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Portland Adventist Academy Photo #1 - Celebrate with prayer

Portland Adventist Academy

1500 SE 96th Avenue
Portland, OR 97216
Portland Adventist Academy (PAA) is a Christ-centered, college preparatory high school where students are known by name and loved for who they are.
With a close-knit community of approximately 175 students, PAA offers a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where students can grow academically, spiritually, and socially.
We believe every student is created with a purpose, and our mission is to help them discover it.
Being small allows us to do something special: really know our students, not just their names and grades, but their stories, their struggles, and their dreams.
That kind of care shapes everything we do, from a diverse range of classes and academic programs to athletics, the arts, and mission trips halfway around the world.
Students are challenged to go beyond their required coursework and become creative, original, and disciplined thinkers, while growing into leaders who are ready to make a difference.
Our seniors consistently score high on national academic tests, opening doors to scholarships, and more than 90% go on to college each year.
Our teachers don't just teach subjects; they invest in students.
Our students don't just earn diplomas; they grow into young men and women of faith, character, and purpose.
Whether a student comes to PAA already rooted in faith or still asking big questions, they'll find a community that welcomes them, challenges them, and walks with them every step of the way. This is more than a school.
It's a family, and every student who walks through our doors becomes part of it.

Quick Facts (2026)

  • Top-Ranked OR School
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: 170 students
  • Average class size: 16 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Upcoming Events and News

  •  - 06/05/2026
    Historic state championship win
  •  - 05/27/2026
    Celebrating PAA community
  •  - 01/21/2026
    PAA's commitment to developing musicians and music leaders
  •  - 11/04/2025
    Portland Adventist Academy is proud to have an auto mechanics class as part of the curriculum. Learning basic auto mechanic knowledge and skills is something countless students have appreciated.
  •  - 10/12/2025
    PAA Girls volleyball and Boys soccer teams take the tournament championships.
  •  - 10/08/2025
    Celebration of state champion boys 2015 soccer team.
  •  - 08/07/2025
    History of athletics and faith at PAA
  •  - 07/17/2025
    In a time when arts programs are being cut in many schools, PAA has chosen to strengthen its commitment to art-infusing it with technology, cross-disciplinary learning, and practical life skills.
  •  - 03/06/2025
    A series of inspiring reflections that reflect the strength and wisdom of young hearts grounded in faith.
  •  - 09/29/2024
    Playing, working and worshiping together, visitors and hosts found opportunities to encourage each other's faith and to grow stronger together.
  •  - 03/06/2023
    An international student shares how PAA changed their lives.
  •  - 06/20/2022
    Senior Christian Lambert wins 2022 best high school film Sonny award at Sonscreen Film Festival.
  • ...read more

Top Rankings

Portland Adventist Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Oregon for:

Category
Attribute
School History

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1910
Colors
Blue, Gold
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
First Day of School
Mon. Aug 24, 2026
Last Day of School
Fri. Jun 11, 2027
Campus Size
15 acres

Student Body

Total Students
170 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
49%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
16 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.:
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
88%
Average Class Size
16 students
Number of AP/Advanced Courses
13 courses
List of Courses Offered
AP/Advanced Courses
AP Calculus ABAP Computer Science Principles
AP English Language & CompositionAP English Literature & Composition
AP PrecalculusAP Psychology
AP World HistoryDual Credit Anatomy & Physiology
Dual Credit Engineering ProjectsDual Credit Spanish
Media Arts College Portfolio Projects & PreparationMusic Performance & Production
Visual Arts College Portfolio Projects & Preparation
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
A prerequisite to classroom attendance includes dress that reflect standards of excellence: modesty, simplicity, cleanliness and safety.

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Tuition increases by 3% on average. Need-based student aid is available to families. If finances are a concern, please contact us. Generous donors help ensure that cost is not a barrier to enrollment.
% on Financial Aid
60%
Admissions Director
Mary Sperl
Admissions Associate
Mechelle Peinado
Application URL

Sports

Total Sports Offered
6 sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
14 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Book ClubCampus Ministries
Honor SocietyMission Trips
Praise & Worship BandSociedad Honoraria Hispanica


Arts and Music Programs:
Alegria (select choir)Art Club
BandChoir
Hand BellsString Orchestra


Recreational Athletic Programs:
Rock Climbing ClubWinter Ski/Snowboard Club

School Notes

  • School Motto: Christ Centered — Character Driven
  • School Mascot: Cougar
  • All potential students are required to complete an online application. Once the application, application fee and three references are received, they are reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Upon acceptance by the committee, a letter is sent to the student with information on the remainder of the enrollment process. Call 971-351-8984 for information.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Portland Adventist Academy offer a summer program?
Yes, Portland Adventist Academy offers a summer program. Visit their for more information.
What sports does Portland Adventist Academy offer?
Portland Adventist Academy offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball and Volleyball.
What is Portland Adventist Academy's ranking?
Portland Adventist Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Oregon for: Highest percentage of students of color, Most extracurriculars offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Portland Adventist Academy?
The application deadline for Portland Adventist Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Portland Adventist Academy located?
Portland Adventist Academy is located in the Hazelwood neighborhood of Portland, OR. There are 2 other private schools located in Hazelwood.

