Academics

classical curriculum

We use a classical curriculum designed to fit each student individually. We use a classical scope and sequence modified to help each student reach his or her goals. We use printed textbooks and minimal online tools. Teaching is done through lecture, discussion, projects, research and writing. Notes are taken by hand and cell-phones are not permitted. Personal laptops are permitted for study hall, research and independent work, but not in class. No Common Core or GSE standards are used, and every student is registered as homeschooled through the GADOE.

By using only certified teachers for core classes we have the ability to develop curriculum that is individualized for each student. MLA is dedicated to a challenging college – preparatory curriculum and students will be encouraged to move ahead as quickly as they can master concepts and content. There is no single boxed curriculum we rely on. Every child learns differently and at different rates.

Independent Study time, inherent in our school design, requires a good deal of maturity and self-discipline from our students. We help them in adjusting to this “learning behavior” through regular classroom discussion, individual follow-up, helpful tips and ideas, directed lessons, and mentoring guidance. We feel strongly that this single focus on disciplined self-learning is the most important component in producing successful high school graduates, and in preparing them for success in college and beyond.

2023-2024 Mountain laurel academy academic calendar

Sept. 5 & 6, 2023 First Day of School
Nov. 20-24, 2023 Thanksgiving Break
Dec. 18, 2023-Jan. 8, 2024 Holiday Break
Jan. 19, 2024 Last Day of First Semester
Jan. 22, 2024 First Day of Second Semester
April 1-5, 2024 Spring Break
May 18, 2024 Graduation
May 23, 2024 Last Day of School

Honors & AP

Our classes are all taught with the rigor and expectation of an honors or AP class. Students who wish to receive AP credit may take any AP exam at the end of the year. While we do not teach to the AP tests, our students have no problem scoring well on AP exams. Transcripts do reflect AP or honors effort through 3 or 6 point final grade bumps. These are figured into the weighted GPA. Our students do have to complete the “rigor” courses required by the Hope Scholarship.

friday classes

Fridays are reserved for high & middle school interactions and team building. This includes gathering together for leadership programs, various outside speakers, art activities, music, field trips, mentoring and other electives. Some quizzes, labs, and presentations are also conducted on selected Fridays.

homeschool

Mountain Laurel Academy is a non-traditional school model, where all students are registered with the State of Georgia through a DOI, and the parents are recognized as responsible for their child’s education. As such, you are contracting with MLA to oversee the academic curriculum and assessment of your student. You are entering into a “partnership” with MLA to provide the best possible educational opportunity and environment for their academic success. Mountain Laurel Academy is fully accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission.

The 60%/40% Academy/Home schedule requires a great amount of maturity and responsibility from the students. Their “Independent” work time at home is required by state law which demands a minimum 5 hrs for MS and 5 ½ hrs for HS. This is NOT homework in the traditional sense and these days are NOT “free” or “off” days. Instead, they replace classroom time with independent study as directed by the teachers. Students are free to schedule their days in a way which meets their individual needs and lifestyles, but the appropriate amount of time must be logged, and it is the parent’s responsibility to track and log this time. This is only the minimum required time and is merely a guideline. It may often take additional hours, or time on weekends, to complete all assignments completely and thoroughly. Work is assigned only twice a week, is always posted on the website calendar, and is due the following academic day.