University High School

This is a fantastic school and my child is thriving here. He is very intelligent and this school motivates and challenges him. He began taking college courses in his sophomore year, and has earned numerous college credits. He works very hard to earn A's and B's, and actually seems to enjoy it, as his instructors are very encouraging. The First Robotics team is the school's best extracurricular activity and offers many educational and teamwork experiences. This school isn't for everyone, but students interested in science and engineering, who are willing to work, will do very well!
—Submitted by a parent

My child just finished his freshman year at UHS. The first year was intense with geometry, algebra II, physics, engineering, English, and Spanish. College credit was obtained for engineering. There are some extra curricular activities but they are difficult for the suburban students due to transportation. The sports teams are all in their infancy and are not as good as the larger established schools. This school is for academically motivated students with strong interest in math/science/engineering. Currently there is no science, art, music or other 'fun' electives. Teachers are motivated (they want to be there). The grading is much tougher than suburban schools but the colleges seem to recognize the difference. A really good student can stand out better at UHS than at a suburban school where 20% of students have an A average. College acceptance numbers are extremely high at UHS. UHS scored highes of all Hartford schools on CPAT.
—Submitted by a parent

uni high is a fun atmosphere that is also based on hard work and future expectations
—Submitted by a student

Schools has potential but there are a number of major problems. Most students are not able to take college classes- articulation agreement needs to be fully developed and implemented (or stop using this as a selling point). Curriculum could use improvement- you can't use college books just to say you used college level books- focus on the material. Also, Physics should not be the first science students take (does this even match up with the CAPT). This affects grades (only a few seniors have A averages). Keep in mind these kids have to try to get into college. Seems to be a disconnect between the admin and the majority population (urban minority). This is especially problematic in the area of college guidance. They are not in touch with/prepared to serve a majority of their population.
—Submitted by a parent

College credit offered to very few (4 students in 2006-2007).Teacher with subject area expertise, but little knowledge of adolescent development. Lack of cooperation bewteen university and school system.
—Submitted by a parent

this school overall has a good education whether it gives student opportunity's to get collage credit early. and the teachers are great..
—Submitted by a parent

Science & Engineering theme with all classes at honors level. New school only going into its fourth year and still working on extracurricular activities. The small classes (100 per grade)and majority of teachers taking ownership in each student more than make up for the missing actives. Unfortunately very few Hartford parents get involved, but there are some core parents from the city and suburbs that are very involved.
—Submitted by a parent

UHS will be a great school someday, but is struggling with growing pains. Students have few extracurricular choices and little interaction outside the school. The curriculum shows some strengths, but parents should watch as control shifts toward Hartford. If Hartford controls what is taught, quality is sure to suffer.
—Submitted by a parent