Academics
A Secondary Education Planned Around Your Unique Interests and Goals
Our courses, our guidance philosophy and our daily schedule are all designed to provide an education that is interesting, challenging, and uniquely “you.” We work closely with every student to develop an academic program that instills self-confidence, brings new knowledge, prepares the student for college and allows the student to develop the skills that are essential for economic success in the world and personal fulfillment in life. Our success in educating students for the real world has been continuous since 1845. We have educated boarding students since the early 1900's, and international students since the 1960's.
Because we have high aspirations for each student, class schedules are individualized and we actively encourage students to take the most challenging courses that they can successfully complete. Our course offerings are varied and challenging, and each course has a student-centered, project-based focus. We offer 10 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, as well as courses through the University of Maine via their on-line learning network.
Of particular note:
Historically, Lee Academy has excelled in the teaching of Mathematics. This tradition continues today. We offer challenging math courses at all levels and remarkably, for a school of only 270 students, we are consistently among the top math teams in Maine, regardless of school size.
English as a Second Language
Lee Academy is a fully accredited TOEFL exam site, one of only eight in the entire State of Maine. The TOEFL test gives students more choices about where they can study, and is accepted by more institutions than any other English-language test in the world — including top colleges and universities worldwide. Learn more about the TOEFL exam HERE.
The goal of the English as a Second Language course is to help students develop the language skills necessary for academic and social success, both here at Lee Academy and elsewhere in American culture. The program is individualized and it is an available option for all International students. Active, intensive language instruction uses and develops listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Advanced ESL learners may also take independent, guided study in preparation for the TOEFL. LA's ESL teachers are experienced language instructors, each of whom have training through the Intensive English Institute at the University of Maine.
To enrich the ESL experience, international students are paired with an English speaking roommate, when possible. Advanced English language learners also serve as teaching assistants in many ELS classrooms. Frequent trips and weekend activities give students practical experience with language use, as part of our belief in “guided immersion” in American English.
Transcripts
If you are a Lee Academy graduate or if you simply attended LA and need a copy of your student transcript, please contact Candy Gifford '84, School Registrar, at the numbers listed below, extension 100, or email her HERE.