Democracy Prep works to ensure all students are ready for success in the college of their choice. Read about our Advanced Placement program, our accelerated curriculum, and our innovative Senior Academy.

Preparation for College Success: In our first five years, we will measure our progress towards preparation for college success based primarily on academic goals established for all students. Preparation will include earned visits to and lessons at local colleges, with a goal of all students visiting at least six college campuses or fairs each year. In order to graduate from all three two-year Academies at Democracy Prep, a student must complete and exhibit a College Preparation Portfolio (CPP). A successful CPP will include a complete college application (essays, interview, transcript, extra-curricular activities, recommendations, etc.) as well as a demonstration of mastery in all areas of the Democracy Prep curriculum. If granted a second charter term, we will measure college success based on 100% of our Senior Academy (grade 12) students receiving at least two college acceptance letters, 90% of graduates attending four-year colleges and universities, and 75% of graduates receiving a baccalaureate degree within six years of graduation.

College Preparation Portfolios: In order to graduate from the Foundations Academy (grades 6/7), the Inquiry Academy (grades 8/9), and the Leadership Academy (grades 10/11), students must prepare and exhibit a College Preparation Portfolio (CPP) demonstrating what they have learned, how they have grown, and whether they are ready for the responsibilities of Senior Academy (grade 12), college, and citizenship. This portfolio introduces the college process to students at an early age and includes a fully completed college application as well as a demonstration of mastery in all areas of the Democracy Prep curriculum.

Senior Academy: If granted a second charter term, we will establish a Senior Academy (grade 12). In order to be accepted, students must exceed the high school expectations set by the State of New York. Specifically, this will mean taking and passing all of their Regents Examinations before they are promoted from eleventh grade. In the Senior Academy students will prepare for college by taking Democracy Prep Senior Seminars, Case Method Lectures, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and classes for credit at local colleges. Senior Academy is designed to ensure that students are prepared not only to be admitted to college but more importantly to succeed in a college environment. Senior Academy culminates with a mandatory 200-hour civic externship designed by the student and Advisor. This experience is carried out only after at least five college applications have been mailed out in December and must be completed prior to graduation in June.