Announcing a HS Open House for Current UPA 8th Graders! For more information click here.

Principal's Message:

One of the key elements that set UPA apart from other schools is its focus on building relationships.  Parents are not only enrolling their children into a school that has a commitment to their educational success, but also an institution devoted to offering every student a strong sense of family.

I have been a part of the UPA family since the school’s inception in 2000 and over the past seven years I have had the opportunity to meet talented students and to be a part of so many wonderful families.  I have also had the pleasure of working with extraordinary educators who stay with their students for three years and are truly committed to doing “whatever it takes to make sure every child succeeds”. 

The years have been filled with fun, family and numerous educational endeavors.  In 2007, I had the distinct pleasure of watching our first group of sixth graders graduate from UPA High School.  Like the graduating seniors, I too will embark on yet another exciting adventure as I prepare to launch University Prep Science and Math Middle School.  Leaving my family will be very difficult, but I know that I have nothing to worry about because the school will be left with a very effective leader and outstanding staff.  Mr. Matthew Marks will be succeeding me as Principal of University Prep Middle School.  He has been with UPA for three years as an advisor and has spent this year working as  Principal Intern.  Mr. Marks will contribute new and innovative ideas that will help further UPA’s relentless commitment to students’ success.

Over the next few months I will complete my transition from being the Principal of the current middle school to the Principal of the new middle school.  During the month of January, I will be working with Mr. Marks to ensure a smooth transition, and at the same time, devoting a growing portion of my time to the development of University Prep Science and Math Middle School.  Beginning February 1st, I will be working on the new school full time while providing ongoing consultation to Mr. Marks on an as needed basis.  All questions and/or concerns regarding University Prep Middle School should be directed to Mr. Marks at that time.

I’m going to start a new family, but will always remain a part of the UPA family.  I’m not going far, so I will come back from time to time. I will continue to keep in touch with my family members, receive updates on student progress, participate in new celebrations and watch our students grow into successful young adults.

Sincerely,

Shawn Hill
Principal