Northwest Academy is downtown Portland's creative independent school, grades 6 through 12. The school's college preparatory program serves over 230 students in a dynamic urban environment where the city is an extension of the classroom. The unique curriculum partners rigorous academics and a passionate exploration of the arts. The small class size, with an average of 15 students per class, gives every student a voice. Northwest Academy teachers include former college instructors, professional artists, writers, and musicians. College credit is available for upper-division English, math, and advanced language classes through the PSU Challenge Program. Northwest Academy values individuality and intellectual curiosity and graduates articulate innovators and leaders. Northwest Academy is accredited by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS).