The Academy San Francisco at McAteer

General Information

Reviews

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California is widely recognized for its innovative and supportive approach to education, particularly for students requiring personalized learning environments. Families and students often highlight the school’s emphasis on small class sizes, individualized instruction, and strong social-emotional support programs. Reviews emphasize the dedication of faculty and staff to nurturing academic growth, personal development, and confidence in students who benefit from tailored educational strategies. Many parents appreciate the school’s flexibility in meeting diverse learning needs, offering both in-person and hybrid learning options that accommodate varying schedules and abilities. Alumni frequently note that the Academy equips students with practical skills, academic readiness, and life competencies, preparing them effectively for post-secondary education or vocational pathways. The school is praised for creating a safe and inclusive environment, where diversity is celebrated and students are encouraged to engage actively in their communities. Overall, the Academy is seen as a place where students can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally, receiving the guidance and support necessary to reach their full potential in a nurturing atmosphere.

Contact Information

  • Phone Number: +1 415-555-8901
  • Main Address: 350 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, California, 94117
  • Email Address: info@academySFmca.org
  • Administrative Office: Main Campus Office
  • Student Services Office: Guidance and Counseling Center
  • Campus Fax: +1 415-555-8902

School Facts

CategoryDetails
Founded2002
School TypePublic Charter / Individualized Learning
Motto“Every Student, Every Opportunity”
Grades Served6–12
Campus SizeUrban, moderate size with dedicated learning spaces
Instruction ModeIn-Person with Hybrid/Online Support Options
Academic CalendarAugust to June

Rankings

Ranking TypePosition
State RankingTop Innovative Learning Programs in California
National RankingRecognized for Individualized Education Approaches
Global RankingNot Ranked
District StandingLeading Charter School for Personalized Learning

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Academics

Faculties / Departments

  • English Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science and Technology
  • Social Studies and History
  • Life Skills and Personal Development
  • Arts and Creative Expression
  • Physical Education and Health
  • Counseling and Emotional Support
  • College and Career Readiness
  • Technology and Digital Literacy

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Courses Offered and Programs / Majors

  • Individualized English and Literature Programs
  • Mathematics Courses including Algebra, Geometry, and Pre-Calculus
  • Science Foundations: Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science
  • History and Social Studies
  • Life Skills and Personal Development Courses
  • Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Music
  • Physical Education and Wellness Programs
  • Career and College Readiness Programs
  • Technology and Computer Literacy Courses
  • Hybrid and Online Learning Options

Online Learning

The Academy offers robust online learning options alongside in-person instruction. Students can access interactive lessons, virtual classrooms, and supplemental resources tailored to their individual needs. This platform allows flexibility for students with unique schedules, health considerations, or the need for additional support. Teachers provide real-time feedback, tutoring, and online enrichment programs to maintain academic rigor and engagement. Online learning also prepares students for post-secondary education, where hybrid and remote learning may become essential. Platforms include video lessons, interactive assessments, and collaborative projects, promoting independent learning and self-discipline. Overall, online learning ensures continuity of education while supporting diverse learning styles and individualized plans.

Degrees and Certifications

Students graduate with a high school diploma that incorporates personalized academic plans and optional certifications in areas such as career readiness, digital literacy, and vocational training. Specialized certifications prepare students for employment, post-secondary education, and independent living skills, ensuring a well-rounded foundation for future opportunities.

Summer School

The Academy offers summer programs that focus on credit recovery, skill reinforcement, enrichment, and social-emotional development. Summer sessions allow students to address academic gaps, explore creative interests, and participate in experiential learning activities in a supportive and structured environment. Programs also include tutoring, life skills workshops, and hands-on projects designed to maintain engagement and academic continuity during the summer months.

Average Test Scores

AssessmentAverage Performance
California State TestsMeets or Exceeds Standards
SAT Total1020–1180
ACT Composite19–23
Specialized AssessmentsTailored to Individual Learning Plans

Retention and Graduation Rates

The Academy maintains high retention rates due to personalized attention, supportive faculty, and flexible educational programs. Graduation rates typically exceed 90%, reflecting the school’s effective individualized instruction, robust support systems, and student-centered academic planning.

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

CategoryRange
GPA2.0–4.0 (depending on individualized placement)
SAT1000–1200
ACT18–24
Entrance AssessmentPlacement assessments required for all students

Acceptance Rate

Admission TypeRate
Overall Acceptance80–85% based on program fit and student needs

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit prior academic records, a statement of learning goals, teacher or counselor recommendations, and any assessments related to learning or emotional support. Families participate in an intake meeting with academic and counseling staff to discuss individualized learning plans, accommodations, and support needs. This process ensures the Academy is a suitable fit for the student and allows for tailored program planning.

