Welcome To Open Hearts Language Academy - Student Orientation Booklet International Students
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Welcome
To
Open Hearts Language Academy
Student Orientation Booklet
International Students
(Revised December 2021)
1
CONTENTS
Welcome to Open Hearts Language Academy page 3
Mission Statement page 4
Our International ESL program page 5
Curriculum page 6
OHLA L.I.F.E page 7
Schedule page 8
Assessment page 10
Promotion Policy page 11
Cell Phone and English Only Policies page 13
Attendance Policy page 14
Payment Policy page 15
Cancellation and Refund Policies page 16
Vacation and Leave of Absence Policies page 17
F1- Student Regulations page 19
Probation Form page 20
Grievance Procedures page 21
Grievance Form page 22
Complaint Form page 23
Repeat Level Form page 24
What our Campuses have to offer page 25
Achievement Scale Appendix
2
Welcome to Open Hearts Language Academy!
We are delighted that you have decided to study English with us at OHLA. Open Hearts Language
Academy is an international service-oriented organization, which has its central office in Miami,
Florida. Our mission is to provide high-quality academic programs and cultural opportunities for
people who wish to learn English as a second language for academic, professional or personal
purposes.
At Open Hearts Language Academy, our total commitment is to facilitate the advancement of
students’ communicative language skills in English through a variety of means. We offer personal
service and high-quality, student-oriented curriculum and instruction. We also give students insight
into U.S. culture through activities and social experiences outside of the institute. One of the best
things is that students come to study at Open Hearts Language Academy from many different
countries, so you will have the opportunity to share and compare your experiences with students from
many different cultural backgrounds.
The teachers that you will have at Open Hearts Language Academy are highly qualified English
language instructors. Our instructors come from a variety of professional backgrounds. Many of our
instructors have advanced degrees in English-language instruction and all have many years of teaching
experience. It is our personal goal to help you really improve your English and have a great time while
you are here at Open Hearts Language Academy.
Thank you,
The OHLA Team
3
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide a learning environment that challenges and supports students in achieving their linguistic
goals for personal or professional growth, or in gaining entrance into an American University through
its Pathway Program.
Qualified teachers strive to provide a student-centered environment which enhances academic
learning and makes it possible for students to explore linguistic creativity.
Necessary institutional resources are allocated to offer a comprehensive curriculum, outstanding
student services, impeccable institutional facilities and innovative technology for learning English as a
Second Language.
Knowledgeable and dedicated staff members ensure that, at all times, students are satisfied with their
English language studies and are successfully integrated into the community.
Goals and objectives
¨ To provide an educational program that is balanced in the development of the mental, physical and
social life of the student.
¨ To maintain high standards in teaching and learning and to instill them in our students.
¨ To produce qualified, efficient, personable, self-confident and, therefore, superior language
speakers.
¨ To provide counseling for those who wish to pursue a degree in a U.S. university.
¨ To unite students from all over the world through the English language.
¨ To provide a hospitable climate wherein faculty and students may pursue excellence, truth and
continuing relevance.
¨ To give individual attention to each student making his/her course as meaningful and successful as
possible.
4
OUR INTERNATIONAL ESL PROGRAM
The objective of our international ESL program is to improve the students’ overall English proficiency.
Our integrated ESL program is offered in 8 different levels with each of these levels being divided into
five two-week units. This will allow our students to not only move at their own pace, but to be
continuously challenged by new material.
Levels offered
Electives
Open Hearts Language Academy offers additional programs to our students. In addition to our regular
curriculum, an Intensive and a Super-Intensive program have been added to our instructional
schedule.
An array of complementary courses has been designed at different levels of language proficiency.
These courses are 10 weeks in duration.
Students in the Intensive program take two afternoon courses; each meeting two days per week.
Students in the Super-Intensive program have four afternoon courses.
The courses developed for the Intensive and Super-Intensive programs are skill and proficiency
based. Among others, we offer classes focused on Reading and Writing, Listening and Speaking, and
Business and Vocabulary.
B. Test Preparation program: This program is designed for users who are preparing to sit for a
language exam, such as TOEFL, IELTS or FCE, and CAE, and would like to increase their performance
scores.
C. Private Instruction: These are classes designed to focus on specific needs including conversation,
writing, accent reduction, etc.
D. Executive Program: This program is custom designed for one-on-one instruction for busy
executives who want to improve their English in a short amount of time. Programs vary from 1 to 15
lessons per week.
E. Youth Camp Program: This program is designed for younger students who want to study English
and have fun too.
5
CURRICULUM
The curriculum at Open Hearts is meant to be open-ended and ongoing. Each 10-week session is subdivided
into 2-week blocks. Students may commence studies at the beginning of each two-week block. For instance, if
a student were to start at the beginning of the third week (beginning of the second block), he would complete
the remaining blocks, and would be promoted to the next level upon achieving the required acceptable average
of ALL biweekly block exams and tasks.
While the blocks are designed to be as self-contained and non-cumulative as possible, it is inevitable that the
material will build on itself to some degree. It is therefore incumbent on the instructor to fill in the gaps in the
student’s knowledge as necessary to the extent that it is possible. The instructor should not forget, however, that
the student will eventually be exposed to the material he has not studied, after completing the course.
Sessions
6“OHLA L.I.F.E.” program
To supplement our Award-Winning English program, each Friday students are provided with the opportunity to
experience learning in a different setting (other teachers, other classmate, etc.) and/or to concentrate on specific
area(s) of their learning that they are most interested in or feel that they need to practice more.
Depending on demand, classes listed below are offered
Conversation Club: Basic Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
Conversation Club: Advanced Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
Pronunciation Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
Accent Reduction Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
Business Communication 1 Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1(oral based)
Business Communication 2 Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus (written based)
Survival English in daily life Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
Survival English in the work-place Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
TOEFL Prep: Basic Pre-Basic / Basic 1- 2 / Intermediate 1
TOEFL Prep: Advanced Intermediate 2/ Advanced 1 -2/ Elite and Elite Plus
Please note that OHLA L.I.F.E.” is offered free of charge to anyone who is interested – feel free to bring your
friends and relatives to take classes with you. The minimum age requirement is 16 years of age.
