The Academy for New Americans is an optional newcomers’ program designed to meet the unique language, academic, social and cultural needs of students who are new arrivals to the United States. The academy features a complete and rigorous academic program, orientation classes, intervention and support classes, and an array of community connections and referral services.

Students will acquire beginning English skills, study content area subject matter and receive guidance in their acculturation to the United States. The mission of the Academy is to ensure that immigrant and refugee students have complete access to educational excellence and make a successful transition to their new country.

Components of the Academy

Rigorous, Accelerated English Language Development
Students receive instruction in English as a second language and in literacy skills that are needed to succeed academically. Language skills acquired ensure success in all content areas.

Orientation Class
This class provides students with the information needed to understand their new country, school, and culture. This social science curriculum is integrated into the content ELD class.

Appropriate Content Instruction
Standards-based content instruction is delivered via researched content strategies and primary language support to assure that students have a strong academic foundation for transition into mainstream programs

Academic Support Services
Students receive support and interventions through afternoon literacy courses, tutorials, and appropriate classroom strategies. Students are closely monitored and receive individual counseling and feedback on academic progress.

Cross-Cultural Learning and Integration
Multi/Cross-cultural curriculum is both infused and addressed directly during the academic day in all academic subjects. Students are also integrated into mainstream settings through school visitations, field trips, sports, and mentoring.