Academic Philosophy

Our commitment as a school is to provide a demanding curriculum coupled with student-based learning in order to provide opportunities for exploration and preparation in major pre-college disciplines: English, Science, Social Studies, Mathematics.  The academic structure challenges the students’ intellect giving them a greater opportunity to improve and succeed.  A strong knowledge base is critical to a sound college preparatory education, and development of skills is paramount to the success of every student.  School life is guided by collaborative decision-making that includes faculty, administration, and student-athletes.


The desired effects of our educational program is the development of three characteristics:

1.     Responsibility for one’s own learning;
2.     Self-discipline which leads to mastery; and
3.     Enthusiasm for learning that will last throughout college and beyond.
SMALL CLASS SIZES
A 1:6 teacher to student ratio creates conditions for maximum supervision of our students’ educational progress. This low teacher to student ratio enables faculty to meet individual needs arising from the heavy athletic competition schedules.  Academic standards are high, while flexibility remains a feature of the daily program.  Each student receives extensive personal attention.  Common class work includes research papers, final examinations, science labs, and daily homework.

COLLEGE BOARD EXAMINATIONS
Juniors and Seniors are required to take the PSAT and SAT, with the option to take the ACT and SAT Subject Tests. The college preparatory curriculum prepares students for all examinations.  Advanced Placement courses and exams are also offered.

Graduation Requirements:

18 Core Credits as Follows:
  • 4 years of study of high school English
  • 3 years of study of high school History/Social Science (including U.S. History)
  • 3 years of study of high school Mathematics (including Algebra 2)
  • 3 years of study of high school Natural Sciences (at least one with a lab)
  • 2 years minimum of one high school level Foreign Language
  • 3 additional credits chosen from any of the above disciplines
In addition:
  • 1/2 credit of high school level Art
  • 1/2 credit of high school level Health
  • 1 physical education credit for every year enrolled at National Sports Academy
  • 10 hours of community service per year enrolled at National Sports Academy