Leman Academy of Excellence

Where Children Build Knowledge and Character

School Community

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Moving to Tucson schools can feel overwhelming for families trying to make the right decision quickly. If you’re moving to Tucson with your child, understanding your school options early can make the transition smoother and more successful.

With so many Tucson school options, including charter, public, and private schools, knowing what to look for before the next school year begins can help your child start strong and feel confident in a new environment.

Why School Choice Matters When Moving

Relocating brings a lot of change for children. A new home, new routines, and new surroundings can feel overwhelming. The right school can provide stability during that transition.

A strong school environment offers:

  • Consistent routines that help children feel secure
  • Clear expectations that build confidence
  • Supportive teachers who understand transitions

Families moving to Tucson schools often look for structured environments that help children adjust quickly and feel supported from day one.

Moving to Tucson Schools: What Parents Should Know

Not all schools in Tucson offer the same level of structure, communication, and support. Taking time to compare options can make a big difference in your child’s experience.

Structure and Consistency

A structured classroom helps children quickly understand expectations, which is especially important during times of change.

Many families searching for the best schools in Tucson prioritize environments where routines are clear and learning is focused. This type of consistency allows students to settle in faster and feel more confident.

Classroom Environment and Teaching Approach

Every school approaches learning differently. Some classrooms are more flexible, while others follow a more structured, teacher-led model often found in charter schools.

When touring a school, consider:

  • How lessons are delivered
  • Classroom expectations and behavior
  • Student engagement

Seeing this in person helps you determine if the teaching approach fits your child’s needs.

Communication with Families

Strong communication between school and home plays a major role in a successful transition.

Look for schools that:

  • Provide consistent updates to parents
  • Offer clear communication channels
  • Encourage family involvement

When communication is strong, families feel more connected and supported throughout the school year.

School Culture and Community

A welcoming school culture can make a big difference for children entering a new environment.

As you explore Tucson schools, consider:

  • How staff interact with students
  • The overall tone and safety of the campus
  • Opportunities for students to get involved

A positive community helps children build friendships and feel comfortable more quickly.

Schools in Tucson and Surrounding Areas: What Families Should Know

Families moving to Southern Arizona often search for schools not just in Tucson, but in nearby communities like Oro Valley, Marana, and Sierra Vista.

Each area offers different school options, including district and tuition-free charter schools. Many families prioritize:

  • Strong academics
  • Structured classroom environments
  • Safe, supportive school communities

If you’re comparing options, resources from the Arizona Department of Education can help you better understand school types, performance, and requirements across Arizona.

The Value of Touring a School

Online research is helpful, but nothing replaces seeing a school in person.

When you schedule a school tour in Tucson, you can:

  • Experience the classroom environment
  • See how teachers interact with students
  • Ask questions specific to your child

Touring gives families the clarity they need to make a confident decision.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Waiting too long to choose a school can limit your options. Many Tucson charter schools and high-demand campuses fill before the school year begins.

Planning ahead allows you to:

  • Secure a spot at your preferred school
  • Prepare your child for the transition
  • Start the school year with confidence

Choosing a school early reduces stress and helps both parents and children feel ready for what’s ahead.

A Tucson Charter School Option for Your Family

At Leman Academy of Excellence, we provide a structured, supportive environment designed to help scholars succeed academically and personally.

Our approach focuses on:

  • Clear classroom expectations
  • Strong communication with families
  • A safe and welcoming school community

For families moving to Tucson, finding the right fit early can make all the difference in a successful school year.

Ready to Find the Right School in Tucson?

The best way to know if a school is the right fit is to experience it in person.

Schedule a school tour in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, or Sierra Vista:

What are the best schools in Tucson?

Tucson offers a mix of charter, district, and private schools. Many families look for strong academics, structured classrooms, and supportive environments when choosing the best fit.

Are charter schools in Tucson free?

Yes, charter schools in Arizona are tuition-free public schools that offer unique educational approaches while meeting state standards.

When should I enroll my child in a Tucson school?

It’s best to start early, as many schools fill available spots before the new school year begins.

Should I tour a school before enrolling?

Yes. Touring a school helps families understand the environment, teaching style, and overall fit for their child.

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Choosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions a family makes. With so many options available, it’s easy to focus on surface-level details like test scores, rankings, or proximity to home. Many families also find it helpful to review general guidance on school choice from trusted education resources.

But when families look back on their decision, many say they wish they had paid closer attention to what daily life in the classroom actually looks like.

Here are some of the most common things families tell us they wish they had known before choosing a school.

Classroom Culture Matters More Than You Think

Families often start their search by comparing programs and academic outcomes. While academics are important, what truly shapes a student’s experience is the culture inside the classroom.

Things like:

  • How teachers interact with students
  • Whether students feel comfortable asking questions
  • How mistakes are handled

These details influence confidence, curiosity, and long-term engagement with learning.

