Academic Programs Overview
At Landow Jewish Academy, our high school curriculum is intentionally structured to prepare students for excellence in college, career, and life. We offer a rigorous academic program that includes
Dual Enrollment (DE) Opportunities
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
College, Career, and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways
Honors and Pre-AP Courses
Diverse Elective
Offerings
Our high school curriculum is thoughtfully designed to empower students to personalize their education by exploring dynamic fields such as biomedical and emergency sciences, engineering, law and public affairs, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, and digital media. Through these diverse advanced and specialized options, students develop deep subject mastery, cultivate essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and design a personalized, meaningful educational journey that prepares them to excel in an ever-changing global landscape.
ACADEMIC PATHWAYS
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
Dual Enrollment at Landow Jewish Academy allows eligible students to earn both high school and college credit through partnerships with accredited local colleges and universities. This program offers access to college-level coursework in core subjects and specialized electives, tailored to students’ academic strengths, interests, and career goals. Dual enrollment provides a rigorous yet supportive bridge to higher education, helping students build strong academic portfolios and gain a head start on college. Course offerings vary based on student readiness and interest, with a full list available upon request. Students may take advanced courses in core subjects as well as specialized electives aligned with their academic interests and career goals.
Application Process To participate in Dual Enrollment, students must complete an admissions application with a partnering college. If students have not already met college-ready scores through standardized tests like the PERT, SAT, or ACT, they may be required to take a placement exam. After eligibility is confirmed and upon acceptance, students work with their high school counselor and the college's Dual Enrollment advisor to select and register for approved courses. Benefits of Dual Enrollment Gain firsthand experience with the rigor and expectations of college-level coursework. Earn transferable college credits, reducing future tuition costs and accelerating degree completion. Access unique courses Strengthen college applications through demonstrated academic initiative and college readiness.
Grades: 8—12 - Eligibility: Highly motivated students who meet college readiness criteria
PERT Prep: Postsecondary Education Readiness Test Preparation Grades: 8—12 To support students in qualifying for Dual Enrollment, Landow Jewish Academy offers a dedicated PERT Preparation elective. This elective equips students with academic skills and test-taking strategies necessary to succeed on the PERT. Students receive instruction in reading, writing, and math, practice with real PERT-style questions, and gain individualized support to strengthen foundational knowledge and boost test confidence.
Advanced Placement (AP) Program by College Board
The Advanced Placement (AP) program, developed by the College Board, offers high school students the opportunity to engage in college-level coursework across a wide range of subjects. Designed to challenge and inspire, AP courses emphasize critical thinking, analytical writing, and mastery of complex concepts. Students enrolled in AP courses are prepared to take national AP exams administered each spring. High scores on these exams may result in college credit or advanced placement at many colleges and universities across the United States and internationally. AP courses carry additional weight in GPA calculations, awarding two extra quality points for each AP course completed. Participation in the AP program demonstrates academic excellence, college readiness, and a commitment to intellectual growth.
Benefits of AP Courses
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Enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses provides students with a range of academic and personal advantages. At Landow Jewish Academy, students are supported as they pursue these rigorous courses with confidence and balance.
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Challenge themselves academically and build the skills necessary for success in college-level coursework.
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Earn college credit and potentially reduce the cost and duration of college education.
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Enhance their college applications by demonstrating initiative, academic dedication, and a willingness to engage in rigorous study.
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Explore subjects in greater depth, developing genuine interest, intellectual curiosity, and mastery of complex content.
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Receive personalized guidance and support to manage AP coursework alongside other academic and extracurricular responsibilities, ensuring student well-being remains a priority.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways
Our CTE pathways offer hands-on, industry-aligned learning experiences that prepare students for both college and high-demand careers. Students can explore specialized fields such as biomedical and emergency sciences, engineering, business and entrepreneurship, law and public affairs, and digital media, gaining practical skills and real-world exposure.
Participation in CTE pathways enables students to:
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Acquire technical skills and industry-recognized certifications.
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Apply academic knowledge to authentic, project-based learning experiences.
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Develop professional competencies such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
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Discover potential career interests and pathways before graduating high school.
Students work closely with expert instructors and industry partners to develop career readiness while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
Honors Courses (H)
Honors courses at Landow Jewish Academy are designed for motivated, high-achieving students seeking a greater academic challenge. These courses offer a deeper and more analytical exploration of core subjects, encouraging students to engage with complex concepts through advanced problem-solving, independent research, and enriched classroom discussions.
