A rendering of an outdoor area at Comenius Academy, looking to find a location in Appleton. (Courtesy: Comenius Academy)
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Comenius Academy is looking to be the newest private school addition to the greater Appleton Area.
According to co-founders Bill Ryan and Dennis Episcopo, the non-denominational Christian academy’s motto is “soul first, future ready.”
“In this school, we want to model and create a culture where these kids really develop a walk with God, a relationship with God,” Episcopo explained. “That’s why we said, ‘Yes, we’re going to educate them well. But it’s really about soul first.’”
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are currently 18 private schools in Outagamie County. What makes Comenius Academy special?
“Academic excellence. Excellence in world class is the hallmark of what this school is going to be,” said Ryan. “So, certainly college-bound, but also, Dennis mentioned the trades. This will also be a trade school. In fact, we’re going to zero right in on agriculture being one of the cornerstones of that program.”
According to the founders, the school’s K-12 pricing will align closely with Wisconsin choice schools, with high school seniors coming in at $13,500 a year. Lower grades would cost around $10,500.
The school will offer scholarships for students, as well as a hybrid schedule at a lower cost for those who would be attending the school part-time.
Jeremy and Annie Beyersdorf say they’re planning on sending their children to Comenius once it opens.
“For families like us who don’t necessarily have a school that is affiliated with their church denomination, this fills a gap,” said Annie.
The Beyersdorfs have three children under 10 years old and say the mission of the school resonates with them.
“Really building that foundation of having kids be surrounded with likeminded individuals looking for that soul first,” Jeremy said. “And then also really preparing them for the future.”
While the school still hasn’t nailed down a location for its campus, it plans to open in fall 2028.
Community discussions will be held this Sunday and again March 11 at the Hilton Paper Valley in Appleton.
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