Traut Core Elementary School

Posted: April 14, 2026

As a student who this school for 8 years, it was very charecter building.

Posted: April 14, 2026

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Posted: October 16, 2024

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Posted: October 16, 2024

My son has an IEP and had major behavioral challenges when we began (transfered from neighborhood school). The entire Integrated Services team, Specials, and his teacher really went above and beyond to help him adjust and catch up (much more advanced curriculum than his other PSD school - yet limits homework to 30min max a night, no weekend homework except 2-3 projects a year - he is learning about topics I didn't know existed until junior high or later).

The emphasis on character helped him to recognize who he wanted to be. Over 3 years, he has made tremendous gains - academically and socially. I'm so very thankful to this community who helped him grow and continue to put energy towards his learning and success.

Their ability to balance holding a belief he can do better while reinforcing small gains is unparalleled. The balanced approach of accountability and appropriate accomodations is hard to find. Dr. Kendall (principal) is an outstanding advocate for kids, staff, and parents.

We drive 30-min each way - it has been very worthwhile. If you are concerned about weekend socialization - we had our son join a neighborhood scouting troop and have found most kids near us choice into FTC also.

Why should you NOT choose Traut? If you aren't interested in partnering and engaging in a community whose focus is on education and character of the kids.

Posted: March 17, 2021

Traut is an amazing school that is inclusive, friendly and teaches students more than what is in books. I’m so happy that I have 2 daughters attending Traut and would highly recommend it to future elementary school children. Thank you to the teachers and administrators for going above and beyond during these Covid times.

Posted: March 17, 2021

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Posted: February 23, 2021

As we're continuing to learn the new normal with COVID-19, the Principal, Staff, and the Traut community continues to impress me. They have created plans for students to still enjoy school, recess, and specials, all while following strict protocols. The teachers have been working so hard behind the scenes to not only provide a good education, but to make sure to keep great connection with each of the kids. The only downside is that we didn't get a full school year with our daughters amazing teacher.

Posted: February 23, 2021

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Posted: September 18, 2020

Posted: September 18, 2020

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Posted: September 18, 2020

Traut teachers and the principal care so much about their students. They truly pursue educational excellence. Kids love it!. Highly recommend.

Posted: November 28, 2018

I love that Dr. Mac has been a part of the Traut community for decades.

Posted: November 28, 2018

An amazing intervention staff that is able to help all different needs

Posted: November 28, 2018

Posted: November 28, 2018

The best experience my kids have ever had! 10/10

Posted: November 28, 2018

I like that students are responsible for their learning and this is reinforced with homework.

Posted: November 28, 2018

Some of the best teachers I have ever met!

Posted: November 28, 2018

Character is a way of life at Traut

Posted: March 18, 2018

It is saddening to witness that this school uses public funds but does not serve the public at all because it disrespects normal, individual differences among students. If your child actually asks questions, free-spirited, creative and cannot sit 8:30 am-3:05 pm, this place is not for you. I am sure that are good teachers but most think teaching is the same as disciplining. They appreciate compliance and obedience more than thinking and learning.

Posted: March 18, 2018

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Posted: March 7, 2018

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Posted: March 7, 2018

Traut has an amazing blend of talented teachers, involved parents and dedicated administration all supporting a rich curriculum that generates an excitement and a love of learning in students.

Posted: November 17, 2017

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Posted: November 17, 2017

We have had a great experience with Traut, our child is excelling and enjoying school. They not only teach academics, but they teach character and self motivation which is HUGE!!!

Posted: September 20, 2017

Posted: September 20, 2017

Posted: September 20, 2017

Students with challenges receive less attention then students with exceptional abilities.

Posted: September 20, 2017

Students who need extra help are taunted at recess, etc.

Posted: September 20, 2017

Definitely have homework but so far seems reasonable.

