The Charter School Difference: What is a Charter School?
Drop into any city, and you'll find numerous schools. Rows of desks. Stacks of books and maybe a stash of tablets. Students moving from one grade to the next. But not every school works the same way. Some are built to push students further, to demand more, to prepare them for the real world in all of its complexities, not just the next test. Union Colony Schools (UCS) is one of those schools, and it serves grades K-12.
What Makes a Charter School Different?
Charter schools represent a unique approach to public education. They are independent, tuition-free, open to all, and designed to give families a choice in how their children learn. They follow the same laws as traditional public schools but have the flexibility to build stronger academic programs and expect more from students and teachers. That flexibility allows UCS to focus on what works:
Small class sizes with a low teacher-student ratio, ensuring every student receives individual attention and support
Challenging college-preparatory curriculum that encourages students to think critically and solve complex problems at every grade level
Dedicated educators who are deeply invested in student outcomes
Our students don’t just meet state requirements – they exceed them, with many of our graduates earning college credits before receiving their diplomas.
UCS students start strong in kindergarten and stay on a clear academic path through high school. This gives them a head start on their future, which is a crucial advantage.
More Than Academics: Building Strong, Structured, and Capable Students
Many families worry that a school pulling students from a large area might struggle with discipline, but UCS sets clear expectations from day one. Respect, responsibility, and effort aren’t just words here. They are the foundation of daily life. Students know what is expected, and teachers reinforce those expectations consistently. Our close-knit, family-like environment makes this easy. UCS teachers design and use proactive strategies to prevent issues before they start. Our small setting allows teachers to build strong relationships with students, holding them accountable in real-time. UCS students know the importance of personal responsibility.
Beyond the classroom, our scholars grow through student council and drama clubs, athletics like volleyball and soccer, leadership opportunities, and service projects. They learn how to think, how to contribute, and how to take on challenges with confidence.
A School That Works for Families
Parents choose UCS because they see results. They see students who respect their teachers, take their studies seriously, and graduate ready for the next step. Our elementary program balances strong academics with hands-on learning and structured play, building a foundation for long-term success.
If you're looking for a school with engaging academics where students don't just get by but get ahead, UCS is here to welcome your family. Enroll now for 2025-2026!
About Union Colony Schools
Union Colony Schools’ innovative approach provides a tuition-free education rich in arts, music, technology and athletics to students in the greater Greeley, Colorado area. With two convenient campuses serving K-5 and 6-12, our dedicated teachers educate for a life of leadership and academic success. Join our close-knit, thriving K-12 schools, where the community is the heart of our mission, and everyone knows your name. We're enrolling.