Key Features of Honors Courses:
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Elevated academic rigor that emphasizes quality of thought over quantity of work.
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Application, analysis, evaluation, and creation of abstract, multi-faceted ideas.
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Collaborative learning experiences with intellectually driven peers.
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Preparation for AP, Dual Enrollment, and Specialized Pathways through foundational skill-building.
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Weighted GPA benefit: Students earn 1 extra quality point for each Honors course completed.
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Personalized support: Differentiated instruction ensures students are both challenged and supported appropriately to promote long-term academic success.
Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) Courses
Pre-AP courses are designed by the College Board to prepare students for the academic challenges of Advanced Placement (AP) and college-level work. These classes focus on building essential skills in reading, writing, problem-solving, and critical thinking, skills that will help students succeed in any high school course and beyond.
Who are Pre-AP courses for? Pre-AP is for all students, not just honors or advanced learners. These courses offer grade-level instruction with high standards, ensuring every student has access to strong foundational learning and support.
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Benefits of Pre-AP Courses:
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Prepare for success in AP and other advanced courses.
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Strengthen academic skills used in every subject.
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Build confidence and develop a growth mindset.
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Learn how to analyze, communicate, and think like a scholar.
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Students earn 1 extra quality point for each pre-AP course completed.
Academic Departments
English Language Arts Classes (Grades 9-12)
Curriculum: HMH Into Literature, College Board, Dual Enrollment
Grade 9: English Language Arts and (Honors): Introduction to Literary Traditions
Curriculum: HMH Into Literature
Students explore foundational works of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama, from a variety of cultures and time periods. Through critical reading and analytical writing, students examine universal themes and human experiences. Skills in literary analysis, narrative writing, and research are emphasized to build a strong academic foundation for upper-level study.
Pre-AP English 1 (Honors)
Curriculum: College Board
Pre-AP English 1 Honors is designed to build and strengthen the foundational skills students need for success in high school English and beyond. This course emphasizes close reading, analytical writing, evidence-based argumentation, and language precision. Students engage deeply with a wide range of literary and nonfiction texts, developing the ability to interpret complex ideas and explore multiple perspectives. Through frequent writing opportunities and rigorous discussions, students cultivate critical thinking, effective communication, and sophisticated literary analysis skills that prepare them for advanced coursework and future AP English classes.
Grade 10 English Language Arts and (Honors): World Literature and Perspectives
Curriculum: HMH Into Literature
Focusing on global texts, this course broadens students' literary horizons and deepens their understanding of diverse cultural perspectives. Students analyze complex literary techniques and develop sophisticated thesis-driven essays. Oral presentations, debates, and research projects further enhance critical thinking and communication skills.
Pre-AP English 2 and (Honors)
Curriculum: College Board
Pre-AP English 2 Honors continues to refine and expand the reading and writing skills introduced in Pre-AP English 1. Students dive deeper into literary analysis, rhetorical techniques, and the study of authorial choices. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced argumentation, synthesis of multiple texts, and the creation of clear, compelling prose. By exploring diverse genres and complex themes, students strengthen their ability to construct nuanced interpretations and support their ideas with precise evidence. This course equips students with the tools necessary for success in AP-level English courses and college-level academic writing.
Grade 11 English Language Arts (Honors)
Curriculum: HMH Into Literature
American Literature and Critical Analysis: This course surveys significant works of American literature, examining historical, social, and cultural contexts. Students engage in advanced analysis of authorial purpose, rhetorical strategies, and thematic development. Research-based argumentative writing and synthesis of multiple sources prepare students for college-level expectations.
Grade 12 English Language Arts (Honors)
Curriculum: HMH Into Literature
Advanced Literary Studies and Composition: In their final year, students undertake in-depth study of significant literary works, including classic and contemporary texts. Emphasis is placed on close reading, advanced literary criticism, and polished academic writing. Students refine their abilities to construct sophisticated arguments and develop individual literary voices, culminating in major analytical and research projects that demonstrate college readiness.
Dual Enrollment - English Dual Enrollment - Composition & Literature ENC1101/ENC1102
Grade Level 11-12
This course is Dual Enrollment only/Registration and additional fee required English III Honors Dual Enrollment (Composition & Literature ENC1101/ENC1102) is for juniors who have demonstrated well above grade-level skills in English II Honors. This course focuses on American literature, with an emphasis on writing, critical thinking, research, vocabulary, speaking skills, and interdisciplinary projects. Problem-solving and analytical skills will be emphasized. Students will be taught how to create resumes and write college-application essays. The course emphasizes the building of an expanded vocabulary and the development of writing skills through substantial in-class writing assignments, essays on assigned readings, and written responses on exams.