Posted: September 20, 2017

I think most of the teachers are good, a few are exceptional, but I don't think they cater well to students who don't fit perfectly into the "typical" box

Posted: September 20, 2017

Although I am sure it was originally a good idea, the Traut parent partner program has become a problem. There are a few parents with too much power and influence and some of their behaviors are unacceptable. Parents are allowed to speak disrespectfully and inappropriately to other children and in some cases flat out bully them. I am not referring to situations where a parent pulls a child aside and counsels or gives guidance, I am referring to situations where a parent very publicly demeans, embarrasses or humiliates a child other than their own. That is so damaging to a child's self-esteem. Children of parents who are very involved at the school are also receiving special privileges. In one extreme case, the children of the parent running the science fair have received top prizes at the science fair for the last two years. Quite a conflict of interest and so disrespectful to all of the other children who work so hard. Traut needs to reevaluate their parent partnership model as these behaviors are unacceptable for a school, the school needs to be a safe place for kids. All children need to be given the same opportunities and they need to be treated decently.

Posted: September 30, 2016

Posted: September 30, 2016

Posted: September 30, 2016

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Posted: September 30, 2016

What a pleasure to have my little boy at Traut. He loves going to school and I am amazed how much he has learned in just a couple of Months. Fantastic Kindergarten teacher and staff!

Posted: October 13, 2014

My daughter wakes up excited for school each morning! The teachers and staff are excellent- very dedicated and supportive to both students and their families. As past posters have mentioned, the parental involvement rate is very high, attributing to the positive atmosphere of the school. We are very pleased with the Core Knowledge curriculum and appreciate that character development is part of the curriculum as well. Traut definitely has high standards for their students, and that is why it is our school of choice!

Posted: June 23, 2014

I am a recent graduate of Fossil Ridge High School, but I went to Traut Core Knowledge from kindergarten-6th grade. I remember SO much of what I was taught at Traut and it provided an incredible foundation for my learning. My best memories of my childhood are at that school. I go back every once in a while to visit my old teachers. Many of the valedictorians from Fossil went to Traut Core Knowledge. The difficulty and amount of work was more than reasonable at Traut. Also, the kids that go to Traut have INCREDIBLE character. I can remember how the teachers stressed good character in everyday life! If I am still in Fort Collins when I have children, I will be sending my kids to Traut!

Posted: June 12, 2014

I agree this school puts a high pressure on students for test results more than encouraging children to learn in different ways. Administration is ok, teachers are ok. I would NOT encourage families who have children with learning challenges to choose this school. They will be pointed out, pulled out, and ridiculed by other classmates and parents. I can see by many reviews this culture drives families away... and I think this is the point reason it is done. Because this school (although a public PSD school) is 100% SCHOOL OF CHOICE, there are minimal kids with diverse backgrounds (be it ethnic, religious, economic, etc.) that prepare these children for the real world. There is a reason why the test results are unusually high. This school is not a true representation of public schooling. Please research you facts and PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN. God bless... and please keep comments respectful!

Posted: April 16, 2014

This is a great school. Anyone who spends a little bit of time there will see. The Parent/Teacher/Student partnership is really effective. If you are looking for something different, please look at Traut!

Posted: April 3, 2014

Traut is an amazing school and the teaching staff is second to none. It was a perfect fit for our child. I love the Core Knowledge Curriculum and am continually impressed with the knowledge my child has acquired. It is a Nationally recognized school, earning the Blue Ribbon Award, and deservedly so! Your child will be well prepared for middle school.

Posted: November 6, 2013

This school is great. It has great teachers and smart students! I would definitely recommend this school.

Posted: April 23, 2013

I am so thankful for the amazing teachers and other support staff . The teachers go out of their way to make sure each kid has a plan that fits their needs for their developement as an engaged learner. The teachers care about their students and each other. They have pride in working at this school and teaching the Core Knowledge curriculum. The teachers are well prepared and are very experienced. The parent partnership is unqiue and offers an opportunity for the parent to be as invoved as they care to be. The students are taught character qualities everyday and they are weaved into lessons. The students are well behaved and respectful. The students consistenly score at the top of the state on accountability tests. The enviorment is acitve and engaging from the PE classes "Academics in Action" to the fantastic Art education to the creative music programs . On any day you could step into a class and listen to the lesson and you too would be inspired to be a student again. The school offers many afterschool programs. There is also a mentor program for new families so if you get lost in all the aciton there is someone who can help figure it all out with you.

