Liberty Common Charter School in Fort Collins

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	10/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) data from Colorado Department of Education.
College Readiness	10/10	The College Readiness Rating uses this high school's graduation rates, college entrance exam participation and performance, or AP, IB, or Dual Enrollment participation to determine how well schools are preparing students for success in college and beyond. The College Readiness Rating was created using the following data from the 2021 Civil Rights Data Collection: percentage of students enrolled in IB, AP or Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12, using 2025 4-year high school graduation rate data from Colorado Department of Education, using 2025 Average SAT score data from Colorado Department of Education, and using 2025 demographic data from the National Center for Education Statistics.
Student Growth	4/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student Growth - CO CMAS - Cohort-referenced data from Colorado Department of Education, and using 2025 Student Growth - CO PSAT/SAT - Cohort-referenced data from Colorado Department of Education.

Posted: August 9, 2026

If you value your mental health and wellbeing, I probably wouldn't go to this school. Liberty is a school that can definitely work for some, but the line in which it can work is very sharp. Workloads are atrocious, and despite year after year after year of kids being burnt out and exhausted, the mere idea that this work could be 'preparing a student for college' shuts any and all criticism down. It's expected you'll (at least in upper grades) have probably around 4+ hours of homework on the large side, and that isn't including things like extracurriculars. If you add any other struggle onto this, (a disability, mental health struggle, etc) then work feels impossible. They do technically have a support program where students can recveive extra help during the school day, but there's truthfully never enough time to be able to get enough help there to bring the work load down significantly. Additionally, the school is (while maybe not openly) right-wing centered. Christianity is openly praised and lauded as the 'one truth', military service is openly discussed and encouraged, many virtues directly tie into Christian rhetoric, and their Headmaster is in fact previous House of Representatives member Bob Schaffer. Now, not to say these things are bad, but it's definitely something to be aware of. There are openly conservative and homophobic policies in place. For example, if you want to take a same sex partner to a dance you have to complete a separate form (straight couples never have to do this) that your parents sign, the girl's dress code is SIGNIFICANTLY more policed than boys, and boys are forbidden from wearing jewelry and 'feminine' items. There could also be a completely other topic but bullying there is silent and deadly. The school likes to act like there's never a problem with it but I've had multiple friends bullied into silence and there was even one significant racist bullying incident that got news coverage back in 2023 or 2024 I believe. Being queer, non-Christian, a POC, or really anything non-conservative makes your experience significantly harder. Is the school a great fit for the average blonde, cishet, guy, with an amazing work ethic who also happens to be Christian? Probably! If you're anything out of that binary though.. I mean you CAN make it through, but it will be excruciating.

Not to say I haven't had positive experiences at the school, but there's definitely some things to be aware of.

Posted: August 9, 2026

Posted: November 27, 2025

This school refused my child a medical doctors note. They neglect children, Ive never seen such recklessness. Stay away!

Posted: November 27, 2025

Posted: October 4, 2025

Liberty Common school its a great school. Both of my kids have gone there since kindergarten, one is in college now. My child who is in college is so grateful that he went to Liberty because hes way ahead of his classmates. He finds college easier then Liberty.
My younger son, always marble at things his friends (who do not go to Liberty ) dont know. For example, he was playing mad libs with one of his friends and the friend did not know what an adverb and adjective was. This friend is in middle school.

Both of my kids have ADHD and have needed help.
The AST team have been nothing but amazing. So much so that my oldest graduated with honors.

My experience with the teachers and staff has always been very positive. I am a parent who has always volunteered so I have the opportunity to interact with the staff a lot.

I do not want to negate anybodys experience. However, do not pass up the opportunity to put your child at Liberty and get a great education because of other peoples experience. Find out for yourself, you can always you can always transfer if its not a good fit for your child.

A big part of the Liberty staff are made up of parents and some alumni. In addition, there are also alumni sending their kids to Liberty.

Posted: October 4, 2025

Posted: January 21, 2025

The best part of Liberty Common School is the transparency with parents. Every parent is informed of the curriculum prior to enrollment. The curriculum maps are posted in every classroom, and parents are instructed how to find this material on the school's website. Parents are welcome in classrooms and in conversations with administrators. The board of directors (re)communicates) their contact information weekly in regular communications with the parent community. The curriculum is challenging and pushes students, but the way the school collaborates with parents and academic-support teachers enables all student to pursue truth, beauty, and wisdom.

Posted: January 21, 2025

Posted: January 19, 2025

My child was singled out and forced to take zeros as her grade due to our religion. There was a lesson we asked to be excused from as it comprised our faith. I have email proof. They wanted to send her to sit in the hallway for 1.5-2 hrs daily for 2 weeks and be given zeros for her grades. Sitting in there library was never an option. We were left with no other choice but to leave the school or let the 2nd grade teacher fail my child. Principal and Board of Directors are aware of what happened and they backed the teachers decisions. If you dont fit Liberty Common criteria, they will find a way to get you out.

