Aegis Program

What is it? 

”Aegis” (pronounced "ee-jis") means literally, "support," "guidance," or "sponsorship." It derives from Greek mythology, "Aigis," which was the name given to the shield of Zeus.

We are a college preparatory school. We aspire that every graduate of St. Michael has the opportunity to attend college upon graduation, and for that reason, all students are placed in "Collegiate Studies," "Honors," or "Advanced Placement" classes that prep them for that goal. 

At the same time, we recognize that some students need additional assistance, which is the purpose of Aegis classes. Students with diagnosed learning disabilities may apply for an Aegis class as one of their eight classes each year at St. Michael. The Aegis class will pair a student with a special needs teacher, who will assist students in developing study skills and managing their time, as well as give students a structured setting in class to catch up with work or receive special help.  

Some common questions and answers about our program:

Does enrollment in Aegis guarantee academic success? 

Aegis classes do not guarantee a student's success. They are designed to assist students, but there is no magic formula: success in life requires hard work, and all teens stumble from time to time. That said, Aegis teachers will be experienced, supportive teachers who can connect with students, build up their trust and give them good guidance along the way. 

Are there fees to get placed in Aegis classes? Yes. Please see the registration agreement for yearly fees.

How do I apply for my child to get into Aegis classes?  Students must be evaluated by a licensed psychometrist and the school must gather a significant amount of information before the school can determine placement. New families should begin the process no later than January or February for upcoming year. See the "How To Apply" link to the left.  

Once enrolled in Aegis, am I automatically re-enrolled the following year? 

No. The school’s capacity to offer Aegis classes is limited. Students who begin in the Aegis program as underclassmen may be phased out as they get older, reflecting their growth and improving maturity. Phasing out in this way should be considered a success! On the other end, students who are not working hard or not using the Aegis program effectively may be removed from their Aegis class to make room for other students who could use the Aegis program more effectively.

Does enrollment in Aegis guarantee special consideration on the ACT test, such as extended time? 

No.  ACT determines, using its own metrics, whether or not a person qualifies for special consideration while taking the ACT exam.   Part of their determination is the severity of the disability and whether there is appropriate, current documentation from a qualified professional to make such an assessment.  Part of that is what arrangements a student has made with the school, and how dependent that student is on those arrangements. How often do they use them? Our college counselor, who oversees the ACT process, answers specific factual questions from the ACT,  and then ACT decides. In some cases, Aegis students earn ACT extra time. In some cases, they do not.