Cloud 9 (3/5)
Cloud 9 is the largest local school.
They have an actual physical location, unlike almost all of the other contenders. Their strengths include lots of immediately available inventory (it’s nice to look at and try things before spending thousands of dollars), on-site highly skilled gear repair (not offered by anyone else), and the various benefits of being the big guys on the block.
Their instructors are arguably the most professional, skilled, and involved with the sport. Their gear selection includes the largest U.S. brands of paragliders (nice for resale value and buying a known quality of product).
Downsides? They tend to rush students through their program. The goal appears to be selling gear, and ‘signing students off’ rather than making competent pilots. The attitude is more towards ‘fun sport’ than serious aviation, and the initial quoted fee for instruction will not necessarily make you a competent pilot.
Cloud 9 also offers no clear path in terms of advanced instruction or support.
While one of the less shady options on this list, you’re not getting the most for your money here.