When students feel supported and known, they are more likely to thrive academically and personally.
Parent–Teacher Partnership Makes a Real Difference

One thing families often say they didn’t fully understand at first is how important a strong parent–teacher partnership can be to a student’s academic success.

At Leman Academy, we believe learning works best when parents and teachers are aligned, communicating, and working toward the same goals. Education doesn’t happen only in the classroom. It’s reinforced through consistency, shared expectations, and mutual support.

Supportive parent involvement helps:

  • Reinforce learning habits at home
  • Build accountability and confidence in students
  • Create clarity around academic expectations
  • Strengthen communication when challenges arise

When parents and teachers partner intentionally, students benefit from a more cohesive learning experience. They feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow both academically and personally.

Many families tell us they didn’t realize how impactful this partnership would be until they experienced it firsthand.
Hearing directly from families often brings this idea to life:

Teacher Consistency Creates Stability

Another thing families often mention is the importance of consistent, intentional teaching.

Strong schools prioritize:

  • Clear expectations
  • Thoughtful lesson structure
  • Continuity in teaching methods

Consistency helps students feel secure and focused. It also allows teachers to truly understand their students’ strengths and challenges over time, rather than constantly resetting expectations.

Engagement Is Easier to See Than to Measure

Test scores and data points can be helpful, but they don’t always tell the full story.

Families often say they wish they had spent more time observing:

  • How students participate during lessons
  • Whether learning feels active or passive
  • How discussion and critical thinking are encouraged

Seeing students engaged in reading, writing, problem-solving, and discussion provides insight that no chart or statistic can replace.

A Supportive Environment Builds Confidence

Academic success doesn’t happen in isolation. Students learn best when they feel confident, supported, and encouraged to grow.

Families often realize later that a school’s approach to character development, responsibility, and respectful communication plays a major role in how students show up each day. Learn more about Our Approach

A supportive learning environment helps students:

  • Develop independence
  • Build resilience
  • Take ownership of their learning

Take Time to Look Inside the Classroom

One of the most common reflections families share is that they wish they had taken more time to look beyond brochures and websites.

Visiting classrooms, observing instruction, and asking questions about daily routines can provide valuable clarity when making a school decision.

Choosing a school is about more than academics. It’s about finding an environment where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired to learn.
Plan A Visit:
Plan a Visit Arizona
Plan a Visit Colorado

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Supporting Enriching Experiences at Leman Academy of Excellence

Many of the moments that shape a child’s educational experience do not happen in a textbook. Instead, they often occur during an art project that sparks creativity, on a field trip that brings learning to life, or through enrichment opportunities that help students discover new interests and confidence.

At Leman Academy of Excellence, a tuition-free, classical education supports students both academically and personally. While the core academic program is publicly funded, many meaningful experiences extend beyond what is fully covered through the annual school budget. For this reason, community support plays an important role in sustaining enrichment opportunities across all campuses.

Why Donations Matter

Meaningful learning extends beyond daily classroom lessons. For example, programs such as art, music, enrichment activities, field trips and classroom enhancements help create a well-rounded educational experience. In addition, these moments foster curiosity, build character and encourage students to explore the world in ways that inspire a lifelong love of learning.

Because funding priorities must remain focused on core academics, donations provide added flexibility throughout the year. As a result, schools can respond to classroom needs, campus initiatives and student opportunities as they arise. Ultimately, this support helps ensure enriching experiences remain available to students across Leman Academy campuses.

Supporting Students and Teachers

Community donations may be directed toward:

  • Classroom resources and instructional materials
  • Student enrichment and experiential learning
  • Campus needs and school improvements
  • Teacher and staff support initiatives
  • Extracurricular programs and special activities

These contributions, regardless of size, play a meaningful role in strengthening the learning environment.

At the same time, this generosity supports the educators and staff who guide students each day.

A Community That Makes a Difference

Leman Academy families, grandparents and community supporters play an essential role in helping schools thrive. Because of this involvement, the gap between public funding and truly enriching experiences can be thoughtfully bridged.

Over time, continued support allows schools to nurture curiosity, confidence and character. In the long run, these qualities form the foundation for success in school and beyond.

Additional donation details are available through local Leman Academy campus pages- Arizona or Colorado – or use the direct links below.

Donate to Leman Academy of Excellence in Arizona

To support students and programs at our Arizona campuses, please visit one of the following donation pages:

Donate Ariaona:
Donate to Central Tucson

Donate to East Tucson

Donate to Marana

Donate to Mesa

Donate to Oro Valley

Donate to Sierra Vista

Donate to Leman Virtual Academy

Donate Colorado:

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When a School Isn’t the Right Fit, You Don’t Have to Wait Until August.

Families make mid-year transitions for many reasons. Maybe your child needs more challenge, more structure, or a calmer learning environment. Perhaps class sizes are too large, and your student isn’t receiving the attention they need. Whatever the reason, a fresh start can make an enormous difference in your child’s confidence and academic success.

