Growing up in Connecticut, I had many excellent school options. However, it was not until high school that I became aware of independent schools. I feel fortunate that I could attend an independent high school. There, I was taught to think critically, and I participated in athletics and clubs and made connections with my community. Furthermore, my independent-school experience prepared me to take on the challenge of college.

Even though I had a personal educational experience with an independent school, my path to working in education was not direct. My undergraduate degree is in government, and my graduate degree is in public policy. After a congressional internship and a rigorous interview process for a fellowship at the Department of Homeland Security, I quickly ruled out a career in government. I had spent two summers as a college tour guide and loved working with families. So, when I had the opportunity to join the admissions team at Francis W. Parker School in Chicago, it seemed like a natural fit. I recently completed my PhD in educational leadership and administration, which solidified my commitment to independent education.

As I start my third year at UPrep, I’m glad to work within a community of people who are committed to leading a life of learning. UPrep's challenging academic program in an inclusive environment encourages students to grow confident. Surrounded by a diverse community of faculty, coaches, mentors, and friends on a campus intentionally designed for close connections, promising students find their voice, their passions, and their purpose during a shared journey of joyful self-discovery.

I recently asked our faculty and staff to share one word that they believe best describes the school. The number one word was community. UPrep is a school where faculty and staff remain committed to creating extraordinary learning experiences for our students in an environment where they belong. For many families, the focus on community is why they look at sending their students to independent schools.

If you have never explored independent schools as an option for your family, know that these schools are founded by people passionate about creating educational opportunities to help students reach their full potential. But what exactly is an independent school? Here are a few facts from the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS):

• Independent schools are nonprofit organizations that manage and finance themselves. Whereas public schools are created and funded by the government, charter schools are funded by the government but are run by an outside organization, and parochial schools are organized and subsidized by a religious institution.
• Independent schools are financed through fundraising, income from an endowment, and tuition.
• Independent schools govern themselves, usually through a board of trustees. Still, these schools are accredited by regional accreditation agencies. This accreditation process ensures that schools constantly evaluate and improve their offerings to students.

This freedom defines each independent school—a school is free to determine its unique mission and values. An independent school creates its curriculum while also deciding how to assess students, from grading to determining if and which standardized tests will be administered. For example, at UPrep, we believe in small classroom sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios to create connections that foster student learning.

This autonomy means not all independent schools are the same. Every parent or guardian wants their students to be supported to learn in their best way and become their best selves. So, what school will serve your student best? It is worth getting to know each independent school’s community by looking at its mission, values, and program offerings. Spending time in each community will help your family find a home for your student. This year, UPrep is hosting a number of events to help you get to know our community; I hope you will join us.

As you explore independent schools, I encourage you to visit the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS) website for additional information. The NWAIS is a great resource for information on schools, admission, and financial aid. At UPrep we are committed to access and equity; our families receive financial aid in the form of grants to help make an independent education affordable. When you are looking at schools, it is worth asking how financial aid works at the schools you are interested in for your student.

I am excited about the 2024–2025 school year at UPrep. We started the year by welcoming all 705 students to campus. In September, each grade takes a retreat and spends the day building community and creating memories through outdoor activities, with some classes going on overnight adventures. The Upper School fall sports season began on August 26, and Middle School students will begin their season on September 3. Finally, our new, state-of-the-art high school building, the ULab, opened in January 2024. This second academic hub is dedicated to igniting our high school students’ passion for collaboration, creativity, and leadership through interdisciplinary and project-based learning. We hosted three student-led conferences in the ULab last year: the Student Organized Consent Conference in Seattle, UPrep’s first annual Model United Nations Conference, and a Tech and Business Conference. Exciting things are happening at UPrep, and I hope that you will spend time this year to get to know us and why our school was named one of the best private schools in Seattle.

I believe independent schools give students a wide array of opportunities to explore their interests at a crucial time in their life. Additionally, I know that the admission and financial aid process can seem overwhelming. Please know that we are here to help. You are welcome to reach out to our Admission Team at any time with any questions. We want to hear from you!

Read more articles in our Inside Independent Schools series!