Tuition-Free Public Charter School | Grades K-12
ABOUT NLA
Our History
Since 1999, North Lakes Academy has provided students in grades K–12 with strong academics in a small, supportive school community where every student is known, appreciated, and encouraged to thrive. Our caring teachers build meaningful relationships with students, providing the guidance, encouragement, and individual attention that help them grow academically, socially, and personally.
Learning at NLA also extends beyond the classroom. Through hands-on experiences, including our partnership with Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center, students have opportunities to explore, collaborate, solve problems, and connect their academics to the world around them. It’s an approach that combines academic excellence, experiential learning, and a nurturing community to help students become confident, curious, and capable learners.
FREE TUITION
No money out of pocket for high-quality education.
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ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
16 Minnesota State High School League athletics & activities.
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QUALITY EDUCATION
#6 Ranked Best School District in Washington County
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#9 Ranked Best Charter School in Minnesota
DUAL CREDIT COURSES
12 dual-credit courses offered
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80% of graduates have dual credits
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AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
Average class size is 25, lower than most districts.
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ESTABLISHED
25 years running and
many more to come!
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NLA is one of the longest running charter schools
in the nation.
HIGHLY QUALIFIED STAFF
#2 Ranked Best Teachers in Washington County
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Top 10% Best Teachers in Minnesota
NATIONAL AWARDS
Numerous student involvement and
multiple recognized
National History Day
winners.
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Our Vision
NLA students will form deep connections with their learning, school community, and the environment to grow into engaged and active leaders in a global society.
Our Mission
NLA strives to provide a rigorous curriculum in a safe, small-school setting where we know each student as an individual and meet them where they are – both to provide extra attention and extra challenge. We create a learning environment where students can take ownership of their school community through the many clubs, sports, and activities where they can play an active role. We also deeply value our family-school partnership, environmental focus, and our caring and dedicated staff who aid in the growth of the whole student.
What is a Charter School?
Charter schools are free, independent public schools that welcome all students—regardless of ability, needs, or where they live. Unlike traditional public schools, charters do not require you to reside in a specific geographic area to enroll. There is no tuition, and to maintain smaller class sizes, charters may limit enrollment. Our school operates in partnership with our authorizer, Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center, located in Sandstone, Minnesota.
Environmental Emphasis
In partnership with Osprey Wilds, we bring the natural world into our classrooms and daily learning experiences. From recess and outdoor field trips to scavenger hunts, horticulture projects, new science electives, and even events like watching a solar eclipse, we’re dedicated to connecting student learning at NLA with the environment in meaningful, hands-on ways.
