Olympia Regional Learning Academy: A Comprehensive Overview
Olympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA) stands as a unique and relatively new educational institution within the Olympia School District. Having completed its final construction in 2015, ORLA distinguishes itself by offering a diverse learning environment with high academic standards through its multiple programs. Located centrally in Thurston County, it provides a unique learning environment with high academic standards in 4 programs on site, and one that they administer. Through these diverse and innovative educational opportunities, students are empowered and prepared to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
A Hub of Diverse Educational Programs
ORLA's uniqueness lies in its diverse range of programs, each catering to different learning styles and educational goals. These include:
- ORLA Montessori: This program follows the Montessori model, featuring mixed-grade classrooms (K-2 and 3-5). It offers larger classrooms and increased paraeducator support compared to traditional classrooms. Enrollment is based on a lottery system. ORLA Montessori has limited bus service at Madison, Roosevelt and Garfield elementary schools. Currently, near the 64 busline.
- Homeschool Connect (hConnect): This program offers a la carte classes, both in-person and online, specifically designed for homeschool students. Enrollment requires an application and attendance at an information night. hConnect can only be transferred into at the beginning of the school year, and within 3 weeks of the beginning of the second semester of the year (usually in February).
- ORLA Online: Similar to hConnect, ORLA Online provides a la carte classes for homeschool students in both in-person and online formats. Enrollment is also application-based and requires attending an information night.
- Middle School Academy (MSA): MSA provides a personalized middle school experience for students in grades 6-8. All three grade levels learn together during integrated projects and field study work. For core subject classes, MSA consists of two learning cohorts, 6th grade and 7th/8th grade groups. The schedule for in-person instruction is Monday-Thursday, with hours varying with student work. Enrollment is by lottery.
- Freedom Farm: Administered by ORLA, the Freedom Farm program creates a high school experience that utilizes place-based learning and social justice as frameworks for education. This is a FULL TIME PROGRAM, with tentatively 2 cohorts in 2026-27. One cohort (FF2) will offer credit in ELA 10 or 11, US History, Geometry, PE, CTE Agro-ecology (Elective/Science), CTE Farm Management (Elective/CTE). The other will offer ELA 11 or 12, Civics / Social Studies Elective: The History of the Public Education System, Applied Art, Math Applications, Natural Resources (Science / CTE), Tend (Science / Elective). Enrollment is by application. The farm is a magical place, the staff are all deeply connected to the work happening there and the students. Smaller cohorts, and alternative learning styles are embraced.
Academic Performance and Student Demographics
The student population of Olympia Regional Learning Academy is 504 and the school serves K-12. Looking at academic performance, data indicates that 37% of ORLA students scored at or above the proficient level for math, while 72% achieved the same level in reading. When compared to the Olympia School District, ORLA students performed worse in math but better in reading. Across the state of Washington, ORLA also demonstrated lower proficiency in math but higher proficiency in reading. In Olympia School District, 59% of students tested at or above the proficient level for reading, and 49% tested at or above that level for math. In Washington, 50% of students tested at or above the proficient level for reading, and 41% tested at or above that level for math.
The student-teacher ratio at ORLA is 18:1, which is the same as that of the district. The student population is made up of 41% female students and 52% male students. The school enrolls 27% economically disadvantaged students. There are 27 equivalent full-time teachers and 0 full-time school counselors.
The school's demographic makeup reveals that White students comprise the largest group at 67.5%, followed by Hispanic/Latino students at 12.6% and students of Two or more races at 12.2%. Asian or Asian/Pacific Islander students make up 5.8%, while Black or African American students account for 1.5% and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander students represent 0.4%.
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Rankings and College Readiness
Olympia Regional Learning Academy is unranked in the National Rankings. Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college. U.S. News & World Report assesses schools based on student performance on state-required tests and internationally available exams such as AP® and IB exams.
The College Readiness Index is calculated based on AP/IB exam participation rates and the percentages of students achieving a passing score on at least one AP/IB exam.
School Resources and Staff
ORLA has 27 full-time equivalent teachers, with 100% holding certification. The student-teacher ratio is 18:1. However, the school currently has no full-time school counselors.
Opportunities within the Olympia School District
The Olympia School District offers various opportunities for students and families, including transfer requests and enrollment events. New and renewal transfer requests are now being accepted for the 2026-27 school year. Any student wishing to attend an Olympia School District school outside of their assigned area-including new out-of-district applicants and those seeking renewals-must apply for a transfer.
The district also hosts events such as "Countdown to Kindergarten" to welcome incoming students and families. All preschool families are invited to join us for fun activities! Learn ways to encourage STEM exploration with your child at home. Snacks and take home activities provided. Open to all preschool students and families.
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Legislative Priorities and Future Focus
The Olympia School District Board of Directors has adopted its legislative priorities for the 2026 session, guided by the district’s commitment to creating learning opportunities that result in success for all students. Through an intentional focus on student outcomes, the Board evaluates proposed legislation with an emphasis on student well-being, equity and future readiness. The district is proud of the schools and opportunities we provide for our students. Today’s reality, however, includes declining enrollment, rising costs and the end of federal relief funding.
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