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International Studies Preparatory Academy

United States, Coral Gables

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Spanish, Italian, French
Fees Fees not listed
Ages 14 - 18 years
Type Co-educational
Opened 2010
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)
Taught languages Spanish, French, Italian
Strengths Languages, Academic Enrichment, Service and Sustainability
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Secondary School, High School
Introduction

International Studies Preparatory Academy (ISPA) is a language magnet high school serving grades 9–12 in Coral Gables, Florida. It follows an American curriculum with Honors and Advanced Placement courses and offers dual enrollment to earn college credits. The centerpiece is the International Studies program, created through MOUs with the governments of France, Italy and Spain—the only program of its kind in the United States. Students receive up to three hours of instruction in a language of choice—French, Italian or Spanish—while core subjects are taught in English and literature, history and geography are studied in the program language. ISPA maintains three language academies: French, Italian and Spanish. AP courses are offered in major subjects and in language studies, with post-secondary credit available for AP exams with a score of 3 or higher. The school has partnerships with the Spanish, French and Italian consulates in Miami and has earned national and international recognition, including the 2015 Colegio del Año award and LabelFrancÉducation. Distinctive aspects include the Exemplary French program (25% of curriculum in French), DELF B1/B2 diplomas, and film workshops connected to language study.

1570 Madruga Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33146

The Essentials

International Studies Preparatory Academy has instruction in English, Spanish, Italian, French.

Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Bottoms must be straight-cut khaki or navy pants; shorts, capri pants, and skirts are not permitted. Tops must be navy blue, hunter green, or red polo shirts with the ISPA logo on the upper left; sneakers or closed-toed shoes are required and hats are not permitted. Student IDs must be worn around the neck at all times; ISPA sweaters with the logo are required and hoodies are not allowed; jewelry should be limited and hairstyles should be neat.

Food Options
Food service is provided on site with a cafeteria operated by MDCPS Food and Nutrition. Florida Department of Health food-service inspections show a 'Satisfactory' status for ISPA Loc. 7571 (e.g., January 2024; December 2022; May 2024).

Governance and Ownership
The school is a public magnet high school governed by Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Fees
Application fees
- There is no application fee to apply to International Studies Preparatory Academy (ISPA); admissions to ISPA are processed through the Miami‑Dade County Public Schools Schools of Choice / magnet application process.

Tuition fees (by year group and per term)
- ISPA is a Miami‑Dade County Public School and does not charge tuition for enrolled resident students. This applies to all grade levels served by the school; there are no per‑term or per‑year tuition charges for regular enrollment.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- District and school fees (where charged) are generally billed and collected according to the program or activity schedule (for example, device/technology fees at registration or activity fees when students sign up). Specific due dates vary by program; many routine payments are processed through the district Online School Payments (OSP) application accessed via the M‑DCPS Parent/Student Portal using Visa or MasterCard. Some school/PTSA purchases (uniforms, spirit items, replacement IDs sold through the PTSA) are handled through the school/PTSA storefront (Square) or directly at the Activities Office. Athletic insurance premiums and similar activity fees are collected through the district's Online School Payments system.

Boarding fees
- Not applicable. ISPA is a Miami‑Dade County public day school (no boarding program or boarding charges).

Other costs and fees (typical items parents should expect)
- Technology fee (device use/insurance): There is a tiered technology/device fee structure listed for school forms: Free status $5.00, Reduced status $10.00, All others $20.00. Technology fees are waived for students who purchase district device insurance through the approved vendor (Securanty). These technology fees are charged per the school's required documents and device procedures.
- Student identification: The first student ID is issued at no charge. Replacement student ID badges are sold for USD 5.00; replacement IDs may be purchased through the Activities Office or the PTSA storefront as directed by the school. Failure to wear an ID may result in disciplinary consequences plus the replacement charge.
- Athletic insurance: All students who participate in interscholastic athletics must purchase the required athletic (and, if applicable, football) insurance. The insurance premium is charged when a student registers for athletics and is payable through the district Online School Payments (OSP) system; the premium amount varies by season/type of coverage.
- Uniforms and spirit items: ISPA maintains a uniform policy; uniforms and approved sweaters are available from the ISPA Spirit Store / PTSA storefront (sales handled via the school/PTSA appointment system and Square payment). Parents are responsible for purchasing the required uniform items. Students not in proper uniform are subject to disciplinary steps per school policy.
- Publications / optional items: Optional items such as yearbooks, class pictures, and school publications may be charged as optional fees. These are considered optional/ancillary charges and are handled per school directions and the district's student‑fee practices.

