A Smarter Approach.
The well-trained mind.

The core classes for all students at Anthem Prep are classic-ed, math, and science. Classic-ed is based upon the course of study suggested by Susan Wise Bauer in her book “The Well-Trained Mind.” This method proposes that students learn best when they realize that all learning is systematic and interrelated; thus, Classic-ed at Anthem Prep comprises history and all language arts studies together in a two-hour block.

Anthem Prep keeps Common Core at a distance. Here’s why Common Core is not adopted at Anthem Prep:

• Common Core standards were developed outside state control by the National Governor’s Association and the CCSSO.

• The Gates Foundation promotes Common Core, the Pearson textbook company, the NEA, the UEA, UNESCO, and other large corporations and entities.

• Federal dollars have purchased control over the implementation and regulations of Common Core now and in the future.

• “Common” curricula cannot prepare students for career tracks and university studies with the individuality they need. One size does not fit all.

• Common Core wants to create capable workers, not great thinkers.

• Classical literature has been reduced in favor of informational pieces, which may be used to promote advocacy causes.

• States receive more money if the curriculum promotes the causes of “under-represented groups.”

• States receiving federal money must create databases that data-mine personal and private information, which is collected nationally and could be shared with unknown entities.

For more information, click here.

Each grade encounters history and literature based on the timeline of world history. The chronology is divided into four periods: the ancients to 300 AD, 300 to 1600 AD, 1600 to 1850 AD, and 1850 to the current time. Accordingly, the history of the world is assigned by grade as follows:

• Kindergarten: U.S. symbols, major events, heroes

• 1st Grade: The Ancients to 300 AD

• 2nd Grade: 300 to 1600 AD

• 3rd Grade: 1600 to 1850 AD

• 4th Grade: 1850 to current

• 5th Grade: Ancients to 1600 AD

• 6th Grade: 1600 to current

• 7th Grade: American History—Ancients to Civil War

• 8th Grade: American History—Civil War to current

• 9th Grade: Ancients to 1600 AD

• 10th Grade: European History—1600 to current

• 11th Grade: American History to the Civil War

• 12th Grade: American History, the Civil War to current and U.S. Government

The students’ first exposure to world history occurs in elementary school when they learn stories and facts. During the middle school grades, they look again at events and are led beyond facts to understand the “whys” and to find connections from time period to time period and their relevance to today. Finally, as students revisit History for the third time, they are able to form opinions and conclusions which are expressed in rhetoric, writing, and exercises that showcase higher levels of thinking, such as oral presentations.

Anthem Prep students study literary works that were either written during the period they are studying, or written about it. For example, students in 10th grade study World War 1 and read “All Quiet on the Western Front” concurrently. All literature studied at Anthem Prep is classical. Elementary grades use “Classic Starts” (or similar) versions, while middle and high school students use those that are original and grade-appropriate. Encountering information chronologically allows excellent opportunities for cross-curricular learning. For example, studying the lives of Copernicus and Kepler in classic-ed while taking an earth science class melds learning into a sensible, accessible whole instead of snippets of unrelated information. Students can see order in their world.

Each year, a Shakespeare play is chosen that will be studied by all students. Elementary children read the story or study the Charles and Mary Lamb version, while older students study from the original text. Additional language arts studies include phonics, spelling, handwriting, grammar, vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots, and writing.

For over 30 years, Saxon Math has been delivering proven results for students in grades k–12. Saxon math takes an incremental approach to math, introducing a new skill or principle each day, then reviewing these concepts and skills day after day for weeks. This approach helps students’ confidence in their ability to “do” math successfully. Students who have used this program receive consistently high scores on standardized math tests.

• Saxon Math is used from pre-kindergarten through calculus and physics, keeping a consistent program where students master each skill before moving on.

• Students have time to understand and practice lessons each day.

• Students are tested at the end of every 5–6 lessons.

• Lower school classes use manipulative activities for a hands-on approach.

