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.