AMES Program
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Realizing Your Greatest Academic Potential
At Mercy, we hold all students to the same academically rigorous standards and provide robust support for those with learning differences. We encourage you to challenge yourself while helping to ensure you have the tools and resources to excel.
Academic Mentoring and Educational Support
The Academic Mentoring and Educational Support (AMES) Program is a four-year program designed to empower students with identified and documented learning differences to thrive at Mercy High School. Mercy meets students where they are and supports their academic and college goals, recognizing that every learner’s journey is unique. Whether an AMES student prefers a schedule filled with college-preparatory courses, wants to challenge herself with a few Honors or AP classes, or seeks a fully rigorous schedule of Honors and AP coursework, AMES students have the skills, strategies, and support they need to thrive and lean into who they are as learners.
AMES ensures that all students have access to a Mercy education, no matter their academic challenges. Students participate fully in our college-preparatory curriculum, meeting all graduation requirements and preparing to attend four-year universities. Through personalized guidance and small-group instruction, they develop essential skills for success in high school and beyond, including organization, self-advocacy, time management, note-taking, test-taking, reading, and memory strategies. Each student has an individualized learning support plan that highlights her strengths, supports her challenges, and outlines the accommodations that help her reach her full potential.
Application Deadline: Friday, November 27, 2026
How to Apply
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I was worried about adjusting to high school academics, especially knowing that I had a learning difference, but AMES has given me the tools tailored to my unique mind to navigate my studies well.
- Isabel R. ’28
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The amazing experience I have at Mercy would not have been the same without AMES supporting and helping me every step of the way to achieve my academic goals.
⁃ Kennedy F. ’29
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Without AMES’ support, guidance and encouragement, I would not be the academic student I am today.
⁃ Kylie A. ’26
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Students in the AMES Program receive individualized support designed to help them succeed in high school and beyond. Freshmen begin with a study skills course called CORE that helps them to develop strategies in organization, self-advocacy, time management, and study techniques. Beyond their first year, students participate in small directed study classes led by the AMES team, where they receive one-on-one and small-group support. The AMES resource room offers quiet study areas, technology access, and materials to support learning.
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Accommodations We Do Not Provide
To preserve the integrity of Mercy's college preparatory curriculum while providing equitable access to learning, some modifications are beyond the scope of the AMES Program.
Our goal is to provide equitable access to learning while maintaining the rigor and expectations that prepare all students for success in college and beyond. The following accommodations are not provided at Mercy:
- Extensions on Homework or Projects
- Shortened or Modified Assignments
- Teacher Matching
- Opting Out of a World Language
- Oral Tests or Oral Re-Tests
- Blanket Retests
- Homework Reminders
Extensions on Homework or Projects
Shortened or Modified Assignments
Teacher Matching
Opting Out of a World Language
Oral Tests or Oral Re-Tests
Blanket Retests
Homework Reminders
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College Success
Throughout their four years at Mercy, AMES students are guided through intentional conversations and planning around college readiness. With support from their counselors, they explore course expectations, academic goals, and the college search process. To ensure a smooth transition, students are encouraged to compile a portfolio outlining their learning profile and accommodations, a process supported by the AMES team.
AMES graduates go on to thrive at universities across the country, including the University of Notre Dame, Yale University, UCLA, Santa Clara University, UC Berkeley, Loyola Marymount University, University of Arizona, University of Oregon, Saint Mary’s College, Regis University, and many more. Their success is a testament to Mercy’s belief that with the right support, every student can achieve academic excellence and confidence in college and beyond.
A note on applications and acceptance
All AMES students are required to apply during the designated admissions period to ensure we can provide the best possible support for your child. Late applications during freshman year are not accepted unless high school testing identifies previously undiagnosed learning differences. Mid-year applications to the AMES Program are considered on a case-by-case basis and include an additional application fee.
Embracing Learning Differences
Meet the Dedicated Team Coaching Students on Their Unique Learning Styles
