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Coal Ridge High School
We believe that every student can achieve success by focusing on reading, writing, and communicating in every class, every day. This rigorous approach toward every subject has created classrooms where students are always working towards achieving the very best.
Coal Ridge High School stands out as an exceptional place for academic achievement, personal growth, and community pride. Recognized as proficient on the School Performance Framework, we are committed to providing a high-quality education that supports every student in reaching their potential. Our rigorous academic programs, dedicated faculty, and supportive environment empower students to excel and prepare for bright futures.
Ultimately, Coal Ridge High School is a place where academic excellence, character development, and school pride thrive. We are proud of our achievements and the inclusive, high-standard environment we create for our students. Our school is more than a place of learning; it’s a vibrant community where students are encouraged to excel, explore their passions, and become lifelong learners and leaders.
One of the pillars of Coal Ridge High School’s academic excellence is our robust Advanced Placement (AP) program, including the AP Capstone Diploma program. As an AP Capstone school, we offer students the opportunity to pursue an AP Diploma by completing advanced coursework and research-based projects that build critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. The Capstone program not only enhances college readiness but also fosters skills that are essential in today’s world, making our students competitive and well-rounded. These courses challenge students, encouraging them to push their limits and achieve remarkable academic success.
A hallmark of our school culture is our dedication to reading, writing, and communication—“every student, every day.” At Coal Ridge, these essential skills are part of the fabric of our educational experience, and all teachers across every subject area incorporate reading, writing, and communication strategies into their teaching. This consistent focus ensures that students become proficient communicators and literate thinkers, able to express themselves and understand complex information, which benefits them in academics, personal growth, and future careers. Our educators are united in their commitment to this approach, helping students see the relevance of these skills across all aspects of their education and lives.
Coal Ridge High School also celebrates an impressive track record in athletics, with our sports teams achieving great success this fall season. The dedication of our student-athletes and coaches reflects our school’s values of perseverance, teamwork, and excellence. Sports play an essential role in our community, fostering school spirit, building character, and reinforcing a sense of unity and pride that resonates throughout our school and beyond. Our athletes’ accomplishments highlight the balance of academic and extracurricular dedication that defines Coal Ridge.
News & Events
Take a look at what's happening around CRHS!
Coal Ridge High School’s Titan Technos returned to the First Tech Challenge Mountain Robotics Qualifier with more than a robot in hand—they carried valuable life lessons learned from months of hard work and problem-solving in their Robotics II class.
The Titan Technos team, composed of seniors Hugo Rodelas, Sebastian Gilner, Aron Ruiz, and Alvin Ibarra, competed with a robot designed, built, and programmed to meet the demands of this year’s FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Tech Challenge. The silver machine, featuring Titan Blue wheel trim and mechanical arms, represented not only a semester’s test of their technical skills but also their perseverance, adaptability, and teamwork.
On February 4, 2025, one of Coal Ridge High School’s most accomplished athletes, Kaitlyn Detlefsen, was inducted into the Coal Ridge Athletic Hall of Fame.
Kaitlyn’s athletic journey at Coal Ridge was extraordinary. From 2012 to 2016, she showcased her unmatched athleticism, work ethic, and leadership in three varsity sports—Volleyball, Basketball, and Track & Field.
Kaitlyn wasn’t just a participant; she was a dominant force in every arena she stepped into. On the volleyball court, she truly made her mark, and was a two-time all-conference athlete, a first-team all-state player in 2015, and the 3A Western Slope League Player of the Year that same year. These accolades reflect not only her individual skill but the way she elevated her entire team.
In a powerful step toward civic engagement, this November, Rifle and Coal Ridge High School students swapped their schoolbooks for ballots, serving as election judges across Garfield County. These students, just shy of voting age, got a rare inside look at democracy in action on Tuesday, November 5—greeting voters and witnessing firsthand the importance of each vote. Their participation is part of a renewed effort by Garfield County’s new Clerk and Recorder, Jackie Harmon, who believes they are the future of our democracy.
Harmon spearheaded the effort to involve students this year.
“The opportunity for student judges has always been available, but as the new Clerk, I felt it was important to get the information out to the schools and students. They are the future of our democracy.”
Garfield Re-2 Superintendent Heather Grumley has informed the Garfield Re-2 School Board of her intent to retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year.
Grumley will continue as Superintendent through June 30, 2025.
See what our families say about Coal Ridge High School
Parent Survey Comment
"I like that my son is challenged and has the option to take classes at his level."
Parent Survey Comment
"Coal Ridge is small enough for close connections, but big enough to have a good experience. Mostly all teachers and coaches are very personable and treat my son extremely well, making his HS experience positive."
Parent Survey Comment
"Teachers are responsive to my child's needs and are helping her achieve at a high level. She loves it there."
Parent Survey Comment
"The teachers and staff are wonderful."