Tuition-Free Charter School in South Phoenix

Paideia Liberal Arts Academy (Grades 7–12)

A tuition-free charter school in South Phoenix focused on strong academics, leadership development, and a clear path to graduation and beyond—including the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school.

t Paideia, students in grades 7–12 learn in a structured, relationship-driven environment where academic expectations are high and support is built in. Our liberal arts approach helps students think critically, communicate clearly, and develop the habits they need to succeed in high school, college, and life.

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Earn Up to 60 College Credits with the Paideia Flight Plan

  • ✅ Earn a high school diploma & an associate’s degree—FREE
  • ✅ Save thousands on tuition with early college credit
  • ✅ Get a head start on college & career success
  • ✅ Develop leadership & entrepreneurship skills
In Partnership with South Mountain Community College & ASU
U.S. Best Middle Schools 2026
Award-Recognized Academics

Paideia Liberal Arts Academy has been recognized as one of the Best Middle Schools in the country for its academic performance and student support

This recognition reflects our focus on rigorous academics, character formation, and supporting the whole child during the middle school years.

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A Different Way to Experience Middle and High School

Many families begin searching for a new school during the middle or high school years because their student needs more structure, stronger relationships, or a clearer sense of direction. Paideia’s Liberal Arts Academy was designed to meet those needs—without sacrificing academic rigor.

Students are known by name, expectations are clear, and learning is purposeful. Instead of feeling lost in a large system, students at Paideia are guided through each stage of their academic journey with consistent support and accountability.

  • Smaller class sizes and stronger teacher-student relationships

  • Clear academic expectations and daily structure

  • Leadership development embedded into learning

  • A focus on preparation—not just progression

 

The Six Pillars Of Whole Child Education

Paideia Liberal Arts Academy

Phoenix Charter High School

That Sees the Whole Student

At Paideia Liberal Arts Academy, students are more than schedules and transcripts. We intentionally design our high school experience around knowing each student well—academically, socially, and personally—so guidance is meaningful and progress is visible.

Our smaller learning environment allows teachers and staff to recognize strengths early, address challenges quickly, and help students stay aligned with their goals. Rather than pushing students through a one-size-fits-all system, Paideia provides structure, accountability, and direction throughout the high school years.

This approach supports students as they build independence, clarify their path, and prepare for what comes after graduation—whether that’s college, technical training, or a career-focused next step.

Strong Academics with a Clear Plan for the Future

Paideia’s liberal arts curriculum emphasizes reading, writing, critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication—skills students need to succeed across subjects and beyond high school. Instruction is structured, intentional, and aligned across grade levels so students continue to build on what they learn each year.

Through the Paideia Flight Plan, eligible high school students have the opportunity to earn college credits while completing their high school requirements. This pathway helps motivated students move forward with confidence, reduce future college costs, and graduate with a stronger sense of direction.

Whether a student plans to attend college, pursue technical training, or enter the workforce, Paideia provides the academic foundation, guidance, and leadership development needed to take the next step with confidence.

Academic & Support Programs

College-Prep Curriculum

AP courses, liberal arts focus, ASU/Charter school pathways

Scholar Centered High-School

Personalized learning strategies, Paideia Flight Plan to College

Flight Plan to College
Student Support Services

Social-emotional learning, teacher ratio, Avid Resources

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Liberal Arts Academy FAQs

 

Is Paideia really tuition-free for grades 7–12?

Yes. Paideia Liberal Arts Academy is a tuition-free public charter school. There is no cost to attend.

What grades attend the Liberal Arts Academy?

The Liberal Arts Academy serves students in grades 7 through 12.

Is this a public charter school or a private school?

Paideia is a public charter school, open to families in South Phoenix and surrounding areas.

What type of student does well at Paideia?

Paideia is a strong fit for students who benefit from structure, smaller class sizes, clear expectations, and strong relationships with teachers.

Can students earn college credit while attending Paideia?

Yes. Eligible high school students may earn college credits through the Paideia Flight Plan while completing graduation requirements.

How does Paideia support students academically

Students receive consistent instruction, academic guidance, and access to support resources designed to help them stay on track and progress confidently through middle and high school.

How do families stay informed about progress?

Teachers and staff maintain regular communication with families through updates, check-ins, and scheduled conferences so parents are never left guessing.

Where is the Liberal Arts Academy located?

The Liberal Arts Academy is located in South Phoenix near South Mountain at 1535 E Baseline Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042.

Ready to Start Your High School Journey?

Discover why Paideia is Phoenix’s choice for students seeking a tuition‑free, alternative charter high school—

focused on leadership, academics, and community.

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