Washington Park offers everything families dream about: a 165-acre park with lakes and playgrounds, tree-lined streets perfect for evening walks, historic homes with character, and a walkable commercial district along South Pearl Street. But for parents with school-age children, one question comes before all others: what about the schools?

It's a fair question. School quality often determines where families ultimately choose to live, and Denver's educational landscape can be confusing for newcomers. Washington Park sits within Denver Public Schools (DPS), which operates differently than many suburban districts—understanding the system is half the battle.

This guide covers everything you need to know: the public schools serving Wash Park, how Denver's school choice system works, private alternatives nearby, and honest comparisons to help you make an informed decision for your family.

Quick Answer: Washington Park is served by several well-regarded Denver Public Schools including Steele Elementary (8/10 GreatSchools rating), Lincoln Elementary (7/10), and South High School (6/10 with a strong IB Programme). The neighborhood also offers proximity to excellent private options including St. Mary's Academy, Graland Country Day, and Kent Denver School. Denver's school choice system means families can apply to schools beyond their boundary assignment.

Understanding Denver Public Schools in Washington Park

Before diving into specific schools, it's important to understand how Denver Public Schools operates—because it's different from most districts families may be familiar with.

DPS uses a school choice system called SchoolChoice. While every address has a designated "boundary school," families aren't required to attend it. Instead, you can apply to any DPS school—magnet programs, charter schools, or traditional schools in other neighborhoods. Your boundary school guarantees admission, but popular schools may have limited space for choice applicants.

What this means for Wash Park families:

• Your boundary school is your guaranteed option — you'll always have a spot there

• You can apply to other schools — but admission isn't guaranteed at popular schools

• Transportation varies — boundary schools offer transportation; choice schools may not

• Deadlines matter — SchoolChoice applications open in January with results in February

The exact boundary school for your address depends on where in Wash Park you buy. Use the DPS School Finder tool to look up specific addresses before making an offer on a home.

Elementary Schools Serving Washington Park

Elementary school is where Wash Park's public options shine brightest. The neighborhood is served primarily by two well-regarded elementary schools, with exact boundaries determining which one your address feeds into.

Steele Elementary School

• Grades: ECE through 5th grade

• Address: 320 S Marion Parkway, Denver, CO 80209

• GreatSchools Rating: 8/10

• Boundary Area: Generally serves East Washington Park

Steele Elementary consistently ranks among the stronger DPS elementary schools. Located directly on the east side of Washington Park, it offers genuine walkability for East Wash Park families—kids on scooters and bikes heading to school is a common morning sight.

The school has a strong parent community with an active PTA that funds enrichment programs, field trips, and classroom resources. Parents consistently praise the sense of community and the dedication of teachers. Steele's location means students have easy access to the park for outdoor learning and physical education.

Enrollment note: Steele is a popular choice school, meaning families from outside the boundary often apply. Boundary families have priority, but kindergarten classes can fill quickly. If Steele is your boundary school, register early in the SchoolChoice window to secure your spot.

Lincoln Elementary School

• Grades: ECE through 5th grade

• Address: 710 S Pennsylvania Street, Denver, CO 80209

• GreatSchools Rating: 7/10

• Boundary Area: Parts of West Washington Park and surrounding neighborhoods

Lincoln Elementary serves portions of West Wash Park and has seen significant improvements in recent years. The school benefits from strong principal leadership and an increasingly engaged parent community. One distinguishing feature is Lincoln's diversity—the student body reflects a broader range of backgrounds than some other neighborhood schools, which many families view as a strength.

The school offers a welcoming environment and has invested in both academic programs and social-emotional learning. While its GreatSchools rating is slightly lower than Steele's, the gap has narrowed considerably, and many families find Lincoln's community feel and improving trajectory compelling.

