Click Here to see where International Academy is going to be traveling to over the next couple of years

The International Academy is very different from the typical offerings of private and prep schools. Most schools have students on a fixed schedule with a structure that remains the same, day after day. They sit behind a desk and read, write or listen to lectures. For many students, this traditional approach works, and they flourish. However, those students who want an active approach to learning find this structure to be rigid and burdensome. That is why the International Academy is so successful. Using a global classroom, students visit such areas as Central America, Canada, China, South Africa, the Dominican Republic, Argentina and other countries that lend themselves to a culturally diverse and hands-on education. It is in these locations that students experience other cultures first-hand.

Students spend the school year traveling and living in new places, confronted with physical and educational challenges. They learn to adapt to travel, frequent schedule changes and a lifestyle unlike any they have ever experienced.

The International Academy is composed of up to 12 students who travel with two teachers. The group travels for periods of 10-17 days, then returns to our campus, which becomes their home base (please refer to the travel calendar for more information on current destinations). While on campus, students have the opportunity to meet with Steve Galvan, Program Director for International Academy, Jan Kells, Principal, regarding any academic issues, and Dr. Celia Hull, Dean of Students, regarding any student concerns or guidance. During this time, students focus their coursework on mathematics and the sciences and have access to our computer and science labs. Time is devoted to trip preparation, which includes organizing and packing personal belongings, and discussions on cultural awareness and the itinerary for the upcoming trip.

After the school day, students are integrated into the activities and campus life. They may choose to participate in the many activities offered on our campus such as outdoor adventures, mountain biking, weight training, basketball, volleyball, tennis, arts and crafts, music, paintball, skateboarding, leadership challenges and group games. Lodging is provided for the students during their stay on campus. The group stays at the home base for periods of approximately 14 days before embarking on their next international learning adventure.

Instead of being taught in a traditional classroom, the students study academic subjects and experience many different cultures while traveling and exploring areas that enhance their learning and understanding. As the group travels, their academic focus becomes Language Arts. They frequently visit international universities and community libraries to conduct the research that is required in their courses. Learning is a continuous process and may take place in an airport terminal, coffee shop, park, hotel, hostel, a living room of a home, on a train, in a classroom, or on the beach of a foreign country. Learning is a combination of using traditional methods such as textbooks and multiple resources and learning through experience.

Problem solving and leadership skills are also enhanced through group decisions that are made with the guidance of the staff and the daily challenges and logistics that are present with being part of a traveling group. The group also helps to monitor the budget for the specific trip. It is part of the overall experience to shop for food, cook, clean dishes, wash clothes, and care for the group's equipment. When traveling, the group stays in a variety of different locations ranging from youth hostels, hotels, churches, an occasional campground or spends a few nights in a lodge or private home.

A full equipment and clothing list can be provided, which details the items needed for this program. Each student carries his/her personal equipment in a backpack and duffel bag, including a sleeping bag and enough clothes for one week.

Updated: Sunday, March 11, 2007