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Center for Integrated Studies
Academic Focus for Grades 7-9

Contact: Mrs. Elise Finkner, Director of Integrated Studies, at 434-432-2584; Lt.Col. Gerald Harper, USMC (Ret.), CIS Commandant, at 434-432-2687.

Motivated, enthusiastic students interested in learning are the focus for Hargrave’s Center for Integrated Studies (CIS). By incorporating the learning styles and academic needs of seventh, eighth and ninth grades, the program allows students to increase their learning skills, grow in their areas of interest, while equipping them with the fundamentals necessary to succeed in high school.

Academic Program

The CIS classroom experience is a combination of single- and team-teaching in the academic fundamentals of Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies. This maximizes the student’s classroom experience by providing access to instructors with the greatest expertise in their field of study. The core subjects are presented in a thematic approach, which not only taps into student interests, but allows students to see the value of learning about each subject. Additional elective subjects in the areas of art, music, foreign language and character development are also a part of the student’s schedule.

The classroom experience includes working with fellow students in team work projects and hands-on applications. The entire process is further enhanced with the incorporation of technology via the Technology Lab, which not only teaches students critical computer skills, but also provides students the opportunity to work independently and at their own pace.

Success in the classroom is dependent upon the student’s ability to have strong study and time management skills, and resources readily available to assist them in their academic efforts. Structure plays a major role in this process at Hargrave. Procedures are in place to guarantee that students clearly understand the expectations and responsibilities associated with their academic career. Plus the daily schedule is designed to provide them necessary study time and faculty assistance when required.

The classroom student-to-teacher ratio in the CIS is 9:1, which maximizes instructor contact, individual attention and participation level each student experiences.

Success begins with all new incoming students completing the “How to study course.” Study Hall is held five evenings a week from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., providing students adequate time to complete their homework. When students face challenges in their studies, they have access to Hargrave’s Learning Center. This facility provides individual instruction to students and allows them to overcome the challenges they are facing before returning to the classroom.

Students in the Center for the Integrated Studies also have the opportunity to participate in the optional five-day boarding program. This allows the freedom of open weekends for all but four weekends throughout the school year. Students in the CIS have the option of leaving campus or staying to participate in weekend activities.

Educational Philosophy

Hargrave Military Academy’s faculty and administration approach each student holistically. Students who are physically, morally, and mentally fit are in a better position to make sound decisions, establish personal goals, and become productive citizens. The Academy’s daily schedule is designed to develop each student’s mental, physical, spiritual, and moral qualities.

Hargrave’s educational philosophy is anchored in a traditional college preparatory curriculum aimed at enabling critical thinking and inspiring a desire to learn within a diverse student body.