• Students see previous concepts on daily homework and continue to use those concepts, which helps in retention.

• Students work through a combination of story and calculation problems in every lesson.

• Lessons are scripted in the lower school grades.

• 2nd and 3rd editions of Saxon Math are used.

Saxon Phonics and Spelling is a multisensory and sequential program. It follows the same incremental principles as the Saxon Math curriculum. Each daily lesson consists of three main parts: lesson warm-up, new concept, and the application or assignment, which is a continual review.

• Students experience constant reinforcement of previously learned concepts due to the repetitive nature of the phonics program.

• Students use individual readers to master individual levels.

• Saxon Phonics is used in pre-kindergarten through 2nd grade.

Two years of a foreign language are required for high school graduates at Anthem Prep. Small classes and individual attention from teachers enable students to become proficient speakers, listeners, readers, and writers in a second language. Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade participate in Spanish basics. Students in grades six through 12 may choose from the following:

• Spanish, Level 1
  Spanish, Level 2
  Spanish, Level 3
  Spanish, Level 4

• Latin, Level 1**
  Latin, Level 2

*Requirements may be relaxed or waived for special needs or international students.
**Latin, level 1 is required for all high school graduates at Anthem Prep.

Tests and evaluations are indispensable tools to provide information for placement purposes, academic acquisition, and progress determination. Students at Anthem Prep are routinely tested to help gauge success and determine areas for attention or remedial teaching.

• All students entering kindergarten are tested during the late summer weeks (or upon entry) for placement in classes. Students are generally grouped by ability; however, other factors can influence placement, as determined by the administration.

• Middle and upper school students are all tested upon entry for placement in the Saxon math program. Class assignments are made strictly by level, not age or grade.

• At the end of each year, students in kindergarten through 11th grade sit for the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT). At Anthem Prep, importance is placed on comparing our students’ proficiency on a national level. Student scores are mailed to parents for their information.

• Students in grades K through 6 are tested three times during the year in reading comprehension. These results are scored and presented to parents at conferences.

• Occasionally, a teacher may be concerned about a student’s ability in one or more areas of study. That student can be referred for in-house testing, which provides helpful information for the teacher to outline alternative teaching and learning strategies for that particular child.

Intellectual Openness & Freedom of Thought.
Built to make every student successful.

Since 2005, Anthem Preparatory School has provided high‑quality PreK to 12th grade academics and extracurriculars fueled by intellectual openness and freedom of thought. Students explore the thoughts, philosophies, and great works of many cultures and ages. Anthem Prep offers challenging courses in the core subject areas of English, history, language, math, science, fine arts, and athletics, providing students with a strong liberal arts framework. Lower school students spend most of their day with their homeroom teacher; however, during the week, they rotate through extended learning classes such as organized P.E., language, library time, computers, and music.

Middle and Upper School students can select from a list of elective classes in addition to those required for their particular grade level. Older students have the most flexibility in selecting classes based on personal preference since Anthem Prep and State required courses have a four-year “window” for completion.

Please click on the link below to view the Anthem Prep Course Catalog for class descriptions, along with notations regarding elective or required status.

Anthem Prep strives to instill confidence, values, and a love of learning in each student. Through our partnership with parents, we work to guide and nurture each student. We celebrate a child’s areas of strength while working to improve those needing development.

Our students develop reading, writing, and mathematics skills through using Saxon materials. Children use their skills to think creatively, work together and serve others. Along with the core subjects, students experience physical education, music, computers, science, and art. Students will also develop fine motor skills through cutting, tracing, and working with puzzles or manipulatives. Likewise, they will work to strengthen gross motor skills through skipping, hopping, jumping, and other activities.

The elementary or lower school at Anthem Prep consists of first, second, third, fourth, and fifth grades. Each day, the students gather for devotional, discussing the monthly character trait through story or thought, and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The rest of the day is divided between language arts, math, history, science, lunch, and recess. All students participate in physical education, music, computers, and foreign language. The elective classes vary by day and time for each grade.