Advanced Placement- AP Literature and Composition
Grade Level 11-12
Note: AP test additional fee
This is a college-level course intended for seniors with exceptional ability in reading, literary analysis, and expository writing. Students read college-level literature and participate in seminar discussions, write focused papers, and take essay exams. Areas of study include novels, Shakespearean drama, Greek tragedy and mythology, short stories, poetry, and essays. The course requires close reading of complex texts, college-level literary analysis, and active class participation. Summer reading and an MLA in-text citation research paper are required. All students enrolled in AP English Literature and Composition must sit for the AP exam in May.
Advanced Placement- AP Language and Composition
Grade Level 10-12
Note: AP test additional fee
This college-level course introduces students to American Literature and helps them become skilled readers of nonfiction and fiction, including essays, novels, and poetry. The course also focuses on the development and revision of evidence-based analytical and argumentative writing and rhetorical analysis. Students learn to evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Summer reading and an MLA in-text citation research paper are required. All students enrolled in AP English Language and Composition must sit for the AP exam in May.
Academic Departments
Mathematics (Grades 9-12)
Curriculum: Savvas enVision, College Board Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment
Algebra 1 and (Honors): Advanced Foundations in Algebraic Reasoning
Curriculum: Savvas enVision
Using Savvas enVision Algebra I, this accelerated honors course challenges students to explore and model relationships with linear, quadratic, and exponential functions. Emphasis is placed on complex problem-solving, reasoning abstractly, and applying algebraic concepts to real-world contexts. Students develop a deep conceptual understanding and strong procedural fluency, preparing them for higher-level mathematical studies.
Geometry and (Honors): Advanced Geometric Reasoning and Proof
Curriculum: Savvas enVision
Savvas enVision Geometry Honors guides students through an in-depth study of geometric relationships with a focus on formal proof and deductive reasoning. Topics include congruence and similarity, properties of triangles and circles, coordinate geometry, and right triangle trigonometry. Students engage in rigorous problem-solving and modeling tasks, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for future STEM coursework.
Algebra 2 and (Honors): Extending Algebraic Structures and Functions
Curriculum: Savvas enVision
Advanced Literary Studies and Composition: Building on prior knowledge, Savvas enVision Algebra II Honors offers an advanced exploration of polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Students study complex numbers, sequences and series, and conic sections, with a strong emphasis on mathematical modeling and real-world application. This course equips students with the analytical tools needed for success in Pre-Calculus Honors and beyond.
Pre-AP Algebra 2 (Honors)
Curriculum: College Board
Pre-AP Algebra 2 is designed to deepen students’ understanding of advanced algebraic concepts while laying a strong foundation for future coursework in Pre-Calculus, AP Pre-Calculus, and AP Calculus. The course emphasizes the study of functions, including polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Students explore these functions through multiple representations — graphical, numerical, verbal, and analytical — and learn to analyze and model real-world situations with precision.
Key areas of focus include extending understanding of complex numbers, investigating conic sections, and exploring sequences and series. Students engage in rigorous problem-solving and reasoning tasks that promote conceptual understanding and procedural fluency. The course fosters mathematical habits of mind, encouraging students to make connections across topics, justify their reasoning, and communicate mathematical ideas clearly. Designed as a gateway to higher-level mathematics, Pre-AP Algebra 2 challenges students to think critically and prepares them for success in advanced mathematics pathways, including AP-level coursework.
Pre-Calculus and (Honors): Preparation for Advanced Calculus
Curriculum: Savvas enVision
Using Savvas enVision Pre-Calculus, this course integrates advanced algebra, trigonometry, and an introduction to limits and continuity. Students analyze polynomial and rational functions, study trigonometric identities, vectors, parametric equations, and polar coordinates. Designed to provide a seamless transition to AP Calculus or college-level mathematics, this course emphasizes rigorous reasoning, multiple representations, and deep conceptual understanding.
Calculus and (Honors): Preparation for Advanced Calculus
Curriculum: College Board
Savvas enVision Calculus Honors introduces students to differential and integral calculus, including limits, derivatives, applications of derivatives, integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Through advanced problem-solving, real-world modeling, and conceptual exploration, students build a strong foundation for success in AP Pre-Calculus or university-level courses. Emphasis is placed on analytical precision and mathematical communication.
