Mileage Reimbursement Program
Why We're Doing This
At Caprock Academy, we believe every family who wants a tuition-free, classical education for their child should have the opportunity to access it.
As a public school of choice, we welcome families from across the region, not just our immediate neighborhood. But because Caprock Academy does not offer bus transportation, distance can be a real barrier for families who want to attend, and it is one of the reasons some families have had to make the difficult decision to leave. We know that daily transportation adds up, both in time and in cost, and we want to help ease that burden wherever we can.
That is why we are launching the Mileage Reimbursement Program, a pilot initiative for the 2026–2027 school year backed by a $20,000 program budget.
Who Is Eligible
Families living outside a 5-mile radius of Caprock Academy
Eligible to apply during this pilot year, regardless of financial circumstances.
Families living within the 5-mile radius
Eligible only if they qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch (FRL). Reimbursement for these families is calculated as a percentage of the full rate based on distance from campus.
Staff members with an enrolled student
Caprock Academy staff with a student enrolled at the school are eligible to apply under the same guidelines as any other family.
Families who qualify for FRL are prioritized during the pilot year. After FRL disbursements are made, any remaining funds will be divided among other participating families.
Check Your Address
Not sure if you qualify? Use our interactive map to check your address against the 5-mile radius.
As a general guide, the boundary extends approximately to 29 ½ Road (East), B Road (South), 19 ½ Road (West), and L Road (North), and includes Palisade, Fruitvale, Whitewater, south Orchard Mesa, and Fruita. The map tool calculates your exact eligibility using your specific address.
How Reimbursement Works
Reimbursement is based on your student's daily attendance as recorded in Infinite Campus and is paid out at the end of each academic quarter.
Because this is a pilot program, exact rates depend on participation and available funds each quarter. Eligible FRL families may receive up to $5.00 per day, and program details may be reevaluated mid-year based on participation, cost, and available funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this program open to new families, or only current Caprock families?
Both. Whether you're already enrolled or considering Caprock Academy for the first time, you're welcome to check your eligibility and apply.
Can Caprock Academy staff apply?
Yes. Staff members with a student enrolled at Caprock Academy are eligible to apply under the same guidelines as any other family.
What if I live within 5 miles but still need help with transportation costs?
You may still be eligible if you qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch. Reimbursement is calculated based on your distance from campus.
How is my reimbursement amount determined?
Reimbursement is based on your student's daily attendance and calculated as a percentage of the full rate depending on your distance from campus and available program funds.
When will I receive reimbursement?
Reimbursement is paid out at the end of each academic quarter.
Is this a permanent program?
This is a pilot program for the 2026–2027 school year. Details, including reimbursement rates, may be reevaluated mid-year based on participation, cost, and available funds.
Questions?
Contact Jennifer Buniger, Director of Finance, at j.buniger@caprockacademy.org or 970-243-1771.