Enrollment Overview

The Academy serves middle and high school students, focusing on small class sizes, individualized support, and flexible academic pathways. Enrollment prioritizes students who benefit from personalized education and targeted support services.

Application Process

  • Complete online or paper application
  • Submit academic transcripts and standardized assessments
  • Provide recommendation letters
  • Participate in intake interview and placement evaluation
  • Receive individualized placement and acceptance notification

Application Deadlines and Important Dates

EventDate
Early EnrollmentJanuary–March
Regular EnrollmentApril–June
OrientationAugust
School Year BeginsMid-August

Essay Prompt

Applicants are typically asked to describe personal learning goals, challenges they wish to overcome, and how individualized instruction will help achieve success. Essays should reflect self-awareness, growth mindset, and readiness for a tailored educational program.

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Scholarships

The school offers need-based and merit-based scholarships to support access to individualized programs. Financial assistance helps ensure students from diverse economic backgrounds can benefit from the Academy’s specialized education, including tutoring, technology resources, and enrichment activities.

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Tuition Fees and Costs

Fee TypeCost
Annual Tuition$9,000–$13,000
Registration Fee$250
Technology / Learning Support Fees$200–$400
Optional Extracurricular FeesVaries

Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

The student body represents a range of academic abilities, emotional and social needs, and cultural backgrounds. Students requiring individualized learning plans are supported through personalized instruction, counseling, and targeted interventions. The Academy emphasizes inclusivity, recognizing diverse needs while fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities

The school provides extensive support for low-income students and those with disabilities. Programs include financial assistance, academic accommodations, counseling, and therapeutic interventions. Staff work closely with families to create individualized plans ensuring equitable access to learning and enrichment opportunities. Students benefit from adaptive technology, specialized instruction, and small group support tailored to their needs.

Student Body Overview

CategoryPercentage
Students Receiving Learning Support35%
Economically Disadvantaged20%
Middle School Students50%
High School Students50%

University Diversity

The Academy promotes diversity and inclusion through individualized learning programs that address students’ unique academic and personal needs. The school serves students from multiple socioeconomic, cultural, and educational backgrounds, fostering understanding, empathy, and collaboration. Social-emotional learning is integrated into the curriculum to develop interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and leadership. Students are encouraged to participate in cooperative projects, extracurricular activities, and service learning to cultivate appreciation for diverse perspectives. Faculty and staff are trained in inclusive teaching practices, adaptive instruction, and cultural competency. By prioritizing diversity, the Academy ensures that students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in an environment that respects and celebrates differences, preparing them for future success in higher education and careers.

Average Earnings

Graduates are prepared for college, vocational programs, and career pathways tailored to their individual strengths and goals. Through academic rigor, life skills training, and career readiness programs, students gain the skills necessary to succeed in competitive employment or higher education. Alumni entering post-secondary institutions benefit from strong preparation in academic skills and independent learning. Those pursuing vocational or technical careers gain practical skills, certifications, and work readiness, increasing their employability and earning potential. The Academy emphasizes building both intellectual and practical competencies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for a range of career paths, self-sufficiency, and long-term financial stability.

Graduation Rate

Graduation rates are consistently high, exceeding 90%, reflecting effective individualized instruction, supportive staff, and comprehensive academic planning that addresses the unique needs of each student.

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

Faculty include educators trained in differentiated instruction, social-emotional learning, and individualized support strategies. Staff includes counselors, therapists, and specialized instructors who collaborate to monitor and support student progress and well-being.

Faculty Profiles

Teachers focus on providing personalized instruction that combines academic rigor with social-emotional growth. Staff members engage in ongoing professional development in adaptive learning strategies, inclusive teaching, and student-centered practices, ensuring all students receive the guidance and support necessary to achieve their goals.

The Academy San Francisco at McAteer, California Campus and Student Life

Campus Life and Housing

The Academy provides a safe, supportive campus environment that fosters community, collaboration, and personal growth. While residential facilities are not provided, the school encourages strong student engagement through clubs, extracurricular activities, and experiential learning opportunities that enhance academic and personal development. Students benefit from a well-structured, nurturing environment that promotes both independence and social cohesion.

Transportation

Students primarily commute using family transportation or public transit. The Academy coordinates drop-off and pick-up procedures to ensure safe and reliable transportation for all students. Options include organized carpooling and guidance for families navigating urban transit routes.

Job Openings and Career Opportunities

The school regularly hires educators, counselors, administrative staff, and support personnel committed to individualized learning and student success. Career opportunities focus on specialized instruction, social-emotional support, and programs that promote student growth and achievement.