Boulder Prep has set high standards for students because they are the leaders of tomorrow. We require students to pass classes with greater than 70% proficiency. College acceptance, service learning and a senior portfolio are some of the many requirements for graduation.
For new students who are less prepared for a college prep curriculum, we use a specialized direct instruction program that allows them to become grade level proficient in both Reading and Math in less than one academic year. Once students are engaged and proficient, we challenge them with accelerated, innovative college preparatory classes that meet BVSD core requirements. Classes are 90 minutes, and we operate on a year-round, 8-week block system. Classes begin at 8:30am and end at 2:30pm, Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, all students participate in a Life Skills program from 8:30-1:00.
Below are a few examples of the unique programs Boulder Prep offers its students:
Each morning a staff member, student, or guest speaker shares a story, song, poem, or current event that addresses an important life skill or lesson.
Fruit and breakfast snacks are provided for free to all students every morning. This ensures that students have adequate nourishment for the day.
Intensive tutoring in small groups or one-on-one helps students reach grade-level proficiency in reading, spelling, and/or math. The Direct Instruction classes use a variety of research based strategies to increase literacy and numeracy, so students can develop the basic skills needed for our college prep classes.
Students have the opportunity to express their creativity through painting, drawing, photography, dance, acting, video and music.
Boulder Preparatory High School hosts four community events per year for families and community members to meet staff and learn more about the school. Additionally, parents are invited to evening workshops on various topics throughout the year. Administrators and teachers are available for meeting with parents regularly to create a strong circle of care.
Students participate in a Service Learning class where they prepare lunch for the school and volunteer in the community. Boulder Prep has been recognized as the number one volunteering organization at . The service learning classes also volunteer at local community gardens and retirement homes.
Staff members are available to help students with academic or personal issues that may arise. As a small school with a student to staff ratio of less than 10:1, we are able to catch students before they fall through the cracks and provide them with the support they need to be successful.
Native Spanish speakers are provided many opportunities to develop their Spanish literacy. Several classes are taught bilingually to ensure that Dual Language Learners are able to grow and develop in both of their languages.
Students can take college courses through CU Denver while enrolled at Boulder Preparatory High School as part of the CU Succeed Program. Some students have graduated with 12 college credits, giving them a jump start on their post-secondary path.
Every Friday students spend the day learning valuable life skills. Sample topics include: study skills, social capital, peace leadership, cultural awareness, gender issues, environmental sustainability and current events.
Students participate in an ACT Prep class where they learn basic content and test taking strategies. They can earn scholarship money for every point they improve on the ACT (American College Test).
Seniors participate in a college prep class where they research post-secondary options, complete college applications, financial aid forms, and scholarship applications. As part of their graduation requirements, student must complete a personal portfolio which includes a letter of acceptance from a post-secondary institution, personal essay and a 5-chapter autobiography.
Native American students can enroll in culturally relevant classes including Lakota Language and Culture, 500 Nations, and Native American Arts. American Indian youth learn more about their cultures while also sharing their traditions with other students in a safe and respectful environment.
The Boulder Prep Board of Trustees and faculty have created a scholarship program. Funds are raised throughout the year and scholarships for various achievements are awarded at graduation.