The Academy also offers an English as a Second Language (ESL) Program for non-native English speaking students, grades 7 -12, to assist in mainstreaming into the Academy high school program.

Classes are available in grammar, composition and integrated skills at beginning and intermediate-advanced levels.

In a nurturing environment under the guidance of an ESL teacher and boasting a low student-to-teacher ratio, the program aims to assist students so they can:

• Comprehend and communicate, in verbal and written form, using the English language,
• Understand and apply grade-level content and knowledge,
• Develop critical-thinking and problem-solving abilities,
• Understand and embrace the local and national culture.

Students accepted into the program must demonstrate scholastic aptitude commensurate with the Academy’s standards.

In order to aid their success in the Academy environment, each ESL participant is given an assessment test so the curriculum can tailored to best help them meet the program’s goals. Their ESL development is supplemented with courses in English, math, computers, physical education and art or music.

The JK-6^th grade ESL program is a pull-out program designed to prepare students to fully participate in grade level classes. Instruction is highly-individualized, with a low student-to-teacher ratio (averaging 3:1 per class).

The ESL teacher and regular classroom teachers collaborate to address the unique needs of each student.

  
Students will:

• Develop academic language skills in a positive and caring environment, utilizing communicative language learning methods;
• Practice reading, writing, grammar, listening, speaking, and pronunciation skills through engaging, developmentally-appropriate activities; and
• Benefit from various teaching methods, including group work, games, music, individual projects, video sources, and online programs to develop language skills.

Students are placed in daily ESL classes for 30-90 minutes, depending on their language level and needs.

Regular updates on student progress are provided to parents throughout the year.

Lower School ESL Program

ESL Fees

The English as a Second Language Program fee is in addition to the regular tuition. The initial fee of $1,000.00 includes registration, processing fee, placement tests and evaluation.

  1 ESL class - $1,000.00 + initial fee of $1,000.00
  2 ESL classes - $2,000.00 + initial fee of $1,000.00
  3 ESL classes - $3,000.00 + initial fee of $1,000.00

High School ESL Program