At Leman Academy of Excellence, we welcome students throughout the school year whenever space is available. A mid-year transfer can be the reset families need.

Why Families Choose To Transfer To Leman Academy Mid-Year

1. A Classical Education That Builds Strong Thinkers

If your child is craving more substance and less screen time, our classical curriculum provides exactly that. Scholars engage deeply with history, literature, Latin, handwriting, and foundational math to build lifelong skills.

2. A Safe, Supportive Environment

We understand how much it matters for children to feel seen, known, and supported. Our teachers work closely with new scholars to ease the transition, build confidence, and help them adjust quickly.

3. Character Development Is Part of the School Day

Many families choose Leman because the culture feels different. We teach virtues like respect, responsibility, caring, and perseverance — and we practice them daily.

4. A Clean Break from What Wasn’t Working

Sometimes the simplest solution is a fresh start. When your current school isn’t meeting your child’s academic or social needs, a mid-year transfer can be a positive turning point.

What to Expect When You Transfer Mid-Year

We know switching schools can feel overwhelming. Our team makes the process as smooth as possible:

  • A quick records transfer from your current school
  • Support placing your child in the right classes
  • A welcoming environment that helps new scholars feel comfortable right away
  • Opportunities for parents to connect with staff and ask questions

Families often tell us they wish they had made the move sooner.

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you’re coming from another charter, a district school, a homeschool program, or a recent move, you’re welcome here.

Enrollment is open now for mid-year transfers.

Click below to connect with the campus near you.

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At Leman Academy of Excellence, we’re proud that our campuses in Marana, Oro Valley, Sierra Vista, Central Tucson and Mesa have earned A ratings from the Arizona Department of Education. and that our East Tucson campus has been recognized as a Purple Star School for its commitment to supporting military-connected families.

Together, these honors reflect a shared culture of excellence, character and community across all of our campuses. But what does that actually mean and why should it matter to parents?

A reflection of academic mastery

A rating banner for hero section

Arizona’s school grading system looks closely at how well students grow and achieve across subjects like math, reading and science. An A rating means that our scholars are not only meeting high academic standards but also showing measurable year-over-year growth. It’s recognition that teaching at Leman Academy is consistently effective, challenging and supportive.

A focus on growth, not just grades

Earning an A rating isn’t about teaching to the test, it’s about equipping scholars with critical-thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and a love of learning that shows in their performance. Our teachers track each student’s progress, offering additional support where needed and stretching them when they’re ready for more.

A culture of excellence and virtue

Academic success is only one part of the equation. Our classical education model integrates history, literature and moral philosophy so that students don’t just learn facts – they learn how to reason, lead and serve. An A rating reflects that holistic approach: high standards, strong leadership and a culture that values character as much as knowledge.

A commitment to parents and community

Each Leman campus thrives because of strong partnerships with families. Parents are our co-teachers and collaborators. The A rating belongs to them too, it’s a reflection of the investment they make every day in their child’s education.

Continuing to grow

Even with these high marks, we know that growth never stops. Each campus continually reviews data, teaching practices, and enrichment programs to ensure that every scholar whether in Marana, Oro Valley, Mesa, Sierra Vista, or East Tucson continues to thrive.

At Leman Academy of Excellence, “A” stands for more than achievement. It stands for aspiration, accountability and the academic and moral formation that prepares scholars for a lifetime of excellence.

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Open Enrollment is just around the corner, and now is the time to plan your next school year with confidence.

For families in Arizona, Open Enrollment runs November 1 – 8.
In Colorado, the window is November 3 – December 1.

Whether you’re new to Leman Academy or returning for another great year, a little preparation now can make the process simple — and help secure your scholar’s spot before classes fill.

1. Mark Your Calendar

It’s easy to miss deadlines during the busy fall season. Add your state’s Open Enrollment dates to your phone or family calendar today. A quick reminder ensures you can submit your application right on time.

2. Research Campuses

Every Leman Academy campus offers the same tuition-free classical education model, yet each has its own community and culture.
Explore our campus pages to learn about grade levels, programs, and extracurriculars.
Review photos, upcoming events, and staff introductions to see which location feels like the best fit for your family.

3. Schedule a Tour Before Spots Fill

Seeing a school in person makes a huge difference.
During a campus tour, you’ll meet teachers, see classrooms, and experience the welcoming environment our scholars enjoy every day.
Tours fill quickly during Open Enrollment, so schedule early to secure your preferred date and time.
You can find links to book tours on each campus page.

4. Gather Questions for Teachers and Principals

Before your visit, jot down questions about the curriculum, specials classes, uniforms, or student support.
Teachers and principals love meeting families and are happy to share how Leman’s classical approach helps children grow in both wisdom and virtue.
Bringing a short list ensures you leave your tour with all the answers you need.

