Elementary schools in FC? Clueless-- help! (Fort Collins: middle school, buses, health)

[New to the Fort]

My daughter will be entering 1st grade in the fall. We're in the Lopez Elementary area, as far as buses go-- we're off Sheilds and Harmony-- but I don't know anything at all about the many elementary schools in the Poudre district. I don't mind driving a little out of the way in the morning (within reason!) for a really awesome school. I've heard amazing things about McGraw but I know it's difficult to get your child in this late in the year. Parents, any suggestions? Thanks!!

[Mike Weber]

Most of the schools are pretty good, each for different reasons. We chose to drive our kids across town to Moore because of the Core Knowledge Curriculum, the smaller class size, and the diversity of the student population. They both excelled in this environment, and have moved on to middle school and high school, now.

[isellnoco]

School of Choice depends on several factors...1st is enrollment, if the class sizes are full, you won't get in... if there is space available you can apply when school opens. Yes, School of Choice usually occurs around February but there is still time. There are so many great schools in Fort Collins and several of them have started to "specialize" in areas. As Mike said, some are Core Knowledge, some are technology driven, etc. If you go to psdschools.org you can check on the ratings, etc. Linton is a great school with awesome teachers, Shepardson has smaller class sizes, Kruse is great...PSD has a good cirriculum and good scores in most all of the elementary schools. School of Choice busing is also available if you contact transporation. It isn't a gaurantee but something to check into. Good luck!

[cobmw]

Don't know what you mean by an awesome school, but if you are looking for great academics and a healthy environment take a look at Ridgeview Classical Schools. Our two boys have had a tremendous learning experience at Ridgeview. But expect your kids to work hard on their studies.