High School Program Description

The high school academic program (grades 9-12) is modeled after a traditional U.S. university preparatory program.  The language of instruction is English.

As of the 2010-2011 school year, students must earn 26 credits in order to graduate with a U.S. high school diploma. This will include 4 credits of English, 3 credits of Social Science / History (1 year of U.S. History), 3 credits of Science (1 year of Biology), 3 credits of Mathematics, 3 credits of Foreign Language taken consecutively in the same foreign language class, 1 credit of Computer, 1 credit of Art, 1 credit of Physical Education, 1 credit of School Service, and 6 credits of Electives.  For students who wish to go on to very competitive universities around the world, it is recommended that they earn additional credits in more rigorous classes, including advanced mathematics beyond Geometry and Algebra II, Physics, a fourth year of one or more Foreign Languages, and additional Electives. Students planning on entering competitive universities in Holland will need to take a minimum of three Advanced Placement classes in the last two years of high school.

A University Prep course is offered in the first semester of the senior year to guide students in the college-application process. Students also receive individual guidance from the ISA Counselor throughout their senior year. ISA is a testing site for the College Board’s Advanced Placement exams, as well as for college entry exams such as the PSAT and SAT.  At ISA, nearly all students graduate and go on to post-secondary education in North America, Great Britain, the Netherlands, or in other Caribbean countries.< p/>

Advanced Placement courses are offered for those who seek the challenge of greater academic rigor. ISA’s currently approved AP courses are in English Literature and Composition, English Language and Composition, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, Calculus AB, World History, and Studio Art. External AP exams are given in May each year. Strong results can mean that students may earn university credits.

For those students who desire additional academic support, after-school help is offered three days a week each quarter, with subject teachers staying longer to assist students in need.

ISA has an extracurricular program that offers after-school opportunities throughout the school year such as House Sports, Student Council, National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, Model United Nations, Drama, Chess, Yearbook, and other activities/events.