(*) OHLA will provide snacks and refreshments to students during the “extended break” on that day.
Participation
There is only one way to learn a language – PRACTICE! Therefore, it is so important for students at Open
Hearts Language Academy to attend and participate in all classes.
Participation means:
Ø Coming to class
Ø Paying attention to the lesson
Ø Getting involved in the classroom discussions
Ø SPEAKING ENGLISH ON CAMPUS AT ALL TIMES
7CAMPUS SCHEDULE
MIAMI BRICKEL / AVENTURA DAY SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive
13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00
09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
Super Intensive 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00 13:00 to 14:00
14:30 to 15:30 14:30 to 15:30 14:30 to 15:30 14:30 to 15:30
Exam Prep 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
One to one 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00
09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:45 09:00 to 12:30
Semi + Exam Prep
14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
MIAMI BRICKEL / AVENTURA EVENING SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05
20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00
17:15 to 18:15 17:15 to 18:15 17:15 to 18:15 17:15 to 18:15 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05 18:20 to 20:05
20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00 20:15 to 22:00
BOCA RATON DAY SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 09:00 to 12:30
08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive
12:30 to 13:30 12:30 to 13:30 12:30 to 13:30 12:30 to 13:30
08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 09:00 to 12:30
Super Intensive 12:30 to 13:30 12:30 to 13:30 12:30 to 13:30 12:30 to 13:30
14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00
Exam Prep 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
One to one 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00
08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 08:30 to 12:15 09:00 to 12:30
Semi + Exam Prep
14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
BOCA RATON EVENING SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 19:05 to 20:50 19:05 to 20:50 19:05 to 20:50 19:05 to 20:50 09:00 to 12:30
21:00 to 22:45 21:00 to 22:45 21:00 to 22:45 21:00 to 22:45
18:00 to 19:00 18:00 to 19:00 18:00 to 19:00 18:00 to 19:00 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive 19:05 to 20:50 19:05 to 20:50 19:05 to 20:50 19:05 to 20:50
21:00 to 22:45 21:00 to 22:45 21:00 to 22:45 21:00 to 22:45
8CAMPUS SCHEDULE
CELBRATION / METROWEST / WINTER GARDEN DAY SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 09:00 to 12:30
08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive
12:40 to 13:40 12:40 to 13:40 12:40 to 13:40 12:40 to 13:40
08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 09:00 to 12:30
Super Intensive 12:40 to 13:40 12:40 to 13:40 12:40 to 13:40 12:40 to 13:40
14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00
Exam Prep 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
One to one 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00
08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 09:00 to 12:30
Semi + Exam Prep
14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
CELBRATION / METROWEST / WINTER GARDEN EVENING SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 09:00 to 12:30
20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30
17:45 to 18:45 17:45 to 18:45 17:45 to 18:45 17:45 to 18:45 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40
20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30
TAMPA DAY SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 09:00 to 12:30
08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive
12:35 to 13:35 12:35 to 13:35 12:35 to 13:35 12:35 to 13:35
08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 08:45 to 12:25 09:00 to 12:30
Super Intensive 12:35 to 13:35 12:35 to 13:35 12:35 to 13:35 12:35 to 13:35
14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00 14:00 to 15:00
Exam Prep 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
One to one 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00 14:10 to 16:00
08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 08:50 to 12:30 09:00 to 12:30
Semi + Exam Prep
14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00 14:10 to 17:00
TAMPA EVENING SCHEDULE
Program Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Semi Intensive 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 09:00 to 12:30
20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30
17:45 to 18:45 17:45 to 18:45 17:45 to 18:45 17:45 to 18:45 09:00 to 12:30
Intensive 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40 18:50 to 20:40
20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30 20:50 to 22:30
9ASSESSMENT
Block Exams
At the end of each 2-week block, students will sit for an exam that evaluates how well they have assimilated the
material covered during that time of study. The block exams will cover all aspects studied in class: listening,
speaking, reading and writing. These exams will let our teachers know if the students are learning or not, how
much progress has been made, and determine whether or not students are ready to go on to the next level.
Tasks
Each block, students will have to complete an oral and a written task. The level of difficulty of these tasks will
be in line with the students’ level of proficiency and will reflect the learning outcomes as described in the
course outlines.
Homework
To facilitate our students’ learning of English, teachers will give them homework regularly. Each student should
come to class with his or her work finished or with questions about the assignment, if he or she did not
understand the exercise.
Quizzes
Students will have regular quizzes, in addition to the block exams, in order to determine if they are making
progress and if they understand the material presented.
How is your final mark going to be calculated for the Semi-Intensive classes?
Grading Scale Course Grading Policy
A = 90 – 100% Block Exams and Tasks 80%
B = 80 – 89% Homework & Quizzes 20%
C = 70 – 79%
D = 60 – 69%
F = Less than 60%
How is your final mark going to be calculated for the Intensive and Super-Intensive classes?
Grading Scale Course Grading Policy
A = 90 – 100% Midterm & Final Exams 70%
B = 80 – 89% Homework & Quizzes 30%
C = 70 – 79%
D = 60 – 69%
F = Less than 60%
For test preparation classes (TOEFL, IELTS, FCE, and CAE), progress is demonstrated through weekly practice
tests that assess the achievement of learning objectives.
Make-up Block Exams
Any student with an excused absence can make up a block exam.
10Other Make-up Work
It is the students’ responsibility to make up any missed work. Upon their return to school after an absence,
students have 3 days to make up missed work. They must check with their teacher about all work missed as a
result of being absent.
Student-Teacher Conferences
Individual student conferences inform students of their progress and areas of concern. They are considered
essential to the assessment process. As students’ progress through the course, they will participate in individual
conferences with their teachers at least twice during each session: once in the middle and once near the end.