Refund information
- Refunds and refund eligibility for student fees and deposits follow School Board policy for student fees (Board Policy 6152). Typical provisions include refunds of unused material deposits at the end of the term or at transfer; for special fees when a student transfers during a grading period or activity season the policy sets prorated refund rules (for example, district policy provides percentage refunds depending on the timing of transfer within the school term). Specific refund calculations and procedures are governed by Board policy and school/district accounting practices.

Fee payment options
- Online School Payments (OSP) via the M‑DCPS Parent/Student Portal (accepts Visa and MasterCard) for district‑managed fees, athletic insurance, course/program fees, and many activity charges.
- School/PTSA storefront (Square) for spirit store and some uniform/ID purchases.
- In‑person payment at the school Activities Office or designated school office for certain items (replacement IDs, some event fees) when the school specifies cash, check, or card at the office.

Notes for parents (practical summary)
- No application fee and no tuition for resident students; the school is publicly funded.
- Expect small routine charges (technology/device fee tiers, replacement ID USD 5.00, required athletic insurance for sports, uniform purchases) and optional fees for yearbooks or certain activities. Payment is typically completed through the district Online School Payments (OSP) or the school/PTSA storefront as directed.
Academics

International Studies Preparatory Academy teaches American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP) for students aged 14 to 18.

Curriculum
ISPA is a language magnet high school serving grades 9 through 12. The International Studies program is the result of memoranda of understanding with the governments of France, Italy and Spain—the only program of its kind in the United States. Students receive up to three hours of instruction in the language of choice—French, Italian or Spanish—alongside core subjects taught in English and study literature, history and geography in the program language. Dual enrollment is available to earn college credits while attending ISPA, and Honors and Advanced Placement courses are offered in English. There are three language academies: French Academy, Italian Academy, and Spanish Academy. AP courses are offered in major academic areas and in language studies; post-secondary credit is awarded for AP exams with a score of 3 or higher.

Exam Results
AP courses are offered in major academic areas, including language studies, and post-secondary credit is awarded for AP exams with a score of 3 or higher.

Higher Education Progression
Dual enrollment is available to earn college credits while attending ISPA, and the school's mission emphasizes college and international career preparation.

Gifted and Talented
Gifted programming exists; some courses are designated Gifted, including Biology Honors Gifted.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Ninth Grade Transition/Tools for Success supports social-emotional development, self-assessment, and career planning as students move into high school. It emphasizes developing tolerance and sensitivity to others in a multi-ethnic, multilingual community. Guidance counselors provide ongoing guidance and support, including information about acceleration opportunities and personal growth.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
ISPA provides information on special education pathways, including standard diploma options for students with disabilities and the possibility of a Special Diploma or Special Certificate of Completion for appropriately classified students. Parents are urged to consult the school counselor, the special education department chairperson, or a Regional Center exceptional student education staffing specialist.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
ISPA offers an English Language Learners (ELL) program, including English 1 Through ESOL for Grade 9 and ESOL Level 1 and Level 2. Developmental Language Arts Through ESOL is available for ESOL placement and level options.

Mental Wellbeing
School guidance services support students' personal and social well-being. The Ninth Grade Transition/Tools for Success program includes components for self-assessment, personal growth, and navigating high school transitions, with guidance counselors contributing to ongoing support.

Safeguarding
Safety and security policies are addressed within ISPA's programs, including attendance guidelines and safety procedures. Early sign-outs are restricted to reduce safety and security concerns.
Parent Experience

History
ISPA is the home of The Phoenix, the first International Studies High School in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The school emphasizes bilingual and bi-cultural development, offering world language studies in addition to an international-focused curriculum that aligns with United States and European Union standards. The French, Italian, and Spanish language academies meet graduation requirements and immerse students in an international curriculum. The school has established partnerships with the Consulate General of Spain in Miami, the Consulate General of France in Miami, and the Consulate General of Italy in Miami. ISPA has received national and international recognition, including the 2015 Colegio del Año award from the Education Office of the Embassy of Spain, designation under LabelFrancÉducation, and the Magnet School of Excellence Award in 2018.

Community
ISPA engages with the broader community through international partnerships and parent resources. The school hosts ongoing events and webinars through the M-DCPS Parent Academy, including Q2 Parent Academy Weekly Webinars on October 9, 2026, and a Mental Health and Wellness Fair on October 1, 2026. These activities connect families with educational resources and community services.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
ISPA PTSA is a 501(c)(3) corporation as part of The Florida PTA, with EIN 38-3833949. Membership is required for scholarship eligibility; both student and parent must be paid members of ISPA PTSA. The PTSA administers scholarships, including a Class of 2026 PTSA Scholarship Registration with guidelines such as submission of an essay and deadlines. By-Laws allow parent representatives to be elected from among parents, guardians or others responsible for a child at ISPA, with certain restrictions for ISPA employees. The Florida PTA affiliation and scholarship framework support ISPA student activities and recognition.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
ISPA's French program is an Exemplary Program with Honors for 2025–2028, reflecting immersive language instruction and strong exam performance. AP and DELF passing rates have been consistently high in ISPA's program, underscoring rigorous language study. French instruction comprises 25% of the curriculum, illustrating ISPA's bilingual, international focus. AP Capstone is offered within the district's magnet options for International Advanced Studies, highlighting a focus on independent inquiry and cross-disciplinary work.

