Colorado School Choice
Colorado does not offer school choice via publicly funded voucher programs or Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) for private school tuition. However, the state provides several tuition-free public school choice pathways through charter schools, inter-district open enrollment, and innovation schools. Colorado has not implemented tax-credit scholarships or other publicly supported private-school funding mechanisms. Families seeking private education must rely on out-of-pocket payment or limited private nonprofit scholarships, though a Federal Tax Credit Scholarship program is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Charter Schools
Colorado charter schools are publicly funded and operate independently of traditional school districts. They serve a substantial and growing portion of the student population statewide
Open Enrollment (Inter-District Public School Choice)
Colorado’s statewide open enrollment policy allows students to attend public schools outside their assigned residential zones, either within or across districts, depending on available space.
Innovation Schools
Colorado Innovation Schools are district-run public schools that have increased autonomy in budgeting, staffing, and curriculum to better meet student needs.
Private Scholarship Programs
Colorado does not have any voucher programs, ESAs, or state tax-credit scholarships authorized at the state level. However, several private nonprofit scholarship program organizations offer limited scholarship assistance for alternative education options, and a federal program is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Homeschool Enrichment Programs (Options Programs)
Colorado offers homeschool enrichment programs for homeschool families to access public school resources part-time at no cost to add to their chosen homeschool curriculum.
Choosing the Right Program for Your Family
Colorado’s school choice landscape is primarily public-focused. Here’s guidance based on common family situations:
Families Seeking Different Curriculum or Teaching Approach (Free)
Best Options: Charter Schools (offering Core Knowledge, Montessori, STEM, Classical approaches) or Open Enrollment to a different district school with specialized programs. These are the most common forms of school choice in Colorado and cost nothing.
Families Seeking Private School
Because there is no state voucher or ESA, families typically pay private school tuition out-of-pocket. Low-income families should apply to ACE Scholarships (statewide) or Parents Challenge (El Paso, Teller, Pueblo counties) to help bridge the gap. Stack multiple private scholarships with school-based financial aid to reduce costs. The Federal Tax Credit Scholarship starting in 2027 may provide additional assistance.
Families Whose Neighborhood School Isn’t a Good Fit
Best Option: Open Enrollment to apply to different public schools either within your district or in neighboring districts. This is based on space availability, so apply during Round 1 (November-January) for best chances.
Homeschooling Families Wanting Some Public School Access
Best Option: Enroll in an Options/Enrichment program where your child attends public school part-time (typically one day per week) for specific classes like art, music, science, or PE while homeschooling the rest of the week. This is completely free.
Families Seeking Innovative Public School Models
Best Options: Charter Schools (independent with significant autonomy) or Innovation Schools (district-run with increased flexibility). Both are free and offer alternatives to traditional public school approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Colorado 529 Plan for K-12 private tuition?
While federal law allows this, Colorado state law may not align. Using 529 funds for K-12 tuition can trigger state income tax recapture or penalties on deductions previously taken. Consult a tax professional before proceeding.
Do charter schools provide transportation?
Generally, no. Charter schools are not required to provide busing, and most do not. Parents are responsible for transportation.
Does Open Enrollment guarantee me a spot in another school?
No. It is based entirely on “space available.” Popular schools often have long waitlists. Apply during Round 1 (November-January) for the best chance.
Can a school deny my Open Enrollment application?
Only for specific reasons, such as lack of space or if the student has been expelled. Schools cannot deny based on academic ability or disability.
Is there a voucher program for Douglas County?
No. The Douglas County Choice Scholarship Program (voucher) was ended following court rulings in 2015 and is not active.
When will the new Federal Scholarship program start?
Governor Polis has indicated Colorado will participate starting in January 2027. Details about scholarship amounts and SGO operations are still being developed.
Are “Options” programs free for homeschoolers?
Yes. These are public school enrichment programs funded by the state, available at no cost to participating homeschool families.
Do I have to pay to apply for Open Enrollment?
No. Public schools and districts cannot charge an application fee for Open Enrollment.
What’s the difference between charter schools and innovation schools?
Charter schools are independent public schools with their own governing boards. Innovation schools are district-run schools that operate with increased autonomy through waivers from certain regulations. Both are free public options with more flexibility than traditional schools.
Can I combine homeschooling with public school?
Yes, through Options/Enrichment programs. Homeschool families can enroll their children part-time (typically one day per week) to access specific classes like art, music, science, or PE while maintaining homeschool for other subjects.
Are there income requirements for charter schools or open enrollment?
No. Charter schools and open enrollment are public school options available to all Colorado families regardless of income.
How much do private scholarships in Colorado provide?
ACE Scholarships provides approximately $2,000-$4,000 per year. Parents Challenge amounts vary annually based on donations. These are partial scholarships—families must pay the remaining tuition.
Can I stack multiple private scholarships?
Yes. Families can combine ACE Scholarships, Parents Challenge (if eligible), school-based financial aid, and other private awards to help cover tuition costs.
What if I miss the Open Enrollment Round 1 deadline?
You can still apply in Round 2 (usually starting late January), but acceptance is first-come, first-served for remaining seats. Your chances at popular schools decrease significantly.