University Prep Science and Math has embraced the following C.O.R.E. Values:

·        Community
·        Opportunities
·        Rigor
·        Engagement

These values serve as the foundation for what we believe are the essential elements of UPSM.

Community – We believe in nurturing powerful relationships which sustain robust learning communities.

Advisory – Advisors build meaningful relationships within learning communities of 18 students. They manage the individualized program of each student and involve parents in planning and assessment of their children’s educational activities. Advisors also challenge students to produce high quality work by developing academic competencies, exploring their interests, taking risks and expanding their knowledge through rigorous investigations.  

• Jobs shadows and internships – Students may "shadow" an adult through a workday, or engage in “power lunches” with outside adults on issues of interest.  

• Community service projects – Students will perform community service and volunteer work as part of a group project.  

• Detroit Symphony Orchestra – Students will may have an opportunity to pursue their interest in performing music through a program spearheaded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.  

• Detroit Science Center – One of our premier partners, the Detroit Science Center will be the eventual home of University Preparatory Science and Math.  In addition to sharing space with the DSC, our school will be enmeshed in the culture of learning at the museum.  We hope to have students involved in every aspect of museum life as a natural extension of their in-class work.   

Opportunities – We believe in seeking, creating and using opportunities to benefit ourselves and our community. We recommend that students explore activities for science, technology, engineering and math—and we will maintain a list of camps, classes and organizations you may want your child to participate in such as:  

• Academic Games
• Robotics
• DAPCEP
• Project Lead the Way – Engineering curriculum
• Summer Camps (Detroit Science Center, Michigan Virtual University, etc.)  

Rigor – We believe we must challenge ourselves and others, through rigorous investigations. Our academic curriculum is aligned with the grade level content expectations—also known as GLCE’s—outlined by the State of Michigan. The curriculum also provides engaging learning experiences that involve students in complex, real-world projects through which they will develop and apply skills and knowledge learned in each content area. 

• Foreign Language – Chinese & Spanish
• Project Based Learning – Authentic, applied learning, active exploration, and adult connections
• Presentations of Learning – Public exhibitions & panel presentations
• A Disciplined Life curriculum – Creating a culture of excellence by expecting  both personal and academic success  

Engagement – We believe in engaging in constant inquiry to help us understand the world around us take chare of our future. 

• Curriculum – personalized, driven by student interest and projects that are authentic and meaningful to students
• Multi-media – students will utilize a variety of media to enhance their projects, express their ideas and create lasting digital portfolios
• Book Talks – students and families can participate in book talks much like Oprah’s Book Club
• Exploratory Clubs – students can create and participate in a variety of clubs limited only by their imagination—and good taste and age appropriateness