Aria Plan in Prairie Ridge by Destiny Homes
Pella, IA 50219

I've moved about ten times as a kid - I could tell that some communities were nicer than others. Interestingly enough, when returning to former communities, this one made previous places - even the nicer ones - look pretty trashy. The school mostly reflects the community atmosphere as a whole. The staff is pretty great at this school - I was very frequently pleased with my teachers, and the guidance office is very open to communicating with students. Course levels are pretty reasonable. Teachers are generally knowledgeable - I would say that the STEM classes are just a little lacking compared to a few schools in my experience, but students seem to succeed and grow well enough.This school has a pretty wide range of opportunities for its small size. There are plenty of classes that appeal to upperclassmen preparing for undergraduate or trade schools (from farming to engineering). The school made it pretty easy for me to take a lot of electives during each semester. Electives seem to be the school's specialty. Athletics seemed really successful. I mainly focused on music. The orchestra is a little small and not very competitive in comparison to the band and choir, but most kids will find challenge (without feeling like they're drowning). Teachers here really pushed me to my limits with my best interests in mind. They spend way more time to teach than what they get paid for. My band teacher pulled me out of a math class once just to talk to me in his office to make sure that I was doing okay.The school's more diverse than it might seem. Most kids were friendly - you get some weirdos and knuckleheads, but that's just life on earth. This is one of the best schools for kids who follow dress code, don't steal misplaced phones, welcome new students, etc. Most forms of bullying are pretty stinkin' rare. My main complaint is that the cliques are strong here - students are generally outgoing and respectful, but the small town life means that most kids knew each other since 1st grade, so it's hard to be new. I was mostly a nomad in the cafeteria, but I made friends here and there, and I knew just about everyone in the school as friendly. That tightly-knit feel can be weird, so your first impression to a small group will affect the rest of high school... But trouble won't really be part of your experience unless you look for it. This is as clean, safe, and opportunity-rich as it gets, and my only other complaint is that many of the students may not realize it.

It offers many great opportunities for students and staff alike, with amazing teachers who help the students in their own time.