One of the most important choices a Laurel Springs student makes is deciding between the Main Laurel Springs program and The Academy at Laurel Springs. Both programs offer robust support and flexible learning options, allowing students to learn on their own schedule at their own pace. If you’ve ever been interested in learning more about The Academy, you’re in the right spot! In this blog, we’ll share an insider look into The Academy at Laurel Springs and provide insight into ways it can benefit students in their academic journey, as well as deciding if it’s the right program for your student. 

What is the difference between The Academy and the Main Program? 

While the Main Program is open to students in grades K-12, The Academy is only open to students in grades 6-12. For students in these grades who are looking for a more intentional and collaborative online learning experience, The Academy provides lots of great opportunities to consistently connect with other students and their teachers. 

Academy students have the option of participating in synchronous weekly Workshops with our expert team of educators. Learning is brought to life through robust discussion, collaboration with other peers, and real-time interaction, allowing students to dive deeper into course-related topics with their peers and teachers. Academy students are also required to take a yearly asynchronous Symposium course. Designed to simulate real world experiences, Symposium also includes quarterly forums and speaker events. 

For students planning ahead for college, Academy enrollment can make a huge difference, particularly in the area of dual-enrollment courses. Academy students have access to Syracuse University and Arizona State University dual-enrollment courses starting as early as 9th grade, and are able to take up to 2 dual-enrollment courses per year. Students in the Main Program can access dual-enrollment courses from Arizona State University starting in 11th grade and can take 1 dual-enrollment course per year. 

Dual-enrollment courses not only count for high school credit, but can also potentially transfer to college credits as well. Academy students who take advantage of the dual-enrollment courses often begin their college careers with more credits than their Main Program peers. 

Another defining feature of The Academy is the high-touch counseling program. While Main Program students are assigned a dedicated counselor starting in 9th grade, Academy students are assigned a dedicated counselor upon entry into the program, which can be as early as 6th grade. This can be particularly helpful for students looking for regular one-on-one meetings with their counselor, guidance in academic planning and goal setting, exploration in college and career opportunities, and support to thrive both personally and academically. Academy students are also able to participate in the peer mentoring program, exclusive to the Academy, and Academy parents can participate in coffee conversations with Academy counselors and the Academy Education Manager.

Students across Laurel Springs have access to 90+ clubs, virtual and in-person meetups, field trips, travel learning experiences, and our Year-End-Celebration which includes prom and graduation. Academy students additionally gain access to exclusive advanced courses, leadership experiences, and team competitions like Future City, which is a yearly competition open to students nationwide. In 2026, the Laurel Springs Future City team won the People’s Choice Award!

What types of students typically succeed in The Academy? 

A wide range of students can find success when they enroll in The Academy, but there are some things prospective students should keep in mind. While the Main Program offers a 100% asynchronous learning experience, The Academy is designed to provide weekly live touchpoints for students to connect with their peers, teachers, and counselors. 

“Students have the opportunity to actively participate in weekly live Workshops, engage in discussions with peers and teachers, and take ownership of their learning through strong time management and communication skills,” shared Bridgette Smiley, Academy Education Manager. “The Academy is an excellent fit for students who are curious, collaborative, and eager to grow academically while exploring their interests through advanced courses, clubs, leadership opportunities, and real-world learning experiences.”

Academy students have the flexibility of online learning but are never learning alone. Students are encouraged to build relationships, discover their strengths, and find their academic and personal passions. 

Where do Academy students typically land post high school? 

While there is no single traditional path for an Academy student, many choose to begin their collegiate journey immediately after graduation or following a gap year. The Academy Class of 2025 saw 90% of college-bound graduates, and Academy students who participate in dual-enrollment course options may begin their college career with several credits under their belt. Those who participated in Academy-exclusive advanced courses, leadership opportunities, and clubs are able to bring their experience building confidence in collaborative settings to their first undergraduate courses. 

Because The Academy focuses on training students on the intrapersonal and metacognitive skills critical for lifelong success, many students find they are able to adjust to their college classrooms easier than they thought they would.

How do teachers support students in The Academy? 

Our incredible Workshop and Symposium teachers intentionally design learning experiences to focus on supporting students to feel connected and empowered to succeed. They do this by hosting weekly live Workshops that bring their subject matter to life with engaging sessions. Students can connect with their peers and teachers, diving more deeply into the subject matter in an open and interactive virtual room. 

Academy staff also facilitate live Symposium forums that encourage students to discuss their ideas and reflect on subjects they’re working through. These dynamic spaces help Academy students to learn more about thinking critically, communicating confidently, and applying the skills they’ve learned in other courses to the subject matter at hand. 

The Academy would not be possible without the wonderful Laurel Springs teachers who consistently create meaningful learning experiences for their students. By learning from Academy teachers, students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics from accomplished and expert-level educators, all while becoming more confident and prepared for life after high school. 

Interested in learning more about how to enroll in The Academy? Head to our website or get in contact with our Admission team!

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