Posted: January 19, 2025

Posted: April 17, 2023

Liberty is a nerd school, and I can say that because I am a nerd and go to this school. If you want your student to have a high education with the least amount of violence/drugs/gangs in the state. Liberty is your school. I think this is the only school in the state who doesnt have locks on lockers. I have never seen a fight of any kind break out. And there is never smell of vaping or drugs of any kind. A lot of people that go to this school are stressed due to its challenging curriculum, but if you push yourself and dont spend half your time complaining about the homework you have to do (I should be doing homework at the time of filing this review) than you will have nothing to worry about.

Posted: April 17, 2023

Posted: February 28, 2023

Liberty is an absolutely amazing school. Our children have attended since kindergarten and are in 7th and 10th grade currently. Not only is it a top of a line education, it has also taught our children to have morals and values. Smart kids don't attend Liberty, Liberty teaches kids to be smart. The teachers and staff go above and beyond to help the kids understand the schoolwork and have extra ways to help if needed. The school is not strict, but they do expect kids to be there to learn and do they have homework which kid should have. There is no punishment unless you break rules that any school would have in place. We couldn't be happier with Liberty, and we highly recommend it to anyone who values a solid education.

Posted: February 28, 2023

Posted: October 8, 2022

This school doesn't even deserve a 1. I started going to therapy when I was 5 because of this school. I could only ask 10 questions a day in 2nd grade and I was sometimes scared to go to school because I was afraid of being yelled at. Most peoples parents force their kids to go and stay here but they dont know her awful it is there.

Posted: October 8, 2022

Posted: October 16, 2021

This school may be right for some students. Rules are very strict and any student who has a hard time with this will be singled out and punished extensively. I attended this school from 6th to 10th grade, leaving in 2019. During my time at the school I had undiagnosed ADHD and despite being intellectually capable I was unable to truly succeed at Liberty Commons. I have great respect for some of the teachers there who were always compassionate and understanding when they saw students trying. Unfortunately they were in the minority. The main issue with the school is their policy on violations. A student could receive 3 violations per semester before receiving a 1 hour after school detention for each additional violation. These violations included dress code, tardiness and possibly one other. These violations are highly subjective to any teachers prejudices. Being a few seconds late to class after a 5 min passing period in crowded halls with busy restrooms could and often would result in a violation. If I needed to use the restroom I would often be late, especially because students cannot use backpacks in class and all students must stop by their locker during these 5 minutes. Bathroom breaks during class are restricted to 3 per semester, being logged in students planners. Dress code violations were often given out when part of a students shirt was unknowingly untucked. Some teachers were kind enough to simply inform the students of this, however it was a common enough occurrence that one intolerant teacher could easily hand one of these violations to students they dont like multiple times weekly. I would receive at least 2 of these detentions weekly despite my best efforts. The schools seemed to want underperforming students to leave out of shame or frustration. That highly arguable and subjective opinion is supported by all teacher being pressured for high test scores in order to boost school ratings. Counselors are lacking both in numbers and in quality. This school is concerned primarily on ratings and performance, tossing student welfare aside. Attempts to reach out to the administration with concerns were always disregarded and students with difficulties were presumed to be lazy. Students with a desire for strict order paired with a difficult curriculum will enjoy Liberty Commons, others will be left behind in my experience. Some rules may have loosened or been changed since I left but I would think the premise has remained.

Posted: October 16, 2021

Posted: December 15, 2020

Very high education standards but it is because they care, Students are really nice and teachers are respectful.

Posted: December 15, 2020

Posted: February 8, 2020

I have never seen such an amazing school. As a parent of four, with diverse experiences I have seen several area schools and there is nothing that compares to LCS and LCHS. The teachers are qualified, passionate, and caring. I am so thankful for the opportunity to have my children at these two great schools.

Posted: February 8, 2020

Posted: July 27, 2018

Liberty Common Upp has been an excellent preparation for our kids for college and has provided a well-rounded classical education in an invironment of high moral standards.

Posted: July 13, 2018

As a high school student at Liberty, I do believe that sometimes the amount of homework given by certain classes can be somewhat excessive, but the majority of teachers and classes do their best to give out a fair amount of homework. Sometimes, the amount of all the classes together can become excessive. That is why the administration recommends that all students take a study hall period to help lighten the load to take home. As a person who has learned good time management at Liberty, I feel that my homework load is not as heavy as it could be, especially considering that I take and have taken multiple AP and college level courses on top of the required honors courses.

Posted: July 13, 2018

The majority of teachers are helpful and genuinely care about you learning the material and doing well in their class. Most teachers are very good about being accessible for help during study halls, 9th hour, and before and after school. Most of the teachers are also very good at teaching their subjects and are semi-experts on the subjects. We had several teachers with PhDs, masters degrees, and 10+ years of teaching expirence in certain subjects.

