Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning

About

A rigorous, hands-on, project-based, college-prep charter high school serving Nevada County through the proven Expeditionary Learning model

Story

Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning is a tuition-free public charter high school that opened in August 2014. SAEL uses Expeditionary Learning, a curriculum model and whole school approach already successfully implemented in over 165 schools nationwide, including Grass Valley Charter School. We offer interdisciplinary, rigorous, hands-on academics that put students at the center of their learning. Using adventure, service, field study, and experts, SAEL allows students to do real work and interact with professionals while learning about content and character. The school also offers a small student body that will only grow to be 240 students total. We have Crews, or advisory groups, that meet daily together throughout grades 9-12 in order to develop the character, academic, and social skills necessary for life during and after SAEL. Sierra Academy believes all students can succeed and will push for all students to be accepted to a four year college of their choice. This means students are encouraged to keep doors open and engage with the application process for college, along with trade and military school options. Students will not only be prepared through standards-based, college preparatory classes, they will also be put in challenging academic and adventure experiences to push their limits and achieve more than they initially think possible.

Mission

The mission of Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning is to inspire students to achieve high standards, create quality work, develop character, and embrace lifelong learning and service through Expeditionary Learning.