5. Enroll Early — and Share with Friends

Once you’ve chosen your campus, complete your enrollment form early to guarantee placement.
If you already have a scholar at Leman, consider sharing your experience with friends, neighbors, or coworkers who may be exploring school options.
Early enrollment not only saves time — it also helps our schools plan for next year’s classrooms and events.

Ready to Begin?

Join the Leman community and give your child a foundation built on strong academics, character, and leadership.

👉 Arizona Families: Start Enrollment
👉 Colorado Families: Start Enrollment

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Leman Academy of Excellence – East Tucson

Leman Academy of Excellence – East Tucson is proud to be recognized as an Arizona Purple Star School. This honor highlights our deep commitment to serving military-connected students and families across Tucson.

We are especially proud to support families from Davis–Monthan Air Force Base and the greater Tucson community. Moving to a new city or school can be a big adjustment for any child. That’s why our teachers and staff work closely with parents to make every transition smoother and every student feel welcome from day one.

Supporting Military-Connected Students

Our Military Point of Contact, Tatianna Simmons, helps families with enrollment, records, and daily routines. She also connects parents with resources that support military life. Because our school understands the challenges of frequent moves and deployments, we make it a priority to ensure consistency and communication for every scholar.

We also provide a Peer-to-Peer Mentor Program that pairs new students with friendly classmates. These mentors greet new scholars, eat lunch together during the first few days, and help them get involved in campus life. As a result, military-connected students quickly feel part of our community.

Patriotic Events and Traditions

Throughout the year, Leman Academy – East Tucson celebrates service and patriotism. Events such as our Patriots Day Parade (September 11) and Veterans Day Breakfast (November 7) honor the courage and dedication of those who serve. These traditions also teach our students respect, gratitude, and civic responsibility.

Our Ongoing Commitment

As a Purple Star School, we:

  • Maintain a trained Point of Contact for military-connected families
  • Offer staff training on supporting military students
  • Run a student peer-mentorship program
  • Host patriotic events throughout the year
  • Keep resources and updates visible and current on our website

Together, these efforts strengthen the connection between our school and military families. When students feel supported, they thrive both academically and personally.

Learn More

Families can learn more about the Arizona Purple Star School Program and related resources through the Arizona Department of Education.

Learn More

Visit our East Tucson Arizona Purple Star Program page to explore available resources and upcoming events, or contact Tatianna.Simmons@LemanAcademy.org for direct support.

Together, we celebrate our military families and the strength they bring to our school community.

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When it comes to choosing a school for your child in Arizona, it’s a bit like going to a buffet. There are a myriad of choices available: traditional public schools, private schools, charter schools, magnet schools, virtual schooling, microschooling and homeschooling. Not to mention, there are options within options; e.g., several types of homeschooling options. It can be a bit overwhelming for parents to contemplate.

In addition to choosing the type of education parents want for their child, they must consider what their ESA will cover. The Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) is the amount of state money spent on a child’s education in a traditional public school. When a parent wishes to remove their child from that school to receive a different type of education, the ESA money follows them. In Arizona, 90% of that money can be used for private schools, homeschooling, and other education-related necessities. In this way, parents have the right to choose how their tax dollars are spent on their child’s education.

Arizona’s ESA for private school education is an average of $9,572. With this amount of funds supporting private school educations, is a charter school option like Leman Academy still an excellent school choice?

In this blog, we’ll zoom in on Tucson and examine the benefits and drawbacks of using ESAs to fund private education in Arizona. First, let’s take a closer look at ESAs and what they are.

What are ESA Grants and Why are They Fueling Private School Growth in Tucson?

The Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) provides parents with their share of tax money used in the traditional school education of their child to pay for private schooling. It can also be used for homeschooling expenses, therapies for special education, tutoring, curricula, and other expenses related to education.

A national leader, Arizona was the country’s first state to allow families, regardless of income, to use public dollars for private school tuition. In the 2023-2024 school year, over 75,000 scholars in Arizona have received ESA awards. Now, President Trump, in his July 4th “One Big Beautiful Bill”, has signed into law a federal tax-credit scholarship program to provide private and parochial school scholarships for families across the nation. As a result of these programs, Arizona has seen, and will likely continue to see, a surge in private school enrollments.

In Tucson, approximately 9% of their K-12 scholars attend private schools, compared to the state average of 6%. Driven by the ESA program and parents’ concerns over public schools’ quality of education, parents are seeking smaller class sizes and stronger academic programs. As a result of this increase in private school applications, Arizona’s private schools have raised tuition between 6% and 20%.

Although ESAs have made private school education more affordable for Arizona families, parents need to take this a step further and examine exactly what costs are incurred in a private school education before they make the choice to send their children to one. 

