Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page of Caprock Academy! We understand that choosing the right educational institution is a significant decision, and we're here to provide you with all the information you need. Whether you're curious about our diverse range of programs, policies, or general inquiries, this page is designed to address your most common questions and concerns.
At Caprock Academy, we pride ourselves on creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment that empowers students to thrive academically and personally. To help you navigate through the wealth of information available, we have compiled this comprehensive FAQ section to give you quick and clear answers to the queries you may have.
Explore the sections below to find information about our various programs, admission processes, policies, and other general aspects of our institution. If there's something you can't find, don't hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team who is always ready to assist you on your educational journey.
Thank you for considering and/or choosing Caprock Academy for your academic pursuits. We're here to help you make informed decisions and provide the support you need as you embark on this exciting educational adventure. Let's get started!
General School Information - Click to Expand
General School Information
Are you a private school?
No, Caprock Academy is not a private school. We are a public charter school.
Is Caprock Academy a part of District 51?
No, Caprock Academy is not affiliated with Mesa County Valley School District 51. Our school district is the Charter School Institute (CSI).
What is a Charter School?
A charter school is a publicly funded school that operates independently, often with more flexibility in its curriculum, teaching methods, and organizational structure compared to traditional public schools. Charter schools are typically created through a "charter," which is a performance contract detailing the school's mission, program, goals, students served, methods of assessment, and ways to measure success. Charter schools are accountable for academic results and financial management to their authorizing entity, which is usually a school district, state education agency, or an independent charter school board. They have the freedom to make decisions about their educational approach, staffing, and budget, but in return, they are held accountable for meeting specific performance goals set forth in their charter. Charter schools are a form of school choice, providing parents and students with an alternative to traditional public schools. They can vary widely in terms of their educational philosophies, focus areas, and methods of instruction.
What is your Mission Statement?
To accomplish this Vision, Caprock Academy’s Mission is to...Help all students achieve their highest academic and character potential using proven, accelerated academic programs while providing a safe environment.
What is your Vision Statement?
Strengthening the community through the involvement of parents, educators and community leaders working together to provide an environment that fosters academic excellence and develops strong character in our students. We shape global citizens who set life goals and practice lives of service and virtue.
Do you celebrate holidays?
No, Caprock Academy does not celebrate holidays in the form of class parties or celebrations. Labor Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and President’s Day will be observed with school in session on the Friday of the observed holiday. Please view, save, and/or download a copy of our current Academic Calendar for more information.
What is the Student to Teacher ratio at Caprock Academy?
16:1
What are your class sizes?
Class sizes are relatively small throughout all grade levels. In Kindergarten, you can expect classes to have a maximum of 22 students in each class. Beginning in 1st grade through 8th grade, we aim to keep our classes at a maximum of 27 students per class. In high school, classes range from a few students up to about 25-27 per class depending on the subject. *Please note that these are not exact numbers and may vary from year to year.
What are your school hours?
K-8th grade students attend from 7:45 am – 3:00 pm. High school students attend from 7:45 am -3:15 pm. We typically do not have school on Friday’s.
Do you go to school five days a week?
We operate on a 4-day school week, Monday – Friday. We typically do not have school on Friday’s. However, there are a few exceptions for non-school day holidays that fall on a Monday. In this case, our school week would be shifted to Tuesday – Friday. There are also a few scheduled 5-day weeks. Please view, save, and/or download a copy of our current Academic Calendar for more information. Kindergarten never attends on Fridays.
Do you recite the Pledge of Allegiance?
Yes, we recite the Pledge of Allegiance every day together as a school at 7:45 am.
Does Caprock Academy charge a yearly tuition?
No, we are tuition free. We do, however, have annual student fees, but they are not required for admission. Please see our Fee Schedule in the Family Handbook for more information.
What do student fees help with?
A portion of student fees go directly to our Art and Music programs. The remaining portion goes to your students classroom that allows teachers to provide extra learning opportunities to students and the ability to purchase materials for their classroom.
Do you take credit cards?
Yes, we take all major credit cards and debit cards.
How do I contact my child’s teacher?
The best way to contact your child’s teacher is via email. Staff email addresses can be found on our website using the Staff Directory.
How do I report an absence?