Working together with parents, we strive to help students see their potential, build confidence, and continue to develop a love of learning. We commend great work and remind students when work must be redone.

Middle School is a combination of academic study and social enhancement. Sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade students rotate A and B days, having four classes daily. Students begin each day in devotional with all of upper school. During the devotional, they study the monthly character trait through story or thought and recite The Pledge of Allegiance. The students are then given the remainder of the time to study, complete homework, or read a book. After morning study hall, the students attend first and second periods. Before lunch, students report to study hall to work on homework and receive one-on-one help with their teachers. The students have lunch in the cafeteria at noon. Students will then attend third and fourth period. Classes will differ on A and B days; however, the time schedule and homeroom will remain the same.

Life in middle school includes the core classes and those focused on social improvement. Students will participate in subjects such as choir, keyboarding, teen survival, peer relations, or guitar, depending on the grade. They will develop skills in cooking, sewing, grocery shopping, budgeting, and dancing. They will also learn to interact with peers and parents, prevent bullying, and serve others.

Anthem Prep middle school students are included in most activities. They participate in many field trips throughout the year, which are scheduled by the core teachers and occasional elective class teachers. The students also participate in the annual holiday parties: the harvest day celebration for Halloween (after the Thriller performance by all dance students), the Christmas social, and the Valentine’s Day party at Classic Skating. Seventh and eighth-grade students also attend the annual youth conference. This is a two-day leadership and character-building experience with guest speakers, activities, and traditions that make it memorable for all Anthem Prep students. The middle school students are also allowed to attend most Anthem Prep trips unless otherwise stated.

We believe it’s important to help our middle school students learn to work together as teams and individuals. By assisting them to find their strengths, building on them, and learning to develop their challenges, they can build confidence and become stronger leaders and better students.

Download our Required Middle School Coursework

The Upper School comprises grades nine, ten, eleven, and twelve. The students rotate A and B days, having five classes each day, always starting the day in devotional with all of upper school. During the devotional, the students discuss the monthly theme (through a story or thought) and recite The Pledge of Allegiance. Following the devotional, students have the remainder of time. The students also return to study hall to study and work on homework before lunch each day.

The Upper School classes combine rigorous academic, social enhancement, and skill development curricula. Students will meet with an administration member on multiple occasions throughout the Upper School years to ensure the proper requirements have been met and the student is on track for graduation and college.

While in Upper School, students may bring an electronic tablet or laptop for school use. This allows them to access online textbooks, perform research, and complete papers and projects. The students are expected to abide by school electronic guidelines; both student and parent must complete the electronic use agreement annually.

Anthem Prep students have many opportunities to integrate socially by participating in the following activities:

• Back to School Activity

• Thriller performance

• Harvest Celebration Dance

• Christmas Activities

• Valentine’s Skate at Classic

• Formal Dinner Dance

• Youth Conference

• Samaritan Path service groups

• NJHS and NHS

• Student Ambassadors

Download our Course Descriptions for a list of all available classes.

Download the Upper School Schedule Plan.

Early college is an Anthem Prep & Arizona State University partnership program where students can earn college credit. Classes are offered online with instructor-paced and self-paced courses. Students will be responsible for reading and participating in coursework, assignments, and readings on their own, but have access on an on-site facilitator who is ready to aid them wherever needed.

Students who are good candidates for Early College have a 3.0 GPA and have been successful in their other high school classes. The program is available for 9th – 12th grade students.

The most significant benefit of Early College classes is the opportunity to receive college and high school credit simultaneously. ASU’s Universal Learner Program is the #1 way for high school students to take college courses, and get a head start on their career because of the courses they offer, and because their credits transfer nation-wide . A student who takes just one class per semester beginning their sophomore year can receive 18 credit hours when he/she graduates, which is the equivalent of 1 ½ semesters.

Each college class requires a $25 fee at the beginning for the high school credit. Upon finishing, a student can pay an additional $400 to add that grade to their college transcript.