Posted: July 13, 2018

Liberty teaches that all students should work toward having virtue, and are successful in certain instances. The school really does focus on making sure that every student receives a good character education, and teachers try to emulate these virtues to be positive role models for students.

Posted: July 13, 2018

While Liberty does have a very elaborate and well-working student government organization, many say that the student body has little to no say in many matters, and that the administration can do whatever it wants and overrule the student body. Others say that the student body has a lot of say. It depends on who you talk to.

Posted: July 13, 2018

While I believe that Liberty does its best to be inclusive and helpful to all students, it really doesn't have the know-how to cater towards students with extreme learning disabilities. It is able to cater toward those with less extreme disabilities with its AST program. In all, I would recommend it if your child does not have a severe learning disability and is able to adapt and thrive in a difficult school with help from academic support. Otherwise, I would not put your child in Liberty, as it is already rigorous for those without disability.

Posted: July 13, 2018

While I personally haven't seen much of a bullying problem at Liberty, I do have an issue with their bullying policy, which has a zero-tolerance policy for realiation, even if the bullying is physical and the reatailation is in self-defense, which I strongly disagree with. But, since teachers are helpful and seem to genuinely care about their students, I would like to believe that if there was a problem with bullying, thy would step in before the bullying began to escalate.

Posted: July 13, 2018

Overall, I would say that I've had a positive expirence at Liberty for the two years I have been in high school there. The teachers are great, most of the students are nice and willing to help each other (a "let's work together so we all don't fail" mentality, at least in my grade), rigorous coursework, and opportunity for advanced AP and college level classes. But, there are issues. The dress code is excessive and makes it difficult to buy clothing for school in today's market (at least for women) and dress code violations are often selective, with some getting them and some not. The principal and the majority of guest speakers are very republican, if that is bothersome to you. Classes are difficult, even the standard, required courses, and the homework load is larger than other schools. But, the school has good teachers, a high graduation rate, high test scores, even with a very diverse student population in regards to grades, and a good student community. Overall, I would recommend Liberty to students who want to be challenged and be around a supportive and helpful community, but not to students who are already struggling in other schools.

Posted: July 30, 2016

Liberty is an extremely biased school. As a student that went there 2nd through 10th grade, I had lots of time to realize that unless you have topnotch grades or perfect test scores, you are not a welcome part of the liberty community. The moment you have below a 3.8 GPA, you are called out on all dress code violations, every tardy, and every time your grades change at all you are called to the office.

Posted: March 2, 2016

I'm not sure who was having such a bad day on November 30, 2015, but I disagree, tremendously. Liberty's focus IS the children, not the "ratings and scores". In fact, most tests which produce these ratings and scores are required by the state. Liberty is often approached with requests to participate in additional testing which they turn down often so as not to overload the children, and because those standardized tests are not what Liberty is about or focused on. The administration is always respectful of both students and parents. We have never experienced anything other than respect and kindness from all faculty and staff. The school helps develop wonderful characteristics in the students (of course, parents and students must take some initiative in helping develop these characteristics as well). Most students are not "stressed", they are challenged at an appropriate level to help them succeed. Liberty is a school where students are encouraged to try their hardest and do their best, not a school to just "ride the wave" and get through each grade. But yes, as with any human in any part of this world, sometimes they can feel stress when their plates are full. I cannot imagine any school has 100% stress-free students 100% of the time. We absolutely love Liberty and feel extremely lucky to have our children in this school. They work hard, and are challenged daily, but they also have tons of fun and are proud of the education they are receiving (as they should be).

Posted: November 30, 2015

Liberty has such a focus on scores and ratings that the wellbeing of the children isn't priority.

Posted: November 30, 2015

Posted: November 25, 2014

Our son is in second grade and so far everything has exceeded our high expectations! The parent involvement is high. We do not like the new rules regarding parents being not being to enter the building to take kids to the classroom or pick up. I suddenly felt very unwelcome this year and as a result found my volunteer time cut down for anything not directly with the classroom where I can see my kid. I just lost that enthusiasm once I felt unwelcome. Still a good school.

Posted: September 29, 2014

Fantastic school. My daughter was lucky enough to get into the high school this year. Now I know how the school consistently earns the highest ACT scores in Colorado. The instructors are far and away the best we've ever encountered. The behavioral expectations are outstanding, too. Good dress code, character education. The high expectations are not for everyone -- which is a good thing. Troublemakers and bullies tend to not stay here long.