During these conferences, the teacher will provide students with suggested exercises, activities or resources that
they can use in order to make their learning experience more valuable. For each conference, a form is completed
by the teacher providing specific feedback to students. A copy will be given to the student, and the original will
be placed in the student’s academic file.
Exit Exams
Students leaving the program will be required to take an exit exam. The exam will be a different form of the
CaMLA ept (English proficiency test) published by Cambridge University Press. This provides the school with
another tool to measure learning over the students’ entire course of study.
PROMOTION POLICY
To be promoted to the next level, students need to achieve a score of at least 75% on exams, tasks, homework
and quizzes.
Students who enter the program in Block 1, 2 or 3 will automatically be considered for promotion.
Students starting in Block 2 and 3 will need to;
- Make up the Written and Oral task for the missed block
- Make up the Block Exams for the missed block
- Or complete the “comprehensive exam” at the end of the session
Students who enter in Block 4 or 5 CANNOT be considered for promotion.
Repeat and Conditional Promotion
Students who do not meet the passing requirements will not be promoted to the next level. However, under
certain circumstances and upon the teacher’s recommendation and Academic Director/Leader’s approval, a
student may be allowed to pass conditionally to the next level. In such cases, the Academic Director/Leader
will meet with the teacher during the following session to monitor the student’s performance and together they
may decide to re-assign the student to the lower level.
Students are allowed to repeat only one level in General or Academic English. If the students fail or choose to
repeat the level, they will have to sign The Repeat Level Form.
Early Promotion Policy
Within the first 2 weeks of testing and being assigned an initial level, any new student who wishes to be
considered for the next level is required to re-take the CAMLA Placement Test as well as the Written and Oral
assessment.
11Within the first 2 weeks of being promoted to a new level, any on-going student who wishes to be considered
for the next level is required to re-take the CAMLA Placement Test as well as the Written and Oral assessment.
After 2 weeks but not beyond 50% of any session, students with an average score of 80% in their current level
can qualify to move up a level by achieving an overall score of 75% or more on the Comprehensive Exam for
their current level along with a Written and Oral assessment.
How is the overall score calculated?
Comprehensive Exam 50% of the final mark
Written Assessment using OHLA’s Written Task Rubrics 25% of the final mark
Oral Assessment using OHLA’s Oral Task Rubrics 25% of the final mark
Please note:
1. Students are to complete the above assessment within the following timeline:
By the end of Block 3 (week 6) for all sessions
2. Level changes can only take effect at the start of a new block.
3. A student can only have one attempt at moving up a level.
4. Students changing level are required to buy the new books.
Satisfactory Progress
Satisfactory progress is defined as improving one’s English proficiency in a systematic and timely manner.
Students who do not pass a level are allowed to repeat a level ONLY ONCE without restrictions or conditions.
Failing the same level for the second time will result in one of the following actions:
• Mandatory tutoring at the student’s expense
• The student is counseled out of the program and into another learning institution
Additional Tools and Learning Opportunities
Open Hearts Language Academy offers a computer lab that students can use free of charge. The computer lab is
available to students from 8:30am to 10:00pm. All computers have internet access, allowing students to email
friends and family back home.
Open Hearts Language Academy also has an Activities Director who creates an Activity Calendar for each
month with visits to museums, the movies, boat tours and more!
12CELL PHONE POLICY
Open Hearts Language Academy has a very simple but strict cell phone policy that applies to both teachers and
students.
No cell phones are to be used in class at any time for any reason. In case of an emergency, students can be
reached by calling the school’s main number.
Boca Raton (561) 275-5100 Orlando/MetroWest (321) 325-9090
Miami Aventura (786) 567-4950 Orlando Winter Garden (407) 809-4570
Miami Brickell (305) 379-4027 Tampa Campus (813) 537-5900
Orlando Celebration (407) 502-2500
ENGLISH ONLY POLICY
An English zone has been established at Open Hearts Language Academy. This zone extends from the
Administrative offices and throughout the hallways. It includes offices, lab, classes and common areas. Upon
entering this zone, ALL students, faculty and staff are required to speak English only. Students and/or faculty
and staff wishing to speak a language other than English will have to leave the English zone.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
As a student of Open Hearts Language Academy, I understand that;
1. The only way to improve my English is to be put in situations where I must practice constantly.
2. It is Open Hearts Language Academy’s responsibility to provide me with a learning environment
which facilitates the constant practice of English
Therefore I, as an Open Hearts student, hereby promise to speak only English while I am on the premises
of Open Hearts Language Academy.
I also hereby promise NOT to speak my mother tongue, while I am on the premises of Open Hearts
Language Academy.
Failure to follow the rule would result in the following:
First offence: Verbal warning
Second offence: Being suspended from the current block and being marked absent. Re-entering the class
by making an oral presentation on the benefits of speaking English as much as possible.
Third offence: Being suspended from the current session and being marked absent. Re-entering the class
by writing a one (1) page essay on the benefits of speaking English as much as possible. This essay is to be
presented to the Academic Director/Leader or School Director and will have to be signed by them for
re-admittance into class.
Fourth offence: A two-day suspension and being put on probation for repeatedly failing school regulations.
13ATTENDANCE POLICY
Open Hearts Language Academy’s programs move at a quick pace, so it is very important that you do not
miss class.
At OHLA, class attendance is mandatory. Students must attend 80% of classes per session. More than 20%
absence in a session will automatically result in the student being put on official probation. Students
accumulating more than 20% absence in any two sessions will face dismissal from the program.
Absences
This is how absences are calculated: you will be counted absent from a period if you are not in class for any
reason. However, absences might be excused if you can provide official documentation supporting that you
were away for a medical, dental, police, court or immigration appointment. Students are to attend a minimum
of 80% of their classes per session.
Depending on their program, students will attend 80% of their classes per session if they meet the following
requirements:
1. For 20 lessons, students attend an average of 16 lessons per week
2. For 25 lessons, students attend an average of 20 lessons per week
3. For 30 lessons, students attend an average of 24 lessons per week
4. For 35 lessons, students attend an average of 28 lessons per week
Note: 1 lesson is 50 minutes long; therefore, Period 1 and Period 2 each count for 2 lessons.
