Four day school week (Tues-Fri, 7:30-3:30). Christ-Centered, while welcoming students of all faiths.
Expeditionary Learning style of teaching, including project-based studies.
Outdoor Expeditions for K-8th including backpacking, rock climbing, xc skiing, snow shoeing, and hiking.
Emphasis on character formation and spiritual development. At less than a third of the cost of the state average, DPCA is a worthy investment in your child's future.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 104 students
- Yearly Tuition: $5,500
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1982
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
104 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
5%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
9 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
12:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
25%
Average Class Size
12 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition ranges from $3245 for Kindergarten to $6022 for Middle School
% on Financial Aid
50%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$2,300
Acceptance Rate
95%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Ashley Blazer
Admissions Associate
Lauren Mills
Application URL
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Arts and Music Programs:
Music
Music
School Notes
- DPCA understands both the amazing opportunities and challenging aspects of raising a family in a small town because we have been partnering with parents to grow strong kids here for over 35 years. When choosing a school for your child, you may not have the plethora of options as you would in a city here in Chaffee County, but you will quickly find that DPCA`s unique offerings stands out among options across the nation.
- As an exemplary school in the Christian Expeditionary Learning movement, DPCA offers truly excellent academics that prepare students for future success in continued education, career opportunities, healthy lifestyles, and in becoming agents of good in the world. Our exceptional staff are leaders in learning and are dedicated to guiding students in their studies in order to develop an authentic love of learning. With hands-on curriculum that is active, engaging, and actually fun, students look forward to coming to school each day.
- We compliment our rigorous academics with unforgettable adventures focused on character formation, spiritual development, and teaching students technicals skills for how to engage with the outdoors. Four times a year, each class has the opportunity to backpack, rock climb, xc ski, snow shoe, and hike together. Don't take our word for it, though - OutdoorLeaders.com rated DPCA as one of the top Outdoor Programs in the nation... and our parents love seeing their kids thrive on these adventures!
- You don`t have to choose between the lifestyle benefits of raising your family in a beautiful, mountain town and the educational opportunities found in a city. As the #1 Christian Expeditionary Learning school in Colorado, we provide the highest quality education right here in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley. Feel confident that you are setting your child up to discover an authentic love of learning and life of opportunity by enrolling DPCA today. Visit www.dpcaweb.org to learn more.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Darren Patterson Christian Academy cost?
Darren Patterson Christian Academy's tuition is approximately $5,500 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Darren Patterson Christian Academy?
The acceptance rate of Darren Patterson Christian Academy is 95%, which is higher than the national average of 83%.
When is the application deadline for Darren Patterson Christian Academy?
The application deadline for Darren Patterson Christian Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Darren Patterson Christian Academy. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
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