Other Elementary Options

Depending on your exact address, other DPS elementary schools may be your boundary assignment or available through SchoolChoice:

• Asbury Elementary: Just south of Wash Park, serving parts of the Platt Park area

• McKinley-Thatcher Elementary: Another option for some boundary areas near Wash Park

• Denver Green School: A popular choice/magnet school with environmental focus (requires application)

• DSST schools: Denver School of Science and Technology operates several highly-rated schools (lottery admission)

Middle School Options

Middle school is often where Denver families begin seriously weighing public versus private options. The transition can be significant, and Wash Park families have several paths to consider.

Grant Beacon Middle School

• Grades: 6th through 8th grade

• Address: 1751 S Washington Street, Denver, CO 80210

• Programs: International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme

Grant Beacon serves as the primary middle school for many Wash Park elementary feeders. The school offers the IB Middle Years Programme, which provides a rigorous academic framework and prepares students for IB coursework in high school. The IB approach emphasizes critical thinking, international-mindedness, and connections across subject areas.

Parents considering Grant Beacon should visit during an open house to understand the IB program structure and whether it aligns with their child's learning style. The school has worked to build community and improve outcomes, though some families still opt for private school at this transition point.

Alternative middle school options available through SchoolChoice include DSST middle schools, Denver Montessori, and various charter options. Families who prioritize middle school quality often apply to multiple schools during the SchoolChoice window.

High School: South High School

For most Wash Park families, South High School is the boundary high school—and it deserves an honest, nuanced discussion.

• Grades: 9th through 12th grade

• Address: 1700 E Louisiana Avenue, Denver, CO 80210

• GreatSchools Rating: 6/10

• Enrollment: Approximately 1,400 students

• Notable Programs: International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

An Honest Assessment

South High's 6/10 rating is lower than what many families relocating from suburban districts expect. Let's address this directly: GreatSchools ratings are heavily influenced by standardized test scores, which tend to be lower at economically and racially diverse schools—not because the education is inferior, but because the metrics don't account for the full picture.

South High is one of Denver's most diverse high schools, and that diversity is something many families actively value. The school offers a genuine urban high school experience with students from varied backgrounds, which prepares kids for college and career environments better than more homogeneous settings.

The IB Advantage

For academically motivated students, South High's International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum recognized by universities worldwide.

The IB program at South is well-established and produces graduates who are highly competitive for selective college admissions. Students in the full IB Diploma Programme take challenging coursework across six subject areas, complete an extended essay, and engage in creativity, activity, and service hours.

Many Wash Park families who stay in public school find that the IB track at South provides academic rigor comparable to—or exceeding—many private schools, without the tuition cost.

Athletics and Activities

South High has competitive athletic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school's urban location means students have access to internships, cultural institutions, and community engagement opportunities that suburban schools can't match. The historic campus, dating to 1926, has character and a sense of tradition that many families appreciate.

Who Thrives at South High

South High works well for students who are self-motivated, interested in the IB program, and comfortable in a diverse environment. Families who engage with the school community—attending events, communicating with teachers, participating in booster clubs—report positive experiences. Students who take advantage of the IB track, AP courses, and extracurricular opportunities graduate well-prepared for college.

That said, some families prefer smaller school environments, different academic approaches, or religious education—all valid reasons to explore private alternatives. The choice is personal and depends on your child's needs and your family's priorities.

Private School Options Near Washington Park

Many Wash Park families supplement or replace public school with private options, particularly at the middle and high school level. The good news: Denver has excellent private schools within easy driving distance of the neighborhood. For comprehensive coverage of private schools in the Denver market, see our Cherry Creek private schools guide—most of these schools serve Wash Park families equally well.

St. Mary's Academy

• Grades: Preschool through 12th (girls only for grades 9-12)

• Location: 4545 S University Blvd, Englewood (~15 minutes from Wash Park)

• Affiliation: Catholic (Sisters of Loretto)

• Tuition Range: $15,000–$26,000 depending on grade level

• Website: smanet.org

St. Mary's Academy has educated Denver-area students for over 150 years. The school offers co-ed education through 8th grade, then transitions to an all-girls high school. Families praise the values-based education, strong academics, and the confidence that the all-girls environment builds in high school students. The campus is beautiful, and the community is tight-knit.

