Academics
Special Programs

Explorer Program

La Salle Academy demonstrates a concern for the individual student. Each student is provided with the opportunities to recognize and to develop aesthetically, physically, intellectually, emotionally, and morally in a Catholic environment. In keeping with La Salle’s mission to be an inclusive Catholic school and guide the individual student, the Explorer Program is designed for bright students with mild learning differences.
HOW THE EXPLORER PROGRAM WORKS
• Students receive direct instruction during a free period on verbal and written language, math skills, reading comprehension, test taking strategies, executive functioning skills, and/or self-management.
• Students develop the critical tools of self-advocacy, self-awareness and self-assessment.
• On-going communication with parents is an essential component to this program.
• Curriculum is not modified or altered, but the course schedule is restructured to reduce the amount of work during the academic year. Students participate in the same classes, sports, clubs, extra-curricular activities, and meet the same requirements of their peers.
• Accommodations will be provided on an individual basis. Classroom teachers are made aware of a student’s testing accommodations and work closely with the learning specialist.
• Enrollment is limited. 

THE IDEAL APPLICANT TO THE PROGRAM
• Has a sincere interest in attending La Salle Academy.
• Has been administered a complete psychoeducational evaluation within the last three years by a licensed psychologist indicating that the student has a diagnosed learning difference.
• Has a demonstrated mild learning difference with the ability to learn in a college-preparatory classroom of approximately 21 students.
• Has not demonstrated any emotional or behavioral concerns that would significantly interfere with classroom teaching and learning.
• Has the ability to navigate social-emotional situations skillfully.

ADMISSIONS PROCESS
• Complete the La Salle Academy application and indicate that the student is applying for the Explorer Program.
• Submit a psycho-educational evaluation completed within the last three years (testing must include a WISC-V and the Woodcock-Johnson IV Tests of Achievement; summary, recommendations and suggested accommodations).
• Schedule a visit day.
• Register for the HSPT (High School Placement Test).
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La Salle Academy is a high school rich in history and grounded in the person and teachings of Jesus and the Catholic faith, which are core to the school's life and culture. The De La Salle Middle School provides a strong holistic foundation for students to transition into high school. The high school and middle school provide students of diverse ethnic, economic, and religious backgrounds, a community to foster growth in the tradition of St. John Baptist de La Salle’s ideals of faith, service, and community.