Please contact our Attendance Office by 8:00 am to report an absent student. You may also report an absence by using our Report an Absence Form on our website or by sending an email to [email protected]
How do I request homework for my child that is sick?
If your child will be gone for an extended time, you may request make up work by email their teacher and educational assistant or by calling the office by 9:00 am. Please note that requests made after 9:00 am may not be available until the next business day. If your child will only be done for one day, it is recommended that you wait to get their work from the teacher upon their return.
What time does my child’s class eat lunch?
Each grade level has a specific time that they eat lunch. Please contact your child’s teacher or call the front office.
Do you have a lunchroom?
No, we do not. Students eat in their homeroom or study hall classrooms.
Do you offer free and reduced breakfast/lunch?
We do not have a school lunch program, therefore we do not offer free or reduced lunches daily to our students. However, we do offer a Thursday Hot Lunch program, where we partner with local restaurants to bring in a lunch option once a week on Thursday’s. Please visit our website for more information regarding the Thursday Hot Lunch Program.
Do you offer lunch, athletic or other program scholarships?
We offer scholarships for our Thursday Hot Lunch Program, athletics, and activities to families that have completed the FEDS form and meet the requirements of the program. Please contact the front office for additional information on how to request a scholarship.
What is your Graduation Rate?
We have a 100% Graduation rate. Our first class of students graduated in 2013.
Do you offer early graduation to your students?
No, we do not. Please contact our Registrar for more information.
Do you have a school board?
Yes. Please visit our website for additional information regarding our Board of Directors.
Do you have school counselors?
Yes, we have two full-time school counselors on campus daily.
Do you provide transportation to and from school?
No, we do not provide transportation. However, we do organize a Carpool volunteer program. Please visit our Carpool page for more information.
Do you rent out your facility?
From time to time, and as our school schedule allows, we may rent out classrooms, our gym or our facility. All requests must be made in writing with our Athletic and Activites Director. Please note that Caprock Academy school programs have first preference and not all requests made will be considered or granted. Staff email addresses can be found on our website using the Staff Directory.
Where can I find a copy of the current school calendar?
On our school website or you may request a paper copy from the front office. Please view, save, and/or download a copy of our current Academic Calendar for more information.
What are your guidelines for creating your Academic Calendar?
Please refer to our Family Handbook, Policy SE 1.5 for more information.
What is the Facts Family Portal District Code?
ca-co
Do you sell school uniforms?
No, we do not sell uniforms. However, our Caprock Academy Support Team hosts several uniform exchanges throughout the school year where they sell gently used uniforms for a minimal fee.
What is Spirit Day?
Students may wear approved Spirit Wear on the last Thursday of each month, and on all Friday’s that school is in session. For information on how to purchase Spirit Wear, please contact the front office.
Do you send out a Monthly Newsletter?
Caprock Academy sends out a weekly newsletter, called the Weekly Communique to all parents/guardians via email. It is also posted on our private Facebook Parent Group and on our website.
What is Goal Hour?
Caprock Academy serves the 3rd through 5th grade students in pursuit of personal interests in an enrichment class every Thursday called Goal Hour. Kindergarten through 2nd grade students pursue their goals during the regular class time. Goal Hour is a unique program, whereby students are offered the opportunity to choose one area of enrichment each quarter. Please visit our Goal Hour page on our website for more information.
Academic Information - Click to Expand
Academic Information
What Math Curriculum does Caprock Academy use?
We use Singapore Math.
What is Classical Education?
Classical education refers to a traditional approach to education that is based on the principles and methods of teaching used in ancient Greece and Rome. It places a strong emphasis on the development of critical thinking, logic, and language skills. The classical education model typically includes three main stages known as the Trivium: grammar, logic (or dialectic), and rhetoric.
In the grammar stage, students focus on acquiring a strong foundation in language, including vocabulary, grammar, and basic facts. The logic stage involves developing skills in reasoning and critical thinking. Finally, the rhetoric stage emphasizes effective communication and persuasive expression. Classical education often involves the study of classical literature, history, philosophy, and mathematics, aiming to provide students with a well-rounded and intellectually rigorous education. Please visit our Curriculum page for more information regarding Classical Education.
What is Character Education?
