As a sponsor of the girls’ softball team at Cherokee Trail High School, we thought it was appropriate for the crew at Overland Ranch to attend a game this fall to support the school and our adopted softballers. We found out the school is huge, the parking situation highly organized, the students respectful and spirited. To say it was exciting to be in the grandstands is like saying watching the Aurora Borealis in person is sort of interesting.
It didn’t take us even half an inning to start cheering along with the 35 or 40 parents and friends of the Cougar ladies who (in this game) beat Valor Christian High School (where 49ers running back Christian McAffrey went to school) 6 to 5. We felt as proud of their win as any of the fans. The vibe was electric and we retained that feeling throughout the season as Coach Caley Mitchell took her second-seed team to the state championships. And though they landed in fourth place overall, it was an exhilarating competition and the Cougars performed admirably.
A Hub of Excellence and Opportunity
But what, you might wonder, distinguishes Cherokee Trail from other neighboring high schools? Besides the face that it is ranked in the top 10 percent of ALL public schools in Colorado? Quite a few things, as we found out after looking into the school’s reputation online via experts who evaluate and track school distinctives, including the Colorado Department of Education!
Cherokee Trail High School is one of the flagship high schools in the Cherry Creek School District. Known for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, and vibrant school spirit (we can attest to that!), Cherokee Trail offers an encouraging environment for students. At every level, kids are encouraged to pursue their passions and challenge themselves intellectually and creatively, AND with high-performing sports programs for both girls and boys.
For a few more particulars, we dove into the academics and demographics.
Academics and Staff
Cherokee Trail boasts a comprehensive curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, honors classes, and a wide range of electives. Its commitment to high academic standards is reflected in consistently strong test scores, graduation rates, and college acceptance statistics. Students are supported by dedicated teachers, counselors, and support staff who prioritize personalized learning and growth.
Extracurricular Activities
The school is celebrated for its extensive extracurricular offerings. From award-winning athletics teams to performing arts, debate, robotics, and student government, Cherokee Trail fosters a culture of involvement and leadership. Its athletic programs are competitive at both state and national levels, and its music and theater departments regularly stage impressive productions.
Community and Diversity
With a richly diverse student population, the school cultivates an atmosphere where everybody’s backgrounds and contributions are valued. Initiatives like cultural events, diversity clubs, and peer mentorship programs create opportunities for students to learn from and with each other.
Innovation and Technology
Cherokee Trail integrates technology into daily learning, equipping students with devices and digital tools that encourage collaboration, creativity, and research. STEM programs, coding clubs, and partnerships with local technology organizations prepare students for emerging careers in science and technology.
Wellness and Counseling
Wellness programs, counseling services, and social-emotional learning curricula form the backbone of the school’s commitment to supporting the whole student. Things like peer mediation, health classes, and even access to mental health professionals, give students the kinds of resources tailored to unique needs.
The Cherokee Trail Educational Journey
While we might be biased – after all we now wear our navy and white Cherokee Trail sweatshirts out and about to show our support! – the students fortunate enough to attend this high school are part of something special and rewarding. Cherokee Trail High School offers a healthy serving of the Cherry Creek School District dedication to academic achievement, personal growth, and community engagement. Being part of the Overland Ranch new home community means an educational journey that begins with distinction and continues through the course of a student’s life. To learn more about the master-planned community, the homes and amenities that will soon comprise Overland Ranch (by mid-2026!), join our interest list today!
