The Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) is an intense, three-week academic program that gives students the opportunity to take one high school or college-level course at an accelerated pace. All courses are designed to allow students to earn credit, with school approval, upon successful completion of the program. Because of the fast pace of this program, commuter students must commit to attend the evening session. In addition to taking challenging courses, the residential students live in dorms and all students participate in organized recreational activities. WCATY believes curricular rigor, high expectations, and a student’s personal passion for learning must work together to allow talented students to excel. Classes are small, with no more than 16 students, and we focus on adjusting the pace and level of instruction to meet students’ needs. WCATY knows academic rigor is essential for student success, but we also know friendships are one of the key reasons students come back.

Student Assessment

On the final Saturday of the program, every student has a mandatory exit interview with the course instructor and participates in the closing ceremony. At the exit interview, each student receives a detailed syllabus, personal skill assessment, comments on performance and proficiency, and a portfolio of his/her work. A narrative transcript is sent to each student in the weeks following the program. The transcript includes a grade and recommendation for credit, placement and future courses.

Transcripts

Please note that WCATY mails transcripts to the student’s home and not to the school. This policy is to provide students the flexibility of exploring new and challenging subjects without the risk that poor performance might have on the student’s high school record. Upon request, WCATY will provide without charge additional copies of the WCATY transcript to a student who wishes to present it to his/her high school for credit.

Commuter Option Available!

"Camp was probably the highlight of my summer. It's really cool to interact with everyone else who loves learning and wants to do their best."

- 2009 Student

High School Credit

Students should talk to their guidance counselors before the summer program about how the school will grant credit, transfer the grade or apply it to a current grade-point average. Note: Due to state law, WCATY can only recommend, but not award, credit or placement for courses, even if the content is offered at the home school. Each local school district has the ultimate responsibility for making credit decisions. Be sure to make these arrangements directly with the student’s school if credit is desired or expected.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

AP courses are offered for students who are interested in earning college credit. Students must take the AP exam, given each year in May through the College Board to be eligible to receive credit. Visit the College Board website—www.collegeboard.com— to find out more about the exam and earning credit. The College Board requires that all AP-designated courses be reviewed and audited. The College Board approval process does not begin until March, later than our catalog publication. Therefore, these courses are listed as AP designation pending. Please visit the WCATY website or contact WCATY for the latest information on AP approval.

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For more information about ALP courses, contact Carole Trone at (608) 262-0589.