Academic Overview

There are 10 academic programs providing support to our course offerings. The American School by utilizing the traditional modes of instruction, learning and performance, in both academic and extracurricular, expects that our students excel in all areas of instruction.

The academic year is from the beginning of August to early June, with four evaluation periods, two per semester. Mid-year vacation is two weeks in December. The school has approximately 185 school days per year. We also offer a summer school session for students with particular needs.

Elementary:

Our goal in elementary is to teach all students to reach their potential, not only academically, but also, physically and spiritually. We provide a loving environment which fosters self-worth and confidence in him/her. Our curriculum is evaluated annually for relevance and content, and each grade lays the foundation for success at the next level.

The American School of Santo Domingo’s curriculum gives students several types of opportunities to learn. Our students participate in Spanish, physical education, computer technology, music, art, library, aside from their core subjects. Each grade level has field trips that extend their knowledge of the real world.

Our curriculum overview:

Grade K

Grade 1

Grade 2

Grade 3

Grade 4

Grade 5

Middle School:

The middle school academic program serves as a bridge between elementary and high school and the curriculum is evaluated annually for relevance and content. It prepares our students for our college-preparatory high school. The students study the core subjects, such as; math, science, social studies, etc.. They also have a range of selective subjects from which to choose to complement the core academic program.

You’ll find a complete description of the curriculum below:

Grade 6

Grade 7

Grade 8

High School:

This curriculum is evaluated annually as well, for relevance and content, and we strive to have one of the highest-quality curriculum available. It prepares our students for the rigors of college life and the professional workplace.

Curriculum overview:

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

Other Academics Programs

English As A Second Language:

The American School offers English as a Second Language Program (ESL) for new students who do not have the level of English required for the entry grade. ESL students are taken out of regular classes and given specialized Reading, Oral Communication, and Language classes. Our ESL program is available only for students up to 6^th grade.

Spanish As A Second Language:

The American School offers Spanish as a Second Language Program (SSL) for new students who do not have the level of Spanish required for the entry grade. Students are taken to the SSL department where they work on a personalized basis with an SSL teacher. In some instances, these students stay in their regular Spanish class and have the help of an SSL teacher (immersion). High School students who opt for this program must sign a waiver of the regular Spanish program.

Step up Program:

This is a remedial program designed to supplement regular classroom instruction to those elementary students who need extra help in developing the skills necessary in reading, writing, and math. Program entry is determined by standardized test results, student report cards and progress reports, as well as teacher observations. Although the program is optional, parents are strongly encouraged to enroll their children in order to help them gain acceptable levels of academic performance.

Summer School:

The school of summer school program for students who need to take core subjects they failed during the regular school year. The program is also available to ESL students so that they can continue improving their English skills and to new students who need to meet our graduation requirements. A maximum of 2 credits may be coursed during the summer session.

SAT Prepcourse:

This course is designed to prepare our 11^th grade students to take the SAT. The students are drilled in the areas of critical reading, writing, and math. There is a standard introduction to these tests. Approaches and strategies are discoursed and worked on with students.

Advanced Placement Program:

The school offers a number of Advanced Placement (AP) courses for students in grades 11 and 12. Eligibility is determined upon consideration of student’s writing skills, work habits and PSAT/TAP score. AP courses offer students the opportunity to do university level work while in high school and, if successful on the AP exam, they receive university credit in local universities as well as in the United States, Canada and other countries. Taking the test offered by the College Board is mandatory to acquire credits for this program.