Andrew Jackson College: A Historical Overview and Academic Programs

Andrew Jackson College, an institution with a rich history and a commitment to distance learning, has evolved significantly since its inception. This article explores the college's history, academic offerings, and key policies, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective students, alumni, and anyone interested in the institution's journey.

A Look into the Past

Andrew Jackson College was established in 1994. The founders, Robert McKim Norris, Jr., and D. Michael Barrett, envisioned a learning environment that emphasized independent study. Inspired by President Andrew Jackson, they believed that determination could overcome adversity.

Transformations and Acquisitions

The institution rebranded as New Charter University in early 2011 after UniversityNow acquired it in December 2010. This transition included relocating the headquarters to San Francisco, California, with funding from various investors such as Kapor Capital and University Ventures.

In 2015, Global Heritage Education (GHE) acquired the school, moving its headquarters to Salt Lake City, Utah, and adopting the motto "A University designed for you." GHE, comprised of educators and business executives, aimed to enhance lives through education. In 2019, Bottega, LLC acquired Bottega University. Bottega is a Salt Lake City, Utah, corporation/training institution.

Academic Programs and Curriculum

Andrew Jackson College offers a range of courses designed to prepare students for college and beyond. The curriculum includes general education requirements and specialized courses across various disciplines.

College Preparatory Curriculum - Honors Path

For students aiming for a challenging academic experience, the College Preparatory Curriculum - Honors Path requires at least two honors courses. The curriculum encompasses:

English: 4 credits (English I, II, III, IV)
Math: 4 credits (Algebra I, II, Pre-Calculus, Geometry)
Science: 3 credits (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science*)
History: 4 credits (US History, World History, American Gov., Economics, Geography)

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Foreign Language: 2 credits
Electives: 5 credits
Physical Education: 1 credit
Computer Technology: 1 credit
Total: 24 credits

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Note: Biology, Chemistry or Physics, and Physical Science are required by State supported colleges and universities.

General Curriculum

The general curriculum provides a broad educational foundation, ensuring students are well-rounded and prepared for future studies.

Dual Credit Courses

Andrew Jackson College encourages qualified students to take college courses for credit through cooperative agreements with institutions like USC Salkehatchie. These dual credit courses are weighted and contribute to a student's honors designation. A three-semester hour college course transfers as one unit, and the numerical grade earned translates equally into the Andrew Jackson grading system.

Eligibility for Dual Credit Courses

To qualify for dual credit courses, students in grades 10-12 must:

Obtain parental permission.
Maintain a 3.0 GPA.
Receive permission from the relevant subject teacher and the Head of School.
The top two ranked students in Grade 9 meeting the above criteria are also eligible.

Students are limited to two subjects per semester. If students take two courses, there is no charge. However, if a student takes only one course, the parents are responsible for a fee to the college, in addition to Andrew Jackson Academy’s tuition.

Technology Requirements for Dual Credit Students

AJA-owned Chromebooks are not allowed for home use by any student. Dual credit students must purchase their own computers. Dual credit students will stay with their class during the day.

Course Offerings

The college offers a variety of courses across different disciplines, including:

History: American Government/Economics
Science: Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry*, Environmental Science
Foreign Languages: Spanish I, Spanish II, Spanish III*
Computer: Computer I, Computer II
Arts & Humanities: Humanities*
Courses are required for College Prep Curriculum

Kindergarten Requirements

For students entering Kindergarten, the cutoff date is September 1st, with a 30-day grace period. If a child turns 4 or 5 within this period, a meeting with the kindergarten teacher will determine the child's readiness. The headmaster and Board then make the final decision.

Course Load Requirements

Students in grades 9-12 are expected to take at least six courses each academic year, reflecting the academy's commitment to providing valuable electives.

Policies and Procedures

Andrew Jackson College has several policies in place to ensure a smooth and supportive academic environment.

Drop/Add Policy

Students have until the first progress report to add or drop a course, with approval required from the teacher and the headmaster.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are encouraged, and arrangements should be made at least one day in advance. If a parent wishes to meet with the Board of Directors, a written statement must be submitted to the Headmaster or Board Chairman for approval.

Tutoring

Students seeking extra help can request special instruction after school. Teachers are willing to assist attentive students who bring their homework and utilize class time effectively. Parents are responsible for transportation for students who stay after school.

