The Academy for Global Studies
prepares students for a globally interconnected world!
What is AGS?
AGS stands for Academy for Global Studies and is a “small learning community” on the Austin High School campus. AGS engages students in an educational experience that fosters international understanding and welcomes diversity of thought, while preparing students for a globally interconnected world. AGS values all students’ unique talents and encourages and challenges students to become intellectually curious, world language proficient, internationally aware and globally responsive.
Why join AGS?
You will love the small community feeling at AGS. It is a small program within a larger school. You will see your friends in classes throughout the day and meet many new friends when you go to your elective classes and participate in after-school activities. You will know your teachers well and your teachers will know you. You get to study your subjects with the world in mind, and you get to find connections between your classes. You also have the opportunity to learn from exciting guest speakers, field trips and travel experiences.
Are the classes difficult?
Classes in high school are challenging. However, there is lots of support at AGS and at AHS. Also, your teachers are very accessible and interested if you have questions or need help. Most students find they are able to manage classes and participate in sports, fine arts, band, clubs, and many other activities. For some, Pre-AP classes may seem scary, but with the way that the program is structured and the way the classes are taught, all students can be successful. Traditional dividing lines among core classes are broken down as students explore how all the courses are interrelated. The result is a broader understanding of the world.
How do I select classes?
AGS will help you select your curriculum each year. Your core classes are mostly pre-determined and then your electives and extra-curricular are your choice. But there is always someone to help answer questions and assist you if you do not know which classes to take or how the class load is laid out.
What are the teachers like in AGS?
Teachers at AGS and AHS are great. Each AGS teacher has a special interest, however, in the educational philosophy of AGS which is influenced by the Asia Society’s ISSN program. Please see the section on the International Studies Schools Network at www.asiasociety.org for more information. Our AGS teachers have fascinating backgrounds and stories and many have been AHS teachers too! We have a wonderful diversity of teachers in our program.
Is AGS a magnet school?
No. AGS is not a magnet school. Only students living in the AHS attendance zone or students with a valid transfer to AHS may apply.
What languages do students take in AGS?
AGS requires each student to pick one language when he/she enters the program freshman year. The languages to choose from are Chinese or Spanish. Once you have chosen your language, you will take that same language all four years and hopefully be very proficient by graduation.
What can a student expect to learn as an AGS student?
Students will learn to be:
- Culturally aware of their city and their world
- Collaborative team members
- Effective users of technology
- Aware of world events and global dynamics
- Proficient thinkers and problem solvers
- Responsible and ethical citizens
- Academically prepared for post secondary education
Is it difficult to get into AGS?
No. Admission is based on a lottery for available slots. There are no admission requirements other than to express interest in the program by completing a brief application, and to be a student who lives within the Austin High School boundaries. Students in AGS are from all different areas of the Austin High School attendance zone.
How do I apply?
Application will begin being accepted in December of each school year. AGS is doing everything we can to not only eliminate errors in entries of forms, but, more importantly, to go green! We ask that, if your are able to, please submit your applications online.
When will I be notified of my application status?
Applications will be processed and the lottery drawings take place in Mid-March. Letters will go out sometime after Spring Break to inform applicants of their status; either in or wait-listed.