Posted: January 27, 2013

My children attend Traut Core Knowledge School. We have thrived here. My daughter comes home so full of excitement and joy for learning. I am not saying the school is perfect. No school is. But it is perfect for us. The parent partnership is one of the things that makes Traut unique. On any given day there are 10-15 or more parents at our school actively involved in our students learning, growth and development. It is an incredible experience. One I am pleased to be a part of and one I am thankful my children can experience.

Posted: January 26, 2013

My twins attended this school their kindergarten year and the quality of education they received was subpar and the hostile environment allowed was intolerable. The other posters are correct about the principal using intimidation tactics. My children's teacher, staff, & BaseCamp program was inadequately trained in how to handle my child with a disability. Under their care, his and my daughter's self esteem and academic abilities deteriorated. It was a horrible experience watching your kids spirit and self esteem slowly get demolished. This school and their special ed team treated my 5 year old like he was an idiot; incapable of accomplishing anything. Fast forward, my children are now longer at this school and they are now at Remington Elementary. Their self esteem and confidence and have flourished in ways that I could not have imagined and the damage that this school has done to my children have been repaired. My son is finally at a school that recognizes him for his brilliance and treats him like a capable human being. Through the school's support, they have made huge growth academically & my son is expected to graduate from Special Ed within the next couple of years.

Posted: April 14, 2012

I was initially attracted to this school because of its fine reputation. I now know the previous principal created that fine reputation. During the five years at this school, the culture has changed dramatically and not for the better...the reputation has been degredated. If I had to do it all over again, I would not have chosen this school and now I would not recommend this school to anyone. There are some exceptional teachers at this school and feel badly for those teachers because of the lack of vision, support, and integrety they have to work under. The strain is most apparent. Traut does offer parent involvement, however, the principal is so controlling and only encourages involvement along his thinking. The character qualities the school bases its reputation on is not followed by its principal. There is more evidence to this fact as the Parent Advisory Board turnover is so high. If I could have given no stars to the principal at this school, I would have. I am in agreement with many of the other poor ratings by parents.

Posted: April 11, 2012

We have 2 children here and they have had poor experiences at Traut. We will be leaving this school. Traut does not provide our children with the type of environment that is condusive to learning. We are dissapointed with Traut and only wish we would have taken our children out of this school sooner.

Posted: April 11, 2012

No school is perfect for everyone, but when you find the school you fit in...amazing things can happen. We have found Traut to be a great fit for our family. 2 of my 3 children currently attend and I am looking forward to the day my 3rd child can join in the adventure. My children have grown and thrived at Traut. The teachers do more than just the basics. They go above and beyond every single day.

Posted: April 11, 2012

There are a lot better choices than Traut. There some great teachers there but the poor teachers take away what the good ones do. This schools lacks leadership for the teachers, especially the ones that need some retraining on their teaching skills. Our younger children will not be attending this school in 2013-2014..muitliple concerns.

Posted: March 14, 2012

Traut Core Knowledge Elementary not only offers a strong Core Knowledge program, they have an amazing Character Education Program! We could not be happier at Traut! The teachers are wonderful, the staff is friendly and the principal is very visible. Traut has a long history of being a successful school. As with any kind of success there are ebbs and flows as students and parents evolve. An awesome opportunity that Traut has to offer that other schools do not is the ability to partner as a parent with the school. It is more than volunteering in a classroom or working with a PTO. Do not miss this type of opportunity to have your voice heard as a parent. Traut also has many extra-curricular activities and classes to offer from Lego Robotics to Guitar lessons. There are also many foreign language classes offered. If you are interested in learning more about Traut visit the school website and contact the office to attend an orientation. Your child(ren) will get the benefits of a private education without the expense or the concerns of a charter school. I look forward to many more years at such an amazing school! Take the negative comments with a grain of salt.

Posted: July 18, 2011

My daughter will be in 5th grade next year--and she absolutely loves attending Traut. She has learned so much...I'm simply amazed at the curriculum. She is excited each day to go to school and doesn't even complain about her homework. When a child is excited to learn...that says volumes about the school. Big thanks to all the wonderful teachers---especially Mr. Wagner.