Explorations Academy... An education that matters. Explorations is a fully-accredited independent school with a focus on experiential learning, creative development, character building, and college preparation.
Students average one day per week on field outings throughout the region and also participate in annual, month-long overseas expeditions.
Our innovative approach prepares students to become globally-aware leaders for positive change in the 21st Century.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked WA School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 33 students
- Yearly Tuition: $13,600
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Explorations Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
Year Founded
1995
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
33 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
30%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
8 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
4:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
75%
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$13,600
Tuition Notes
We have scholarship and financial aid programs to make an Explorations Academy education accessible to every appropriate student
% on Financial Aid
40%
Acceptance Rate
80%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Associate
Sarah Lane
School Notes
- Explorations Academy (EA) is our area's only fully-accredited independent high school and provides an experiential curriculum that ignites a passion for learning and inspires creativity, curiosity, and desire to learn in young people who are highly capable yet under-performing in traditional high school settings. It is our priority to encourage bright and capable, yet bored youth to excel academically and create opportunities for life-long success. We expose students to real life experiences to ensure that our students are well prepared to be tomorrow`s innovators, leaders, and engaged citizens.
- Committed to intercultural education, we have hosted international students for one or more academic years. Our school attracts students from southern British Columbia and we are close to a bus line that connects us easily to transportation from neighboring counties. Students also have traveled on international study/service expeditions to places as diverse as Peru, India, Thailand, Cuba, Kenya, Guatemala, and Indonesia.
- Our academic program is college-preparatory, interdisciplinary, and challenging. We offer an experiential approach draws students into the real world through field studies, guest speakers, and service opportunities that complement classroom learning. The curriculum is relevant to current events with small class sizes and integrated subject matter. Evaluation methods emphasize individualized performance assessments, self-reflection and demonstration of skills and knowledge and are not focused on standardized testing.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Explorations Academy cost?
Explorations Academy's tuition is approximately $13,600 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Explorations Academy?
The acceptance rate of Explorations Academy is 80%, which is lower than the national average of 86%. Explorations Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Washington with low acceptance rates.
What is Explorations Academy's ranking?
Explorations Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for Explorations Academy?
The application deadline for Explorations Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Explorations Academy located?
Explorations Academy is located in the Sunnyland neighborhood of Bellingham, WA. There are 1 other private schools located in Sunnyland.
School Reviews
5 3/6/2020
My kids just started their second year at Explorations and they couldn't wait to get back to school. They love the trips and hands-on activities, the close friendships they can forge in a small community, and the authentic approach to learning. Last year my son had an amazing trip to Vietnam that really expanded his knowledge range and interests. My middle schooler developed a strong friend group and a newfound interest in math. The school sets high expectations and the students seem genuinely motivated to meet and exceed those expectations, and they thrive in a social environment where trust and mutual respect are valued and practiced. The curriculum is rigorous but really engaging; the faculty are dedicated to their craft and to each of the students, and the trips and hands-on approach to learning make for an enriching educational environment. I feel that my kids are being well prepared for a future (including college) as caring, competent, and well-rounded adults.
5 1/19/2016
My daughter has just completed her first semester at EA and we are all thrilled with the education she is being offered! Not only is she receiving the academic rigor she's been craving, she is also getting mentorship from intelligent and wise faculty in how to develop as a human being. I can't imagine a better environment for my teenager to grow.
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