Choose Manitou

Surrounded by Garden of the Gods with views of Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak, it's hard to find a district with more beautiful surroundings. It’s not just the

incredible views you get outside that sets us apart, but rather a focus on relationships, deep learning, and opportunity. The Manitou Springs School District offers a small-town educational environment, providing hands-on learning and a support community to inspire lifelong learners.
Manitou Springs School District 14 serves approximately 1200 students from Preschool to 12th Grade who reside in the communities of Manitou Springs, Cascade, Green Mountain Falls, Chipita Park, Crystal Park, and Cedar Heights. We offer choice to nearly 600 students who come to our district from other locations in El Paso and Teller Counties.

• Small Schools. Experienced Staff.
• Committed, Visible, & Collaborative District and School Leadership.
• Financial Transparency.
• Engaging Educational Experiences Beyond the Traditional Classroom.

 

Manitou Springs School District 14 earned the Accredited with Distinction designation for 2025.

What does this mean for your student?

• Proven academic success. Our district ranks among the highest-performing in Colorado, meaning students consistently meet or exceed state learning standards. 

• Stronger growth, not just test scores. We focus on every child’s year-to-year growth, supporting both academic and personal development.

• Preparation for what comes next. From early learning through graduation, students gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for middle school, high school, college, and careers.

• A culture of excellence. This recognition reflects our dedicated teachers, innovative programs, and commitment to high-quality learning experiences for all students.

 

The choice application window for the 2026-2027 school year is open from 
January 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027

 

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LEARN ABOUT OUR CAMPUSES

Ute Pass Elementary School create a truly unique experience for preschool through sixth grade students to explore, create, discover, and grow. Seated beautifully at the foot of Pikes Peak, Ute Pass Elementary takes environmental learning to the next level! Our amazing staff extends education far beyond the four walls of a classroom. Students at Ute Pass Elementary receive a challenging education and become active participants in their own learning. We believe in fostering an inclusive environment and creating a safe place for all students to find and use their voice.

How to Visit: We welcome all interested families and community members to see the amazing work happening at UPES! Please call the front office at 719-685-2227 or email Principal Jackie Powell at jpowell@mssd14.org to schedule a tour today! 

• Check out UPES on Facebook to explore upcoming events and gain insight into our school’s culture, experienced teachers, and educational opportunities for students.

• Email Jackie Powell at jpowell@mssd14.org to schedule a time to tour the school.

If you are interested in applying for the Mountain Academy of Arts and Sciences (MAAS) 6th grade program at Ute Pass Elementary, please fill out the MAAS Application and select “Mountain Academy of Arts and Sciences - UPES 6th grade" for your application type.
Apply Here

 

Manitou Springs Elementary School classrooms are filled with opportunities to promote academic, emotional, and social growth. Every decision we make—from curriculum design to extracurricular activities—ensures that we are thinking about providing the most effective learning opportunities for our students. We work together to cultivate an environment where every child feels empowered to thrive.

How to Visit:

• Visit MSES on Facebook to learn about upcoming events and see how our focus on strong instruction, student growth, and meaningful relationships shapes the learning experience.

• Would you like a tour? We'd be happy to show you our school and tell you what makes us unique. Stop by or call the office at  719 -685-2195.

 

Manitou Springs Middle School creates a dynamic and supportive learning experience for students as they grow academically, socially, and personally during these pivotal middle school years. Rooted in the Manitou community, MSMS emphasizes strong instruction, student growth, and the development of meaningful relationships that help every learner feel known and supported. Our dedicated staff extends learning beyond the classroom through engaging experiences that encourage curiosity, responsibility, and student voice. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, safe environment where all students are empowered to challenge themselves and thrive.

How to Visit:

• Check out Manitou Springs Middle School on Facebook to stay informed about upcoming events and get a glimpse into our school culture, dedicated educators, and engaging learning opportunities.

 

Manitou Springs High School offers a personalized and engaging high school experience where students are challenged to think critically, explore their interests, and prepare for life beyond graduation. With a strong emphasis on academic rigor, creativity, and real-world learning, MSHS empowers students to take ownership of their education while building confidence and independence. Our close-knit community and committed staff support students through meaningful relationships, inclusive practices, and opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom. At MSHS, students are encouraged to find their path, use their voice, and grow into capable, compassionate leaders.

How to Visit:

• Follow Manitou Springs High School on Facebook for school highlights, upcoming events, and a look at the experiences that make our high school community unique.

 

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CHOICE ENROLLMENT PROCESS
The Manitou Springs School District offers families the ability to choose our district even if you reside outside of our boundaries. We are excited for you to experience the Manitou Advantage!

Are you still within the choice window?
We are currently not accepting choice applications for the 2025-2026 school year. 

Does your child meet the age requirements?
Students must be 5 years old by October 1st for Kindergarten and must be 6 years old by October 1st for 1st grade.

What criteria does MSSD14 use for choice acceptance?
We base acceptance on seat capacity at both school and grade level.

When will I be notified of acceptance?
As space opens up, we notify families of acceptance.

How do I apply?
Fill out the choice application below and be sure to check your email frequently as this is the main form of communication for acceptance or denial.

 

 

More Choice Enrollment Information
 

Who Should Apply?

• New students who do not live within the MSSD14 district boundaries attending K-12.

• Change in Resident Status - Enrolled students that have moved out of the district during the current year will be required to submit a choice application for the upcoming year. Students will be able complete the current school year.

• For current students who wish to attend a district school other than their zoned school please see the In-District Transfer section.

• Preschool students have a separate enrollment process. Please see the Preschool page for more information.

• The Mountain Academy of Arts (MAAS) 6th grade program at Ute Pass Elementary has a separate enrollment process. Please see the MAAS page for more details.

Age Requirements

• Kindergarten: Must be 5 years old by October 1st

• First Grade: Must be 6 years old by October 1st - Exception for students who do not meet age requirement, but have already attended Kindergarten.

Application Process

• Applications must be submitted in their entirety using the online Choice Application.

• Applications will not be accepted at individual schools.

• An application is required for each student that is applying.

Acceptance Process
Students are accepted based on the following.

• Seat capacity at both school and grade level.

• Program space availability at both school and grade level.

New Non- Residents

• space at the school and/or grade level is available, conditional acceptance with the next steps will be sent via email

• Students will be conditionally accepted until a review of educational records are completed.

• During records review, a spot will be held for student.

Waitlists

• If a grade and/or school has reached capacity, the student will be placed on a waitlist. 

• Families will be notified if a student is to be placed on the waitlist.

• Waitlists will be evaluated, and status will be communicated to families during each notification window with the option to remain on the list or be removed.

• Waitlist order is not provided as additional applications with different acceptance priority can change the order.

High School Athletic/Activity Information
Switching schools in CO may restrict athletic eligibility. Please refer to the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) Transfer Rules at http://chsaanow.com.
To participate in school activities during the summer, students must be accepted and registered in a MSSD14 school. Participating without doing so, may impact CHSAA eligibility.

In-District School Transfers
To ensure space in school, grade, and programs, all current students desiring to transfer schools from their currently enrolled school must complete an In-District Transfer Form. This includes students wishing to return to their zoned residential school. This form should be submitted to the district registrar by February 1st of the current school year to receive priority for the upcoming school year.
Link for In-District Transfer Form

 

The choice application window for the 2026-2027 school year is open from January 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027