LOVE SCHOOL.
Welcome to Compass
Compass is a small, tuition-free public charter in the Poudre School District serving Fort Collins Middle School and High School students where learners are known, challenged, and LOVE SCHOOL.
Our Mission: Compass inspires students to learn with purpose and passion as they author the best possible story of their lives and our collective future.
Small by design. Big on impact.
#1 Fort Collins Middle School
U.S. News & World Report has ranked Compass the #1 middle school in Fort Collins for two consecutive years.
Our high school is also a proud recipient of the John Irwin Award for both Excellence and Growth from the Colorado Department of Education.
Educational excellence you can trust.
Mastery over memorization
Project-based learning in middle and high school
Real-world, experiential education and problem-solving
Close-knit community where students are truly known
Competency-based progression instead of one-size-fits-all
Hands-on learning through collaboration with community businesses, organizations and institutions.
It’s what makes us different.
We Believe In—
The Compass Difference
A Middle School Where Students LOVE to learn
Looking for a middle school that is small by design in Fort Collins?
Compass is designed for 6-8th graders who want:
An engaging, hands-on learning experience
Challenging, creative academics
A safe, close-knit school community
To learn from teachers who truly know them
For families in Fort Collins and the Poudre School District searching for the best middle school, Compass offers a School of Choice where students feel seen, supported, and inspired.
A High School That Prepares for REAL Life
Searching for a public high school in Fort Collins where learning is project-based and internships are always encouraged?
Compass High School prepares students for life beyond high school—not just graduation.
Students benefit from:
Concurrent college enrollment and college credit
Internships and community partnerships
Exhibitions of Learning and a Senior Defense that demonstrate mastery
A dedicated Futures Counselor ensuring no senior slips through the cracks
Building leadership skills in a small, connected environment
While some students assume bigger is better, families discover that depth, preparation, and real-world skill development matter more.
Compass graduates are confident, capable, and future-ready.
Student Outcomes That Matter
Compass students don’t just pass classes—they master skills.
College credits earned before graduation
Millions of dollars in merit and need based scholarships secured
Robotics and STEM awards
National Merit Scholar recognition
High standardized assessment performance
Strong college and career placement
We are proud to be a 6–12 charter school in Northern Colorado where academic achievement is the outcome of meaningful learning.
Discover Learning With Purpose
What does a real-world, project-based education look like?
Come see how our learners collaborate, lead, and engage in meaningful work that prepares them for college, career, and life.
Accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year for grades 6-10.
To be considered for enrollment, families must submit an application directly to Compass. Get started by clicking the button above.
Curious what school could look like?
If you’re considering middle or high school options in Fort Collins or are a community member interested in following our journey, join our mailing list for news and the stories that bring Compass to life.