When moving to Colorado Springs, the first thing I looked for was schools, even before finding a house.

I can tolerate an older house if the school is good, but if I love the house and the school is not up to par, I hesitate to sign the contract.

So, I researched high schools in the area and found a few public schools that caught my attention.

First is Pine Creek High School.

It belongs to the district commonly referred to as D-20 in Colorado Springs. Many kids from the Briargate and Pine Creek areas attend this school.

With around 2,000 students, it's quite a large school, offering a variety of programs to prepare for college, including AP courses.

It's not just an academic school; sports and various club activities are also quite active. The campus has a relatively modern feel, and first-time visitors might be impressed by the facilities for a public school in the U.S. It makes sense that many young families with children live in this area.

The second is Cheyenne Mountain High School. This school is located in the southwestern part of the city, in the Cheyenne Mountain area. However, there's one thing you shouldn't get confused about: the Cheyenne Mountain School District is not D-38 but District 12, or D-12.

This area connects to relatively affluent neighborhoods around Broadmoor and Cheyenne Mountain. Parents here tend to have a high interest in education, and the school has a very good reputation. It's well-equipped not only for college preparation but also for arts programs like music, visual arts, and theater.

The issue, of course, is the housing prices. With a good school, a quiet neighborhood, and beautiful mountain views, it would be unrealistic to expect affordable housing. Still, if education is a priority, this school is definitely worth considering.

The third is Air Academy High School. This school is also part of D-20 and is located near the U.S. Air Force Academy. Due to the area's characteristics, many children from military families attend, and the student backgrounds are relatively diverse.

Military families often move after a few years, so the school has a welcoming atmosphere for new students. It's known for balancing academics, sports, and music programs. Don't think of it as a military school just because it's near the Air Force Academy; it's a regular public high school.

Ultimately, if you value your child's education in Colorado Springs, you'll hear a lot about D-20 and D-12. D-20 has a larger area and more school options, making it easier for newcomers to find a home. In contrast, D-12 is smaller but has a distinct character and a good reputation for schools like Cheyenne Mountain.

However, what I realized while researching schools is that you can't just rely on internet ratings. While GreatSchools ratings of 8 or 9 are important and Niche evaluations are worth considering, ultimately, this is where our child will spend 7 hours a day.

If possible, it's best to visit the school in person before signing a lease. If there are information sessions or school tours, attend them to observe the student atmosphere and hear from the teachers. The criteria for a good school can vary depending on whether your child enjoys sports, music, or thrives in a competitive academic environment.

And don't rush to sign a contract just because you found a house you like; first, check the assigned school for that address. Don't just trust the school information on real estate sites; it's safest to input the address directly into the district's website to verify.

In the end, choosing a school isn't just about picking one with a high score; it's about selecting a place where our child will make friends, study, and live for the next few years. If the kitchen in the house isn't to your liking, you can always renovate later, but once your child's school life passes, you can't change that.