Late Policy
A student may not be allowed into class after the initial 15 minutes of each class unless approved by the
teacher.
Keep in mind that to be successful it is very important to be present as much as possible.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO CALL IN WHEN SICK
14PAYMENT POLICY
Fees & Initial Tuition payment
Upon application, initial application fees, tuition for the first 10-weeks [or up to your proposed length of study,
if less than 10 weeks], housing placement fees, and airport service fees are due and are to be paid by:
1. Sending payment to the institute bank account [wire transfer]
2. Sending a check drawn on a US bank or an international money order to our business office
On-going Fees & Tuition payment
Tuition payment is due at the beginning of every 10-week session. Our business office will provide you with
an official invoice stating the amount due as well as the payment due date.
On-going tuition can be paid by mail or in person in the form of:
1. Check drawn on a US bank
2. Credit card payment [We accept Visa & MasterCard]
Installment Payment Plan
After completing their initial 10-week session, students who continue with the IEP program, have the option
to take advantage of several installment payment plans offered by the school. Ask the front desk for more
details.
Note that fees for housing, materials and student services (if requested) are due, in full, at the beginning of
each session.
Late payment fee
Tuition and other fees are due on the assigned date.
Students are allowed an additional 5 business days after the assigned date to bring their account up to date,
otherwise students’ participation in class will no longer be allowed and may risk having their I-20 terminated.
A late fee of $20 per payment will be accessed to overdue accounts after 5 business days of the due date.
15CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICIES
If you cancel your enrollment prior to the start of the initial session in which you are enrolled, a cancellation
fee equal to 4 weeks tuition [or to your proposed length of study, if less than 4 weeks] will apply. However,
fees such as: housing stipend or residential fee and airport transfer fees will be refunded.
After the start of any session, the following cancellation fees will apply:
Tuition
Tuition for the full 10-week session [or to your proposed length of study, if less than 10 weeks] is non-
refundable, unless you test above our highest level of instruction or have a documented medical emergency. If
you test above our highest level of instruction, tuition and fees paid will be refunded. If during your session
you must return to your home country for a documented emergency, the unused portion of your tuition will be
held on account for a period of one year, for use upon your return.
Housing stipend
A cancellation fee equal to 2 weeks of housing stipend will apply.
Residential fee
A cancellation fee equal to 2 weeks of paid residential fee will apply.
For any session in which you cancel, fees paid for materials, books, and student services [if chosen] are non-
refundable.
If Open Hearts Language Academy cancels the program, subsequent to your enrollment, all paid tuition and
fees, including the initial application fee, will be refunded.
If a student is terminated by Open Hearts Language Academy due to violations of the school written
disciplinary and/or attendance policies and/or local, state, or federal laws, no refund will be permitted.
If your tuition and fees are paid through an Open Hearts Language Academy representative in your country,
the refund will be processed through this representative.
16VACATION POLICY
1. Students who register and study for a 40-week program at OHLA, qualify for a 10-week vacation period.
How to request your vacation
• All requests for vacation must be made to and approved by the Admissions office.
• Students must first complete 20 weeks of studies before requesting any vacation.
• Students’ vacation dates must correspond to the dates of one of the sessions offered by OHLA.
• If any vacation time is taken after completion of 40 weeks of studies, students must re-enroll and make
the initial payment for the period following their vacation period. Minimum re-enroll period is 10
weeks. Failure to re-enroll and pay will result in the student’s I-20 being completed on the last day at
school prior to their initial scheduled vacation day.
2. Students who first register and study for a 20-week program and upon completion register for a
second 20-week program, qualify for a 10-week vacation period.
How to request your vacation
• All requests for vacation must be made to and approved by the Admissions office.
• Students must first complete 20 weeks of studies before requesting any vacation.
• Students’ vacation dates must correspond to the dates of one of the sessions offered by OHLA.
• If any vacation time is taken after completion of 40 weeks of studies, students must re-enroll and make
the initial payment for the period following their vacation period. Minimum re-enroll period is 10
weeks. Failure to re-enroll and pay will result in the student’s I-20 being completed on the last day at
school prior to their initial scheduled vacation day.
3. Students who transfer from another recognized ESL school, which they attended for at least 10
weeks, qualify for a 10-week vacation period if they register for a 20-week program at OHLA.
How to request your vacation
• All requests for vacation must be made to and approved by the Admissions office.
• Students must first complete 10 weeks of studies before requesting any vacation.
• Students’ vacation dates must correspond to the dates of one of the sessions offered by OHLA.
• If any vacation time is taken after completion of 30 weeks of studies, students must re-enroll and make
the initial payment for the period following their vacation period. Minimum re-enroll period is 10
weeks. Failure to re-enroll and pay will result in the student’s I-20 being completed on the last day at
school prior to their initial scheduled vacation day.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY
In the case of documented emergencies, students are entitled to request one (1) Leave of Absence (LOA). This
LOA can only be granted by the School Director and only if he/she feels that the request is warranted.
Please email your School Director/DSO if you wish to know if your situation qualifies for a Leave of Absence.
Note, that if your LOA is granted, tuition is payable for the period of your leave and that it will count against
the total number of weeks you registered for.
The total period of any LOA cannot exceed 4 weeks for each 12 months of consecutive enrollment.
17OPEN HEARTS LANGUAGE ACADEMY
VACATION & LEAVE OF ABSENCE FORM
Name:_____________________________ Phone: _____________________
Email:____________________________ Current Level:_____________________
VACATION POLICY
According to the F-1 student annual vacation regulation (8 CFR 214.2(f) (5) (iii)), an eligible F-1 student may have an
annual vacation only once per year and must intend to enroll for the term following annual vacation. A school break (e.g.,
winter or spring break) when school is not in session does not constitute annual vacation.