The Tucson Private School Boom: Hidden Costs and Enrollment Gaps

Before applying for enrollment in a private school, parents should educate themselves on all the costs involved in sending their children to that school. Tuition isn’t the only expense they will incur. There are also fees for textbooks, lab fees, uniforms, extracurricular activities, testing, transportation, and supplies. Furthermore, the ESA grant may not cover all the costs of tuition.

When a school is filled to capacity, families are placed on a waitlist. As spots open up in classrooms, scholars from the waitlist are selected to occupy them. However, a waitlist isn’t a guarantee that the scholar will be given a seat. Some parents will see a rise in tuition costs while on the waitlist, and if their child is selected, they won’t be able to cover the costs. Thus, they are priced out of the option for private schooling.

In Arizona, laws allow private schools to operate without direct supervision from state or local authorities. They’re still required to meet guidelines that apply to school safety and the implementation of special education services; however,  private schools are not required to be held accountable for tuition rates. It’s important to note that even during these volatile times in private school tuition, many schools do offer financial aid to families. In addition, residents of Arizona may claim a tax credit for private school tuition.

Leman Academy’s Commitment to Tucson Families

The Leman Academy of Excellence, a K-8 Classical Education school with campuses in Arizona and Colorado, is committed to providing its scholars with an exceptional education. If you’re gazing at the school choice “buffet”, here are four reasons to consider Leman Academy:

1. Tucson and its surrounding areas are home to four Leman campuses: Central Tucson, East Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. Additionally, Leman’s Virtual Academy is also headquartered in Tucson. Any scholar in the state can attend Leman virtually. 

2. Leman Academy teaches with the Classical Educational model based on the Trivium. A well-rounded, values-driven curriculum sets Leman apart from other schools, with its scholars acquiring excellent critical thinking abilities and a strong character foundation.

3. Leman Academy is a charter school — no tuition is charged. There are no surprise fees, and Leman is fully public and fully accountable.

4. Leman serves scholars from all of Tucson with diverse enrollment and open access for families from every background.

Conclusion: Think Beyond ESA

While an ESA is a huge driving factor of school choice, it isn’t guaranteed to cover all the costs you would need to send your child to a private school, and it doesn’t promise that your child will be accepted into a private school of your choice.

It’s even more important for you to consider the quality of the education you wish your child to receive. If you’re dining at a real buffet, you’ll select the food choices that provide you with a well-rounded meal. In the same way, it’s critical to consider your child’s needs, talents, and strengths and find a school that can offer exactly the type of setting your child needs.

The Leman Academy of Excellence offers a stable, proven, and tuition-free alternative that continues to grow with Tucson’s families in mind.

Schedule a tour, attend an info session, or explore how Leman Academy can meet your family’s needs, without the high cost.

Simplified Summary

ESA grants give families money from the state to help pay for education. This article explains how ESA programs work and how they affect school choice.

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At no time in history has the issue of school choice been a hotter topic. On July 4th of this year, the federal government passed a law that includes a national private school choice provision. As part of “One Big Beautiful Bill”, and signed by President Trump, this provision marks the first nationwide private school choice program funded by the federal government.

All over the country, school choices have increased over the last several decades. In fact, in just the last year alone, 60% of parents in the U.S. have searched for new schools. Many are overwhelmed because they want the very best opportunities for their children, but aren’t sure which choice would provide them. Parents can choose their neighborhood public schools, charter schools, private schools, virtual schools, or homeschooling for their children.

In this blog, we’ll look at a simple, side-by-side comparison of the most impactful differences between charter schools and private schools. We’ll compare:

  • Funding and Costs
  • Curriculum and Teaching Philosophy
  • Enrollment and Admissions
  • Accountability and Oversight
  • Teacher Certification Requirements

Definitions at a Glance

What is a charter school?

A charter school is a publicly funded school that is tuition-free for parents. It’s independently run and often provides scholars with an innovative curriculum that is not available in traditional public schools.

What is a private school?

A private school is an independently operated school that is privately funded — families must pay tuition for their children to attend. Some private schools are secular, and others are based on a set of religious tenets.

Funding and Costs of Charter vs. Private Schools

Charter schools are funded by the same government money that funds traditional public schools, except for local property taxes. Charter schools do not receive funds from property taxes or school levies. However, they do receive assistance in the form of grants, donations, and community support.

Private schools charge families tuition. Parents may use school vouchers to help pay the tuition; however, they usually do not cover all the costs incurred. Parents incur extra fees for the classroom, extracurricular activities, music programs, testing, technology, textbooks and supplies, transportation, and uniforms.

Curriculum and Teaching Philosophy

One of the reasons charter schools have become such a magnet in recent years is their innovative and unique curricula. Unavailable in the traditional schools, scholars in charter schools immerse themselves in a fine arts curriculum, or Classical Education, or a STEM-focused ideology, just to name three examples. There are many more teaching philosophies and focuses within our charter schools. Even though these curricula have a different emphasis than that of traditional schools, they do align with state standards and offer studies in core subjects.