General Education Certificate

Students who excel academically have the opportunity to earn a General Education Certificate while Anthem Prep. Earning this Certificate allows a student to begin college with completed general education requirements.

Snow College information link >

Class Placement & Advanced Coursework

Entry testing, SAT scores, and teacher recommendations determine class placement at Anthem Prep. Lower school classes are generally divided according to student capability. Middle and Upper School students attend their classical literature and history classes by grade to allow for the continuity of the historical timeline; however, all students are placed according to level in the Saxon math course of study.

Periodically, a student may present so academically, socially, and mentally ahead of their age level that a grade promotion is merited. We are committed to having our students perform to the best of their abilities; however, while certainly possible, grade promotion is addressed with great care by teachers and administrators at the school. All the above requirements must be solidly evident.

• LOWER & MIDDLE SCHOOLS

  During elementary or Lower School, students study math and phonics/language arts using materials formulated for the grade ahead. The rate of study is entirely dependent on overall class ability; accordingly, some classes will move through the curriculum more quickly than others. Anthem Prep also uses computer-based comprehension programs that allow students to progress as they are able.

• UPPER SCHOOL

  Anthem Prep partners with ASU to provide the students with high school and college credit. These courses are available for a nominal fee and are open to freshman, sophomores, juniors, and senior class students for participation. Students can complete a General Education Certificate, which transfers seamlessly to the local colleges and universities.

Student Academic Special Needs Policies

While Anthem Prep does not provide special education services, many students are enrolled that benefit from the unique environment and support offered. Accommodations include, but are not limited to:

• Small class size.

• Non-threatening environment (no bullying).

• Modified curriculum based on content or competency.

• Increased time for work/test completion.

• Reduced academic workload.

Evaluation and services rendered are done on a case-by-case basis. Please see the Carson Smith Scholarship to view a complete list of possible accommodations by Anthem Prep for alternative learners.

As a private school, Anthem Prep is not required to implement a student’s IEP. Students enrolled must be able to succeed in a normal classroom setting with minimal support. Students are expected to perform within two standard academic deviations of his/her grade level. We are unable to provide full-time one-on-one instruction, resource services, additional classroom aides, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or physical therapy.

Anthem Prep is an accredited school, and as a result, student scores are based on national standards. Therefore, a student receiving significant accommodations should not expect to receive an “A” grade. We cannot inflate grades for special needs students as it would negate the validity of the grades earned by high-performing students applying to colleges and our accreditation status.

Anthem Prep allows students from 6th – 12th grades to bring personal laptop computers to aid in the learning process. The electronic devices serve multiple purposes, including textbook(s), organizational planners, calendars, research aids, communication tools, presentation devices, notebooks, word processors, and study supports.

Anthem Prep configures the school network for safety and privacy, and the school provides all software necessary. All families should plan to provide a protected wireless option for students studying at home.

CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONICS

The school has a telephone for student use located in the west entry. All students are expected to silence and put cell phones away in their backpacks throughout the day unless permission is given from a teacher. Students found in violation of this are subject to the following:

• First offense: Warning

• Second offense: Phone is confiscated and turned into the office, student can pick up the phone after school.

• Third offense: The phone must be turned into office administration every day throughout the rest of the year.

INTERNET USAGE

Students are not allowed on social media sites during school hours, including, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. Students are expected only to visit sites pertaining to their studies. Visiting inappropriate or degrading websites directly violates the Code of Conduct. Students violating the internet usage policies are subject to the Code of Conduct guidelines. Discipline may include exclusion from using electronics, suspension, or dismissal.

Graduation Requirements & College Counseling
Navigating the college acceptance process together.

Anthem Prep students have access to many opportunities to supply their university resumes with leadership positions, athletic participation, musical involvement, art experience, and community service. To become champions of personal and global responsibility, our students engage in classroom discussions, college counseling support, and real-life service experience inside and out of the classroom.