Character education is an approach to education that focuses on the development of positive character traits, virtues, and ethical values in individuals. It goes beyond academic instruction and aims to instill qualities such as integrity, responsibility, respect, empathy, and fairness. Character education seeks to nurture students not only academically but also morally and socially, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and ethical decision-making. This approach aims to prepare individuals to be responsible and contributing members of society by emphasizing the importance of character development alongside academic learning.
What books do you read in class?
Caprock Academy follows the Core Knowledge Sequence.
Do you teach Critical Race Theory (CRT)?
Controversial issues are defined as contemporary problems, subjects, or questions of a political or social nature where there are differences of opinion and passions run high. Controversial issues will only be explored when emanating from some part of the curriculum (9-12). When these subjects come up, teachers will present an impartial view of both sides without proselytizing. Contemporary controversial issues will not be discussed in elementary school even if part of the CK sequence, without Head of School approval.
Do you teach controversial issues?
Controversial issues are defined as contemporary problems, subjects, or questions of a political or social nature where there are differences of opinion and passions run high. Controversial issues will only be explored when emanating from some part of the curriculum (9-12). When these subjects come up, teachers will present an impartial view of both sides without proselytizing. Contemporary controversial issues will not be discussed in elementary school even if part of the CK sequence, without Head of School approval.
Do you teach sex education?
Caprock Academy adheres to the Core Knowledge Sequence as stipulated in the school’s Charter Contract with the Charter School Institute. The Core Knowledge science curriculum instructs 5th-grade students in cell division, plant and animal reproduction, and life cycles. Topics on “The Human Body” include the science of “Changes in Human Adolescence,” puberty, the endocrine system, and the reproductive system. Caprock Academy instructs on these topics only within the domain of science. Evening presentations with parents precede and coincide with these lesson units, and are intended to better prepare parents to address, as they deem prudent, non-scientific questions 10-year-olds are likely to pose when prompted by this particular science unit. Related lessons in other grades are likewise fully pre-defined for parents. For example, 7th-grade-science instruction takes a deep dive into cell division, and genetics. Caprock Academy’s human-reproduction curriculum excludes nonscience content such as health instruction, and instruction in human sexuality. The right and responsibility of parents to direct the education and upbringing of their children is wholly embraced by the school which accommodates all parental “opt-out” directives
Do you teach evolution?
Much of modern biology rests on the theory of evolution. The Core Knowledge Sequence introduces the theory of evolution in the seventh grade. Caprock Academy will adhere to the Core Knowledge Sequence. The theory of evolution in relation to human origins will not be taught at this time. In the high school biology class, the evolutionary theories of human development will be canvassed. The teaching of evolution is not intended to exclude other theories of origin, such as Creationism or Intelligent Design, and parents are encouraged to discuss such other theories at home as they deem appropriate.
Extracurricular Activities - Click to Expand
Extracurricular Activities
What sports do you offer for Elementary School?
We currently offer a Kindergarten through 6th grade recreational and a 5th through 6th grade competitive basketball program during the winter. This is a Caprock Academy organized opportunity available to current Caprock Academy students.
What sports do you offer for Middle School?
Girls Volleyball, Girls Basketball, Boys Basketball and Co-ed Track and field
What sports do you offer for High School?
Girls: Volleyball, Cross Country, Basketball, Ice Hockey, and Track & field
Boys: Soccer, Cross Country, Basketball, Track & field, and Ice Hockey
What extracurricular activities/clubs do you offer?
Clubs vary from year to year depending on staff and student interest. However, we always offer National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), National Honor Society (NHS), Knowledge Bowl, and Student Council (StuCo). Some of the other activities/clubs that we have offered in the past include; Math Counts, The 7:45 Show, National History Day, High School Ski & Snowboarding Club, Spelling Bee Club, Drama Club, Girls Who Code, and more. Please email our Athletic and Activities Department for a complete list of activities offered and their participation requirements. Activities/Clubs may not be available to every grade level.
Community Involvement & Volunteering - Click to Expand
Community Involvement & Volunteering
Can I volunteer in my child’s classroom?
Yes, we love when parents/guardians volunteer in the classroom. Please contact your child’s teacher in advance to set up a time for you to come in so that they adequate time to prepare for your arrival. Staff email addresses can be found on our website using the Staff Directory.
Where can I get a background check done?
We accept background checks from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation by visiting their website at www.cbirecordsheck.com
Do you offer lunch, athletic or other program scholarships?
