University Preparatory Academy
Leadership and Character Development
University Preparatory Academy provides students with explicit instruction and learning opportunities toward developing leadership and positive character traits. UPA utilizes Leader in Me as a framework and model for promoting a positive school culture and developing 21st century leaders among our staff, students, and families. Leader in Me is an evidence-based, comprehensive model that builds leadership and life skills in students, creates a high-trust school culture, and lays the foundation for sustained academic achievement. There are over 5,000 Leader in Me schools in all 50 states and in over 50 countries.
Project Lead the Way
University Preparatory has recently partnered with Project Lead the Way to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills for our students. Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is an innovative project-based learning program that incorporates science, technology, engineering, and math. PLTW empowers students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges in an exciting and engaging way. Through pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science, students not only learn technical skills, but also learn to solve problems, think critically and creatively, communicate, and collaborate. Students work through modules that consist of activities, a project and a problem. They work through three main activities where they gain knowledge and skills. Then they proceed to using those skills to investigate a meaningful project before finally transferring and applying skills in a real-world problem.
General Academic Program
University Preparatory Academy teachers and staff are trained to teach all core subjects and are evaluated based on the following criteria/expectations:
professional knowledge, planning and preparation, instructional delivery, differentiated instruction, usage of
assessment data, maintaining a positive learning environment, providing academic rigor through
student-centered learning, professional development, communication, and professional ethics.
Electives and Extracurricular
University Preparatory currently offers the following electives: Band, Computer Literacy, Coding, Drama/Theater, Physical Education, and Art.
In addition to elective classes, students are also able to participate in sports such as lacrosse, volleyball, flag football, basketball, and cheer-leading.
