The Freshman Academy at Mt. Scott offers ninth grade students a unique alternative to the public high school experience. Students work together with other ninth graders in a sheltered environment to complete their first year of high school. The Freshman Academy, modeled in part after other successful programs nation-wide, is designed to help students build the academic and social skills needed to succeed in larger high school programs for grades 10-12. In the Academy, classes are generally limited to 20 students and in some cases may have 10 or fewer students.
Literacy and language are among the academic focus areas in the Academy. Many classes weave reading and writing assignments into their curriculums. Additionally, Reading and Writing are separate Language Arts classes, allowing students to work intensively in both areas. These classes are structured to permit the student body to be split into two groups, resulting in classes of eight students or fewer on many days. Such small classes allow students to benefit from intensive one-on-one work with their instructors. Students in the Academy also take a Discovering Literature elective course that encourages the development of their passion for reading.
Other classes in the Freshman Academy work similarly to ready students for the academic rigor of grades 10-12, while providing them the individual support needed to facilitate achievement. Students study Algebra in their Math class and Civics and International Events in Social Studies. Additional offerings include Health and Wellness, Technology, General Science, and a course in Study Skills.
Academic progress for each student is tracked throughout the school year by academic advisors. These advisors help identify and resolve potential roadblocks to students’ academic achievement. Regular parent contact is a key component of each student’s academic plan. Every student’s respect, effort, and focus are also monitored during each class period to ensure the student is building the character skills needed for further high school success.
Freshman Academy
Literacy and language are among the academic focus areas in the Academy. Many classes weave reading and writing assignments into their curriculums. Additionally, Reading and Writing are separate Language Arts classes, allowing students to work intensively in both areas. These classes are structured to permit the student body to be split into two groups, resulting in classes of eight students or fewer on many days. Such small classes allow students to benefit from intensive one-on-one work with their instructors. Students in the Academy also take a Discovering Literature elective course that encourages the development of their passion for reading. 
Other classes in the Freshman Academy work similarly to ready students for the academic rigor of grades 10-12, while providing them the individual support needed to facilitate achievement. Students study Algebra in their Math class and Civics and International Events in Social Studies. Additional offerings include Health and Wellness, Technology, General Science, and a course in Study Skills.