+1.612.823-0154

1219 University Ave. SE Minneapolis, MN 55414

​​​Gaia Democratic​ school​

Gaia Democratic School provides a multi age environment for learning together in fun and freedom. We strive to create a school that: -celebrates and honors each individual and the community as a whole --is anti-oppression, anti-racist,  -is inclusive of learning diversity and needs -is "Full Spectrum" in regards to respecting all community members' gender identities, neurodiversity and learning styles. We promote cooperative and self-directed learning, academic freedom, social justice, youth rights, environmental stewardship, and of course, democratic education. Flexible options, small groups and individualized plans are always part of the deal at Gaia. Gaia Democratic School admits students and hires staff of any race, color, religion, gender, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, national and ethnic origin and accords to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to all students at the school. GDS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, national or ethnic origin or any other reason.

2024-25 Gaia Democratic School (GDS) Tuition Policy
Tuition amounts are set based on need and follow a sliding scale type system. Full tuition is $850./month ($8,500. per year) minimum tuition is 225./monthly ($2,250. per year). Minimum Tuition Waivers are available so that families may apply for any amount of tuition reduction. Gaia does not turn students away over financial status or ability to pay full tuition. 

Tuition is per student and is usually billed over ten months (September through June) unless other arrangements are made.
Students/Families who cannot afford full tuition should submit an Application for Reduced Tuition. Reduced tuition is awarded based on need, requires proof of income, and must be approved by the GDS Finance Committee. Deadlines may apply. Gaia will send a Tuition Agreement to each family before the school year (or before enrollment) begins. It must be signed and returned.

If you need to change your Tuition Agreement, make any special arrangements for payment, or have any questions regarding tuition, please contact the GDS Finance Committee in writing via email at Finance@GaiaDemocratic.org or by mail. You may need to reapply for a change in terms.
Withdrawal: We require a 30 day notice in writing to discontinue enrollment and tuition charges.
Late Payment/Returned Check: Tuition is usually due on or before the first day of each month. Payments received more than 5 days late will be assessed a $5.00 late fee unless other arrangements are made. There is a returned check fee of $10.00.  

Past Due Tuition: It is important to communicate with the Finance Committee if you are having trouble paying tuition. Lack of payment without adequate communication with GDS may cause your student to be removed from our student list.

Admission & Tuition information
Gaia Democratic School welcomes new students and families!

Apply online here:
https://forms.gle/aCqMznQ9tFPqcsLx9

Note: Reduced Tuition Applications require a separate form.
Each student adds dimension to our culture, diversity to our community, and energy to our school. Our school values the innate originality and potential in each person and honors each student's individual learning needs. Our school aims to provide students with a safe, intellectually nourishing, and socially positive environment based on academic freedom and community problem solving. Our community recognizes the importance of individual freedom, mutual aid and respect, and putting democratic principles into practice.

Gaia Democratic School is entirely independent and relies on tuition as our main source of income. However, we encourage you to explore our unique school regardless of your income.

Our application process is designed to ensure that Gaia Democratic School is a healthy match for prospective students and the principles that guide the school are in alignment with what students and families need. 
We accept applications any time of the year.

Process of enrollment:

To apply, please use this link: https://forms.gle/aCqMznQ9tFPqcsLx9
1. If needed, contact us via email or phone with general questions and/or to set up a tour. Submit an Application for Admission (online or hardcopy) and any other appropriate forms and information.  
2. If Application is submitted during school year, the prospective Student is invited to visit during the school day and is introduced/announced to community at a School Meeting.
3. If an Application for Tuition Reduction is submitted, the Finance Committee will review as soon as possible and set up a tuition agreement.
4. Offer of enrollment is made.

Or you can download the pdfs below to print. Then complete the application and email/mail it to us:
Gaia Democratic School, 1219 University Ave. SE Minneapolis, MN 55414
School@GaiaDemocratic.org or GaiaDemocratic@gmail.com    For general info or questions use this form: 

Gaia Democratic School admits students of any race, color, religion, gender, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, national and ethnic origin and provides to all students the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available at the school. GDS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, national and ethnic origin or any other reason.