Are admissions selective? How do I apply?
All students are welcome to apply. LeadAZ is not selective based on academic skillsets. Students are accepted based on how well they will fit with the LeadAZ approach to education. The application process is designed to ensure that students will succeed and enjoy their education. We have a rolling application process that begins here.
How much does tuition cost? Are there scholarships available? Who qualifies?
Tuition is $20,000 per year. There are several funding options available open to all students regardless of their financial situation. LeadAZ and our community of supporters ensures that cost is never a limiting factor to joining our learning community. You can learn more here.
How do grades work? What will transcripts look like when transferring to high school?
Our curriculum is made of subject matter maps. Each map has a number of milestones students can complete at their own pace. As long as students complete the curriculum map, they will receive an A. This is not based on test scores or assignments. Students will get A’s as long as they complete the coursework. Transcripts will show a 4.0 GPA for every completed class. You can learn more about our curriculum here.
Who are the instructors? Are they qualified?
We have a highly qualified team of lead instructors. Each lead instructor has their PhD, over 10 years of teaching experience, and has completed globally recognized certification for business professional development. These instructors are not only well-trained teachers, but they are authors and pioneers of the LeadAZ approach. The lead instructors are supported by a team of junior instructors who receive continual training in coaching, education, and business professional development. We maintain a instructor ratio of 5 students to 1 instructor. You can learn more about our staff and background here.
What curriculum do students use? Will it prepare them for high school?
LeadAZ curriculum is based on industry-proven material. It is carefully designed to help students learn the most important skillsets to be successful at any high school, college, and in future workplaces. The curriculum uses material from licensed publications, professional development certified from Arizona State University, leadership training from Leadership Society of Arizona, and a variety of online resources. We make sure that students have an enjoyable learning experience while also learning everything they need to meet/exceed Arizona state standards.
What grades do you offer?
In 2023, we started LeadAZ by serving primarily 6th-8th grades. Now, we can accommodate students 5th-12th grades. Students can join LeadAZ or leave at any time, and we will make arrangements to ensure they have the best educational experience possible. We do recommend that students who start high school with us (9th grade), finish all four years. Some high school’s do not accept all the credits we offer, but we make arrangements on a case by case basis.
How does hybrid learning work? Can students be solely online or in-person?
Hybrid learning is designed to give students and families the most flexibility possible. This allows families to create routines that best fit their needs/preferences. We require students to attend in-person at least 3 days per week, but Mondays and Fridays are optional remote learning days. Students are welcome to join us every day for a complete in-person experience. Learn more about our schedule here.
Is LeadAZ similar to Montessori?
LeadAZ has many similarities to Montessori schools, but it is not a Montessori education. LeadAZ uses a completely unique approach based on industry and classroom research. While each educational approach is slightly different, the most important thing is what works best for individual students. That is the purpose of application process—to ensure students are pursuing the education that works best for them.
What kind of extracurriculars do you offer?
LeadAZ designs our extracurricular experience around our students and their families. We curate a list of clubs, hobbies, field trips, tutors, and local professionals to give students a well-rounded learning experience. Students can pick from opportunities geared towards music, arts, sports, IT, martial arts, and many more. You can learn more here.