Why Prep

Why is belonging important in education? Psychologists like Abraham Maslow have long shown that belonging is a basic human need - just after safety and before achievement on the hierarchy of needs. Without a sense of belonging, it is difficult for anyone - especially young people - to take the risks necessary for growth and learning. 

After a year as Director of College Counseling at Sandia Prep, guest blog contributor Pablo Torres reflects on the unexpected joy, spirit, and sense of community that make Sandia Prep truly magical.

Head of School Heather B. Mock's spring break trip with her daughter reminds her of the power of liminal moments and how embracing the unfamiliar is an opportunity for students to grow.

Sandia Prep has always viewed students as whole humans and has believed in them and their ability to make a mark. One way we have done that is to encourage students to discover a sense of purpose. Purpose provides a lens through which students can view their education at Prep not as a series of isolated classes or assignments but as an interconnected journey with real-world implications. It gives meaning to the knowledge and skills they acquire, tying them to something larger than themselves.
 

One thing we believe strongly at Prep is the importance of every student having at least one trusted adult on campus—someone they can turn to, confide in, and rely on. As we strive to reinforce relationships, our first Strategic Priority, we recognize that these connections aren’t just a nice extra—they’re foundational to our students’ well-being and achievement. Research supports what many of us know intuitively: students who have at least one trusted adult at school are more engaged, feel safer, and perform better academically.

Sandia Prep Head of School Heather B. Mock shares insights learned from two books she read over the summer and how she hopes their concepts might resonate with students.

Sandia Prep Head of School Heather B. Mock shares her thoughts for the Class of 2024 as they graduate and head out into the world.

Sandia Prep Head of School Heather B. Mock examines how embracing unpredictability can improve students' well-being and allow for deeper learning.

Sandia Prep Head of School Heather B. Mock discusses the book How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims and the importance of empowering students to solve problems for themselves.

The passing of Head of School Heather Mock's beloved dog shines a light on what we can learn from our canine friends and how they enrich our lives.