Southwest Academy

General Information

Reviews

Southwest Academy in Maryland is commonly described by families and students as a focused, supportive learning environment designed to meet the academic and personal development needs of its student population. Reviews often emphasize the school’s commitment to individualized instruction, smaller learning communities, and strong student-teacher relationships. Parents frequently note that educators are attentive, approachable, and invested in helping students overcome academic or behavioral challenges. The school is praised for offering structured routines, clear expectations, and consistent communication, which many families find essential for student success. Students often report feeling respected and understood, highlighting a school culture that prioritizes personal growth alongside academic achievement. Reviewers also mention the school’s emphasis on accountability, goal-setting, and life skills, helping students build confidence and responsibility. While the academic environment is structured, families appreciate the balance between discipline and encouragement. Overall, Southwest Academy is viewed as a school that provides stability, guidance, and meaningful educational opportunities for students who benefit from a more personalized and supportive approach to learning.

Contact Information

Phone Number: +1 410-969-0470
Email Address: southwestacademy@aacps.org
Main Campus Address: 3427 Annapolis Road, Halethorpe, Maryland 21227, United States
Administrative Office: Main campus building
Student Support Services Office: On-campus counseling wing

School Facts

Rankings

Southwest Academy, Maryland Academics

Faculties / Departments

English Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Special Education Services
Behavioral Support Services
Counseling and Student Support
Physical Education and Health

Southwest Academy, Maryland Courses Offered and Programs / Majors

Core Academic Curriculum
Credit Recovery Programs
Behavioral and Social Development Programs
Life Skills Education
Career Readiness Foundations
Health and Wellness Education
Individualized Learning Plans

Online Learning

Southwest Academy incorporates online learning tools to enhance individualized instruction and support flexible academic pacing. Digital platforms are used for credit recovery, supplemental instruction, and independent practice, allowing students to work at a pace aligned with their learning needs. Online learning supports blended instructional models, combining teacher-led lessons with guided digital coursework. This approach helps students build accountability, technological literacy, and self-management skills. Teachers closely monitor student progress and provide regular feedback to ensure academic goals are met. Online learning is designed to complement in-person instruction, maintaining strong teacher-student connections while offering additional academic pathways.

Degrees and Certifications

Southwest Academy does not award postsecondary degrees. Students work toward earning middle school promotion or high school credits that align with district graduation requirements. Successful completion supports reintegration into traditional school settings or progression toward a standard high school diploma.

Summer School

Summer school programs focus on credit recovery, academic reinforcement, and behavioral skill development. These programs help students remain on track academically and prepare for the upcoming school year in a structured, supportive environment.

Average Test Scores

Retention and Graduation Rates

Retention is strong due to individualized support and intervention strategies. Graduation outcomes vary based on student placement goals, with many students successfully transitioning back to traditional schools or completing graduation requirements through continued enrollment.

Southwest Academy, Maryland Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

GPA and college entrance exams are not primary admission criteria. Placement is determined through district referral processes, student needs assessments, and eligibility reviews.

Acceptance Rate

Application Requirements

Admission to Southwest Academy follows a structured referral process coordinated through the school district. Students are referred based on academic, behavioral, or social-emotional needs that indicate benefit from an alternative educational setting. Required documentation typically includes academic records, behavioral reports, and evaluations conducted by district professionals. Families participate in placement meetings to ensure alignment between student needs and program offerings. The admissions process emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and student well-being, ensuring appropriate educational placement and support services.

Enrollment Overview

Enrollment is intentionally limited to maintain small class sizes and provide intensive academic and behavioral support. This structure allows educators to deliver personalized instruction and targeted interventions.

Application Process

District referral submission
Review of academic and behavioral records
Placement meeting with family and staff
Enrollment confirmation
Individual learning plan development

Application Deadlines and Important Dates

Essay Prompt

No essay is required for admission, as placement is determined through district evaluation and referral processes.

Southwest Academy, Maryland Scholarships

Scholarships are not applicable, as Southwest Academy is a public institution. Students may access district-funded support services, counseling programs, and academic resources at no cost.

Southwest Academy, Maryland Tuition Fees and Costs

Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

The student population reflects diverse academic backgrounds and personal experiences. Many students are placed at Southwest Academy to receive targeted support in a smaller, structured environment designed to promote growth and stability.

Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities

The school provides comprehensive services for low-income students, including meal assistance and access to learning materials. Students with disabilities receive individualized education plans and specialized instructional support.

Student Body Overview

University Diversity

Southwest Academy values diversity as a core component of its educational mission. Students come from varied cultural, socioeconomic, and academic backgrounds, creating an environment that emphasizes understanding and mutual respect. Instructional practices promote inclusivity, conflict resolution, and positive peer interaction. Staff receive training in culturally responsive teaching and trauma-informed practices, ensuring all students feel supported. This inclusive approach helps students develop empathy, self-awareness, and effective communication skills essential for academic and personal success.

Average Earnings

Average earnings data is not applicable for current students. However, the academy’s focus on credit completion, behavioral growth, and career readiness supports long-term educational attainment, which positively influences future employment and earning potential.

Graduation Rate

Graduation rates are measured based on student placement goals. Many students successfully earn credits toward graduation or transition back to traditional high schools to complete diploma requirements.

Southwest Academy, Maryland Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

Teachers and staff are experienced professionals trained in alternative education, behavioral support, and individualized instruction. Their collaborative approach ensures consistent academic and emotional guidance.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members hold appropriate certifications and engage in continuous professional development focused on student engagement, restorative practices, and instructional effectiveness.

Southwest Academy, Maryland Campus and Student Life

Campus Life and Housing

Campus life is structured and supportive, focusing on academic growth, personal responsibility, and positive behavior. Housing is not provided, as students commute daily.

Transportation

Transportation services are coordinated through the school district based on eligibility and placement requirements, ensuring safe and reliable student access.

Job Openings and Career Opportunities

Career opportunities include teaching, counseling, behavioral support, and administrative roles. Positions attract professionals dedicated to alternative education and student-centered support.