1. Students who register and study for a 40-week program at OHLA, qualify for a 10-week vacation period.
2. Students who first register and study for 20-week program and upon completion register for a second 20-week program,
qualify for a 10-week vacation period.
3. Students who transfer from another recognized ESL schools, in which they attended for at least 10 weeks qualify for a
10-week vacation period if they register for a 20-week program at OHLA.
• All requests for vacation must per made to and approved by the Admission office.
• Students must first complete required weeks of studies before requesting any vacation.
• Students cannot divide their 10-week vacation in more than 1 segment.
• If any vacation time is taken after completion of 40 weeks of studies, students must re-enroll and make the initial
payment for the period following their vacation period. Minimum re-enroll period is 10 weeks. Failure to re-enroll
and pay will result in the student’s I-20 being completed on the last day at school prior to their initial scheduled
vacation day.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY
In case of documented emergencies, students are entitled to request one (1) Leave of Absence (LOA). This LOA can only
be granted by the School Director and only if he/she feels that the request is warranted.
Please email your School Director/DSO if you wish to know if your situation qualifies for a Leave of Absence.
Note, that if your LOA is granted, tuition is payable for the period of your leave and that it will count against the total
number of weeks you registered for.
Please note that the total period of any LOA cannot exceed 4 weeks for each 12 months of consecutive enrollment.
I understand the above policies and am requesting the following period(s):
Vacation: # of weeks: ____ Last day of class: ___/___/___ Return to class: ___/___/___
LOA: # of weeks: ____ Last day of class: ___/___/___ Return to class: ___/___/___
Student Signature: ___________________________________ Date: _____________________
PDSO / DSO Signature: ______________________________ I-20 End Date: _____/_____/___
Students cannot be excused from school for a period of more than 10 weeks at a time
18F-1 STUDENT REGULATIONS
All F-1 students must maintain legal status while studying in the United States. Among
other things, legal status is maintained by registering for full-time enrollment in the
program. Anyone that falls out-of-status will have their I-20 terminated and will have to
apply for reinstatement at another institution, or immediately leave the U.S.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR F-1 STATUS
• Come to school and follow the attendance policies.
• Do not work off-campus. It is illegal.
• Apply for vacation – remember that you must have your vacation approved!
• Know when your I-20 expires.
• Know when your visa expires.
• Know when your passport expires.
• Don’t leave the U.S. without making sure that the second page of your I-20 is signed.
• Report any changes to your address or phone number at the Front Desk.
• Always let us know if you have a problem so we can make sure you don’t fall out of status.
19PROBATION
STUDENT: _________________________ SEVIS ID# ___________________
Open Hearts Language Academy is the entity responsible for sponsoring your F1 visa. In order for you to
maintain this visa you must follow school and immigration regulations and respect the four (4) following
conditions:
1. You must follow the school’s attendance policy
2. You must respect your financial obligations to the school
3. You must respect all school regulations and school officials
The purpose of this letter is to inform you that you have been found in breach of one or several of the
conditions listed above and as such your F1 visa can be terminated by the sponsoring entity. However, we at
Open Hearts Language Academy recognize the difficulties of adaptations that foreign students sometimes
face upon their arrival in the United States. We also believe that all of our students should be given the
opportunity to redeem themselves.
Here are the options being offered to you:
A) Sign this probation letter with the understanding that if you are to be found again in breach of one of the
conditions listed above your I-20 will be terminated automatically with no further notice.
B) In order to better adapt and to get a fresh start, a change of venue might be necessary. Therefore, we will
allow you to transfer to another recognized IEP within a period of 14 calendar days. Keep in mind that
your transfer form can only be signed by Open Hearts Language Academy once your current financial
obligations to the school have been fulfilled.
Failure to sign this letter or to transfer to another recognized IEP within the allotted time will result in your
I-20 being immediately terminated.
I, _______________________________ HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF THE CONDITION
OF MY PROBATION AND HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRANSFER TO
ANOTHER RECOGNIZED IEP.
I HAVE DECIDED TO EXERCISE OPTION (circle one) A B
________________________________ ________________________________
Student’s signature PDSO / DSO
________________________________
School Director
Signed in __________________________, Florida, on this _______ day of _____________, 20 ____
20STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
PROMOTION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
When a student challenges his/her promotion, the following procedures should be followed:
A. Teacher is responsible for making the recommendation to the Academic Director regarding possible
promotion to the next level, based on the student’s speaking/listening ability, reading/writing ability, as
well as grammar knowledge before recommending any changes.
B. After reviewing the teacher’s recommendation, the Academic Director will make the decision as to
whether a change should be made. The Academic Director might take other factors, such as student’s
goals and objectives, into consideration.
ALL CHANGES MUST BE MADE NO LATER THAN THE END OF THE FIRST WEEK OF THE NEW
SESSION. NO CHANGES WILL BE APPROVED AFTER THE FIRST WEEK.
GENERAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
Students who have academic or personal concerns will have the opportunity to address the grievance through
the following procedure:
A. If the concern relates to classroom difficulties, the student will discuss the matter with the teacher of the
particular class. If not resolved, the student may appeal to the Academic Director. If the concern is still
not addressed to the student’s satisfaction through these means, he/she may appeal to the School
Director.
B. Students with concerns, which are very personal in nature, will be given the opportunity to counsel with
any Staff or Faculty members, who will address the matter to the School Director.
C. Concerns with organizational policy should be discussed with the School Director. If the concern is not
resolved, the student has the right to gain consultation with the President of Open Hearts Language
Academy.
D. The resolution of any conflicts is best solved as close to the source as possible. Students are urged to
contact their teachers to discuss concerns. If the conflict cannot be resolved with the teacher, the student
may meet with the Academic or the School Director. Upon receiving a formal complaint, the Academic
or the School Director, must respond and take appropriate action within 10 days. Students should move
from one level to another only if an acceptable resolution cannot be reached at the lower level. Anyone
retaliating against a student who files a complaint under this policy is subject to disciplinary action, up
to and including termination. The ultimate responsibility for the resolution of such complaints will
reside with the School Director.
DISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
Students who feel that they are subject to discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin,
age, sexual orientation, marital status or any category protected by civil statute or regulation or sexual
harassment are to contact the School Director immediately to file a proper complaint.
Students at OHLA can submit a formal complaint by using one of the following forms available with the
School Director’s office:
a) Grievance Form (See Appendix 1)
b) Complaint Form (See appendix 2)
21GRIEVANCE FORM
Student Name: Campus
E-mail: ______________________________________ Phone #:
Description of Problem
Describe how you would like to see this resolved:
/ /
Please write your name here in lieu of signature Date
OFFICE USE ONLY
Received at OHLA by: Received
Comments:
Final Disposition:
22COMPLAINT FORM
This Form must be filled out to file an Equal Opportunity Complaint of Discrimination or Sexual Harassment that is based on race, color, gender,
religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status or any category protected by civil statute or regulation. In accordance with the
principles of due process the complaint procedure is provided for the careful, systematic and through review of complaints alleging unlawful
discrimination by any Open Hearts Language Academy employee or student or in any policy, program or standard, when the alleged discrimination
is perceived to be based on the complainant’s race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, age, or marital
status. In order to initiate a complaint of discrimination, please contact and submit this form to the School Director.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE:
Name of person completing this form: ______________________________________________________________
Home Phone #: ________________________ Cell Phone #: ________________________
Address: _____________________ City ________________ State: ___________ Zip Code _____________
Circle One: Faculty Staff Student
I would like to request: _____ Formal investigation _____ Mediation
--.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-..-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.--.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.
I believe I have been mistreated on the basis of my:
(Please place a check mark next to those that apply)
Age _____ Race _____ Disability _____
Religion _____ Marital Status _____ National origin _____
Sexual Harassment _____ Gender _____ Sexual Orientation _____
Other (please specify) _____
Describe Events. Be as detailed as possible. (Attach additional sheets if necessary.)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
List witness names and telephone numbers. (Attach additional sheets if necessary.)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Describe how you would like to see this resolved:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________ ________________________
Signature Date
OFFICE USE ONLY .-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-..-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.--.-.-.-.-.-
Date Received at OHLA: ____________________ Received by ___________________________
Comments:
Final Disposition:
23OPEN HEARTS LANGUAGE ACADEMY
REPEATING A LEVEL POLICY
Dear ___________________________
We are required by the U.S. government to provide evidence that OHLA monitors patterns of progression
through the levels of the program to prove that students, progress throughout the OHLA curriculum by
achieving student learning outcomes as anticipated by the design of our curriculum.
Our English program has 8 levels divided between General and Academic English
Students are allowed to repeat only one (1) level of the General English as well as 1 level of Academic English.
Students who fail any level must repeat it automatically. However, students are only allowed to repeat 1 level of
General English as well as 1 level of Academic English.
Students failing any given level twice or two levels within either the General or Academic English groups will
be required to move on to the next level and to attend additional private lessons (5 hrs. per week) for a period of
4 weeks to ensure that they can handle the new level. Note that the cost for the private lessons will be the
students' sole responsibility.
I, ______________________________, understand that if I fail this or any other level within the current
English program, I will have to move on to the next level and attend private lessons, in addition to the classes I
am enrolled in, at my own expenses.
_______________________ _____________________________ ___/____/___
Student’s Signature Academic Director / Leader Signature Date
24WHAT AVENTURA HAS TO OFFER
Location
Our OHLA - Aventura campus is located in the city of Hallandale Beach just 2.5 miles from the city of
Aventura.
Hallandale Beach is named after Luther Halland, the son of a Swedish worker who was working for Henry
Flagler's Florida East Coast Railroad.
The city is best known as the home of Gulfstream Park, the Mardi Gras Casino and a greyhound
racing track which hosts the World Classic. It also has a sizable financial district, with offices for a
number of banks and brokerage houses, plus many restaurants.
Due to its large number of tourists who have retired there, Hallandale Beach has one of the fastest-
growing populations in Metro Miami.
Transportation
Located on N. Federal Hwy (US 1), Hallandale Beach and Aventura are served by several bus routes from
north and south, and many arterial roads. Please refer to this website for more information
https://www.broward.org/BCT/Pages/default.aspx
Beaches
Hallandale Beach – You can enjoy this beautiful white sand beach just about 1 mile east from our
campus!
Hollywood Beach – A beautiful beach directly northeast from our campus which includes many shops and
restaurants along S. Ocean Drive. You can find volleyball courts and other activities here.
Sunny Isles Beach – a two-mile long beach, beach goers there enjoy snorkeling, diving, and many other
water sports.
Haulover Beach/ Park – About 7 miles from OHLA, One of Florida’s oldest and officially recognized
beaches. The park features a marina, tennis court, a dog park, and a skate park.
Dining
Dining: On site you can experience many food choices including Holi Vegan Kitchen (A vegan
restaurant), Blues Burgers, Doggi’s Arepas, Sushi Yummy, and much more.
Located within a few blocks are other artisanal restaurant such as Ocean’s 11 Whisky Bar & Kitchen and
El Tamarindo Coal Fire Pizza. Other local favorites, such as Olive Garden and Pizza Hut can be found
nearby.
The Village of Gulfstream Park – An open-air shopping, dining and entertainment destination offering
many opportunities for boutique shopping, delicious international and cultural foods, as well as
entertainment opportunities such as bowling and karaoke.
25Shopping
Aventura Mall – is an upscale shopping mall located in Aventura, Florida. It is the 5th largest mall in the
United States by total square feet of retail space and the largest mall in Florida.
The anchor stores are Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Macy's stores, and JCPenney. The center is highlighted
by a mix of over 300 stores, including Apple, Adidas, Anthropologie, Burberry, Cartier, The Ferrari Store,
GameStop, Givenchy, Gucci, H&M, The Lego Store, Louis Vuitton, MCM, Sephora, and Zara.
