are drawn to Preston’s excellent reputation and the opportunities it provides for student growth.

As students progress to high school, the options in Fort Collins continue to excel.

Fort Collins High School is well-regarded for its comprehensive academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. It consistently ranks among the top high schools in Colorado, offering a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, athletics, and performing arts programs.

Another standout is Rocky Mountain High School, known for its welcoming culture and focus on preparing students for both college and careers. The school provides a wide array of AP and honors classes, along with numerous clubs, sports teams, and activities that keep students engaged.

Families interested in homes near high-performing high schools often prioritize neighborhoods that feed into Fort Collins High School and Rocky Mountain High School, making these areas highly desirable in the local real estate market.

Fort Collins has several highly rated charter and private schools for those looking for alternatives to public schooling. The presence of these schools provides more choices for families and contributes to the overall appeal of Fort Collins real estate, as buyers often seek neighborhoods that offer proximity to both public and private school options.

Liberty Common School, a charter school in the Poudre School District, is renowned for its rigorous classical liberal arts curriculum. With a focus on academic excellence, Liberty Common serves grades K-12 and is consistently ranked among the top schools in Colorado.

Fort Collins Montessori School offers an alternative for families seeking a Montessori education, which emphasizes student-led learning and hands-on exploration.

For families considering private education, Heritage Christian Academy is a notable option. It offers a faith-based education, small class sizes, and a strong sense of community.

Proximity to highly-rated schools significantly impacts the Fort Collins real estate market. Homes located within the attendance zones of top schools, such as Bacon Elementary or Fort Collins High School, often command higher prices and tend to sell more quickly. Families prioritize these areas for the convenience of having excellent schools nearby, which in turn drives demand.

Neighborhoods like Rigden Farm, Old Town, and Southeast Fort Collins are particularly popular among families. These areas offer a variety of home styles and price points, but all benefit from easy access to top-performing schools. Buyers looking for homes in Fort Collins often find that properties near desirable schools not only provide an excellent education for their children but also hold their value well over time.

Moreover, the growing reputation of Fort Collins as an excellent place to raise a family has increased competition for homes in school-friendly neighborhoods. This competition may lead to bidding wars, especially during the peak real estate season, as families vie for homes that are close to top-rated schools.

In addition to school quality, Fort Collins is known for its family-friendly amenities, including parks, recreational centers, and safe, walkable neighborhoods, which further enhance the appeal of homes near schools.

Fort Collins offers a wide range of top-performing schools, making it an ideal destination for families. The city’s excellent public, charter, and private school options ensure that families can find the right fit for their children’s educational needs. For homebuyers, being close to these schools is often a top priority, which significantly influences the local real estate market. Whether you’re looking for homes near Bacon Elementary or Fort Collins High School, the city’s educational offerings add to the appeal of its real estate.

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Specializing in luxury properties, Marnie excels at meeting the needs of high-end clients while also providing exceptional service to all her buyers and sellers. Over her career, she has helped more than a thousand families find their dream homes, earning a strong reputation for trustworthiness and expertise.

With hundreds of five-star reviews, Marnie’s dedication to personalized service and client satisfaction shines through, making her a standout in the Fort Collins real estate market.

Ready to explore real estate in Fort Collins, CO? Contact Marnie Long today to begin the search for your dream home.