The Leman Academy of Excellence is an example of a charter school thriving with a Classical Education approach in teaching. This time-tested approach, used since the days of the ancient Greeks and only changed at the beginning of the 20th century, immerses scholars in classical literature, Socratic discussions, and practices in rhetoric. Leman Academy is a K-8 charter school with campuses in Arizona and Colorado, and has a virtual school available to any student residing in Arizona.

On the other hand, private schools are not required to follow the state’s curriculum, but have the freedom to design their own. However, they must adhere to the same operational standards that apply to traditional school districts. Their curricula and philosophies vary from school to school. For example, some private high schools are focused on college-preparatory education, and others are more focused on a science-oriented curriculum. Others are affiliated with a particular religion and include studies in theology.

With such a variety of schools to choose from, parents desiring the best for their children have many options to consider.

Enrollment and Admissions

Once parents have chosen the school they believe will be the best fit for their child, they will need to consider the school’s enrollment and admissions requirements. These also differ between charter and private schools.

Most charter schools have an open-enrollment policy, which means they will accept scholars from anywhere in their state, unlike traditional public schools, in which scholars are assigned to their neighborhood school.

If the demand for a space in the school is high, charter schools select scholars based on a lottery system, and most charter schools have a waiting list when the school has been filled to capacity. The lottery system ensures a random selection. Thus, charter schools are populated by scholars from many different backgrounds.

The Leman Academy of Excellence is a charter school highly sought out by parents in Arizona and Colorado. With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, Mesa, and Sierra Vista in Arizona and Parker in Colorado, along with a virtual school available statewide in Arizona, Leman Academy is highly accessible for families.

In contrast, private schools are selective in their admissions. They may require interviews and admissions tests. In general, private school populations will not be as diversified as charter and traditional schools. Before emotionally or financially investing in their choice of a private school, parents should thoroughly investigate the school’s enrollment and admissions policies. Since they’re selective, even after adhering to the requirements, there isn’t a guarantee that their children will be accepted.

Accountability and Oversight

The main difference between charter and private schools as to what is taught and how well scholars are learning is who is governing them.

Charter schools answer to their state board of education. In this way, they have the same criteria to meet as the traditional public schools. But in addition, many also have to be accountable to another authorizing board specific to state charter schools. For example, in Arizona, charter schools must meet the criteria of both the Arizona State Board of Education and the Arizona State Board of Charter Schools. School metrics are reported and posted publicly for the community by these governing boards.

However, private schools are not held accountable by their state; there is no public oversight required of them regarding their curricula, teacher certification, and testing standards. But private schools do have to adhere to the state’s oversight regarding scholars’ health and safety and meet minimum operational standards. And, as per federal law, they’re not supposed to discriminate against people based on race, religion, ethnicity, or disability. Having said that, private schools are selective regarding who is admitted.

Teacher Certification Requirements

All teachers in the traditional school districts are required by their state to have received teacher certification. Certificates are given to individuals who have completed teacher training and/or are experts in the subjects they teach.

Out of the U.S., 37 states require teaching certification for charter school teachers. A school’s charter, however, may contain a waiver in the charter contract for state certification, as is the case in Colorado. Regardless, most charter schools do require a bachelor’s degree, and like traditional schools, they will hire teachers who are experts in their field. But 13 states don’t have to comply with a certification standard.

Teachers aren’t required to hold a teaching degree in the private school setting. The criteria they must meet vary from school to school, depending on the school’s focus and educational philosophy.

If you’re a parent considering a school choice, it’s important to consider the training, experience, and professional development opportunities of the school’s teaching staff.

Why a Charter School May be the Right Choice for Your Family

Charter schools are less selective than private schools and do not require tuition. They offer innovative curricula, have well-trained teachers, and are more accountable to authorizing bodies of oversight than traditional schools. It’s worth it to explore the different charter schools in your area to find one that fits your child’s needs, talents, and skills.

The Leman Academy of Excellence, with its Classical Education approach, helps students develop critical thinking skills, leadership skills, confidence, and a solid foundation in academics. It’s a tuition-free school with several campuses throughout Arizona and Colorado.

Final Thoughts

As a parent, it’s important to explore all the options available for your child. Consider your child’s needs, your family values, and educational priorities. Look into the school choices in your area, and find out what they have to offer. When you have investigated the choices available, you’ll find the right fit for your family.

Explore Leman Academy Campuses or Request More Information about Leman.

Simplified Summary

This article explains the differences between charter schools and private schools so families can better understand their options.

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Colorado is home to one of the most extensive school-choice landscapes in the country. Parents seeking a school to match their children’s needs and styles of learning can choose between traditional public schools, charter schools, private institutions, online programs, and homeschooling. As an open enrollment state, scholars can enroll across district boundaries to attend the school of their choice. 