Aventura mall is much more than a place to go shopping, it is a place where art, food, entertainment and
designed spaces come together. The mall includes the AMC 24 theatres. The mall also features the 93-foot
Aventura Slide Tower designed by German sculptor Carsten Holler. This massive spiral landmark is not
just art, but a functioning slide that is open daily from 10am to 5pm and free for those more than 44-inches
tall.
Banks: (all are located less than a mile from school)
Bank of America TD Bank
801 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd 1926 E Hallandale Beach
Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
(954) 454-0989 (954) 456-7734
Wells Fargo Bank
1201 E Hallandale Beach Blvd
Hallandale, FL 33009
1(954)457-9500
DMV – Department of motor vehicles in North Miami, Florida
Address: 15555 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
Phone: (305) 229-6333
Monday to Friday: 08am to 4PM
26WHAT BOCA RATON HAS TO OFFER
Location
Our OHLA–Boca Raton campus is located inside the Marketplace at Hillsboro shopping center. This
neighborhood is located in Coconut Creek, a central location where the borders of Boca Raton, Deerfield
Beach and Pompano Beach come together. Its location offers convenient access to beaches, golf courses,
jazz clubs and upscale shopping. This area is one of the most beautiful places to live in all of Florida and,
of course, study.
Amenities located around Marketplace at Hillsboro shopping center include:
• Restaurants such as Duffy’s Sports Grill, Rotelli Pizza Pasta, La Brasa Rotisserie and Grill,
Bamboo Wok, etc.
• Grocery Stores
• Fitness Gym
• Pharmacies
• Banks
• Beaches
• Numerous shops
Banks
Within a mile you will find two national banks. To open a bank account you must comply with bank
regulations. In most cases, proof of passport and driver identification is necessary.
Wells Fargo Bank Bank of America
3668 W Hillsboro Blvd 6650 N, FL-7, Coconut Creek, FL 33073
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 1 mile from OHLA Boca Raton
1 mile from OHLA Boca Raton
Chase Bank
PNC Bank 6500 FL-7, Coconut Creek, FL 33073
6990 N, FL-7 1 mile from OHLA Boca Raton
Coconut Creek, FL 33073
1 mile from OHLA Boca Raton
Consulates/Embassies
Most Consulates/Embassies in Florida are located in Miami. Below is a partial list of locations. If
you need to visit a particular office in person, see the Student Services Director or School Director
to assist you with information, if necessary.
Partial List of Embassies and Consulates Located in Miami
Argentine Consulate. 800 Brickell Avenue #1. Miami, FL (305) 373-7794
Consulate of Germany. 100 Biscayne Blvd #22. Miami, FL (305) 358-0290
Consulate of Colombia. 280 Aragon Ave. Coral Gables, FL (305) 448-5558
Consulate of Switzerland. 825 Brickell Bay Dr. Miami, FL (305) 377-6700
Consulate of Brazil. 80 SW 8th Street. 26th Floor. Miami, FL (305) 285-6200
For a complete list of Consulates, please visit http://www.embassypages.com
27Transportation
Broward Transit
For more information about the City of Coconut Creek Community Bus service and connections
please visit the following websites:
http://www.broward.org/BCT/Documents/Services/coconutcreeknorth.pdf (FULL MAP)
https://www.broward.org/BCT/Schedules/Documents/rt48web.pdf (OHLA ROUTE)
The bus stop is less than 1 mile from OHLA-Boca Raton.
Adult Fares (Ages 18-64) - Buy a Pass
• One-way Cash Fare $2
• 3 Day Bus Pass $12
Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days. Starts the first day the card is swiped on the bus.
• 7 Day Bus Pass $20
Unlimited rides for 7 consecutive days. Starts the first day the card is swiped on the bus.
• 10 Ride Bus Pass $20
Expires after the 10th ride is taken.
• All Day Pass $5
Available for purchase on the bus. Unlimited rides all day on BCT fixed routes.
• 31 Day Adult Bus Pass $70
Unlimited rides for 31 consecutive days. Starts the first day the card is swiped on the bus.
• Premium Express one-way cash fare $2.65
• Premium Express 10 Ride Bus Pass $26.50
• Premium Express 31 Day Bus Pass $95
Deerfield Beach Train Station
1300 West Hillsboro Boulevard
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
http://www.tri-rail.com/stations/deerfield-beach-station/ 4 miles from OHLA Boca Raton
On weekends, Tri-Rail offers $5 all-day fares its train routes in South Florida. Tri-Rail runs from
Miami to West Palm Beach. On weekdays, regular one-way fares are $2.50 to $6.90 for adults,
depending on the route. Kids age 4 and younger ride for free.
Art and Culture
The City of Coconut Creek Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for recreational
activities and classes, special events, pavilion rentals, sports leagues and fitness activities. It
maintains over 167 acres of athletic fields and almost 14 acres of greenways throughout the
Coconut Creek. Coconut Creek offers its residents 18 parks, 9 greenways, 4 football/soccer
fields, 11 baseball/softball fields, multipurpose fields, tennis courts, basketball courts,
racquetball courts, 1 dog park, 2 fitness centers, and 2 recreation centers.
https://www.coconutcreek.net/parks/parks-recreation/page/3
28There is so much to do and see in Boca Raton. With 46 parks, two libraries, three public beaches,
two golf courses, several tennis centers, miles of bicycle and pedestrian trails an outdoor
amphitheater and special community events all year long, there's no time to be bored in Boca.
Arts and culture? We've got that. Professional and college sports? We've got that too. Below is a
link to Coconut Creek calendars and you can sign up for alerts to experience the best of Boca
Raton.
https://www.myboca.us/31/Experience-Boca
Shopping Areas
The Promenade at Coconut Creek boasts over 35 stores, cinema, boutiques and 14 delicious
restaurants!
Promenade at Coconut Creek
4443 Lyons Rd
Coconut Creek, FL 33073
954-376-6976
https://www.promenadeatcoconutcreek.com/
2 miles from OHLA Boca Raton
Town Center at Boca Raton is an upscale super-regional shopping mall located in Boca Raton.