Arts & Creative
ISPA supports arts and creative expression through film workshops and related projects connected to its language program. Film workshops are hosted by Red Chemistry, Inc., and allow students to create short films from script to screen.

Cultural & Language
ISPA's French program is named Exemplary Program with Honors by the American Association of Teachers of French and includes 25% of the curriculum taught in French, with LabelFrancÉducation recognition. Cultural and international engagement includes meetings with the French Ambassador, a French Consul General interview, and other diplomatic and cultural activities. DELF B1/B2 diplomas are awarded to students, and ISPA graduates have attended top universities.

Social & Hobbies
ISPA features active student organizations such as the Société Honoraire de Français (SHF), which hosts events and leadership activities. Students have participated in the Dictée des francophones and other SHF-led initiatives. The SHF has organized toy drives for Chapman Partnership as part of community involvement.

Community & Service
ISPA engages in community service through SHF initiatives and partnerships, including toy drives for Chapman Partnership.

Leadership & Professional
ISPA provides leadership opportunities through student-facing events, including meetings with the French Ambassador Philippe Étienne, interviews with the French Consul General Raphaël Trapp and Congressman Christopher Weissberg, and a Zoom session with author Marc Levy.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
ISPA hosts a Mental Health and Wellness Fair to promote student well-being. Wellness-related events are listed in ISPA announcements and calendars as part of the student support offerings.
Languages

Language Provision
Core subjects are taught in English. Language study is offered in the modern languages of French, Italian, or Spanish. Students pursue studies in literature, history and geography taught in the modern language as part of the IS program. The IS program is the product of memoranda of understanding with the governments of France, Italy and Spain and is described as the only program of its kind in the United States.

Bilingual Teaching
Core subject areas are taught in English. Literature, history and geography are taught in the modern language. The program provides bilingual elements by delivering these subjects in a target language alongside English. The IS program stems from memoranda of understanding with the governments of France, Italy and Spain and is the only program of its kind in the United States.

Immersion Programs
Geography is taught in the modern language. Literature and history are taught in the modern language. The languages available for instruction are French, Italian and Spanish. Students receive up to three hours of instruction in the modern language.
Admissions

Admissions
Step 1. Submit the magnet school application to Schools of Choice before January 15, 2027. Transcripts for the prior and current school year must be submitted by January 15, 2027 for private, charter, and students not currently enrolled in M-DCPS. ISPA screens all applications and determines eligibility based on criteria including: GPA thresholds for 9th and 10th grades (2.5 or higher in relevant prior years), current enrollment in Algebra I and Physical Science (for 9th graders) or Geometry and Biology (for 10th graders) with at least a C, mastery of a modern language (French, Italian, or Spanish) for International Studies Program applicants, conduct with no grade lower than a C, attendance limits (no more than 5 absences in the first semester or 10 in the year), and ongoing compliance with conduct and academic requirements. At the end of each school year, acceptance can be revoked if the student's academic or conduct records no longer meet admission requirements. Step 2. Students who meet eligibility criteria are entered into the Miami-Dade County Public Schools district lottery pool. Students who do not meet eligibility criteria will be notified of non-acceptance. Step 3. International Studies Preparatory Academy at Gables notifies students of the District's random selection lottery outcome. The waiting list remains current through the first semester of each year. Students who want to be reconsidered for the following year must re-apply. Final admission is contingent upon final grades earned in eighth grade.

Scholarships
Scholarship Information includes CAP Scholarship Bulletins published for 2025-2026 and the ISPA PTSA Scholarship, including the PTSA Scholarship Application. Bright Futures guidance is provided with Florida Bright Futures Requirements and related BF Handbook Chapter 1. A broad list of external scholarships is listed, including the Miami Heat Scholarships, Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, The Dream.US Scholarship, Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Scholarship, and other programs. Additional scholarship resources include Cappex, FIU AcademicWorks, BigFuture, Scholarships.com.

Waitlist
The waiting list remains current through the first semester of each year. Students who want to be reconsidered for the following year must re-apply.
School Events
The school has not added events
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