Posted: May 27, 2014

I attend LCHS, and I genuinely feel like I am getting the best education possible. Though the homework load is tiresome, and the classes can be challenging, I still find myself enjoying my life at Liberty. The teachers are helpful. The atmosphere among the students is friendly. What else could you ask for in a school? The only issue that I feel need be mentioned is that of the political and religious biases that affect the entire school population. This is not an issue if your child does not feel the need to concern himself or herself in political or religious discussions that have been known to create conflict. This is an issue if your child does engage in these discussions. This is a very Christian and a very republican institution, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but children who do not agree with those beliefs generally associated with either of those groups may have idealogical conflicts with their teachers and fellow students.

Posted: April 24, 2014

We chose Liberty because of the academic rigor and high expectations, and to get our kids ready to do well in college. They have meaningful homework (not busy work) every night, and what they're learning is incredible. This school is not for weak students, or children who are averse to discipline. If your kid is not a serious student, don't send them to this school.

Posted: April 13, 2014

I am a freshman here at LCHS and i hate it. It is a school based on lectures instead of discussion. You don't get the chance to show yourself. I always end up with at least 5 hours of homework a night and I am only a freshman!! It can be a really great school for some kids but it's not made for everyone

Posted: February 5, 2014

I am so sorry to hear other parents comments about how their child has experienced bullying at Liberty. Our daughter is in 7th grade and this is her second year at Liberty. We have observed an environment that is tremendously supportive and very focused on academics. We have observed a zero tolerance for bullying in her class both from the students and teachers. What we have seen is children who are too busy to harass one another. We have observed children who work very hard and are very committed to academic excellence. The students are curious and girls who are interested in math and science careers have such tremendous support from their teachers. I feel so blessed to be part of this community.

Posted: December 11, 2013

Liberty Common provides a private school education for free! i've loved EVERY teacher we've had! i can't imagine a better school in the country.

Posted: October 28, 2013

this school is the best school in colorado. that no exaggeration! you have been hearing reviews from all of the parents, but they don't know what the school is really like. it is the best, most fun school you will ever have! unlike all of the other school, kids are nice and always include you and make you feel welcome. this was the only school that didn't feel hostile to me and i made friend the first day! the teachers are amazing. especially the 4th grade teachers. i wont give any names though. your child would be extremely lucky to go to this school. the dress code actually helps though, and makes you not so self conscience. unfortunately, it is a hard school to get in because it has a lottery. fort collins is also a great, fun, happy place to live. this school is one of a kind, and has a great education!

Posted: September 24, 2013

I am a proud parent of successful students at Liberty Common School! They are successful academically and emotionally. It is sad that disgruntled parents post negative remarks about this school simply because they or their children cannot adapt to the high standards and expectations this school holds. Keep in mind that the public middle schools are teaching their students the 7 continents of the world but at Liberty Common School, our children were taught that in kindergarten! Thank you Liberty Common School - a school of pure excellence!

Posted: September 21, 2013

Beware.....bullying is tolerated here at this school. I pulled my kids out and they are a lot happier elsewhere.

Posted: September 3, 2013

I notice that the reviews, like the student body number (at least at the high school), seem to be decreasing since 2010. I agree with the other parent on February 10, 2013 (very well stated) about selective enforcement, not only of tolerating bullying and dress code, but also with regard to the academic teachers accepting late homework assignments from athletes, but not from the artists, who work as hard, if not harder at their craft. We became aware that some kids admittedly attend this school only for one year to take the economics class and then move on. The student and teacher/staff turnover rate should be questioned by anyone considering this school. I would be careful of a school where the teachers and staff talk so positively about how great the school is, and cannot give you a straight answer, or even acknowledge that they have problems they need to address. For many, many years we bought into the propaganda, until finally the kids begged us to take them out and put them in another school. Our only regret is that we didn't take them out sooner. It's going to take some time for them to recover their self-confidence and self-esteem. Listen to your kids.

Posted: February 10, 2013

After trying other schools in town, we decided to put all five of our kids through Liberty and couldn't be more pleased with results. The school has the top ACT composite score in the state and is rated as the #1 high school in Colorado. We love the Dress Code and discipline that goes with and promotes a focused academic curriculum. Yes, the academic and behavioral expectations are higher than other schools, but the students are supported in meeting amibitious goals, and they have fun at a true family oriented school.

Posted: February 9, 2013

I think most of these reviews were posted by the teachers, staff and administrators. This school is not really that good. Bullying is tolerated and dress code enforcements are very selective. Some kids can wear whatever they want, while for some other kids a slight deviation to the dress code means severe punishments. I am glad that I pulled out all my kids from this place.

Posted: February 26, 2012

We moved and had to leave this school. I was so bummed. Our new school doesn't compare to Liberty. My kids are now light years ahead of their peers and bored to death. The teachers at Liberty are great, the principal is receptive to parents. The whole atmosphere is conservative but everyone was super nice to us liberals too :) I miss it!

Liberty Common Charter School

Fort Collins, CO 80525

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Liberty Common Charter School

Fort Collins, CO 80525

School Ratings

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