Academics
A Secondary Education Planned Around Your Unique Interests and Goals
Our classes, our guidance philosophy and our daily schedule are all designed to provide a course of study 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 continued for 160 years.
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 (note the role of the Learning Enhancement Center). Programs of study are clustered in four academic areas, but there is flexibility among clusters to meet individual student needs and interests. Our course offerings are varied and challenging.
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 220 students, we are consistently among the top math teams in Maine, regardless of school size. Championship math team banners proudly adorn the walls of our library.
English as a Second Language
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 use enhances listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Students interested in this option take the SLEP or the TOEFL to aid in appropriate placement in the program at Lee Academy.
To enrich the ESL experience, international students are paired with an English speaking roommate, when possible. Peer Mentors, day students who want to help boarding students with acculturation and language acquisition, become friends and advisors to International students in the ESL program. Frequent trips and weekend activities give students practical experience with language use, as part of our belief in “guided immersion” in American English.