The Academy is a program offered by Marion High School. It is designed specifically to serve At-Risk students, but also provides credit retrieval and an alternative educational pathway for selected MISD students.

Students may apply for courses offered at the Academy through the Counseling office; final approval will rest at the High School Administration. All students attending the Academy will follow the Marion High School Code of Conduct as outlined in the Student Handbook, as well as all academic requirements as outlined in the Marion High School Course Selection Handbook.

MCA is designed to serve those students who are self-disciplined, strongly motivated, require no disciplinary correction, and who are committed to furthering their education in a self-paced environment. A commitment and desire to receive a high school diploma, combined with a caring, positive school climate, determines each student's degree of success.

MCA uses a mastery-learning curriculum that allows students to progress independently within course timelines. Using computer-assisted technology, textbooks, learning modules, and one-to-one or small group instruction, students demonstrate 80% mastery of each competency before moving to the next performance objective.

MCA is not intended to serve students who:
                                    - are not self-motivated and self-disciplined
                                    - are physically violent or incorrigible
                                    - need extensive academic remediation

Curriculum

The curriculum for all MCA programs is based on American Preparatory Institute's (API) Competency-Based High School Diploma program. The individualized courses are designed to allow students to advance individually within course timelines through the essential elements adopted by the State of Texas.

The basic unit of instruction for each course is the learning module. Each module is based upon a competency statement (what the student must do to demonstrate mastery of the module). The student must achieve 80% minimum mastery on a criterion-referenced test before proceeding to the next competency. Study materials are provided for in the classroom only, however, students are encouraged to take good notes and take test notes and worksheets home for extended study. The staff's responsibility is to guide students through instructional plans, administer tests and evaluate student progress. The student's responsibility is to be motivated, self-directed and willing to contribute to a positive learning environment.

Grades

Students will be provided with progress and completion sheets at the end of each six weeks, or upon request. Parents and/or guardians are encouraged to call or come in to check on their student's progress anytime. If you have any questions feel free to call (830) 914-2803 ext. 442, or come by and visit Room 308 Marion Middle School.