What is the Learning Academy?
The Learning Academy is a program that provides bright students with mild learning differences access to a well-rounded, inclusive Catholic education at Notre Dame High School. Every student learns differently and these differences can be accommodated through a combination of teamwork and targeted efforts to make college-preparatory material accessible to all students.
How does it work?
A Learning Academy teacher provides help and appropriate accommodations in each of the students' core academic classes as well as one resource period per day during freshman and sophomore year. Classes are college preparatory with an average number of students, ranging from approximately 14-20 students.
In addition to having the benefit of both a mainstream teacher and a Learning Academy teacher in each class, students have the benefit of:
A daily academic resource period, in a group of no more than 5-8 students
Note-taking instruction
Organizational help in both short and long term planning
Encouragement and guidance in cooperative peer work
Introduction and development of the skill of self-advocacy
How will the program carry over into junior & senior years?
By year three of the program, students will be expected to have mastered the basic skills necessary to advocate for themselves in a mainstream classroom. Students will still have the five support periods per week and individual help in their academic areas of need.
Admissions Procedures/Policies
How do I apply for the Learning Academy?
Students will need to complete an admissions application on-line here. The following materials are required as part of the application: Transcripts from 7th and 8th grade, one letter of recommendation and a copy of the student’s IEP.
Is there a deadline for the application?
The application deadline is November 15. All admissions decisions will be mailed on December 15. Applications received after December 15 will be reviewed on a rolling admissions basis.
What is the maximum number of students in the Learning Academy?
The Academy can accommodate a maximum of eight students per year. After the first eight students are enrolled, the remainder will be placed on a wait-list.
What is the tuition for the Learning Academy?
The tuition for the 2023 - 2024 school year is $20,250.