We might not teach to the test, but we still help you prepare

As a progressive independent school, we do not require our students to take standardized state tests. Depending on the course, students may or may not encounter tests in their studies, however, all of our teachers focus more on hands-on, experiential learning methods that develop skills, rather than on having students memorize rote information.

As part of our college counseling program, you are required to take a diagnostic test that determines whether you are better suited for the SAT or ACT. We also offer a required Test Prep elective for juniors in their second quarter, but we highly encourage further independent study. 

While we do not offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, we are confident that our upper school curriculum will prepare you for certain AP tests with the expected level of additional studying and preparation. Our teachers encourage and support any student who wishes to pursue AP testing, and they are available for consultation.

Alumni Grant Morgan '17 challenged himself to talk 17 AP tests in his senior year at The Peak School. In the video on this page, you can hear him discuss his testing tips with the local Colorado news hosts of "Colorado's Best Kid."

Here are Grant's 5 Test-Taking Tips:

  1. Choose your tests wisely. You are about to devote months of your life to tests like Advanced Placement exams, so the best thing you can do to score well is choose a subject(s) you have passion for. You don’t have to love studying for these tests, but what you learn should at least spark your curiosity.
  2. Get some sleep. I pulled an all-nighter before the Advanced Placement American Government exam and I barely recall the three hours I spent taking it. This lack of recollection is proof enough that a good night’s rest is critical. Overall, sleep helps keep you healthy and steadies your nerves – and it’s one of the easiest things you can do.
  3. Take advantage of free resources and be creative with others.
  4. Get experience in your field of interest and subject matter and be prepared to apply the knowledge you’ve gained before test day.
  5. Start studying now: the earlier, the better. This is a process – a journey with a beginning, middle and end.