We offer scholarships for our Thursday Hot Lunch Program, athletics, and activities to families that have completed the FEDS form and meet the requirements of the program. Please contact the front office for additional information on how to request a scholarship.
The Caprock Academy Board of Directors, or CABOD, is comprised of from five to nine members and will always include a majority of parents. The Board will be elected by the parents/guardians of the students attending Caprock Academy and will operate according to the by-laws laid out by the schools operating committee. Please visit our website for additional information regarding our Board of Directors.
How many Community Service Hours does my child need to complete?
Students that are in kindergarten through eighth grade are required to serve 10 hours of community service per school year. Caprock Academy high school students are required to serve 20 hours of community service per school year. 15 of those hours should be in our greater community and the remaining 5 hours are to be completed on the school campus. High school students that have been inducted into the National Honor Society will volunteer an additional 10 hours per school year. These hours are usually done through NHS sponsored activities. Student community service hours will be printed on their official high school transcript. Please visit our Community Service page for more information.
What happens if my child does not complete their community service hours?
Student community service hours will be printed on their official high school transcript. Please visit our Community Service page for more information.
How many Parent Volunteer Hours do I need to complete?
Students are more likely to embrace their responsibility to perform community service when they observe their parents supporting the school’s mission and vision by actively volunteering at Caprock Academy. Parents of Caprock Academy students are strongly encouraged to participate in projects throughout the school year that meet our needs and fit within their schedules. Please visit our Volunteer page for more information. Parents will serve:
- 40 hours of volunteer time for the first enrolled student/per year
- 20 hours per year for the second student
- 10 hours per year for a third student, with a cap of 80 hours per family/per year
- Parents of High School students serve 10 hours per student/per year
- Single parents serve 15 hours per student/per year
Enrollment, Admissions & Student Records - Click to Expand
Enrollment, Admissions & Student Records
Do you have a preschool program?
No, we do not offer a preschool program.
Do you offer a half day kindergarten option?
Yes, we do offer a part-time kindergarten option, based on interest. We will always offer full-time kindergarten.
Do you offer a full day kindergarten option?
Yes, we offer a full-time kindergarten option. Please note that Kindergarten is always Monday-Thursday, they will never attend school on Friday's.
Do I have to re-enroll my student every year?
No, you do not have to re-enroll your student every year. However, you will be asked to complete and return an Intent to Return form so that we can accurately plan for the following school year. If this form is not completed and returned, your student will forfeit their position. Intent t0 Return forms are sent home with all students in their 3rd Quarter Report Cards and must be returned by the due date.
Do you have a Special Education Department?
Yes.
Do you offer Concurrent Enrollment classes?
Yes, please contact our Registrar via email for more information.
How do I request a copy of my child’s transcripts or grades?
There is a form that is available at the front office that must be completed.
Do you offer home based learning?
No, we only offer in-person learning options.
Do you participate in state testing?
Yes. Please visit our website for additional information or contact our testing coordinator directly.
Can I opt my child out of state testing?
Yes. Please visit our website for additional information or contact our testing coordinator directly.
Do you offer Band to your students?
Yes.
Do you offer Orchestra to your students?
We do not have an orchestra. However, students may ask for special permission from our Band Director to play specific instruments during band.
Do you have an Art program?
Yes.
Do you have a STEM program?
No.
Do you have an IB program?
No.
Do you offer a before school and/or after-school childcare program?
Yes, we do. Please visit our Childcare page for more information.
Do you have a gifted and talented program?
Yes, we do. Please contact our School Assessment Coordinator for additional information. Staff email addresses can be found on our website using the Staff Directory.
Do you accept students that have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), 504 or other educational/behavioral plans?
Admissions are open to any student residing in the state of Colorado. We are a K-12 public charter school that operates on a first come first served basis. There is no admissions test to be accepted at Caprock Academy. We welcome all students and strive to create and maintain a diverse student population. Student recruitment and admissions decisions shall be made in a non-discriminatory manner as outlined in C.R.A.22-30.5-507(3). In all cases, student recruitment and admissions decisions shall be made without regard to disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, ancestry, need for special education services or any other protected class.
Do you offer informational meetings for new parents?