Graland Country Day School

• Grades: Preschool through 8th grade

• Location: 30 Birch Street, Denver (~10 minutes from Wash Park)

• Tuition Range: $28,000–$35,000 depending on grade level

• Website: graland.org

Graland is one of Denver's most prestigious independent schools. The campus in the Hilltop neighborhood features exceptional facilities, and the school's academic program is rigorous. Graland graduates are well-prepared for competitive high schools and typically have strong options for 9th grade placement. Admission is selective, and the application process typically begins a year in advance.

Kent Denver School

• Grades: 6th through 12th grade

• Location: 4000 E Quincy Ave, Cherry Hills Village (~15 minutes from Wash Park)

• Tuition Range: $36,000–$40,000

• Website: kentdenver.org

Kent Denver is consistently ranked among Colorado's top independent schools. The 200-acre campus provides extraordinary facilities for academics, arts, and athletics. Admission is highly competitive, and the school attracts students from across the Denver metro area. Kent Denver graduates attend top universities nationwide.

Additional Private Options

• Denver Academy (1-12): Specializes in students who learn differently; excellent for students with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences

• Denver International School (PS-8): Language immersion programs in French, Mandarin, and Spanish

• Colorado Academy (PS-12): West Denver location with comprehensive academic program

• J.K. Mullen High School (9-12): Catholic high school with strong athletics and college prep

Washington Park vs Cherry Creek: The School Question

Let's address the comparison that's on every relocating family's mind. If you're choosing between Washington Park and Cherry Creek, schools are likely a major factor in your decision.

The fundamental difference: Washington Park is in Denver Public Schools. Cherry Creek (the neighborhood) is in the Cherry Creek School District—a separate, suburban district that consistently ranks among Colorado's highest-performing.

On traditional metrics, Cherry Creek School District wins. Test scores are higher, GreatSchools ratings are higher, and the district has more resources. If maximizing public school ratings is your top priority, Cherry Creek has an edge.

But the decision isn't that simple. Washington Park offers a genuinely walkable urban lifestyle, historic character, and a park that becomes an extension of your backyard. Cherry Creek offers suburban schools with more space and higher ratings, but a more car-dependent lifestyle. Many families find that the trade-off is worth it—especially those who value urban living and plan to use private school for middle or high school anyway.

The private school equalizer: Both neighborhoods have excellent private school options nearby. If you're planning on private school regardless, the public school comparison matters less, and you can choose your neighborhood based on lifestyle preferences. See our Denver luxury living guide for more on what each neighborhood offers beyond schools.

Enrollment Tips for Washington Park Families

DPS SchoolChoice Timeline

Understanding the SchoolChoice calendar is essential for families moving to Denver:

1. Fall (October–December): Research schools, attend open houses, tour campuses. Most DPS schools host events for prospective families.

2. January: Round 1 SchoolChoice window opens. Submit your application ranking your school preferences (you can rank multiple schools).

3. February: Round 1 results released. You'll receive your school placement.

4. March: Accept your placement or participate in Round 2 for schools with remaining openings.

5. Spring/Summer: Complete enrollment paperwork, attend orientation events.

Tips for Relocating Families

• Tour schools before buying a home if possible. A visit tells you more than any rating.

• Verify the boundary school for any address you're considering. Boundaries don't always follow obvious neighborhood lines.

• Don't assume boundary equals guaranteed space at popular schools. Register during the SchoolChoice window even for your boundary school.

• Private school deadlines are often earlier. Applications typically open in fall with decisions by early spring.

• Consider timing your move around the school year. Mid-year transfers are possible but harder to navigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What elementary school serves Washington Park?

