Nestled within the expansive wilderness of the Prescott National Forest lies a hidden gem: The Orme School. Established in 1929 by Chick and Minna Orme amidst the ranch school movement, Orme remains a beacon of unique educational ethos close to 100 years later. As drivers travel from Phoenix to Flagstaff on I-17, they unknowingly pass by this extraordinary place. Set against the backdrop of the sprawling 26,000-acre Orme Ranch, the school seamlessly blends academic rigor with ranching and sustainability traditions.
The student body of 100 fosters an intimate and diverse community, drawing students from across Arizona and around the globe. The Class of 2024 exemplifies the school’s success, with students hailing from the United States, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Poland, the UK, and Vietnam. A true testament to the power of this unique college-preparatory education, 100% of the members of this class were accepted into four-year colleges and universities, 100% were offered scholarships to attend their universities, and four members of this class were also offered 100% full-need (tuition and lodging) scholarships to attend their chosen schools!
Orme’s educational approach prioritizes personalized learning, with small class sizes averaging 8-10 students in a class and experiential education which utilizes the vast campus resources. Beyond academics, sustainability and environmental stewardship are integral to the curriculum, exemplified by the school’s thriving Burpee garden, orchard, and vineyard. Community engagement is fostered through various events and workshops, underscoring Orme’s commitment to holistic education.
Arizona residents form the backbone of the campus community and thanks to partner school tuition organizations, there are very generous scholarships available to Arizona students who wish to join this unique institution. The school year begins in late August and applications for grades 8-11 are currently open, offering prospective students an opportunity to join this exceptional and diverse school. To learn more about Orme and the admissions process, visit www.ormeschool.org
