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.

“I love the productions in the theater; the musicals are my favorite. The experiences are so fun, and the community is great. I also enjoy science and math and seeing how things work. History is so much fun too, because of all of the things that connect and lead up to the present.”
- Olivia, Class of 2025

Curriculum Guide Cover

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.

Click here to view the 2023 - 2024 Curriculum Guide

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. 


Scott Jeffries

Assistant Head of School for Upper School

sjeffries@sandiaprep.org