In nearly all cases, the driving factor for school choice is the underperformance of neighborhood district schools. Charter schools outperform traditional public schools in state assessments, including those in high-poverty areas. Since charter schools are also tuition-free public schools, families are withdrawing their children from traditional schools to enroll them in one of Colorado’s 269 charter schools. 

Charter schools teach the core subjects as required by the state, but each school is free to design its own curriculum and pedagogies. Also, with fewer scholars in their classes, they receive more time and attention. Thus, with flexibility in educational design and smaller class sizes, parents find these schools to be a better match for their children’s needs.

This blog will highlight the differences between traditional and charter schools and explain why a charter education would be advantageous for your child. You’ll read about:

  • Charter Schools vs. Traditional Public Schools: Key Differences
  • Higher Academic Standards and Student Success
  • Personalized Learning and Smaller Classes
  • A Focus on Charter Education and Stronger School Culture
  • Addressing Colorado’s Educational Challenges
  • Why More Families are Choosing Charter Schools

Charter Schools vs. Traditional Public Schools: Key Differences

Grant, Seth, and Sydney live on the same suburban street, but they all attend different charter schools. Grant, a sixth-grader, spends most of his time absorbed in science, technology, engineering, and math in a STEM-based curriculum at his school. 

Seth, who benefits best from tactile and hands-on materials, learns with a Montessori program in his school. 

Sydney attends a classical education charter school where she studies humanities and applies critical thinking and problem-solving skills in her learning journey. 

Each child attends a charter school, but their paths of learning differ widely because charter schools are free to design their own teaching approaches.

In contrast, traditional public schools must work with a rigid curriculum in which certain subjects are taught a certain way. Teachers don’t have the class time to explore innovative teaching methods. In their classrooms, one size must fit all. 

You might be wondering how charter schools are held accountable since they have these freedoms. The Colorado Charter School Institute (CSI) contracts with the state’s charter schools. These contracts grant autonomy in areas like curriculum and staffing, but require them to meet specific academic, financial, and organizational obligations to ensure their responsibility for student outcomes. 

Another major difference between the two types of schools is that charters consistently demonstrate higher proficiency on state assessments in English Language Arts and Math. Showing up to a 5% lead on the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS), scholars are mastering these subjects. 

A final key difference is the manner in which their education is funded. In Colorado, The Public School Finance Act ensures funding for both types of schools. They both receive state funding based on Per Pupil Operating Revenue, which is determined using the enrollment numbers from each school. 

Financial support for traditional schools is supplied via a combination of state funds and local revenue, including property taxes. Traditional schools also have access to local bond measures and levies that support capital projects such as school maintenance and the construction of new schools. 

In contrast, charter schools don’t receive property tax funds. Instead, the state provides additional support to offset the difference. Nor can charter schools hold levies for capital support. 

They do, however, receive grants and donations from corporations, organizations, and individuals, which provide an additional boost to their financial base. 

Even though charter schools have different funding structures than traditional schools, they are tuition-free public schools and are free for scholars to attend. 

Higher Academic Standards and Student Success

Scholars at The Leman Academy of Excellence, with campuses in Arizona and Colorado, have shown tremendous success in their standardized test scores for 2025. In Parker, Colorado, 57% of scholars achieved a proficiency level or higher in reading, surpassing the state average of 45%. In mathematics, 40% of Leman’s scholars were proficient compared to the state average of 32%. 

How are Leman Academy’s scholars able to perform so well? There are several reasons. Here are a few: 

  • With a rigorous Classical Education model, scholars at Leman follow the Trivium, which includes the Grammar stage for ages 5-11 and the Logic stage for ages 12-14. Leman’s schools teach grades K-8, but scholars are adequately prepared for the Rhetoric stage in their high school years. 
  • Leman also offers a unique approach to mathematics; scholars begin the first grade level of math in their kindergarten years. By eighth grade, they’re studying Algebra I, which is normally covered in the freshman year of high school. 
  • Debate classes and the study of logic occur during the Logic stage of the Trivium, when scholars learn the art of reasoning and argument. With a focus on critical thinking, they become independent thinkers and effective communicators. 
  • The Classical Education model incorporates the Socratic Method of teaching. It challenges scholars to learn new information, delving deeply into subjects, by asking questions and leading discussions. 
  • Lastly, Leman’s Classical Education approach encourages academic achievement with the Trivium through its integrated studies in humanities, philosophy, literature, mathematics, science, and languages. Leman ranks in the top 30% of public schools in Colorado, reflecting the school’s commitment to academic excellence. 

Personalized Learning and Smaller Class Sizes

Many charter schools place a cap on enrollment to ensure smaller class sizes. In this way, teachers can spend more one-on-one time with their scholars. This way, they’re better able to identify their challenges and learning styles more easily. In a classroom with fewer students, teachers can provide customized support for those who need more help and those who need more advanced material. 

