School Choice Explained: How to Apply to Compass for 2027–28
Choosing a school is a big decision, and understanding how School Choice works can make the process a little less confusing. 💙
If your family is exploring middle or high school options in Fort Collins, we want to make sure you know how to apply to Compass Community Collaborative School.
What Is Compass?
Compass is a public charter school within Poudre School District (PSD). As a public school, Compass is tuition-free and open to eligible students through its admissions process.
We are a small, close-knit middle and high school built around project-based learning, real-world experiences and meaningful connections. Students have opportunities to explore their interests, collaborate with others and connect what they learn to life beyond the classroom.
As a School of Choice, Compass offers families another option when deciding which public school best fits their student.
What Does School Choice Really Mean?
School Choice allows families to explore public school options beyond their neighborhood-assigned school. However, not every school uses the same application process.
Although Compass is part of Poudre School District, Compass manages its own application and lottery process. That means families interested in Compass must apply directly through Compass, rather than relying on the general PSD School of Choice application.
Applying through PSD's School of Choice process does not apply your student to Compass. This is an important distinction for families to remember!
Important Compass Application Dates
If you are considering Compass for the 2027–28 school year, here are the key dates to know:
📌 December 18, 2026: Compass application deadline
🎟️ Week of January 4, 2027: Compass lottery and admission or waitlist notifications
✅ Within three business days of an offer: Deadline to accept your seat
📝 After accepting: Complete official registration to secure your student's place
Be sure to keep these dates handy as you explore your options and plan for the next school year.
Is Compass the Right Fit for Your Student?
If you are looking for a smaller school community where students are known, challenged and encouraged to follow their curiosity, we invite you to learn more about Compass.
Explore our approach to learning, meet our community and discover whether Compass could be the right next step for your middle or high school student.
Ready to Apply?
👉 Learn more and submit your application directly through Compass: compassfortcollins.org/admissions
We are excited to help families navigate School Choice and find the school that fits their student best.
Small School. Every Student Known.
💙 LOVE SCHOOL.