Research University Preparatory Academy-High charter Schools in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

“So far, I was really pleased with the middle school. I am very excited about the next four years being that my daughter attends the high school now. I think it has to be a partnership between parents and teachers working together in order to make the transition smooth. To other parents, support your teachers and talk with your children.”

“UPA is an great school. It's the best place I could have ever sent my son to. He has learn to become more independent since coming to UPA in the 6th grade. The advisors take time to learn each and everyone of there students needs. Its a great place to be. Esp. with the class room size 16:1.”

“I am the grandmother to two students in the elementary school. All I can say about this school system is WOW. Being a former teacher I have never seen a school where all of the staff will go over and above the call of duty. The staff, the child, and the parents are all held accountable for the success of the student. It all startes with the head administrator Mr. Ross. He is an outstanding man. Mr Ross knows most of the students by name; that includes students in the elememtary thur the high school. The students know Mr. Ross care so they care. This is just a great school”

“I am a teacher and coach at YPA and I love this school. There are things that we are learning as we grow as a district, but the grea part is that there is room to grow. Change is welcomed here. We will do whatever it takes to see a student improve. I have seen MANY staff member go over and above what is expected to them to get the job done. That's what makes this an exceptional school. We are not where we want to be yet, but you had better believe that we are striving to get there!”

“So far, so good. The class ratio is 16:1 for high school!”

“I am a parent that has two daughters and a niece at UPA. My oldest is in the high school, my younger daughter is at the middle school where as my niece is at the elementary school. I think this school is excellent. It truly prepares the children to be successful in the real world. Yes, the structure is different than most traditional schools, but does not lack in anyway. As far as freedom, this school allows the students to be responsible and forces them to be accountable for their actions. The advisors, secretaries, administrators are always pleasant. Especially, Mr. Ross.”

“This school is awesome!!! This school wants to make a difference in our community.”

“I think this is one of the best schools in the United States of America. It's structure is excellent. University Preparatory High School is no joke at all. We get personal narratives to explain how we're doing in school. I think that is way better than some stupid report card that tells me I'm failing and pretty much lets the whole world see it. I think this school rocks.”

“UPREP is a great school, the internships readies the students for real life experiences. It encourages individuality,leadership,self-discipline ,networking and self-respect.It is a lot of hard work and commitment from the student and the parent. Parental involvement is #1. There are no report cards, we have exhibitions, there are monthly updates, super calendars,tutoring programs, classes are taught by very knowledgeable advisors. College classes apart of the curriculum at the actual colleges.Every opportunity is given to aid your child to succeed. There is no easy ride here,every one from the principal to the students know each other. My child will be graduating the first class 2007. This senior will be the true test of what they have to offer. If you are not truly committed to your child education. Don't waste their time! They are not here to babysit”

“I had topull my child out of the school because he got to much freedom. The students are expected to have a internship and they are to report there every tuesday and thursday and they miss school on those days and i don't think they're gaining anything from it. Another reason why i took my child out is because they only receive two, hour classes 3 times a week, and they sit in one classroom for the rest of the day or just wonder around the buildings and he got into trouble while wondering.”

“I have been a part of the University Prep school system for five years now and I have really enjoyed it! The staff and student body are so much like a family! I always feel comfortable and protected! I love my principal Ms. Henderson! My classmates are great! The work is challenging and I really like the fact that there are only 16 other students in my class. Our after school activities are progressing. Right now we have Cheer, Boys and Girls Basketball, Girls Scoccer, Boys and Girls Cross Country, Majorettes, and Band! We also have Mosaic Youth Theatre located on our campus. If there was one thing that I could improve about my school it would be the amount of social events. Overall I love University Prep High School!”