Washington Park is primarily served by Steele Elementary (East Wash Park) and Lincoln Elementary (West Wash Park), though exact boundary assignments depend on your specific address. Use the DPS School Finder tool to verify your boundary school before purchasing a home. DPS's SchoolChoice system also allows families to apply to schools beyond their boundary.

Is South High School a good school?

South High School has a 6/10 GreatSchools rating but offers strong programs, particularly the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It's one of Denver's most diverse high schools with competitive athletics and extensive extracurriculars. Families seeking rigorous academics find the IB track comparable to many private schools. The school works well for self-motivated students who engage with the opportunities available.

Are Washington Park schools as good as Cherry Creek schools?

Cherry Creek School District generally has higher ratings than Denver Public Schools on traditional metrics. However, Washington Park offers solid elementary options (Steele rates 8/10), access to the same excellent private schools, and an urban lifestyle that Cherry Creek can't match. The choice often comes down to whether you prioritize school ratings (Cherry Creek) or neighborhood character and walkability (Washington Park).

What private schools are near Washington Park?

Washington Park families have access to excellent private schools including St. Mary's Academy (Catholic, PS–12), Graland Country Day School (PS–8), Kent Denver School (6–12), Denver Academy (1–12, learning differences), and Denver International School (language immersion). Most are within 10–15 minutes by car.

Making Your Decision

Washington Park offers families a genuine choice: solid public elementary schools, a diverse high school with rigorous IB programming, and proximity to Denver's best private schools. The neighborhood won't top suburban districts on standardized metrics, but it offers something those districts can't—a walkable urban lifestyle with genuine community character.

For families who value neighborhood character, urban walkability, and access to culture alongside quality education, Wash Park deserves serious consideration. For complete information on what makes this neighborhood special, see our Washington Park Complete Guide. And for families still deciding between Denver neighborhoods, our Cherry Creek vs Washington Park comparison provides a detailed analysis of both options.

Relocating to Denver with children means juggling school research, home searches, and move logistics simultaneously—it's overwhelming. Home concierge services for Denver can help manage the home side of your move, freeing you to focus on finding the right school for your family.

Washington Park offers everything families dream about: a 165-acre park with lakes and playgrounds, tree-lined streets perfect for evening walks, historic homes with character, and a walkable commercial district along South Pearl Street. But for parents with school-age children, one question comes before all others: what about the schools?

It's a fair question. School quality often determines where families ultimately choose to live, and Denver's educational landscape can be confusing for newcomers. Washington Park sits within Denver Public Schools (DPS), which operates differently than many suburban districts—understanding the system is half the battle.

This guide covers everything you need to know: the public schools serving Wash Park, how Denver's school choice system works, private alternatives nearby, and honest comparisons to help you make an informed decision for your family.

Quick Answer: Washington Park is served by several well-regarded Denver Public Schools including Steele Elementary (8/10 GreatSchools rating), Lincoln Elementary (7/10), and South High School (6/10 with a strong IB Programme). The neighborhood also offers proximity to excellent private options including St. Mary's Academy, Graland Country Day, and Kent Denver School. Denver's school choice system means families can apply to schools beyond their boundary assignment.

Understanding Denver Public Schools in Washington Park

Before diving into specific schools, it's important to understand how Denver Public Schools operates—because it's different from most districts families may be familiar with.

DPS uses a school choice system called SchoolChoice. While every address has a designated "boundary school," families aren't required to attend it. Instead, you can apply to any DPS school—magnet programs, charter schools, or traditional schools in other neighborhoods. Your boundary school guarantees admission, but popular schools may have limited space for choice applicants.

What this means for Wash Park families:

• Your boundary school is your guaranteed option — you'll always have a spot there

• You can apply to other schools — but admission isn't guaranteed at popular schools

• Transportation varies — boundary schools offer transportation; choice schools may not

• Deadlines matter — SchoolChoice applications open in January with results in February

The exact boundary school for your address depends on where in Wash Park you buy. Use the DPS School Finder tool to look up specific addresses before making an offer on a home.

