University Prep Academy's curriculum includes the areas of Language Arts/Humanities, Mathematics/Science, Electives, and an Advisory Focus that features the relationship building aspects. Because literacy is a gateway skill for virtually every other core content area, it is the principal academic focus in middle school. Mathematics is the other core subject area for middle school students.
University Prep Academy partners with other community organizations to enhance its elective and experiential offerings. Many students participate in classes offered through the YMCA David D. Hunting branch in downtown Grand Rapids. University Prep Academy also partners with Vocal Music Workshop (formerly North American Choral Company) to manage our choral programs.Other opportunities may be offered at additional sites for some or all
students depending on interest, availability and scheduling.
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 are used throughout your child's time at University Prep Academy, but most especially once in high school when internships begin and learning can become concretely connected to actual work and careers of interest.
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 curiosity.
Fun:
When learning is fun, learners invest more energy and imagination in getting through the hard parts.
Rigorous:
While learning is interest-based and individualized, it 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.
