International Academy-LEAP is part of Saint Paul Public Schools’ Area Learning Center Programs. It is an optional high school program designed for recently-arrived English language learners aged 14 to 21. Students take English language and content area classes to develop their English skills and content knowledge as well as to earn a high school diploma. While English language development is the main focus of classes at IA-LEAP, native language support is also available to students.

Mission Statement

International Academy – LEAP is an intensive English language learning community for immigrants and refugees who are working toward a high school diploma.  Academic classes and student support services are designed to meet the needs of immigrant students, respect their native languages and cultures, and prepare them to be productive members of society.

IA-LEAP’s curriculum is based on Minnesota standards, and also includes a socio-cultural orientation component to assist students in their transition to life in a new country and culture. Classes are designed according to students’ individual English-language proficiency levels.

In addition to ESL and other academic content classes, IA-LEAP students have opportunities to take classes that offer career exploration and prepare them for post-secondary education. The academic program at IA-LEAP also includes art, music, band, and physical education.

Students may remain at IA-LEAP until they graduate with a Saint Paul Public Schools diploma or until the age of 22. They may also choose to transfer to another area high school to complete their high school courses.

A large number of IA-LEAP faculty are bilingual, and many are dual-licensed in ESL and content areas such as science, social studies, or math.

The IA-LEAP program had approximately 290 students enrolled for the 2008-09 school year.