Elementary Schools Serving Washington Park

Elementary school is where Wash Park's public options shine brightest. The neighborhood is served primarily by two well-regarded elementary schools, with exact boundaries determining which one your address feeds into.

Steele Elementary School

• Grades: ECE through 5th grade

• Address: 320 S Marion Parkway, Denver, CO 80209

• GreatSchools Rating: 8/10

• Boundary Area: Generally serves East Washington Park

Steele Elementary consistently ranks among the stronger DPS elementary schools. Located directly on the east side of Washington Park, it offers genuine walkability for East Wash Park families—kids on scooters and bikes heading to school is a common morning sight.

The school has a strong parent community with an active PTA that funds enrichment programs, field trips, and classroom resources. Parents consistently praise the sense of community and the dedication of teachers. Steele's location means students have easy access to the park for outdoor learning and physical education.

Enrollment note: Steele is a popular choice school, meaning families from outside the boundary often apply. Boundary families have priority, but kindergarten classes can fill quickly. If Steele is your boundary school, register early in the SchoolChoice window to secure your spot.

Lincoln Elementary School

• Grades: ECE through 5th grade

• Address: 710 S Pennsylvania Street, Denver, CO 80209

• GreatSchools Rating: 7/10

• Boundary Area: Parts of West Washington Park and surrounding neighborhoods

Lincoln Elementary serves portions of West Wash Park and has seen significant improvements in recent years. The school benefits from strong principal leadership and an increasingly engaged parent community. One distinguishing feature is Lincoln's diversity—the student body reflects a broader range of backgrounds than some other neighborhood schools, which many families view as a strength.

The school offers a welcoming environment and has invested in both academic programs and social-emotional learning. While its GreatSchools rating is slightly lower than Steele's, the gap has narrowed considerably, and many families find Lincoln's community feel and improving trajectory compelling.

Other Elementary Options

Depending on your exact address, other DPS elementary schools may be your boundary assignment or available through SchoolChoice:

• Asbury Elementary: Just south of Wash Park, serving parts of the Platt Park area

• McKinley-Thatcher Elementary: Another option for some boundary areas near Wash Park

• Denver Green School: A popular choice/magnet school with environmental focus (requires application)

• DSST schools: Denver School of Science and Technology operates several highly-rated schools (lottery admission)

Middle School Options

Middle school is often where Denver families begin seriously weighing public versus private options. The transition can be significant, and Wash Park families have several paths to consider.

Grant Beacon Middle School

• Grades: 6th through 8th grade

• Address: 1751 S Washington Street, Denver, CO 80210

• Programs: International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme

Grant Beacon serves as the primary middle school for many Wash Park elementary feeders. The school offers the IB Middle Years Programme, which provides a rigorous academic framework and prepares students for IB coursework in high school. The IB approach emphasizes critical thinking, international-mindedness, and connections across subject areas.

Parents considering Grant Beacon should visit during an open house to understand the IB program structure and whether it aligns with their child's learning style. The school has worked to build community and improve outcomes, though some families still opt for private school at this transition point.

Alternative middle school options available through SchoolChoice include DSST middle schools, Denver Montessori, and various charter options. Families who prioritize middle school quality often apply to multiple schools during the SchoolChoice window.

High School: South High School

For most Wash Park families, South High School is the boundary high school—and it deserves an honest, nuanced discussion.

• Grades: 9th through 12th grade

• Address: 1700 E Louisiana Avenue, Denver, CO 80210

• GreatSchools Rating: 6/10

• Enrollment: Approximately 1,400 students

• Notable Programs: International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

An Honest Assessment

South High's 6/10 rating is lower than what many families relocating from suburban districts expect. Let's address this directly: GreatSchools ratings are heavily influenced by standardized test scores, which tend to be lower at economically and racially diverse schools—not because the education is inferior, but because the metrics don't account for the full picture.

South High is one of Denver's most diverse high schools, and that diversity is something many families actively value. The school offers a genuine urban high school experience with students from varied backgrounds, which prepares kids for college and career environments better than more homogeneous settings.

