One common question among parents near Denver is, "Is that the Cherry Creek School District?"

Despite being a public school, it boasts a reputation that rivals many private schools, consistently ranking among the top high schools in Colorado.

Cherry Creek High School is the star of the show. Located southeast of Denver in Greenwood Village and near Cherry Creek,

it is a massive public high school with around 4,000 students, making it one of the largest in Colorado.

But it's not just about size. The Cherry Creek School District is recognized for its high academic achievement and college enrollment rates, serving as a prestigious educational brand.

A top-notch academic system that rivals private schools (from AP to IB)

The biggest advantage of a large school is its 'variety of options.'

Cherry Creek High School, despite being a public institution, offers an exceptional curriculum necessary for college admissions.

Dozens of AP (Advanced Placement) courses: A wide range of AP subjects is available to help students earn college credits in advance. Notably, the AP exam pass rate for students at this school far exceeds the national average.

IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma Program: The school also offers an IB program for students seeking rigorous, internationally recognized education.

Thanks to this solid curriculum, a steady stream of graduates enrolls in top-tier colleges across the U.S., including Ivy League schools.

For students aiming for four-year college enrollment rather than immediate employment, there is no better public school environment for training.

From football to orchestra, the arts and athletics are at a 'national level'

If you think it's just a boring school that excels academically, you're mistaken. The true standout aspect of Cherry Creek High School shines through in the arts and athletics.

The school's band, orchestra, and choir are not only rated among the best in Colorado but are also known for sweeping trophies at national competitions.

The sports programs are equally impressive. They have a tradition of dominating the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) competitions in nearly every sport, including football, basketball, swimming, tennis, and golf.

Moreover, there are over 100 clubs and extracurricular activities available. Whether it's the robotics team, mock trial, Model UN, student newspaper, or environmental club, there are ample opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents.

So, how can one gain admission to this prestigious high school? Essentially, residents of the Cherry Creek School District are automatically assigned to attend. Even if you live outside the district, you can apply through the Open Enrollment system, but due to its popularity, you can only get in if there are openings, making it quite competitive.

Ultimately, to secure admission, you may need to move to areas within the Cherry Creek School District, such as Centennial, Greenwood Village, or parts of Englewood. As you might have guessed, these areas have relatively high housing prices and rents in Colorado.

This is a prime example of the bittersweet yet realistic educational formula in the U.S.: "Good school districts mean higher home prices."

Cherry Creek High School is a land of opportunity, filled with numerous chances and excellent infrastructure. However, with 4,000 students, it requires a competitive spirit to thrive, making it more advantageous for proactive students.

If you want to provide your child with the best public education and a broad world of experiences in Colorado, the curriculum and achievements of this school explain why so many families strive to enter the 'Cherry Creek School District.'