U-Prep University Preparatory School

Welcome from Shelle Peterson

U-Prep is widely recognized as a high achieving school of choice aimed at preparing students for a successful transition to university-level coursework. The small close-knit community environment maximizes a rich college-going culture where a focus on increased opportunities, academic achievement, positive working relationships, and personal development are valued as essential components to life success and goal attainment. The partnerships between our caring and competent staff, supportive families, and outstanding community businesses and organizations inspire youngsters to ‘think big’ and achieve their dreams. The sky truly is the limit for U-Prep students!

Middle School at U-Prep
The Middle Grade Program serves as the foundation for a successful transition to our High School Program. High expectations coupled with strong supports serve to nurture developing confidence and self-efficacy. A plethora of extra-curricular opportunities stretch learning beyond the classroom: 20 athletic teams (girls and boys soccer, cross country, flag football, volleyball, girls and boys basketball, track, baseball and softball); performing arts including band, choir, orchestra, drum corps, dance, fall musical and spring play (open to all grades), and a myriad of clubs (Student Government, Odyssey of the Mind, Peer Mentors, intramurals, Mathcounts, chess club, and many more). U-Prep also offers an Academic Support and Advisory Program (A.S.A.P.), which is embedded into each student’s school day. During A.S.A.P., students are engaged in learning developmentally appropriate topics including time management, study skills, and college readiness benchmarks; students may also receive tutoring and connect with their teachers for additional academic support. All of our 8th grade students study Latin; those who master the curriculum in 7th may opt to begin a modern language in 8th. High school students interact positively with middle school students through Big Brother/Big Sister, Peer Mentors, Conflict Mediation, and other venues within the athletics, arts, and activities programs.

High School at U-Prep
There are several unique features to U-Prep’s High School Program, including: (1) The graduation requirements are aligned to the UC and CSU A-G admissions eligibility requirements; (2) Students take 7 classes daily rather than 6, which increases opportunities to expand interests in fine arts, world languages, and other electives while pursuing the most advanced academic schedule; (3) The World Language Department offers courses in Latin, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, Spanish and French. U-Prep is the only school in our community that promotes the study and teaching of the Classical Greek and Latin world; (4) U-Prep is the only school where students may take Dance classes and receive fine arts credit; and, (5) All students in grades 9-12 take Honors or Advanced Placement curriculum. Junior and senior high school students take AP English and AP History courses as their default course of study. With 23 different athletic teams students in our small school setting have ample opportunity to develop and build athletic prowess and compete. Several extra-curricular programs serve to develop leadership while fostering a sense of personal responsibility and citizenship.

Selecting the best school for your child is understandably a ‘head and heart’ process. Simply put, we are pleased to provide an opportunity for parents to consider as they navigate through differing educational options and determine a match. Our staff is available to answer questions if we can be of further assistance, 245-2790.

Sincerely,

Shelle Peterson
Superintendent/Principal