The IB Advantage

For academically motivated students, South High's International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum recognized by universities worldwide.

The IB program at South is well-established and produces graduates who are highly competitive for selective college admissions. Students in the full IB Diploma Programme take challenging coursework across six subject areas, complete an extended essay, and engage in creativity, activity, and service hours.

Many Wash Park families who stay in public school find that the IB track at South provides academic rigor comparable to—or exceeding—many private schools, without the tuition cost.

Athletics and Activities

South High has competitive athletic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school's urban location means students have access to internships, cultural institutions, and community engagement opportunities that suburban schools can't match. The historic campus, dating to 1926, has character and a sense of tradition that many families appreciate.

Who Thrives at South High

South High works well for students who are self-motivated, interested in the IB program, and comfortable in a diverse environment. Families who engage with the school community—attending events, communicating with teachers, participating in booster clubs—report positive experiences. Students who take advantage of the IB track, AP courses, and extracurricular opportunities graduate well-prepared for college.

That said, some families prefer smaller school environments, different academic approaches, or religious education—all valid reasons to explore private alternatives. The choice is personal and depends on your child's needs and your family's priorities.

Private School Options Near Washington Park

Many Wash Park families supplement or replace public school with private options, particularly at the middle and high school level. The good news: Denver has excellent private schools within easy driving distance of the neighborhood. For comprehensive coverage of private schools in the Denver market, see our Cherry Creek private schools guide—most of these schools serve Wash Park families equally well.

St. Mary's Academy

• Grades: Preschool through 12th (girls only for grades 9-12)

• Location: 4545 S University Blvd, Englewood (~15 minutes from Wash Park)

• Affiliation: Catholic (Sisters of Loretto)

• Tuition Range: $15,000–$26,000 depending on grade level

• Website: smanet.org

St. Mary's Academy has educated Denver-area students for over 150 years. The school offers co-ed education through 8th grade, then transitions to an all-girls high school. Families praise the values-based education, strong academics, and the confidence that the all-girls environment builds in high school students. The campus is beautiful, and the community is tight-knit.

Graland Country Day School

• Grades: Preschool through 8th grade

• Location: 30 Birch Street, Denver (~10 minutes from Wash Park)

• Tuition Range: $28,000–$35,000 depending on grade level

• Website: graland.org

Graland is one of Denver's most prestigious independent schools. The campus in the Hilltop neighborhood features exceptional facilities, and the school's academic program is rigorous. Graland graduates are well-prepared for competitive high schools and typically have strong options for 9th grade placement. Admission is selective, and the application process typically begins a year in advance.

Kent Denver School

• Grades: 6th through 12th grade

• Location: 4000 E Quincy Ave, Cherry Hills Village (~15 minutes from Wash Park)

• Tuition Range: $36,000–$40,000

• Website: kentdenver.org

Kent Denver is consistently ranked among Colorado's top independent schools. The 200-acre campus provides extraordinary facilities for academics, arts, and athletics. Admission is highly competitive, and the school attracts students from across the Denver metro area. Kent Denver graduates attend top universities nationwide.

Additional Private Options

• Denver Academy (1-12): Specializes in students who learn differently; excellent for students with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences

• Denver International School (PS-8): Language immersion programs in French, Mandarin, and Spanish

• Colorado Academy (PS-12): West Denver location with comprehensive academic program

• J.K. Mullen High School (9-12): Catholic high school with strong athletics and college prep

Washington Park vs Cherry Creek: The School Question

Let's address the comparison that's on every relocating family's mind. If you're choosing between Washington Park and Cherry Creek, schools are likely a major factor in your decision.

The fundamental difference: Washington Park is in Denver Public Schools. Cherry Creek (the neighborhood) is in the Cherry Creek School District—a separate, suburban district that consistently ranks among Colorado's highest-performing.

