Academics
At our high school level, emphasis is placed on college preparation with required course offerings in English, math, social studies, history, science, foreign languages, the arts, and physical education. Required classes in computer education and a semester of writing class enhance these skills in preparation for college and beyond. At the high school level, there is an added emphasis on higher level thinking skills, and students are challenged by required research, speech and writing assignments in all subject areas. A growing selection of electives rounds out the student schedules and allows students to explore other interests and talents.
In addition to traditional lecture and discussion, our teachers supplement the text curriculum with activities, projects and field trips to make subjects more relevant and meaningful to students. Math courses range from pre-algebra to AP Calculus BC at the high school level with the upper level courses being part of our honors or Advanced Placement program. Other honors courses are available in English, science and history. Academically qualified students may register for Advanced Placement courses from which they may gain college credit in English, math, and various science or social studies courses. While high school students are expected to be capable, independent workers, we know that levels of maturity and independence vary from student to student. We believe that at the high school level a shared dialogue with parents is important for students to reach their full potential. We continue frequent progress reports and other communications with parents. Small classes help our teachers to get to know every student and his/her abilities and interests.

Faculty

Instructors are experienced, fully certified and teach in their field of expertise. Many instructors are also advisors to clubs and activities or coach a sport. This provides the high school student the opportunity to work with teachers in a less structured environment. Our teachers are committed to the positive academic, emotional, physical and social development of each student. Instructors offer weekly help sessions to students for strengthening skills.

Fine Arts

American Heritage School is proud of its extensive course offerings in art, music and drama at all levels. Faculty members are fully certified in their teaching areas, and many are or have been practicing artists and musicians. The school and faculty members hold memberships in many county and state organizations which showcase student talent, and we encourage our students to participate. Among these organizations are:

Athletics

Heritage offers a complete competitive varsity sports program for boys and girls in grades 9 through 12. A "no cut" policy allows every student who wants to participate an opportunity to play on the Stallion team of his or her choice. All students with an interest in a sport are accepted onto the team and receive the opportunity to play and develop skills. Our coaches provide quality instruction in all sports. Sportsmanship, teamwork, thorough training and preparation are goals we work for every day. We believe our athletic philosophy represents a balanced view of the role of sports in our total educational program.

Awards evenings are held for athletes and parents at the conclusion of each season.

Organizations & Activities

The extensive athletics and activities offered at Heritage serve several purposes. Primarily, they assist in the growth and development of our students, but they also provide opportunities for leadership and excellence which are increasingly required for college admission.

Among the activities and clubs offered to students:

National Honor Society Student Council Spanish/French Honor Society Modern Language Club Mu Alpha Theta (Math Club) S.A.D.D. Computer Club

Yearbook Newspaper Thespians Marching Band Orchestra Jazz Band Chorus Community service projects

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College Guidance & Placement

A full-time guidance counselor assists students and parents in all aspects of college selection and admission. The process begins in tenth grade with the PSAT, and throughout high school, there are meetings scheduled for both parents and students to advise them of steps in the process. Students benefit from individualized counseling sessions in which they are advised on course selection, college search and admission requirements. Our goal is to send our seniors off to colleges which match their goals and expectations for college life. To assist in college selection, the guidance office has a computer mini-lab in which students may "visit" colleges and universities around the world on the Internet.

The Guidance Department also assists students in finding scholarship monies and financial aid. Counselors work with students in preparing financial aid, as well as admission applications.