The National Academy Foundation (NAF) High School consists of three academies: Academy of Finance (AoF), Academy of Information Technology (AoIT), and Academy of Hospitality & Tourism (AoHT).

These are college preparatory programs, jointly funded by the Baltimore City Public Schools System (BCPSS), the business community, private foundations and the National Academy Foundation. The programs allow high school students citywide to major in fields related to their specific academy while completing the basic state requirements for the high school diploma. Graduates receive a National Academy Foundation certificate, as well as a high school diploma upon successfully completing all required courses.

The two major components of each academy are the Pre-Academy for students in grades 9 and/or 10, and the two-year Academy for students in grades 11 through 12. In place of elective courses, Pre-Academy students take basic courses in their chosen career field.

Personal development seminars, exposure to industry leaders, summer internships and college experiences are integral parts of the program, as is a Mentoring/Shadowing Program.

Mission Statement

NAF High School prepares Baltimore City students to succeed to their fullest potential by enabling them to enter the college and/or career of their choice. NAF High School assures students' successes by providing a quality education, extensive career experiences, and a network of additional resources afforded through business partnerships.

Entrance Requirements

Reading Level Grade Level
Arithmetic Level Grade Level
General Average 75% or above
English Average 75% or above
Mathematics Average 75% or above
Attendance 90% or Better

In addition to the above criteria, students must:

Demonstrate good communications skills.
Commit to a two-year program that includes a paid summer internship.
Have no criminal record or drug history.
Demonstrate personal qualities that indicate probable success in their chosen career path.
Have a satisfactory interview by the selection committee.

National Academy Foundation High School Goals

1. Develop qualified people to lead and participate in the Financial Services, Information Technology or Hospitality and Tourism industries.
2. Increase Academy students’ knowledge and appreciation of basic career-related concepts and encourage their success in Academy and non-Academy courses.
3. Make students aware of opportunities and develop skills and personal and social qualities necessary for their chosen career.
4. Provide experiences in the workplace that apply and extend class curriculum.
5. Prepare Academy students for college; encourage and assist them in applying to post-secondary institutions.
6. Identify appropriate teaching staff and provide them with resources, seminars, experience in the workplace and other staff development activities.
7. Engage the expertise of industry experts to develop and evaluate academy programs.
8. Secure funding to support NAF High School related activities.
9. Make BCPSS students citywide aware of the NAF Academy programs to encourage and facilitate eligible students.
10. Improve the literacy level of each student.