Upper School
Upper School
Our high school (we call it “upper school”) curriculum is designed to provide students with the opportunity to test their talents and to develop their skills in a variety of academic disciplines. We require students to take courses in English, science, history, mathematics, modern language, fine arts, digital media and communications, and physical education.
We also offer students the opportunity to pursue their academic interests in-depth, either in elective courses in the various disciplines, including engineering and design, or via independent study and our Odyssey Scholars Program. Students may elect to take advanced courses at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) through our concurrent enrollment program.
Preparing for Life
Throughout our honors-level courses, higher-level cognitive skills are developed with a curriculum that emphasizes design-thinking and innovation. Prep students aren’t just preparing for college, but for life.
Graduation Requirements
The required class load is seven courses per year for grades 9 - 11 and six courses per year for 12th grade. While the school makes no guarantee that additional classes may be scheduled, exceptions may be made. A 2.00 grade point average (GPA) is the cutoff grade for promotion.
View a breakdown of graduation requirements
Distinguished Scholar (Certificate of Distinction)
The Distinguished Scholar Certificate is centered around classes offered at Sandia Prep. Students choose to take additional classes in a specific area of study. Students must maintain a 3.5 grade point average throughout their time in upper school. With these additional classes, students will graduate with 28+ credit hours and a Certificate of Distinction.
Our Graduates
Rigorous courses and college counseling beginning in ninth grade translates to 100% of our seniors being accepted to four-year colleges.