Van Arsdale Elementary School

Van Arsdale Elementary (formerly Jefferson County R-1) is a Pre-K through 5th-grade school that serves approximately 449-479 students. The school has been reported to have an approximate student-to-teacher ratio of about 17:1 with about 25-28 full-time teachers who are all regularly certified. The average percentage of students proficient on state assessments is approximately 55%-59% for math and 55%-59% for reading/language arts. This is significantly above the state average. Minority representation is approximately 22% of the student community (the largest group being Hispanic/multiracial). Economically disadvantaged students comprise about 16% of student membership. The school has been recognized as one of the best elementary schools in Colorado based on strong achievement and demographic balance.

The 2026–2027 GT Center application is currently open.

Q1. What ways can students lead Van Arsdale?

A1. Students may join leadership councils, peer mentors, and service roles.

Q2. What other ways does the school measure and track academic growth that are not based solely on standardized tests?

A2. Teachers can monitor student progress through classroom assessments, unit portfolios, student goal-setting.

Q3. What are the programs in art, music, or physical education that enhance student life?

A3. Van Arsdale has a band, choir, art workshops, and active physical education programs.

Q4. How does Van Arsdale infuse local culture or local history into their teaching?

A4. Teachers incorporate lessons that would result in community work, history days, and local cultural activities.

Q5. What professional development do teachers have access to to remain up-to-date with new methods?

A5. Teachers are consuming district-level training, workshops, and collaborative learning recently.