Town Center at Boca Raton
6000 Glades Rd
Boca Raton, FL 33431
561-368-6001
https://www.simon.com/mall/town-center-at-boca-raton
7 miles from OHLA Boca Raton
Mizner Park is a lifestyle center in downtown Boca Raton
Mizner Park
327 Plaza Real
Boca Raton, FL 33432
(561) 362-0606
https://www.miznerpark.com/en.html
8 miles from OHLA Boca Raton
Beaches
The beautiful 976-foot Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier attracts thousands of visitors
and fishermen yearly.
Deerfield Beach Boca Raton South Beach Park
200 NE 21st Ave 3939 North Ocean Blvd
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 Boca Raton, FL 33431
7 miles from OHLA Boca Raton 9 miles from OHLA Boca Raton
https://www.deerfield-beach.com/248/Safety-Rules http://video-
monitoring.com/beachcams/boca/
29WHAT BRICKELL HAS TO OFFER
Location
Our school is located in the Four Ambassador complex. The Four Ambassadors is considered a
landmark in South Florida, built in 1966 to 1968. While being at our location make yourself at
home in this fabulous bay front location, just one block away from Brickell Avenue, the “Wall
Street” and “Park Avenue” of Miami.
The Four Ambassadors offers:
● 1 Swimming Pool (South Pool)* ● Jacuzzis*
● Gym** ● 2 Restaurants
● Beauty Salon ● Poolside Bar
● Lobby Cafeteria ● Grocery Store
● Wireless Internet Access ● Marina
*Swimming Pool (South Pool ONLY) and Jacuzzis Available daily to On-Campus Residence Students.
For students not residing at the On-Campus Residence the swimming pool is only available during
weekdays (Monday to Friday).
**Gym: Available only to OHLA On-Campus Residence students who are 18 and older.
Banks
Within walking distance you will find all International and National banks. Friendly banks such
as Suntrust, Wells Fargo, Chase Bank, and Bank of America are always there to assist new
customers. To open a bank account you must comply with bank regulations, in most cases proof
of passport and driver identification is necessary.
Suntrust Bank Wells Fargo
777 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131 169 SW 8th Street
Miami, FL 33130 Miami, FL 33130
Chase Bank Bank of America
80 SW 8th Street 701 Brickell Ave
Miami, FL 33130 Miami, FL 33131
Consulates/Embassies
In the Financial District of Miami, which is where Open Hearts Language Academy is located
you will find most of the Consulates/Embassies of different countries.
For instance, within walking distance the following Consulates/Embassies are located
• Argentine Consulate. 800 Brickell Avenue #1. Miami, FL (305) 373-7794
• Netherlands Consulate. 701 Brickell Avenue. Miami, FL (786) 866-0480
• Consulate of Germany. 100 Biscayne Blvd #22. Miami, FL (305) 358-0290
• Consulate of Colombia. 280 Aragon Ave. Coral Gables, FL (305) 448-5558
• Mexican Consulate. 5975 Sunset Drive. Miami, FL (786) 268-4900
• Consulate of Switzerland. 825 Brickell Bay Dr. Miami, FL (305) 377-6700
• Consulate of Brazil. 3150 SW 38th Ave, Miami, FL 33146 (305) 285-6200
For information on additional consulates in the Miami area go to www.yellowpages.com
30Transportation
The Metrorail system is the easiest way to get to downtown. The Metrorail is an elevated train
system that runs from Dadeland Mall up to Hialeah and Okeechobee, with an extension being
built to a Palmetto station. This is a great option for going into town for high-traffic events,
concerts and of course to school.
At Government Center (downtown), the Metrorail links to the Metromover. The Metromover
runs in a loop around the city with stops near all major points of interest, as well as a north
branch to the Omni Shopping Center and a south branch to the financial district (Brickell). A
similar Light Rail project for Miami Beach is on the planning board. When taking the Metrorail
to come to Open Hearts Language Academy get off on the station of eight street. You will be
within walking distance to the school, walk east on eight street and pass Brickell Avenue, after
passing Brickell Avenue walk one block east and you will find four white towers that have the
same shape and form, they are named the “Four Ambassadors”. Welcome to Open Hearts
Language Academy, we are waiting for you in Tower 3, 18th floor!
Miami-Dade also has a Metrobus system that thoroughly covers the county from southern
Broward County to Key Largo, and from Miami Beach to west Miami-Dade. With over 600
buses and 82 routes, it connects to both the Metrorail and Metromover. Expansions are in the
works for Kendall and South Miami-Dade.
If you really want to travel away from the city, there's the Tri-Rail system. The Tri-Rail runs
from the airport as far north as West Palm Beach and Mangonia Park. If you want to take a day
trip into Boca Raton without the stress of driving the turnpike, Tri-Rail will give you that extra
time to relax. There is an intersection with the Metrorail north of the city. Whatever your travel
needs within Dade County, there's a public transportation solution. Take a day to explore all that
our city has to offer!
For route information go to http://www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/transit/metrorail.asp
Art and Culture
Art and Culture are part of the Floridian way of life. Just few stops in the Metromover or Trolley
transportation you can attend the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, commonly
called the Arsht Center. It is one of the largest performing arts centers in the US, which embraces
excellence, celebrates differences, renews the spirit and engages diverse communities through
the power of the performing arts. You can enjoy the latest Broadway shows, theater plays,
Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet, and New World Symphony.
Galleries and Museums play a major role in Miami. Artist from diverse nationalities expose their
paintings and creations to the public. There are several museums located in the different
counties, close to the school you will find The Historical Museum of Miami and the Miami Art
Museum located in the Downtown area.
The famous Science Museum is located in Coconut Grove, just minutes away from the school
heading south.
Theater in Miami is growing in a fast pace, there are three places you can go to, and enjoy
theater, the City Theater in the Downtown area and the Jackie Gleason Center, home to the
biggest productions.
31You can also read