AP Pre-Calculus
Curriculum: College Board Advanced Placement
College Board AP Pre-Calculus is an advanced, college-level course designed to prepare students for calculus and other higher-level mathematics. The curriculum focuses on a deep exploration of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Students analyze dynamic changes, model real-world scenarios, and develop sophisticated problem-solving strategies. Emphasis is placed on graphical, numerical, and analytical representations, strengthening readiness for AP Calculus AB/BC or college calculus courses. Successful completion of this course positions students for advanced STEM study and competitive university admissions.
Math for Data and Financial Literacy
Is a practical, real-world course designed to help students build essential skills in financial decision-making and data analysis. Students will explore topics such as budgeting, banking, credit, loans, taxes, investments, and retirement planning, all while applying mathematical concepts like percentages, functions, and statistical reasoning. Through hands-on projects and the use of technology tools such as spreadsheets, students will learn to interpret data, analyze financial scenarios, and make informed personal and economic choices. This course prepares students for adult life by connecting math to everyday situations and empowering them with the knowledge to manage their finances confidently.
Dual Enrollment Math Courses
Curriculum: College Board Advanced Placement
Math Dual Enrollment Courses allow qualified high school students to earn college credit while experiencing the rigor of college-level mathematics. Through partnerships with local colleges and universities, students may take courses such as College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry, and Statistics. These courses not only fulfill high school graduation requirements but also build a strong foundation for future studies in STEM fields and other college majors. Dual enrollment provides an opportunity to accelerate academic progress, strengthen college applications, and reduce the cost and time needed to complete a college degree.
Academic Departments
High School Science Curriculum Offerings, Grades 9-12
Biology and (Honors)
An accelerated introduction to the study of living organisms and life processes. Topics include cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human body systems. Students engage in advanced laboratory investigations, emphasizing scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking, laying a strong foundation for AP Biology and future science coursework.
Chemistry and (Honors)
A rigorous exploration of atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermochemistry, kinetics, and equilibrium. Laboratory experiments reinforce theoretical concepts and develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This course prepares students for the challenges of AP Chemistry and college-level science.
Anatomy and Physiology and (Honors)
An advanced elective focusing on the structure and function of human body systems, including histology, the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems, and organ physiology. Laboratory dissections and research projects provide a strong foundation for students interested in health sciences or pre-medical tracks.
Marine Science and (Honors)
A comprehensive study of oceanographic principles, marine ecosystems, coastal processes, and the impact of human activities on marine environments. Students conduct advanced laboratory work and field investigations to build practical scientific skills and prepare for marine science studies at higher levels.
Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science
A college-level investigation of ecological principles, energy resources, pollution, and global environmental challenges. Field and laboratory work equip students to analyze environmental problems and develop evidence-based solutions. College credit or advanced placement is possible with successful exam scores.
Dual Enrollment Science Courses
Qualified students may enroll in college-level science courses through partnerships with local colleges and universities. Dual enrollment provides an authentic college experience, allows students to earn transferable credits, and strengthens their academic portfolios.
Academic Departments
Social Studies Curriculum Offerings
World History and (Honors)
World History offers a balanced, compelling exploration of global human experience—from the dawn of civilization through contemporary challenges. Utilizing an integrated chronological framework, the course weaves together political, economic, social, religious, intellectual, cultural, and military developments to help students understand how societies evolve and interact across time and place. Organized around seven major themes, the curriculum encourages comparative thinking and global connections, empowering students to recognize patterns, develop historical reasoning, and view the modern world within a meaningful context.
Pre-AP World History
Aligned with College Board’s Pre-AP framework, this course offers a rigorous and engaging survey of global history. Students develop advanced skills in analyzing historical sources, constructing evidence-based arguments, and making connections across regions and eras. Through challenging readings and collaborative discussions, scholars build a strong foundation for future AP-level coursework.
AP Human Geography
A college-level course that explores the patterns and processes that shape human understanding, use, and alteration of the Earth’s surface. Topics include population dynamics, cultural landscapes, urban development, agricultural systems, and globalization. Students develop spatial analysis skills and prepare for the AP exam, which may provide college credit.
United States History and (Honors)
The US History course explores the political, social, and cultural development of the United States from early Indigenous civilizations to the present. Using Cengage’s engaging texts and primary sources, students examine key events, movements, and turning points that shaped the nation. The course emphasizes historical thinking, document analysis, and the connections between past and present.
