Private Education in Carbondale, CO: Top-Rated Schools and Their Offerings

For families looking to move to this charming mountain town, Carbondale's private schools present a wealth of opportunities. Known for their innovative curriculums, small class sizes, and a strong sense of community, these schools reflect the town's commitment to nurturing young minds. Plus, with its close-knit community feel and easy access to nature, students enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle that combines top-tier education with the beauty of the Colorado landscape. It's no wonder Carbondale real estate has become a hot commodity for families looking to offer their children the best of both worlds.

500 Holden Way, Carbondale

Colorado Rocky Mountain School (CRMS) offers a distinctive educational experience for students in grades nine through 12, blending academic excellence with real-world application. This college-preparatory boarding and day school is ideal for motivated, college-bound students who thrive in a dynamic, hands-on environment. CRMS's small class sizes and individualized attention, with a 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio, create an intimate setting where students are engaged in their learning journey.

The school's integrated liberal arts curriculum provides an immersive educational experience. Whether it's solving authentic environmental challenges like relocating an osprey nest on the expansive 300+ acre campus or tackling advanced coursework such as AP classes, students at CRMS are encouraged to actively participate in their learning. They are supported through small group advisory meetings, peer tutoring programs, and access to a learning specialist and college counselor, ensuring they're well-prepared for their academic futures.

The humanities emphasize collaboration, critical thinking, and ethical discussions rooted in classic and modern texts. CRMS's intentional and research-based programming equips students with the skills they need to succeed in college and beyond. 

16543 CO-82, Carbondale

For over 30 years, the Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork (WSRF) has been inspiring students and families throughout the Roaring Fork Valley with its dynamic, hands-on approach to education. WSRF's Waldorf Curriculum cultivates lifelong learners, creative thinkers, and resourceful problem solvers. The school's unique Parent-Child programs offer families a warm introduction to campus life, where music, storytelling, and joyful play engage children from birth to three years old.

WSRF focuses on optimizing emotional and physical development, laying the groundwork for future intellectual growth. The curriculum is based on current scientific research, supporting the idea that this stage of life is crucial for brain development and emotional mapping. The Early Childhood programs at WSRF embrace this concept, offering children opportunities to develop key physical and emotional capacities through activities that blend play, learning, and artistic expression.

As students progress into the early grades, the curriculum continues to nurture curiosity, creativity, and intellectual growth. Through engaging lessons that connect storytelling with letters, and movement with mathematics, WSRF's approach ensures that learning is joyful and deeply meaningful. Whether students are reading, writing, skiing, playing instruments, or carving wood, their academic experiences are enriched with hands-on learning opportunities. In the middle school years, students further develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills with a curriculum that encourages exploration from multiple perspectives.

109 Lewies Ln, Carbondale

Ross Montessori School is shaping the future with a vision of becoming a globally recognized leader in education. The school serves preschool through eighth-grade students with the time-tested Montessori Method, which emphasizes self-directed learning, hands-on engagement, and a deep respect for each child's growth. Educators from across the globe come to observe and learn from this innovative model, which consistently proves its ability to nurture thoughtful, independent learners.

The curriculum is enriched with a focus on the arts, music, and drama, allowing students to explore their creativity throughout the year. Alongside academic development, students participate in community service projects and conservation efforts, developing a deep connection to their surroundings and understanding their role in making the world a better place. Graduates of Ross Montessori emerge as compassionate, capable individuals who face challenges with humility and grace. They are responsible to their communities and the planet, inspiring others to make a positive impact.

20449 CO-82, Basalt

Cornerstone Christian School (CCS) offers a nurturing and spiritually grounded environment that prepares early childhood through high school students to become leaders who positively impact the world for Christ. The school provides a classical Christian education and a 21st-century learning approach, ensuring students receive a solid academic foundation and develop a strong Biblical worldview. Small class sizes and close partnerships with families allow personalized instruction, helping students thrive academically and spiritually.

At CCS, students are challenged to reach academic excellence while being encouraged to use their unique gifts to contribute to the community. From preschool through middle school, the focus is on developing critical thinking, creativity, and a love for learning. In preschool, children are welcomed into a caring environment where their developmental needs are met through creative play, outdoor adventures, and hands-on instruction. As they transition into elementary school, students build a strong foundation in literacy, math, science, and history, all while learning to see God's hand in the pursuit of knowledge.

Middle school students at CCS dive deeper into logic and debate, exploring subjects like Latin, STEM, and the arts. With the guidance of dedicated teachers, students are encouraged to question, explore, and grow in their understanding of the world and their faith. By the time they graduate, CCS students consistently outperform their public school peers, leaving them well-prepared to excel in high school and beyond.

690 Colorado Ave, Carbondale

Colorado Mountain College (CMC) Carbondale offers students an outstanding education. With a student-to-teacher ratio 13:1, CMC provides a personalized learning experience typically found at smaller, private institutions. The intimate class sizes ensure that every student receives the attention and support they need to succeed academically and in their future careers.

In 2021, CMC was recognized as Colorado's first dual mission institution, offering certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees. This model caters to today's learners by combining liberal arts education and hands-on career skills training under one roof. CMC's flexible approach allows students to tailor their education to their needs, preparing them for immediate employment or continuing their academic journey at four-year institutions.

879 Euclid Ave, Carbondale

Colorado, Mt Sopris Montessori School (MSMS) is a non-profit preschool that has been fostering early childhood development since its founding in 1981. Serving around 60 children ages 18 months through six years, MSMS is committed to the Montessori Method, which emphasizes child-led learning in an environment designed to encourage independence and curiosity.

MSMS operates two toddler classrooms, each led by certified teachers from recognized Montessori organizations. These classrooms meet toddlers' developmental needs for safe exploration while introducing them to language, math, and practical life skills. The space is carefully arranged to allow each child to learn and explore independently, fostering independence and confidence.

The preschool program at MSMS continues this philosophy with a non-competitive, nurturing environment where children engage in self-directed activities. Peer learning encourages children to work together in small groups and develop academically and socially. During the summer, MSMS runs an eight-week program focused on outdoor activities, connecting children with nature while continuing to emphasize Montessori principles.

Corey Crocker's deep understanding of the mid-valley housing market and her extensive local connections ensure her clients find the best opportunities. Her personalized approach and instinct for the market help buyers navigate their real estate journeys successfully. Corey believes in a collaborative process, working closely with her clients to find the property that fits their unique needs.