SOLA offers an engaging thematic curriculum, integrated academics and immersive, expeditionary learning experiences that invite middle & high school learners into meaningful relationship with themselves, others and the world around them. 

An Enlivened Learning Experience for ages 12-18

SOLA students develop healthy, abiding relationships with learning, which prepare them- heart, hands, and head- to confidently enter life after high school & fully engage their chosen life-path.  Enlivened academics are offered through thematic lesson topics, and a weekly rhythm of academic focus classes support that a holistic understanding of subjects while challenging students to grow and deepen their understanding.  Emerging life skills are encouraged through global travel as a group, deep relational learning and skilled mentorship.  Internships and apprenticeships engage students' passions and curiosities as they gather real-life experience of their artistic, professional or vocational interests. 

 SOLA's biologically compassionate start-time  (9:15am) and daily rhythm allow space for contemplative practice & self inquiry, while our integrated, thematic curriculum, internships, international travel experiences, and flexible enrollment options provide an expanded field of learning unlike any other. 

Academic SKILLS Classes

In addition to thematic lessons, SOLA students participate in ‘academic skills classes’ throughout the year, engaging secondary schooling academics through lecture, practice, independent work, test/quiz taking skills, and inquiry/feeedback. Skills classes often use textbooks or course-books, and are offered in shorter, 40-60 minute sessions, 2-3 times per week. Through these classes, students will become comfortable with, and receive an authentic context for, more traditional classroom methodologies, while also gaining an understanding of the limitations inherent in linear, quantitative methods of assessment. 

Cultural Immersion & Life Skills

Our SOLA students are offered a unique opportunity to develop important life skills and experience themselves as cultural beings within a global culture through our Global Presencing Cultural Immersion programs. Each year, SOLA students work together to raise funds for their trip to established international and domestic venues. These expeditionary learning experiences are guided by skilled mentors, teachers and expeditionary educators, who encourage group synergy and support the students’ development of important life skills that will carry them through their adventure, and into adult life beyond. 

Internships & Electives

SOLA’s internships and elective courses take place on our campus and at local artistic and professional venues. These immersive classes are offered in trimesters, with an option to extend the duration of the learning experience.  Our list of learning relationships in the Asheville community expands and changes each year.  Is their a topic not listed that you’d like to learn more about? Tell us about it, and we will support you to create a new learning relationship!