Polaris Expeditionary Learning School

Polaris Expeditionary Learning School, based in Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a K–12 public magnet program grounded in hands-on learning, character education, and academic rigor. With adherence to its Expeditionary Learning model, students engage in real-world learning projects, fieldwork, and some adventure experiences. This positive immersion builds confidence, agency, responsibility, and character, and also introduces students to leadership and service. Naturally, since Polaris has it all, it retains strong academics with a great graduation rate of 96%, and average proficiency rates above the state average for reading. Polaris sets a standard for both academics and life, and students thrive in the compelling environments that define the culture at Polaris. Families become actively engaged in the strong community that is built around the students, and the teachers are mentors, leading and guiding the children. If you are a parent looking for a type of educational experience that is innovative, relevant, and of high quality that can support your child as a learner, then Polaris is definitely one of the best elementary schools in Colorado.

Polaris Expeditionary Learning School continues to earn accolades for their strong performance and community engagement here in Fort Collins, along with coverage in the Coloradoan, and recognition in U.S. News rankings.

Q: Do students experience project-based learning at Polaris Expeditionary Learning School?

A: Yes, students will engage in projects that are a culmination of many hours of real-world work and which connect all aspects of student learning from the classroom to hands-on work.

Q: Are there outdoor education opportunities?

A: Yes, students enjoy field experiences, travel, nature trips, and expedition-style learning experiences.

Q: How does Polaris Expeditionary Learning School provide opportunities for creative arts?

A: Students will learn about and create in visual art, drama, music, and/or multimedia project formats to express creativity.

Q: Are there student leadership roles at Polaris Expeditionary Learning School?

A: Yes, students lead group projects, act as mentors to peers, and can take part in student councils as well as create their own leadership opportunities.

Q: Does Polaris Expeditionary Learning School have community engagement events?

A: Yes, Polaris organizes various volunteer projects, activities for family participation, and also connections to local service projects.