Upper School

Montverde Academy Upper School thrives on a few simple but powerful principles, all aimed at helping students grow and excel. Here’s what makes us special:

In-depth college counseling

The College Counseling department provides a vital resource to help students and families understand the process in finding the best college or university fit. Montverde Academy provides students with an in-depth process in preparing them for their journey into higher education. Learn more.

Building Relationships

Leadership Institute

UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

At Montverde Academy, academics are our core focus. Our innovative, college-preparatory environment provides students with unparalleled opportunities to engage deeply with their learning. With a low student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1, each class is designed to foster critical thinking and challenge students with fresh ideas. We don’t just aim for excellence inside the classroom but also encourage students to excel in all areas of life and reach their highest potential.

From Honors courses, Subject Area Concentration Programs, Dual Enrollment with several area universities, and Distinguished Scholars program, it’s no wonder we rank in the top six percent as one of the Best Private K-12 Schools in America.

Curriculum Guide Course Descriptions

Advanced Placement^® Courses

Montverde Academy is an AP Platinum Level school. Awarded to only six percent of schools, this distinction is achieved by meeting three key criteria: at least 80 percent of the graduating students must take at least one AP exam, at least 50 percent must score 3 or higher, and at least 15 percent must take five or more AP exams, with at least one taken in grade 9 or 10.

Our Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer students a challenging and enriching academic experience across a wide range of subjects. AP courses are tailored for those who are ready and eager to tackle college-level work and are taught by our dedicated teachers who have undergone specialized training through AP Workshops and Summer Institutes.

Depending on the subject, students might dive deep into reading and writing, critically analyze complex materials, synthesize ideas, solve intricate problems, and develop strong arguments. Additionally, Montverde Academy offers the AP Capstone program, which, as highlighted by the College Board, equips students with essential skills such as independent research, teamwork, and effective communication—abilities that are highly prized by colleges.

Our distinct program emphasizes small class sizes, advisories, in-depth support of learning specialists, college counselors, and a department solely focused on finding resources and the best university/college for our graduates starting in grade 9. Take a quick tour - click here!

Specialized Programs

Distinguished Scholars Program

The Distinguished Scholars Program is designed for high-achieving students who are selected to participate in rigorous academic opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. This program helps prepare them for matriculation to the most competitive colleges and universities in the United States and abroad.

KEY FEATURES OF THE PROGRAM:

Selective Admission: Only students who apply and are selected can participate in the program.
Intellectual Rigor: Participants engage in challenging academic opportunities designed to stimulate intellectual curiosity.
Enriched Learning Environment: Students take part in:
- Classroom coursework
- Field trips
- Seminars
Academic Excellence: Distinguished Scholars dedicate themselves to the highest level of scholastic pursuit to successfully complete the program.

Through this program, students gain the tools and experiences necessary to excel in their future academic endeavors, setting the foundation for success at top universities worldwide.

Find our more here.

Study Area Concentration Diploma

Montverde Academy's Study Area Concentration (SAC) diploma is perfect for students who have already identified a specific area of interest that could influence their choice of college major or career path. The program offers a comprehensive study plan and curriculum in seven major concentrations, providing essential college-preparatory courses starting in grade 9. Successful completion of the program leads to a specialized diploma in the chosen area.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
Students who are interested in STEM careers can choose from five different SAC concentration options: Biomedical (Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental, and careers in Wellness, Health or Life Sciences), Chemistry and Physics, Computer Science and Graphics, Engineering, and Environmental Sustainability.
BIED (Business Innovation and Entrepreneurial Development)
For students intending to enter the business and financial sectors with aspirations of becoming global entrepreneurs, corporate and government leaders, and problem solvers in business and society.
GP (Global Perspectives)
For students interested in pursuing careers in Education, Pre-Law, Social and Public Services, Government, Real Estate, and Journalism.
MAC (Media Arts and Communications)
For students interested in pursuing careers in Visual Arts, Graphic Design, Marketing and Communications, Public Relations, and Creative Writing.
Senior STEM Student Apex Presentations
Montverde Academy’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics program offers students the opportunity to specialize in STEM fields, providing advanced preparation for their college majors and future careers in STEM beyond Montverde Academy. Students take courses that lay the foundation for specific career paths, which can be further pursued in college. They participate in field trips, attend monthly meetings to connect with peers, complete service projects related to their fields, and receive guidance from mentors. In their senior year, STEM SAC members conduct an Apex project involving a scientific investigation or meta-analysis. They design their studies, gather data, and present their projects to advisors, who determine if they should present their work in a larger theater setting for parents, friends, and mentors.

Advanced Placement International Diploma

The Advanced Placement International Diploma (APID) is a globally recognized certificate awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional achievement on AP exams across various disciplines. While it is not a substitute for a high school diploma, it serves as additional certification of academic excellence, particularly for students with an international outlook.

Key Features of the APID:

Global Recognition: The APID is a respected credential recognized by universities around the world.
Demonstrated Academic Excellence: Students must showcase outstanding performance across multiple AP exams in various subjects.
International Focus: To earn the APID, Upper School students must:
- Request on at least one AP exam answer sheet that their results be sent to a university outside the United States.
Additional Certification: While the APID does not replace a high school diploma, it provides additional recognition of academic achievement and a commitment to global education.

The APID is an excellent way for students to demonstrate their readiness for university-level work and their international perspective, opening doors to opportunities worldwide.

Dual Enrollment

Dual Enrollment at Montverde Academy offers Upper School students the exciting opportunity to take college courses while still in high school. This allows students to earn credit toward both their high school diploma and a future college degree. Montverde Academy partners with the following colleges and universities to offer these courses:

University of Florida
University of South Florida
Lake-Sumter State College
Northwest Florida State College

Key Details About Dual Enrollment:

Eligibility Requirements: To enroll in dual enrollment courses, students must meet specific eligibility criteria set by each partnering college.
Course Approval: All requested courses must be approved by Montverde Academy before students can enroll.
Permanent College Transcript: College credits earned through dual enrollment will appear permanently on the student's college transcript. These credits must be submitted when applying to any college or university.

Important Next Steps:

If you're interested in participating in dual enrollment, it's important to meet with the Director of College Counseling before applying. This meeting will help you discuss your options and the next steps in the enrollment process.

ESL Program

To best meet the needs of our students and prepare them for the challenges ahead, the ESL Program at Montverde Academy focuses on the following:

Mission Statement Focus

Embracing learners from diverse linguistic and educational backgrounds.
Helping students improve English language proficiency.
Ensuring students progress to success in mainstream classrooms and top U.S. colleges and universities.

Three Levels of ESL

Tailored for Middle and Upper School students.
Designed to support students in achieving English language proficiency.

Small, Supportive Classes

Classes are designed to be personalized and cater to individual needs.

Four Key Areas of English Fluency

Focus on reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Innovative Learning Tools

iPad Integration: One-to-one iPads enhance learning.
Chen Family Language Lab: A customized reading program.
Multi-modal Instruction: Using varied methods to address different learning styles.

Quick Student Progress

On average, students move out of ESL after just one semester.
Students demonstrate rapid improvement in their English skills.

The result is a highly successful program where students quickly gain the skills they need for academic and personal success.

Learn more

Upper School

UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Advanced Placement® Courses

Advanced Placement^® Courses