What Is It Known For?
Pinecrest Academy Cadence is recognized as an above-average public charter school located in Henderson, Nevada. Founded in August 2016, the school officially opened its doors for the 2016-2017 school year, initially serving grades K-9. Since its inception, the institution has expanded its scope, now providing a continuous educational path for students ranging from Pre-Kindergarten through high school graduation.
Currently, Pinecrest Academy Cadence serves a robust student body of approximately 2,299 students across grades K-12. Despite its large size, the school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 30 to 1, fostering a structured academic environment for its growing population.
Degrees & Certifications
Pinecrest Academy Cadence is a K-12 public charter school utilizing a strong STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) educational model. Beyond standard core academics, the school offers several rigorous specialized pathways:
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, such as Cybersecurity and Graphic Design
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses
- Dual Enrollment programs, where students can earn college credits
Class Schedules
Instruction is primarily in-person and does not incorporate clinical externships. The daily schedule is strictly organized by grade level. Elementary classes begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. with a drop-off window between 7:35 a.m. and 7:55 a.m., while Secondary students start at 7:30 a.m. with arrival between 7:00 a.m. and 7:25 a.m.
For families seeking alternatives to the traditional classroom, the Pinecrest Academy Virtual (PAV) program offers a blended format. This option combines digital flexibility with school resources rather than being a 100% online experience.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. The school is a fully accredited public charter school. It holds institutional accreditation from the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission.
Acceptance Rate
As a public charter school, the institution follows a fair and open admission process required by law.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Because it is a charter school, Pinecrest Academy Cadence is a tuition-free public school funded by the state. Consequently, there is no tuition cost. Families may be responsible for standard fees for uniforms or supplies and should contact the school for details.
Programs & Courses
Professional Services
- Graphic Design
Skilled Trades
- Aviation
Technology
- CyberSecurity
Campus Locations
Henderson 220 Taylor St. Henderson, NV 89015
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Pinecrest Academy Cadence is strongly identified as an academically rigorous charter school with significant student support for college preparation. However, students highlight areas where the school’s focus on academics potentially overshadows other aspects of the high school experience.
Overall Score: 4.0/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional College Preparation (Dual Enrollment): This is the school’s most celebrated feature. Multiple students credit the Dual Enrollment program (in partnership with College of Southern Nevada) for allowing juniors and seniors to earn college credits or even an Associate’s degree before high school graduation. Alumni say they would have been “lost” without the program’s assistance.
Strong Academics and Caring Teachers: The school is frequently praised as an “excellent academic school” that strives to make students “work hard and really learn.” Many students feel “prepared for college.” The faculty is described as “caring,” “supportive,” and “helpful,” especially in small class sizes where they can “personally know each student.”
Small Class Sizes and Safe Atmosphere: Students value the “smaller class sizes,” which allow them to receive help easier and feel “truly seen” in the learning environment. The overall atmosphere is generally called “very safe.”
High Graduation Rate: State data indicates a high school graduation rate of over 95% (2023-2024 data).
Common Criticisms
Lack of Extracurriculars and Sports: The school’s heavy focus on college preparation comes at the expense of other activities. Reviewers note the school “focuses more so on college preparation than sports” and that extracurriculars, especially sports, “could also be more developed.”
Teacher/Staff Diversity and Perception: One notable criticism calls for “more diversity among the staff” to better reflect the student body. Additionally, several students mention an issue with perceived fairness, noting that “teachers may or may not like you” and that discipline can be inconsistent (either “under punish or over punish”).
Overly Strict Policies and Lack of Resources: Students criticize rules like phone restrictions during lunch, arguing they are “a bit too strict, especially for high school students.” Other concerns include a “lack some resources, such as a library” in the middle/high school building and a struggling math department at times.
Momentum
The high academic performance is a consistent strength, with the middle and high schools earning five-star ratings on the 2023-24 Nevada School Performance Framework. Enrollment has consistently grown, reaching 2,299 students (K-12). However, student feedback on the lack of clubs/sports and limited staff diversity remains a recurring theme over the last year, suggesting these areas are still catching up to the school’s high academic standards.