Grading and Procedural Policy for Students with Identified Learning Disorders

Two weeks prior to each grading period, teachers must notify administration of senior students and students with identified learning disorders who are at risk of failing. An Academic Review Committee, including the referring teacher and the Head of School, reviews the students’ records and recommends additional assignments tailored to their learning disorders. The committee provides the assignment to the teacher within two weeks after the grading period, and the students receive an incomplete grade until the assignment is completed. This policy aligns with Federal Law (P.L. 94-142), ensuring appropriate learning activities and progress evaluation.

Testing

All students undergo testing throughout the school year to determine academic achievement, aptitude, and for guidance counseling purposes. Upper school students (grades 7-11) must take first semester exams. Students with a 90 average or above in a course during the second semester may be exempt from the final exam at the teacher's discretion. Exam make-ups are allowed only in cases of documented illness, death in the family, or prior approval by the Head of School. Students with more than 10 tardies will lose this privilege for that class.

Requirements for Promotion (Grades: K - 8)

Promotion from grades 1-8 for students who fail one or more subjects is determined by satisfactory summer instruction and Academy testing. Summer instruction must be suitable in length and scope, as determined by the Headmaster and Board Members. Passing reading, mathematics, and English is essential for promotion.

Requirements for Graduation

All students must complete a total of 24 credits to graduate and receive a diploma. Early graduation is permitted if all requirements are met, though the student will not be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian honors. Seniors who have not passed all required courses may participate in Baccalaureate and Graduation, but will receive a certificate instead of a diploma. Students with unpaid tuition and fees will not participate in graduation or baccalaureate.

Honors

Marshals for Senior Graduation are chosen from the Junior Class. To be a marshal, a student must complete four semesters at Andrew Jackson Academy by the end of the Junior Year, with the four students having the highest GPA selected. Senior Class Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and all honor graduates are determined by the Administration at the end of the third nine-weeks, with final transcripts using the fourth nine-week grades.

To be eligible for Valedictorian or Salutatorian honors, a student must attend four complete and consecutive semesters at Andrew Jackson Academy (Junior and Senior Year). All other honors require two complete semesters. A 4.0 accumulative average is required to be a Senior Honor Student. Beta Club members and Student Council Officers must participate in all projects to remain eligible.

Permanent Records

A cumulative permanent record, including standardized test scores, is maintained for each student. Parents are welcome to discuss these records with the Headmaster. Federal Legislation restricts the release of information without the parent's or student's (after age 18) written consent. Parents transferring students or requesting records for colleges or scholarships must provide a written request. Unless specifically requested, disciplinary records are not typically transferred, but a waiver must be signed for permission to do so.

Distance Learning

Andrew Jackson College has been offering distance learning courses since 1994. In fall 2005, there were 500 students enrolled in distance learning courses. Institutionally administered financial aid is available to distance learners.

Services for Distance Learners

Distance learners have access to academic advising.

Contact Information

For inquiries, contact:Ms. Bell N. Woods, Director of AdmissionsAndrew Jackson University10 Old Montgomery Highway, Suite 225Birmingham, AL 35209Telephone: 205-871-9288Fax: 205-871-9294

Andrew Jackson: The Man Behind the Name

Andrew Jackson (1767-1845), the seventh President of the United States, rose from humble origins to become a military hero and a pivotal figure in 19th-century America. His home, The Hermitage, remains a significant historical site.

Early Life and Military Career

Born in the Waxhaw Settlement, Jackson experienced a challenging early life. He acquired little formal education and faced hardship during the Revolutionary War, where he lost his brothers and mother. Despite lacking formal military training, Jackson gained a reputation as an Indian fighter, leading to his election as major general of the western Tennessee militia in 1802.

Key Moments in Jackson's Life

War of 1812: Jackson became a national hero, particularly after the Battle of New Orleans.
Florida Campaign (1818): Ordered by President James Monroe to address Indian issues, Jackson's actions led to diplomatic tensions but increased his popularity.
Presidential Campaigns: Jackson's presidential bids in 1824 and 1828 marked a shift towards more democratic participation in American politics.

Jackson's Presidency (1829-1837)

Jackson's presidency was characterized by a focus on executive power and reforms. He utilized the patronage system, strengthened the executive branch, and employed the presidential veto extensively.

Foreign Policy

Jackson pursued a proactive foreign policy, fostering positive relations with England and addressing spoliation claims with France.

Legacy

Andrew Jackson's presidency significantly influenced American politics, contributing to the rise of democracy and shaping the role of the executive branch. His legacy continues to be debated and re-evaluated in the context of American history.

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