AP U.S. History
This rigorous, college-level course offers an in-depth study of American history from pre-colonial times to the present. Students analyze historical documents, interpret diverse perspectives, and craft sophisticated historical arguments. The course emphasizes critical thinking and prepares students for the AP U.S. History exam, potentially earning college credit.
AP World History: Modern
This college-level course investigates significant global developments from circa 1200 CE to the present. Students analyze historical evidence, develop comparative arguments, and explore themes such as state-building, economic systems, cultural interactions, and social structures. Successful completion prepares students to take the AP World History exam for potential college credit.
U.S. Government & Economics and (Honors)
This combined honors course introduces students to the principles of American government, political systems, and economic theories. Students examine the Constitution, civil liberties, policy-making, and the structure of federal, state, and local governments, alongside fundamental economic concepts such as supply and demand, fiscal policy, and global markets.
AP U.S. Government and Politics
AP U.S. Government and Politics offers students an in-depth look at the foundations, structure, and functions of the American political system. The course covers key topics such as constitutional principles, civil liberties and civil rights, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties, interest groups, media, institutions of national government, and public policy. Students analyze foundational documents and Supreme Court decisions to deepen their understanding of how the government operates and affects society. This rigorous, college-level course develops.
Academic Departments
Other Electives
Physical Education
Credit: 1
Description: This course provides students with the opportunity to learn a variety of sports and sport related movements as well as health and fitness concepts. Health topics relate to nutrition, fitness health and wellness. Emphasis is placed on active participation and positive social interaction during fitness and sport activities.
Health & Fitness
Credit: 1
Description: This course aims to educate students on topics such as exercise, nutrition, and stress management to help them make healthy choices throughout their lives.
Yoga
Credit: 1
Description: Students will develop an enhanced appreciation of their own body, and an acceptance of its uniqueness. They will have improved spinal mobility, increased flexibility of movement, increased strength, and improved posture and sitting habits. Their focus and concentration will improve, as will their functional breathing. They will learn to be more in touch with their own needs, and those of others. Students will learn to identify the precursors of stress and release them more easily. They will learn how to relax at will. They will experience the health benefits of yoga, and learn coping skills that will enable them to get more out of everyday life.
Advanced Performance & Wellness Credit: 1
Description: This course focuses on fitness, strength training, physical conditioning, and concepts, activities, and knowledge that promote lifelong health and wellness. The course is structured to develop students understanding of weight training and physical conditioning for the beginning and advanced athlete.
Journalism I
Credit: 1
Description: Journalism introduces students to the exciting world of print, online and broadcast media. Law, ethics and the history of journalism complement the major units of study: reporting, writing, editing, photography, advertising, design, management and teamwork.
Intro to Social & Digital Media Credit: 1
Description: The course teaches individuals how to create a social media campaign, and how to analyze and present data in order to address organizational issues and make appropriate business decisions... You will also learn how to build social media strategies and tactics, build and manage campaigns, and develop social media content.
Future Engineers
Credit: 1
Description: This STEM course is a basic introduction to engineering for all students. Students who complete this course will learn the concepts necessary in order to develop their ideas into solutions that will improve our lives. Exciting hands-on learning activities like data comparison of heart rates, rating consumer products, destructive testing and building speakers apply math, science, history, and English content from other courses in a STEM experience. This course makes science and mathematics more engaging, interesting, concrete, and relevant. The course’s intention and purpose is to educate students in a “main line” method providing STEM education for everyone. While providing a STEM based education for all students, those interested in becoming practicing engineers clearly benefit from this course content.
Intro to Business Credit: 1
Description: Introduction to Business introduces students to the various functions and areas of business, including strategy, marketing, economics, finance, operations, accounting, ethics, human-resources, management, technology, and information.
Entrepreneurship Lab
Credit: 1
Description: An entrepreneur is someone who identifies an opportunity by creating a solution to a problem, starts a business, assumes the personal and financial risk (and rewards) of the venture, and strives for constant improvement in an effort to grow the business and improve society. In Principles of Entrepreneurship, we will highlight the various aspects involved in envisioning, starting, growing, leading, and managing a business. And, we walk students through the process of creating a pitch deck for their business plan, i.e. a roadmap of the business’s goals and objectives, and the strategy and details of how those goals and objectives will be achieved. In this course students will spend the year building their own business plan and developing a business pitch for an investor panel.