It can be confusing navigating all of the school options that exist for your student. It’s even more bewildering for families who did not attend independent schools themselves. People often ask me questions like “What is an independent school?” and “Why will an independent education benefit my child?”

Of course, what truly sets independent schools apart is that they are nonprofit organizations governed by a volunteer board of trustees. Independent schools are funded by tuition and donations, and do not receive any government funding. Being independent allows us to design programs that are grounded in best practices to ensure our students experience an exceptional education. 

Because our schools are funded by tuition and donations, there is often a misconception they are unaffordable. However, UPrep maintains a robust Financial Aid Program that awards more than four million dollars every year to nearly 20 percent of our population. Our goal is to ensure that qualified students from any background can attend UPrep. 

But, beyond this definition—what really is an independent school? And why will attending one set my child up for success? To answer this question, I often think back to an experience I had in college. I grew up in Connecticut and attended a high school that valued rote learning and the scripted curriculum of AP classes. Depth and critical thinking were not prized. In my first year, I remember a college professor asking me “Ryan, but what do you think?” At this moment, my high school education failed me. I was completely ill-equipped to answer this question.

At independent schools like UPrep, our students are asked what they think about topics on a daily basis. They are taught to research, form arguments, think across disciplines, make connections, consider the perspectives of others, and write and communicate well. Our Academic Program is designed to push and challenge students, while supporting them in difficult moments and celebrating their successes. At UPrep, we prepare students for college through a core curriculum and engaging electives, while intentionally creating spaces—like our Advisory Program—where every student is seen, known, and supported.

Independent schools are also deeply invested in educating the whole child, and you might read this statement in many of our materials. But what does that mean on a daily basis? At UPrep, for example, it means that every student on our campus has at least one faculty or staff member who knows them really well and is their constant advocate. It shows up in our daily schedule that includes robust programming during our Community Time block, exciting clubs and activities, and a competitive Athletic Program. Students from independent schools like UPrep graduate confident in their academic skills—and they also leave our schools with multiple passions and interests they have developed along the way. 

One of my favorite parts of my job is walking families around our campus. When parents and guardians finish their visit, they frequently remark “Wow, I wish I could go back to school.” Independent schools are responsive to the changing needs of students and developments in teaching and learning. Education should not look the same as it did when you or I went to school. I believe that is what parents and guardians notice when they walk around UPrep and why our model of education resonates with so many families. 

No matter how familiar you are with the what and why of independent schools, I encourage you to explore them as you consider your student’s next steps. UPrep is a member of the Puget Sound Independent Schools consortium. This organization helps parents and guardians identify independent schools, navigate the search process, and streamlines the application process via the use of common forms and dates. I also invite you to visit UPrep to see an independent education in action. We host open house events, morning tours to visit classrooms, and offer opportunities for applicants to attend community events like athletic competitions and theatre productions. If you are interested in learning more about UPrep, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly at rhannon@universityprep.org. 

Learn more about UPrep admissions.