Aveson Global Leadership Academy: Preparing Future Leaders Through Arts, Academics, and Experiential Learning

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Aveson Global Leadership Academy (AGLA) empowers students in grades 6–12 through local and global experiential learning, an outstanding arts program, and a rigorous project-based approach that prepares them for college, careers, and life.

Top U.S. Charter School for the Arts

Creativity is at the heart of AGLA’s educational experience. Each semester, students choose from more than 30 elective courses, including gardening, stand-up comedy, drama, film analysis, sports, creative writing, robotics, journalism, visual arts, and global leadership. These diverse opportunities allow students to develop new skills, discover hidden talents, and fulfill college admission requirements.

Beyond the classroom, extracurricular activities such as musical theater productions and student-led interest clubs bring artistic passions to life. Whether painting, performing, or exploring the art of graffiti, students are encouraged to express themselves in a supportive, democratic community that celebrates creativity and individuality.

Rigorous Academic Program That Is College Ready

AGLA provides a transformative academic experience for students in grades 6–12 by combining core subjects—English, mathematics, science, history, and physical education—with personalized learning tailored to each student’s interests. Small class sizes and a dedicated advisory system help students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences while fostering critical thinking, independence, and personal growth.

Middle school students benefit from a structured rotation of classes, while high school students complete the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) A-G requirements, ensuring they are well prepared for the college application process.

College readiness is a top priority at AGLA. Students receive personalized guidance to build competitive resumes that stand out to college admissions counselors. Through the school’s unique Campus Road Trips, juniors participate in overnight visits to colleges and universities throughout California, accompanied by college staff and Aveson alumni. The school’s close-knit environment allows students to work closely with advisors to develop individualized college plans and confidently navigate the admissions process.

With a 90% graduation rate, AGLA graduates leave as confident, lifelong learners and leaders prepared for success in college and beyond. Alumni have earned acceptance to prestigious institutions including UCLA, UC Berkeley, Stanford University, New York University (NYU), Howard University, and the Parsons School of Design, among many others.

Experiential Learning and Leadership

Taking students beyond the four walls of the classroom is a cornerstone of the Aveson educational model. Through Rites of Passage trips, middle and high school students travel to destinations such as the Navajo Nation, Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, and Camp Fox on Catalina Island. While destinations vary each year, the purpose remains the same: to broaden perspectives, deepen understanding of the world, and cultivate the qualities of compassionate, informed leaders.

Weekly elective courses encourage students to explore their passions, discover new interests, and continue developing their unique talents.

AGLA also offers a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including volleyball, soccer, basketball, and flag football for middle school students, as well as debate for high school students. Drama productions, student ambassadors, and interest clubs are available to all students. Students are encouraged to propose new extracurricular activities, and AGLA actively explores opportunities to support those interests. One example is the school’s successful mountain biking team, which was created through student enthusiasm and strong parent involvement.

Every AGLA student also has the opportunity to participate in a Friday Externship. From early childhood education and bicycle shop management to the rapidly evolving electric vehicle industry, these hands-on experiences allow students to “try on” potential careers, discover new passions, and learn alongside professionals in the field. Students consistently report increased confidence, independence, meaningful connections, and excitement as they explore a wide range of career possibilities.

Discover how an AGLA education can help shape a successful future.

Ready to learn more? Families are invited to schedule a campus tour or explore AGLA’s social media channels for an inside look at the vibrant student experience and everything the academy has to offer.

Aveson Global Leadership Academy (AGLA), 300 Madre St., Pasadena CA 91007, 626-797-1438, or visit https://www.aveson.org/aveson-global-leadership-academy.