Alzar School

Empowering experiences in the mountains of Idaho and Patagonia, Chile prime students for a lifetime of leadership.

Alzar School offers an intersection of engaging academics, cultural exchange, and outdoor adventure. Students learn to lead; catalyzing their own lives and impacting the world around them.

Engaging Academics

Alzar School challenges students through an engaging curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses, designed to nurture minds, broaden their perspectives and deepen an understanding of the world. During Alzar School’s semester program, students tackle their traditional high school classes in exciting non-traditional settings in Idaho and Patagonia, Chile.

Cultural Exchange

By traveling internationally, Alzar School offers a unique opportunity for its student to spend 5-6 weeks of the semester immersed in Chile. Surrounded in Patagonia's breathtaking geography, students explore and learn about this socially and ecologically rich country, its history, and its culture. Our student body encompasses students from all over the world– including Chilean students that live, explore and study with each cohort, providing a true two-way cultural exchange.

Outdoor Adventure

Our US campus is located on the North Fork of the Payette River, just over two miles downstream of the world-class Kelly’s Whitewater Park and seven miles upstream of the Class II-III whitewater Cabarton section. Our Idaho campus is surrounded by endless hiking trails for students to explore. While in Chile, students kayak crystal blue water and explore Patagonia's peaks. Over the course of the semester, students learn to backpack, kayak, raft, and more. No prior experience in any of these activities is required.

Alzar School Testimonials

Check out our latest alumni testimonials!

“[Alzar School was] the best semester of my life: learning from/being inspired by my peers and mentors all while spending my days on beautiful rivers and mountains. I’ve learned what it means to be a leader, be a follower, be independent, be aware of my surroundings and manage risk, amongst many other things. I find myself being grateful everyday to have been part of such a community”
– Charlotte, Alzar School, Fall 2012

“In attending Alzar School, I expected to change and grow generally. However, the broadening experience of a semester away significantly helped me focus my intentions and energy back home. I began to live not only the length and width of my life, but also the depth.”
– Isaac, Alzar School, Fall 2013

“I found what I was looking for this semester, and more. I found movement and an outlet for my pent up curiosity. [Alzar School] has given me the ability to transfer material I learned in the classroom to the real world.”
– Skye, Alzar School, Spring 2015