History

Our History

The Colorado Springs School (CSS) was founded in the early 1960s by a group of parents, educators, and community members united by a shared vision: to create an academically strong, innovative college-preparatory school for girls in Colorado Springs.

In July 1961, the founders drafted the School’s certificate of incorporation under the name The Colorado Springs Episcopal School for Girls. In March 1962, the School became independent of the church and adopted its current name, The Colorado Springs School.

That spring, the founders interviewed Margaret White Campbell, then Head of the Upper School at Beaver Country Day School near Boston, to serve as the School’s first leader. Founder Janet LeCompte recalled, “She was, of course, irresistible to us and on her part eager to found a new school.”

In September 1962, CSS opened with 23 students in the former home of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Drake on Pourtales Road, with Margaret White Campbell serving as its first Headmistress. Enrollment grew rapidly, nearly quadrupling by the spring of 1967. That year, the Board of Trustees voted to purchase the Trianon property at 21 Broadmoor Avenue, along with nearly 12 acres now known as Boddington Field.

Otis “Utley” White and Bill Boddington played central roles in the complex negotiations surrounding the purchase. The acquisition was made possible through the generosity of many supporters, including Mr. and Mrs. Philip G. Cole, Russell T. Tutt, William Thayer Tutt, Raymond J. Montgomery, Ben S. Wendelken, Mr. and Mrs. James A. Krentler, Mr. and Mrs. Oliver LeCompte, Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Norris, and El Pomar Foundation.

Growth and Expansion

CSS continued to evolve in response to the needs of students and families. In fall 1965, the School launched a boarding program in the former Heintges home at 24 Pourtales Road.

The School began its transition to coeducation in 1970, when boys were admitted to grades 7 and 8. Boys entered ninth grade in 1974, and in 1975, the Board of Trustees voted to make CSS fully coeducational in grades 7–12.

In 1976, CSS merged with the newly formed Children’s School, creating a comprehensive educational program for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. That same year, the School formally established its Experience-Centered Seminars—month-long Upper School courses that combine rigorous academic study with hands-on, immersive learning. Experiential education has remained a defining element of the CSS experience across all grade levels.

The first male boarding student graduated in 1977. In 1994, CSS added a PreKindergarten program for four- and five-year-olds, followed by preschool in the fall of 1998.

Continuing the Tradition

In fall 2000, CSS phased out its traditional boarding program and established the Homestay Program, which continues to welcome and support students today.

More than six decades after opening its doors, The Colorado Springs School remains grounded in its founding commitment to educational innovation, academic excellence, and meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for college, life, and an ever-changing world.