Mission Statement
The University Scholars Program (USP) embraces the individual scholar. With an understanding of the complexities of high aptitude learners, both their phenomenal strengths and very real challenges, we believe that these students, like all students, have a right to an appropriate education that helps them to reach their fullest potential. The University Scholars Program creates a setting where like-minded scholars and teachers encourage and inspire.
Within the University Scholars Program, we:
Tailor instruction and opportunities to the individual need and goals of the scholar
Expand the capacity of the individual to think critically
Encourage scholars to abandon the box – what box?
Foster authentic scholarship – true investment in the process and products of learning
Value scholars’ quest to understand why and to know more
Believe in the importance and power of student / peer / teacher collaboration
Empower learners to be resourceful
Develop leaders with the understanding that leaders lead in diverse ways
Support the social and emotional well-being of our students
Program Profile
General Information
Established 2005
Accelerated and college preparatory courses for eligible PA Leadership Charter School students
Grades 6 through 12
Average class size 12
Average enrollment 275
Highly competitive entrance requirements
Onsite and/or virtual pathways available with classes approximately 80 school days each year.
The University Scholars Program has scholars from across the state of Pennsylvania. The program has students from 87 school districts, 108 towns and cities, 30 counties, and 21 intermediate units.
Curriculum
Middle school courses contain high school level content and rigor yet are developmentally appropriate
High school courses are honors and Advanced Placement (AP)
- 24 AP courses
Students are not required to take AP Exams
STEM program option for middle school and high school participants
Participants
95th percentile or higher on standardized intelligence and aptitude tests
SAT Score Means for the Class of 2022: Total Score Average 1370 • Math Average 689 • Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Average 682
ACT Mean for 2021: Composite Score 31 • Math 31 • Science 30 • English 31 • Reading 33
Merit Scholarship Program: Commendations, Semi-finalists, and Finalists
AP Awards: Letters of Commendation for Outstanding Performance, AP Scholars, AP Scholars with Honors, AP Scholars with Distinction, National AP Scholars