Karl G. Maeser Preparatory Academy described its educational philosophy and achievements in a statement released on May 15. The academy, located in Utah County, highlighted its focus on classical education, character development, and high academic standards.
The school said that many students today are not prepared for adult life because they lack purpose and direction. According to the academy, “Without the proper education, many children find themselves confused and ill-prepared for the rigors of adult life. Many students graduate and never know why.” The academy emphasized that it is dedicated to a holistic approach with a curriculum centered on virtue, honor, and truth.
Students at Karl G. Maeser Preparatory Academy engage with primary sources and Great Books using the Socratic method to develop critical thinking skills. The academy said its small class sizes foster strong relationships between teachers and students: “Maeser faculty are passionate about their subject matter and believe in classical education.” The statement added that teachers are trained to guide students effectively.
The school reported high academic outcomes among its students: “Maeser Preparatory Academy is #1 in Utah (according to U.S. News & World Report) for charter high school students… On average our students achieve 1330 on the SAT and have a 95%+ graduation rate, and 99% will go to college.” These results were attributed by the academy to an emphasis on critical thinking, moral character, virtue, knowledge application, as well as parental involvement.
Frequently asked questions included in the release addressed topics such as how classical education differs from other models—”Classical education is about teaching kids how to think, not what to think”—and explained that character formation is central through daily encouragement via curriculum discussions of literature and philosophical principles.
In conclusion, Karl G. Maeser Preparatory Academy stated: “We are not merely preparing our students for college or universities; we are preparing our graduates for life as responsible people with the ability to think critically…to live virtuously…in service of Truth and others through our pursuit of the ideals of Truth, Honor, and Virtue.”
