University Prep Learning Principles

Most good schools in the world are small and personalized. They have good, hard-working teachers; good leaders and actively involved parents. University Preparatory Academy has all of the above, and in addition, it aims to foster powerful learning that is:

Authentic: Research shows students learn best when learning focuses on real world issues and problems. Adult mentors who guide University Prep High School students at their outside internships connect their learning to the authentic world of work and community.

Individualized: Each student brings different learning styles, interests and levels of skill to school. Learning activities are personalized to fit each child to assure success.

Engaging: The curriculum is customized through projects which capture students’ interests and pique their curiosities.

Fun: When learning is fun, learners invest much more energy and imagination in getting through the hard parts.

Rigorous: While learning is interest-based and individualized, all learning must result in the mastery of basic skills such as reading, writing, mathematics, scientific reasoning, social reasoning and critical thinking. Specific skill standards are used to set student learning goals and provide performance feedback.

Relational: We are challenged to do our best work in communities of people who demand our best, support our efforts and appreciate our work.

Reflective: Being able to think, talk, write and speak about what we are learning is crucial to becoming the self-directed learner demanded for success in college and the world of work.

Five Essential Elements: UPA also uses Five Essential Elements to ensure a high level of education. Click here to learn about these essential elements put in place at UPA.