Academics at SMBA provide students with small classes to allow them more attention from the teacher and less distraction in the classroom. Each year more than 90 percent of students attend college following graduation. The Academy also provides a number of special services and programs designed to meet the individual needs of each student. Honors students are challenged with the opportunity to take dual-credit college courses, as well as pre-AP and AP courses. Those students with learning differences may qualify for placement in the Learning Skills Program, which offers one-on-one or group tutoring, re-teaching of subject material, verbalized testing, project assistance, and organizational skills instruction. All boarding students benefit from attending evening study halls in the dormitory or a more intensive "Structured Study Hall," where tutoring and close supervision is provided by degreed instructors. Report cards are mailed out every 3-4 weeks to keep parents apprised of student progress.

For the average student in grades 7-12 the general academic program is suggested. It provides the core curriculum in English, Math, Social Studies and Science, as well as an assortment of elective courses. This general program will not only prepare the student for college, but also prepare the student for other opportunities after graduating from high school.

Students seeking more of a challenge may take Advanced Placement courses. These are available to students in 11th and 12th grade, while students in grades 7-10 may participate in honors courses. Honors courses are also available. Included in the curriculum are advanced mathematics, science, foreign language, fine arts and computer science. Advance Placement courses are available in English, Calculus and Biology, while dual-credit college courses are also offered in Psychology, Mathematics, History, Government, Chemistry and Biology. The program is designed for highly motivated students who want to take classes that will help them to earn credit toward college. It also gives students a better edge in gaining acceptance into some of the top colleges in the country. Students are selected for these programs on the basis of their academic records, standardized test scores, a written essay, a personal interview and faculty recommendations.

"The Learning Skills Program aids students with learning differences in reaching their goals. By paying careful attention to the individuality of each and every student, the LS team strives to help each student discover his or her own individual learning style and fly. I feel that it is because of the hands-on and precise attention I received that my efforts as a student flourished, and I was able to make sense of my own scattered thoughts. The LS helped me pin-point my specific learning block and, with effort, overcome my learning obstacles. I am blessed to have worked with such caring people who helped me develop amazing study skills assisted me in becoming the well-rounded individual I am today."

Nicole Mebane, 2006 Valedictorian