Yes. If you are considering Caprock Academy for the educational needs of your family, our Informational Meetings for Prospective Families is an excellent time for you to learn more about our school. Please visit our Informational Meetings page on our website for a list of upcoming dates and times.
Policies, Procedures, & Family Handbook Click to Expand
Policies, Procedures, & Family Handbook
Where can I find a copy of the Dress Code?
The most current copy of the Dress Code can be found on our website in the Family Handbook. For your convenience, you may save a copy of the handbook to your electronic device. You may also print a copy of it for your records. To request a paper copy of the handbook, please contact the front office.
Can I request who my child’s teacher will be next year?
Parents/Guardians may request a teacher for students entering K-6th grade by filling out a Teacher Request Form that is on our website. All requests are date and time stamped and will be accepted until May 1st of each school year. Please visit our K-6th Grade Teacher Requests page on our website for additional information. Not all requests are granted.
What is your cell phone policy?
We do not allow students to access their cell phone during the school day. If they need to contact their parent/guardian we have a telephone in the front office that is always available. The most current copy of the Cell Phone Policy be found on our website in the Family Handbook. For your convenience, you may save a copy of the handbook to your electronic device. You may also print a copy of it for your records. To request a paper copy of the handbook, please contact the front office.
How do resolve a conflict between students?
We ask that you please refer to the Caprock Academy Grievance Policy that is available on our website in the Family Handbook.
How do I resolve a conflict with my child’s teacher?
We ask that you please refer to the Caprock Academy Grievance Policy that is available on our website in the Family Handbook.
Do you have a closed campus?
Caprock Academy has a “closed campus” policy. Students who need to leave campus during the school day (e.g. for a dentist appointment) must be checkout by a parent/guardian. High School students that drive must note, email, or phone call from their parent/guardian, regardless of their age, and will check out and in with the office.
Can my high school student leave for lunch?
No, students may not leave for lunch on their own. Caprock Academy has a “closed campus” policy. Students who need to leave campus during the school day (e.g. for a dentist appointment) must be checkout by a parent/guardian. High School students that drive must note, email, or phone call from their parent/guardian, regardless of their age, and will check out and in with the office. Parents/Guardians are welcome to take their student to lunch, but they must sign out with the front office.
Can students have tattoos?
Students may have tattoos, but they must not be visible. Please refer to our Family Handbook that can be found on our website. For your convenience, you may save a copy of the handbook to your electronic device. You may also print a copy of it for your records. To request a paper copy of the handbook, please contact the front office.
What are your guidelines for creating your academic calendar?
Please refer to our Family Handbook, Policy SE 1.5 for more information.
Do you have a Title IX Policy?
Caprock Academy is dedicated to fostering a secure and inclusive learning and working environment for all members of its community. Sexual harassment is explicitly forbidden in all educational programs and activities conducted by the school. The ensuing policy and procedure are formulated to guarantee a thorough and suitable response to any allegations of sexual harassment within the school's educational programs and activities, as outlined on our school website on the Title IX Policy page.
Acronyms - Click to Expand
Acronyms
CAST - Caprock Academy Support Team. CAST is our parent-led volunteer group. They function similar to a PTO or PTA.
CASAC - Caprock Academy School Accountability Committee. CASAC, meets the responsibilities and duties set forth in the Education Accountability Act of 2009 (S.B. 09-163), which includes making recommendations to the Board and the Head of School, on school budget and finance matters, Head of School evaluations, the school's improvement plan, and family engagement
CABOD - Caprock Academy Board of Directors. The CABOD, is comprised of from five to nine members and will always include a majority of parents. The Board will be elected by the parents/guardians of the students attending Caprock Academy and will operate according to the by-laws laid out by the schools operating committee.
NJHS - National Junior Honor Society. Offered by invitation only to 7th - 9th grade students.
NHS - National Honor Society. Offered by invitation only to 10th - 12th grade students.
StuCo - Student Council. Offered to students in high school that are elected by their peers.
Contact Information
Caprock Academy
714 24 1/2 Road
Grand Junction, CO 81505
Phone: 970-243-1771
Fax: 970-243-3612
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours
Monday - Thursday:
7:15 am-3:30 pm
Friday's:
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
*Please note that due to occasional staff meetings, our hours may vary on Friday's. Modified Friday hours will be posted on our front door two days prior.