In addition to smaller classes, charter schools are free to design their own curricula to align with their individual philosophy or teaching method. Teachers practice innovative teaching and personalized learning, giving scholars abundant opportunities to learn at their best. 

The impact of a personalized education in a charter school can be felt for a lifetime. Follow these two charter school alumni to understand how it affected them: 

  1. When Maya was 17 years old, she enrolled in New Dawn Charter High School in Brooklyn, New York. Prior to her enrollment, she was behind in credits and struggled with attendance. Her experience in a traditional large class left her feeling disconnected and alone. But Maya discovered a completely different atmosphere at New Dawn. There, she received tailored support and mentorship, individualized learning plans, and flexible scheduling. Not only did Maya catch up academically, but she began to enjoy learning again. 
  2. In 2017, scholar Raven Osborne earned a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University Northwest a few weeks before graduating from high school. He attended 21st Century Charter School in Gary, Indiana, and with a combination of personalized education plans and dual credits earned in high school, he received his high school and college diplomas in the same season. 

Every scholar has his or her individual strengths. Charter school teachers are better able to encourage them to develop their strengths and make the most of their time in school. 

A Focus on Character Education and a Stronger School Culture

Scholars spend an average of 32.5 hours each week in school. In the school setting, they engage with many other people at any given time, creating an environment ideally suited to learning how to be kind, ethical, and supportive people. Character education, the building of core values such as respect, honesty, responsibility, fairness, and compassion, gives scholars a moral compass to guide their behavior both in and out of the classroom. 

Young people enrolled at The Leman Academy of Excellence follow six virtues that are woven into the curriculum and daily interactions: caring, citizenship, perseverance, respect, responsibility, and trustworthiness. Along with these virtues, scholars study moral dilemmas within classical literature and historical texts, which lead them to a deep understanding of ethical principles. 

At Leman, parents are considered “partners” in their children’s learning. As a cornerstone of student success, parental involvement has a healthy impact on their children’s academic and character growth.

Addressing Colorado’s Educational Challenges

If you live in Colorado and you’re exploring school choice options, discovering what charter schools have to offer your children may be your solution to underperforming traditional schools. Given the benefits of the attention teachers can give your child, an interesting and challenging curriculum, and a strong emphasis on academics and character development, your children might thrive in a charter school environment. 

Furthermore, charter schools can extend their access to quality education to communities that face barriers to scholastic resources, such as well-funded schools and libraries. They are geographically dispersed throughout Colorado, serving families in over 70 regions in urban, suburban, and rural areas. A wide distribution of charter schools allows families from low-income areas to have school choices.  

A tremendous amount of support for Colorado’s charter schools comes from the state’s governor, Jared Polis. His commitment to school choice is seen in his opposition to House Bill 24-1363, which would weaken school choice. Revoking and not renewing some existing charters, this bill threatened to weaken charter schools’ ability to appeal local school board decisions to the state board and eliminate waivers to certain state statutes. Facing wild opposition from parents, school administrators and other charter school advocates, the bill was defeated by an 8-3 vote. 

As you can see, the communities and the government in Colorado strongly support your choice of a charter school education for your children.  

Why More Families are Choosing Charter Schools 

As traditional schools struggle to provide a quality education, Colorado has witnessed an accelerated demand for charter school education. From 2011 to 2022, the number of students enrolled in charter schools increased 65% and continues to do so. Let’s hear why they chose charter schools:

“My son Griffin was falling through the cracks in the large school setting of our district school.  But, after enrolling him in the Denver School of Science and Technology, he experienced a smaller class size and hands-on structure that significantly increased his academic performance. His younger brother, who struggled with math, earned high academic honors in mathematics at DSST.” 

— Denver Parent

“A parent at French American School of Denver values the school’s dual language immersion program. Marie Elalem shared that her son wakes up excited to attend school daily, thriving in the French immersion environment. Another parent highlighted the school’s creative projects and global perspective, noting the unique opportunity for their child to learn a second language in a tuition-free setting.”  

— From the Community

If you would like to enroll your child in one of Colorado’s impressive charter schools, first find out the enrollment procedures and dates of your chosen school. Once you’ve applied, if the amount of applications exceeds the number of seats available, the school will use a random lottery to fairly select the candidates for open spots. After that, any child not selected will be put on a waitlist. 

The Leman Academy of Excellence hosts open enrollment that typically runs from November 1 to the end of December each year. For the year 2025, an open enrollment is also held January 22 until August 2, 2025. To enroll in Leman, go to the Douglas County School District (DCSD) open-enrollment page and set up an account. Use the portal to select The Leman Academy of Excellence as your school of choice. 

Conclusion

Public education in Colorado is improving with the increasing demand for charter schools. 

Take advantage of Colorado’s school choice landscape and find the best school for your children. You’ll be setting them off onto a lifelong path of opportunity, achievement, and success. 

Learn More About Leman Academy and How It Provides a High-Quality, Tuition-Free Education in Colorado!

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