On traditional metrics, Cherry Creek School District wins. Test scores are higher, GreatSchools ratings are higher, and the district has more resources. If maximizing public school ratings is your top priority, Cherry Creek has an edge.

But the decision isn't that simple. Washington Park offers a genuinely walkable urban lifestyle, historic character, and a park that becomes an extension of your backyard. Cherry Creek offers suburban schools with more space and higher ratings, but a more car-dependent lifestyle. Many families find that the trade-off is worth it—especially those who value urban living and plan to use private school for middle or high school anyway.

The private school equalizer: Both neighborhoods have excellent private school options nearby. If you're planning on private school regardless, the public school comparison matters less, and you can choose your neighborhood based on lifestyle preferences. See our Denver luxury living guide for more on what each neighborhood offers beyond schools.

Enrollment Tips for Washington Park Families

DPS SchoolChoice Timeline

Understanding the SchoolChoice calendar is essential for families moving to Denver:

1. Fall (October–December): Research schools, attend open houses, tour campuses. Most DPS schools host events for prospective families.

2. January: Round 1 SchoolChoice window opens. Submit your application ranking your school preferences (you can rank multiple schools).

3. February: Round 1 results released. You'll receive your school placement.

4. March: Accept your placement or participate in Round 2 for schools with remaining openings.

5. Spring/Summer: Complete enrollment paperwork, attend orientation events.

Tips for Relocating Families

• Tour schools before buying a home if possible. A visit tells you more than any rating.

• Verify the boundary school for any address you're considering. Boundaries don't always follow obvious neighborhood lines.

• Don't assume boundary equals guaranteed space at popular schools. Register during the SchoolChoice window even for your boundary school.

• Private school deadlines are often earlier. Applications typically open in fall with decisions by early spring.

• Consider timing your move around the school year. Mid-year transfers are possible but harder to navigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What elementary school serves Washington Park?

Washington Park is primarily served by Steele Elementary (East Wash Park) and Lincoln Elementary (West Wash Park), though exact boundary assignments depend on your specific address. Use the DPS School Finder tool to verify your boundary school before purchasing a home. DPS's SchoolChoice system also allows families to apply to schools beyond their boundary.

Is South High School a good school?

South High School has a 6/10 GreatSchools rating but offers strong programs, particularly the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It's one of Denver's most diverse high schools with competitive athletics and extensive extracurriculars. Families seeking rigorous academics find the IB track comparable to many private schools. The school works well for self-motivated students who engage with the opportunities available.

Are Washington Park schools as good as Cherry Creek schools?

Cherry Creek School District generally has higher ratings than Denver Public Schools on traditional metrics. However, Washington Park offers solid elementary options (Steele rates 8/10), access to the same excellent private schools, and an urban lifestyle that Cherry Creek can't match. The choice often comes down to whether you prioritize school ratings (Cherry Creek) or neighborhood character and walkability (Washington Park).

What private schools are near Washington Park?

Washington Park families have access to excellent private schools including St. Mary's Academy (Catholic, PS–12), Graland Country Day School (PS–8), Kent Denver School (6–12), Denver Academy (1–12, learning differences), and Denver International School (language immersion). Most are within 10–15 minutes by car.

Making Your Decision

Washington Park offers families a genuine choice: solid public elementary schools, a diverse high school with rigorous IB programming, and proximity to Denver's best private schools. The neighborhood won't top suburban districts on standardized metrics, but it offers something those districts can't—a walkable urban lifestyle with genuine community character.

For families who value neighborhood character, urban walkability, and access to culture alongside quality education, Wash Park deserves serious consideration. For complete information on what makes this neighborhood special, see our Washington Park Complete Guide. And for families still deciding between Denver neighborhoods, our Cherry Creek vs Washington Park comparison provides a detailed analysis of both options.

Relocating to Denver with children means juggling school research, home searches, and move logistics simultaneously—it's overwhelming. Home concierge services for Denver can help manage the home side of your move, freeing you to focus on finding the right school for your family.