International Academy

What is the International Academy East?

The International Academy East (IA East) is a public, tuition –free high school of choice (105c) for students living in the Troy School District as well as students who are serviced by intermediate school districts (IDSs) that border the Oakland Intermediate School District. These districts include ISDs servicing Macomb, Genesee, Lapeer, Washtenaw, Wayne, and Livingston counties. The IA East opened in August of 2008 with a 9th grade class of 125 students. The school occupies the former Baker Middle School, located at 1291 Torpey Drive in Troy.
The International Academy provides a unique blend of rigorous academic standards and practical career related learning throughout the school year. It features the world renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) as the centerpiece of the curriculum. IA East is the east campus of the International Academy in Bloomfield Hills.
What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma?
An International Baccalaureate Diploma is recognized internationally and is the highest form of a diploma for high school students. IA East can potentially offer students a year of college credit before they begin their college career. To learn more, visit www.ibo.org

What is the timeline for the 2010-2011 school year?

Student and Parent Enrollment Information Sessions: (choose one)

Thursday, January 14, 2010 – 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. or

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 – 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Application Deadline:  Applications are due January 29, 2010

Lottery Date (if needed)  February 8, 2010

Mandatory Placement and Diagnostic Testing Dates: (attend either time)

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 – 4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 25, 2010 – 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

What if I am an international student?
International students must still demonstrate competency on the placement test and qualify as an international student. We recommend an individual meeting with IA principal, Bert Okma, for all international students.
IB diploma can be accepted in lieu of national exams: GCSE, Abitur of Germany, Bac. Of France. Policies vary by country, state, and university. I B schools generally accept transfers in order to assist the student.

Can Schools of Choice students enroll?
Yes, students from the above mentioned counties can apply.
Is there a cost to attend?
There is not tuition. We cannot charge or accept tuition students. There is a $20 application processing fee. There is also a one time book deposit of $150 (refundable at graduation) and an annual lab fee of $150. Enrichment classes also have additional costs. There are assessment fees for IB exams.

Is there transportation?
No, but carpools can be arranged by individuals.
Can IA East students participate in extracurricular activities?
Yes, and many at other campuses have done so very successfully. IA East student will participate for the Troy schools in athletics. Extracurricular and intramural activities are offered by the IA East.

Do you have information about teachers and class size?
Teachers must all be Michigan certified and have strong backgrounds in their disciplines. Class size will be approximately 25. The IA East has its own calendar of 200 instructional days.

Can I and /or my child meet with the principal?
Yes, to schedule a visit or meeting with the principal, Mr. Bert Okma, call the Central Campus main office at 248-341-5900.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Questions should be directed to Dr. Audra Melton, Teacher Leader of IA East at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 248-823-8300.