In search of a way to provide a learning environment that gives every child the tools to succeed and reach their potential, Dale Beutel and his wife first etched their dream for STRIDE Academy on napkins over pizza and pop in basements throughout the region. As longtime educators, they wanted to create a school that worked for every child - not the most advantaged or the smartest.

They wanted to help the at-risk students who were falling through the cracks in the traditional environment. Students like their youngest daughter who spent nights crying in frustration over school. She desired personalized attention that was almost impossible for any student to receive in her classroom of 35 students.

Committed to considering the complete student, STRIDE searched for the best research-based curriculum with proven results, employed the most innovative teaching techniques and tools and create a learning environment that would grow great kids.

In 2005, the Beutels' dream became a reality when STRIDE Academy first opened its doors for students in K-5. Their daughter was among the first group of students. Taking an unconventional approach to education, STRIDE assesses students and places them at their learning levels for each of the core subject areas. Each student receives an individualized learning plan and the tools to stay one step ahead.


What Sets STRIDE Apart:

  • Individualized Learning
  • Small Class Sizes
  • Ongoing Assessments and Evaluation
  • Depth and Breadth of Core Knowledge Curriculum
  • Superior Academic Performance for ALL Students 
  • 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Training
  • Service Learning


Today, STRIDE, independent school district #4142, is meeting the needs of a growing student body and has opened a Middle School for grades six through eight.


Did You Know?
STRIDE Academy limits its class sizes to no more than 20 students. Learn More

    Myth Busters

  1. STRIDE is held to ALL academic standards of No Child Left Behind. Our students take the state test and STRIDE is held accountable for their performance.
  2. STRIDE accepts ALL students and CANNOT choose students based on ability, race, gender, disability, religion, etc. We conduct an annual lottery for new incoming students and STRIDE maintains and embraces a diverse student population.
  3.  STRIDE is TUITION FREE...FREE...WE DO NOT CHARGE...PUBLIC SCHOOL
  4. STRIDE does not teach religion. We respect religion and teach about religion in a historical context as it pertains to learning objectives.



STRIDE Academy © 2009 | All rights reserved | 1025 18th St. N,  St. Cloud, MN  56303 | (320) 230-5340 | dtowle@strideacademy.org

STRIDE Academy is authorized by Friends of Education, EXO-01-A, 200 East Lake Street, Wayzata, MN 55391