Sandia Preparatory School

I agree with the post regarding grade checks - there could be improvement. However, my experience has been a bit different. When my child fell behind in a class, the teacher emailed me and worked closely with him to fix it. In another class, my son asked for his grade and a teacher right then gave it to him and worked out a way to improve. Given the inflated college scoring/selection that exists today, it is necessary to have a 4.0 GPA to get into a great school. A college admissions rep told me that if the student is getting a C in a class you should drop it and take it in the summer so you can concentrate and get a B or better. It would be helpful if the teachers made it a routine to notify parents when students are getting a C or less. Now that may be incredibly time consuming - I dont know, but I would like to see this addressed.
—Submitted by a parent

With the cost of tuition it seems there should be a lot more student support. The school lacks a universal online grade/assignment system so you have to contact each individual teacher and hope they return the email (4 teachers use totally different online systems/others use none), I found out 6 weeks into the year that my child was earning a C or below in 2 classes and not one teacher had contacted me. It was only because I reached out first to simply check on my child's progress. They pride themselves on being rigorous and leaving a few who can't keep up seems to be the norm; rigorous teaching doesn't equate to great teaching. I wish there was a better tutoring/support system in place for kids who struggle in any given subject. The local public school system in Albuquerque performs better in terms of one online system for parents to keep up on grades and assignments as well as outside tutoring. Not sure why Sandia can't bridge these seemingly inexpensive issues. I'd change my child to a public school like La Cueva but I know my child would be upset about leaving the wonderful friends made at Sandia. The kids there are incredibly sweet and this is a plus.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been at SPS for just over a month, and watching her blossom has been a joy. She comes out with things like "It's awesome to be part of the Sandia community!" and goes on about how wonderful her teachers are - excellent and challenging, caring, funny, warm and strict at the same time. I am SO relieved my child is at this school! She wanted to start a fund-raising club and they've supported and encouraged her. Once your child is in, they really are drawn in, nurtured and cared for. The academics are why we sent our children to SPS, of course, and those have been challenging and exciting for her - she'll have 6 years of Mandarin under her belt when she graduates! Wonderful facilities, engaged teachers and staff with fabulous communications with parents. SPS gives your child a wonderful, world-class education without the stress - challenges them, certainly, and outlines clear standards, but still allows them the joy of being a kid. That is exactly the balance I wanted for my child.
—Submitted by a parent

Three of our kids have attended Sandia Prep - the two who graduated have since gone on to get master's degrees after attending the college of their choice. Prep prepared them excellently to succeed in whatever they desire. We currently have a student at Prep and it continues to over-exceed our expectations. Our third child is years ahead in math and Prep not only noticed that upon completion of his entrance exam, but they continued to test him to find an appropriate placement. He loves school and is happier than we've ever seen him. Soon he too will graduate and follow his dreams. Prep mades that not only possible, but inevitable. The staff work not only on academic achievement with students, but also social and emotional well being. We couldn't be more pleased.
—Submitted by a parent

I couldn't be more impressed by Sandia Prep. The staff is incredibly attentive and really take the time to get to know each student and meet their needs. The curriculum is challenging and diverse, accommodating a wide range of interests. Best of all, my 8th grader is excited to go to school every day!
—Submitted by a parent

Sandia Prep is an excellent school! Their approach to education includes a balance of academics, arts and academics. Their student centric philosophy is foundational to the success and well being of their students. Teachers teach and students thrive at this school. Students graduating from this high school transition seamlessly into university studies. It is the norm for Sandia Prep students to be competing for national merit or university endowment scholarships. Students are taught to respect each other and they are encouraged to give back to their local and global communities. The administration and educators demonstrate these values both in and out of the classroom. This school produces innovative scholars, experienced artists and future leaders.
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughter has gone to Sandia Prep for three years and we're looking forward to the next four years there, too. She loves it and so do we. The teachers and staff are outstanding. She has enjoyed learning at Prep and making lasting friendships. The sports and outdoor events are awesome. Prep is Albuquerque's best in education.
—Submitted by a parent

Send your kids to Sandia Prep! My 6th grader has had some challenges transitioning into Middle School. The staff and teachers at Prep have been supportive, and TOTALLY committed to ensuring his achievement. My child loves the school!
—Submitted by a parent

Sandia Prep is a fantastic school - great students, talented and involved faculty and a caring administration. First class - the best choice in New Mexico.
—Submitted by a parent

We are originally from Texas in a school district that is considered one of the best. But even in comparison to that school district, Sandia Prep outshines all previous schools my children have attended. From the outstanding headmaster to the teachers and even the custodial help, the school can't be beat for its attention to students' over all academic and emotional development. I am confident my children are getting the best education available.
—Submitted by a parent