Our Educational Philosophy

Our approach is grounded in five core elements:

  • Holistic, Learner-Centered Approach

  • Safe and Supportive Diverse Community

  • Intentional, In-depth Learning

  • Meaningful, Real-world Connections

  • Leadership Through Service

Holistic, Learner-Centered Approach

We see our students as whole people—not just learners of academic content. Our goal is to prepare them not only for success in school but for life. That’s why we prioritize the development of essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, self-direction, and ethical decision-making. We offer opportunities to practice these skills through public speaking, project management, community service, and restorative justice practices.

By giving students real opportunities to lead, explore, fail, serve, and grow, we prepare them to be resilient, thoughtful, and adaptable individuals in an ever-changing world. Teachers act as wise guides, modeling humility and partnering with families to customize each student’s learning journey.

Safe and Supportive Diverse Community

We strive to create what we call an “oasis”—a safe, loving space where all students are welcomed, seen, and valued. Diversity at Studio Prep is not just about demographics; it’s about embracing different perspectives, especially those that are often unheard in our society. This includes economic, cultural, neurological, and learning diversity—including students with sensory sensitivities, executive functioning challenges, and varied learning needs.

We are thoughtful in how we set up our physical space, knowing that a chaotic or distracting environment can hinder some students’ ability to learn. Our goal is to promote a sense of calm and order—where students know where to find what they need and can choose from a variety of spaces to support their learning. These include areas of complete silence and places where students can collaborate, explore, and discover together.

Our curriculum also reflects this commitment by intentionally including a range of culturally diverse voices and perspectives. In doing so, we help students grow in empathy and prepare them to engage with the richness and complexity of the wider world.

Intentional, In-Depth Learning

We believe real learning takes time. Rather than rushing through a wide array of topics, we take a “catered meal” approach—focusing on fewer topics so that students can explore them deeply, reflect meaningfully, and make real-world connections.

This intentional depth allows students to build a strong foundation of knowledge, make interdisciplinary connections, and integrate their learning into their lives. It also encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and lasting understanding.

Meaningful, Real-World Connections

Learning should be relevant. We design engaging learning experiences that connect classroom learning to the world beyond our walls. Through externships, mentorships, fieldwork, and service projects, students engage with their communities and see how their learning matters.

These opportunities not only give students insight into potential future paths but also help them develop professionalism, confidence, and a sense of responsibility to contribute to the world around them.

Leadership Through Service

We believe every student is called to lead—not through titles or power, but through service. We create opportunities for students to mentor others, serve their community, and take initiative in meaningful ways. Leadership is developed as students learn to act with wisdom, humility, and integrity.

Students regularly engage in service through a wide range of roles and responsibilities, such as:

  • Leading Socratic discussions

  • Serving as Teaching Assistants in math classes

  • Planning community events like High School Prom

  • Participating in daily studio maintenance teams that care for our shared spaces

By practicing leadership through service, our students become the kind of people others trust and want to follow—leaders who bring hope, healing, and positive change wherever they go.

At Studio Prep, education is not just about information. It’s about transformation. Through our holistic and intentional model, we equip students to live with purpose and impact in a complex, diverse, and beautiful world.

I asked, “Uh, …son, are you able to concentrate on class while also fidgeting with Lego?” He replied, “Mom, it’s part of class! Mrs. Lenfest said we’re supposed to.”