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 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.
Students can participate in a variety of afterschool opportunities ranging from tutoring, specialized workshops, clubs and fun field trips. During the breaks, we offer 4-day academic intensives for students to stay productive and earn credit toward graduation. These opportunities were specifically designed for transitioning students and for existing students who need additional academic help or pro-social activities in the evenings.