For 25 years, University Prep Schools has been helping Detroit families find the right fit for their child’s education. As one of the city’s largest charter school networks, U Prep offers parents something essential: safe, supportive schools where students are seen, known and prepared for life after high school.
The story of U Prep began in 1999, when Doug Ross, a Detroit politician and education leader, started a middle school in a church basement with sixth grade. Around the same time, philanthropists Bob and Ellen Thompson were seeking meaningful ways to support children through education.
“Governor Engler introduced Doug to Bob Thompson, who had just sold his company and he and his wife, Ellen were looking for ways to help children in education,” says John Cleary, interim CEO of Detroit 90/90, the nonprofit that manages the U Prep Schools. “That was the start of University Prep.”
By 2003, the first U Prep high school opened its doors. Now, with 10 schools serving nearly 4,600 students, U Prep’ long-lasting presence has helped raise the bar for public education citywide.
The 90/90 promise
At the heart of U Prep is the 90/90 Promise: 90% of students who enter will graduate, and 90% of those graduates will go on to college or another postsecondary program.
“So on each one of our buildings we have the Thompson Foundation 90/90, which is 90% of the students who enter graduate, 90% of those go on to some kind of postsecondary,” Cleary says. “That’s the background.”
For families, this promise is a reminder that U Prep isn’t just about getting kids to graduation day — it’s about preparing them for the opportunities that come next. Alumni have gone on to careers in business, science and the arts, and many have returned as teachers, mentors and even school leaders.
Why parents choose U Prep
For many Detroit families, the appeal of U Prep comes from the choices they can explore across three districts:
- University Preparatory Academy (UPA): A strong college-prep curriculum, significant Law Pathway program
- University Prep Science & Math (UPSM): A focus on STEM subjects
- University Prep Art & Design (UPAD): A partnership with the College for Creative Studies that gives students hands-on access to creative fields and more
“The fact that we offer three options — general college prep, art and design and science and math — means we offer flexibility,” Cleary says. Parents like that.”
“Parents also want clean, safe schools. That’s the first thing,” Cleary says. “Then they look at school culture and small class sizes. We offer early middle college and dual enrollment programs across our three districts. Parents get a feel for things when they walk around the building, talk to principals and meet teachers. Their gut tells them a lot.”
Looking ahead
Like all schools, U Prep faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Academic setbacks were real, especially for students who missed two years of in-person learning.
“What we’re looking for in the future is to get back to international travel, to other programs we had to put on hold and to rebuild our academic success because it took a huge hit — and everybody did,” Cleary explains. “But every year, we’re getting closer to where we want to be.”
The Thompson Foundation remains deeply connected to U Prep’s mission, not just through the schools it built, but also through scholarships — dedicating 25 scholarships each year for U Prep graduating seniors to attend Grand Valley State University and Bowling Green State University.
Additionally, through its Thompson Working Families Scholarship program, the foundation supports 3,500 students on campus currently attending Grand Valley, Bowling Green, Saginaw Valley State University and Michigan Technological University. The total number of students supported by the funds is expected to be nearly 14,000.
“The partner Universities match the Thompson’s money, so the students — known as Thompson Scholars — get $11,000 a year for at least four years,” Cleary says. “That’s at least $44,000 less debt a student is going to have upon graduation. It’s almost $300 million in scholarships.”
What parents should know about U Prep Schools
For parents exploring school choices in Detroit, U Prep offers a combination that’s hard to find: small schools within a larger network, a proven track record of success and a culture built on respect and caring.
As U Prep celebrates 25 years, its message to parents is clear: your child deserves a safe, supportive education that prepares them for the future — and U Prep is here to deliver on that promise.
This content is sponsored by Grand Valley State University Charter Schools Office. Learn more at gvsu.edu/cso.
Discover more stories at Metro Parent’s Guide to Michigan Charter Schools.
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