This program features:

• Teaching teams that include English, Modern World History, Physics and Special Education faculty, supported by a counselor and an administrator.
• Clear and consistent expectations for students' organization and participation and interdisciplinary curriculum when possible.
• An additional release period, funded by Measure 98, for the Academy Teams to meet regularly to design and implement curriculum and teaching strategies.  

This structure benefits students in these ways:

• Instead of being in a group of over 400 ninth graders, students are part of a smaller learning community of about 75-90 students.
• Teachers meet regularly with counselors and other support staff to address individual student progress and needs.
• Interdisciplinary curriculum allows students to make connections across subject areas.
• Common organizational strategies prepare ninth graders for success in high school.
• Ninth graders develop a sense of community with each other by sharing common classes and teachers.