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (9 reviews)
5  
"We love Portland Adventist Academy! Seeing our daughter thrive here has been such a blessing. Whether she's on the court/field for one of her three varsity sports or on stage singing for chapel, she feels supported and seen. The teachers aren't just educators; they are mentors who she genuinely loves and respects. If you're looking for a school that balances top-tier athletics, arts, and a Christ-centered education, this is it."
- Posted by
5  
I am writing both as an alumni and as a parent of three high school graduates from Portland Adventist Academy. I could not be more proud of the experience and the education provided by this institution. The school environment is loving and kind and the students and staff are amazing. The program has a great breadth of offerings for their school size and the staff are not only well trained but oftentimes overqualified and yet they have committed to being educators at PAA. The community that PAA creates is unique and I could not imagine my children navigating their high school years at a better institution. I recommend without any reservations PAA as a top option for your high school aged children!
- Posted by
5  
PAA is an amazing school with excellent staff. As a Christian high school, they incorporate spirtuality into many aspects without being judgey or preachy. They care about each student and are happy to help the "good" students that wouldn't necessarilty get time and attention at public school. PAA has a great program with lots of extracurricular activities such as music, a robust art program. and even auto mechanics. They also have advanced placement classes for students earn dual credit for college. I would highly recommend PAA to parents of high schoolers who don't want their child to be just another number.
- Posted by
5  
Teaching at PAA reignited my love for education in a way I never expected. The atmosphere of PAA -- the progressive autonomy the educators exercise, the incredible support the administration gives, and the genuine, Christian love the students receive -- encourages growth for both the students and their teachers. I never thought I would have a career I would genuinely look forward to going to every single day, but here we are. PAA empowers the students to develop a sincere passion and enthusiasm for learning and a love for each other. The difference that PAA is making across the campus is palpable every day, and it is a blessed honor to be a part of that.
- Posted by
5  
Both of my children attended PAA. Perhaps the school's greatest strength is that both were universally loved and valued by their teachers and support staff. Recently my son, now graduated, went out of his way to connect with the school's Facilities Manager (AKA, "maintenance man") because of the caring and impact he had made on my son's life. Incredible!
- Posted by
5  
I have two students who have attended Portland Adventist Academy, one who has graduated and the other currently enrolled. I cannot say enough positives about the staff and how they not only academically challenge my students but care for their physical and emotional wellbeing. As a family we have experience with several private Christian schools and Portland Adventist is by far our favorite. We are deeply grateful for the commitment of the staff and their dedication to our students.
- Posted by
5  
My son is a freshman at PAA and is loving his time at the school. He feels like he is accepted, belongs, and is connected with his classmates and teachers. There seems to be a great sense of community among the students. He is being challenged in his classes, but also supported by his teachers. For a school PAA's size, they seem to offer a lot. They have an amazing music and art program , offer a variety of sports, multiple electives and AP classes. Plus, he has already been able to participate in multiple extracurricular activities. What I have noticed most though is the caring nature of the staff. From the front office, to the teachers, to the administration, they all seem to genuinely be concerned about my son. It feels so reassuring to know there are other adults speaking into his life spiritually, academically, and emotionally to give him the support so he can thrive in his first year of high school. If you are looking for a school that offers solid academics, a caring staff, and a strong community environment among the students, then I you may want to check out PAA!
- Posted by
5  
Our family moved to the Portland area and looked for a private school for our three kids. After looking at schools that were beautiful on the outside, but lacking on the inside, we chose Portland Adventist Academy. The building itself is older, but wow, the staff and class offerings are wonderful. The variety of courses and small class sizes has allowed my children to thrive and try activities that we usually pay for when on vacations! Pottery, woodworking, a recording studio, anatomy labs, auto mechanics, and lots of AP classes have prepared my kids for university and life skills, too. They have a leadership program that promotes teamwork and takes the junior class to central Oregon for orienteering and rock climbing at Smith Rocks for four days. I highly recommend checking them out.
- Posted by
5  
I am so grateful that my high schoolers attended PAA. What an amazing school! My students grew spiritually. The staff disciples the students to know Jesus and choose to have a personal relationship with Him. The teachers and staff love the students. They get to know them and have great relationships with them. It is obvious to the students that they are cared about. The academics are excellent. Both my students took several classes for college credit, AP and dual credit, during their time at PAA. They thought the teachers were interesting and effective and there was a lot of variety in teaching styles across the classes. My kids graduated very prepared for university. They got lots of support and help in college preparation and planning, especially their senior years. There are a lot of intersting elective classes and clubs and activities. My students were involved in many ways and made great friends and had a lot of fun. After school, in addition to athletics, there were several clubs they could be part of and a lot of spiritual programming as well as fun, student life opportunities. There are a lot of music classes for all types of music interest and skill levels. Just a lot is offered. My kids loved the culture and community in the school. Students were kind and and caring and supportive of each other. The school culture is very accepting. Everyone was included. Not just staff, but other students, wouldn't tolerate bullying. The school is very diverse. Students come from many backgrounds and cultures. My high school students had a wonderful high school experience. I am very grateful for what PAA provided.
- Posted by

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Quick Facts (2026)

  • Top-Ranked OR School
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: 170 students
  • Average class size: 16 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Portland, OR is $14,492 for elementary schools and $18,942 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Portland, OR is 79% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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