Our requirements meet and exceed state graduation guidelines. Great care is taken to track credits for Anthem Prep students through their 9th -  12th grade years to ensure every graduate is prepared to matriculate to an institution beyond high school.  Anthem Prep graduates who choose the path of higher education are admitted to college and universities across the country, and indeed, around the world.

Our goals for students are fundamental and permanent rather than geared to preparation for a specific group of colleges or mere standardized tests.

High school students have flexibility in taking electives, work-study, and Early College courses throughout their high school career at Anthem Prep. These are in addition to the required courses of study:

• 4.0 English

• 4.0 History & Government

• 4.0 Mathematics

• 3.0 Science

• 4.0 Religion

• 3.0 Fine Arts

• 2.0 Foreign Language

• 0.5 Health

• 2.0 Physical Education

• 1.0 Career Tech

• 1.0 Education Tech

• 1.0 Latin

• 0.5 Personal Finance

• 0.5 Introduction to Business

• Electives

  30.5 TOTAL

Download our graduation requirements.

Anthem Prep will only accept credits issued by an accredited institution for grades nine through 12. Likewise, credits will only be issued to Anthem Prep students who complete the required assignments and have no more than four unexcused absences in any given quarter. Students do not receive double credit for repeating a class.

Northwest Accreditation Commission accredits Anthem Preparatory School.

Preparing students for the future is essential to Anthem Prep. Our goal is to help our students be great leaders in their homes, communities, and countries. We recognize they must start this process early.

9th and 10th Grade

Ninth and tenth graders can opt to participate in early college courses through ASU to receive high school and college credit.

Freshmen (9) and sophomores (10) will complete the PSAT exam each fall, a practice for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Sophomores may also seek advice on scholarship opportunities, TOEFL exam dates, locations, and other college information.

11th grade

Juniors (11) are expected to take classic education (language arts & history), physics (or a science), and math, as well as any other required courses for graduation. Juniors (11) can choose to take early college courses through our partnership with ASU to receive high school credit, and additional college credit.

Juniors complete the PSAT exam in the fall, which is the qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship program. Juniors are encouraged to study for and take the ACT exam at least once during their junior year. In the spring of their junior year, we work closely with the students to determine goals, interests, colleges that should be contacted, etc. A plan is put together, and a file is created.

Juniors may also seek advice from the school counselor for scholarship opportunities, TOEFL exam dates, locations, and other college information.

12th grade

Seniors (12) are expected to take classic education (language arts & history), and math, and any other required courses for graduation. Seniors (12) are able to take early college classes for high school and college credit through ASU.

Seniors regularly meet and work closely with the administration to register for ACT exams, SAT exams (if required by the desired colleges), register for TOEFL exams, and begin and complete college and scholarship applications.

ACT Exam
All Anthem Prep students are encouraged to take the ACT exam no later than the spring of their junior (11) year. Students may take the test multiple times to improve their score. However, the fee must be repaid each time. Below are helpful links:

• ACT Online Registration

• ACT Test Dates

• ACT Test Preparation

SAT Exam
Most colleges and universities accept the ACT exam. However, there are some that require students to take the SAT, which is administered through the Collegeboard. We work with students to know which colleges require the SAT and determine dates and locations for the exams. The information is also listed below:

• SAT Online Registration

• SAT Test Preparation

The TOFEL exam is the test of English as a foreign language and is required for international students to be accepted into U.S. Universities. ETS, the Educational Testing Service, administers the test.

We encourage students to prepare for the exam using the materials provided through ETS. The online programs have worked best for our students; we have included the links below. We work closely with the juniors and seniors to schedule the exams and determine the scores needed for their desired schools.

• TOEFL Study Materials

• TOEFL Test Dates

• TOEFL Registration

Continuing education is a considerable expense and can be challenging for our students and families. Our college advisor has created a list of scholarships available to our students to ease the burden. The list is continually updated with current dates and requirements.

• Access the list on Parent’s Web