SIERRA ACADEMY OF EXPEDITIONARY LEARNING

Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning is a public charter high school that is part of the Nevada Joint Union High school district, located in Grass Valley, CA with about 194 students offering grade levels from 9th Grade to 12th Grade. With about 12 teachers, Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning has a student/teacher ratio of about 16:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning (SAEL), located in Grass Valley, California, is a public charter school that emphasizes a hands-on, project-based approach to education. By operating under the Expeditionary Learning (EL) model, the school prioritizes "learning expeditions"—interdisciplinary units of study that encourage students to solve real-world problems and engage deeply with their community. The school’s culture is defined by its focus on character development, high academic expectations, and fostering a collaborative environment where students are expected to take ownership of their own intellectual growth.

The curriculum at SAEL is designed to move beyond traditional textbook learning, encouraging students to participate in fieldwork, community service, and presentations of their work to public audiences. By integrating rigorous academic standards with critical thinking and social-emotional learning, the school aims to prepare students for success in both college and their professional careers. Its setting in the Sierra foothills provides a unique backdrop for place-based education, allowing students to connect their classroom studies directly to the natural and social environment of their region.

For more information, contact Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning at (530) 268-2200 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.