Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy or PELA is a private school for 7th to 12th grade students.
It offers academic excellence through hands on learning. PELA parents love that their childrens' education goes beyond academic achievement through individualized learning plans and development of real life skills.
PELA students have daily opportunities to experience personal growth, conflict resolution, and real life challenges that prepare them to be leaders in a complex and fast-changing world.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CO School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 7-12
- Enrollment: 24 students
- Yearly Tuition: $12,000
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 7-12
Year Founded
2017
Student Body
Total Students
24 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
25%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
3 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
75%
Average Class Size
12 students
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$12,000
Acceptance Rate
80%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Jenn Lukesh
School Notes
- PELA students are engaged in academically challenging coursework with real world applications. Staff work with students to help them find and develop thier gifts, while also teaching life skills such as ettiquette, public speaking, fiscal responsibility, and engaged student-specific community engagement. We help students to develop thier personal leadership skills while fostering a love of learning.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy cost?
Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy's tuition is approximately $12,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy?
The acceptance rate of Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy is 80%, which is lower than the national average of 91%. Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Colorado with low acceptance rates.
What is Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy's ranking?
Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy?
The application deadline for Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 2/15/2023
Going to The Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy was by far the best decision I`ve ever made. The teachers and staff here gave me the resources I need to achieve my dreams. When I started high school here I was very unsure of what I wanted to do with my life and had very little confidence in myself, but after finding a community within this school my entire perspective on life changed and I realized that I wanted to move to New York and pursue a career in acting. I graduated as Valedictorian and got into every school I applied to. I now live in Manhattan and go to one of the top acting schools in the country. Emily and Phil Wassell are two of the best people I`ve ever met and I can truly say that they made my life better in every way. I can`t thank them enough. If you are thinking of going to the academy or looking to enroll your child/children I would say yes, a million times yes, there`s nothing better you can do for yourself or your child than allow them to be immersed in the beauty and community that is Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy!
5 2/15/2023
Attending Paonia Experiential Leadership Academy was truly a life-changing experience for me. The staff, students, and parents all work together to create an uplifting and nurturing environment for children to grow into their true selves. Everyone is actively encouraged to share their talents and knowledge. Teamwork and Individual growth are priorities. Using a creative, interactive curriculum students learn about the world through hands-on learning and experience. Students are encouraged to step up and take leadership roles and this boosts confidence so that everyone can share their gifts. Love this school.
5 2/15/2023
We appreciate everything PELA is providing for our children, including the focus on healthy choices, healthy relationships, and the individual academic attention they get. We feel so fortunate to be a part of this amazing school!
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