“From an academic perspective, the classes here are very rigorous, very challenging.  I have great confidence that I’ll be prepared to succeed in any college environment.”  Paul Strassel ‘09

In Pursuit of Excellence

Villanova Preparatory School offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum for grades 9-12.  The school guides students toward full realization of their academic potential through disciplined study and an enhanced spirit of inquiry.  They are inspired to work to their highest potential, to achieve strong basic skills and to gain a broad knowledge in the humanities, arts and sciences.  As a result, 100% of Villanova’s graduates are accepted to one or more colleges.

Villanova maintains a meticulous standard of requirements for a student’s course of study and encourages students to take challenging classes.  Villanova students not only master an academically demanding college preparatory curriculum, but they also develop a range of skills for self-expression and mature into socially active global citizens.

Academic Expectations

Villanova Preparatory School expects each of its students to pursue a rigorous course of study.  Success in college is largely dependent upon three qualities that students acquire and hone during their high school experience:  study skills, extensive subject-area knowledge and a positive work attitude.

Villanova is committed to making these three characteristics solid pillars upon which to build further education.  Great emphasis is placed on writing skills and oral expression so that students are prepared for the most demanding college courses.  Students who work to meet Villanova’s education requirements will have abundant success in their future academic pursuits.

Expected School-Wide Learning Results (ESLRs)

A Villanova graduate is ideally:

• A person educated in Christian values who…
• Shows love of God, self, and others through commitment to family and community
• Has a strong sense of self worth and conducts her/himself within a truthful, moral code
• Gives service to the Villanova and extended community
• Understands and acknowledges the teachings of Jesus Christ while being respectful of other religions and cultures
• Promotes social justice and peace for all
• Seeks to grow in prayer and spirituality

• A critical and conceptual thinker who…
• Demonstrates mastery of Villanova’s core curriculum
• Thinks logically and makes sound choices while remaining open to new challenges and change
• Can read, comprehend, analyze, and evaluate increasingly complex material
• Can access, evaluate, and use information and is confident in solving problems
• Can effectively apply and synthesize material and skills developed across the curriculum
• Can efficiently use and adapt to changing technology

• An effective communicator who…
• Reads, writes, listens, and speaks effectively
• Clearly expresses ideas and thoughts supported by rationale, while remaining open to other points of view
• Organizes materials for presentation to various and diverse audiences

• A self-directed/lifelong learner who…
• Has developed effective time management skills
• Has a sense of intellectual curiosity and love of learning
• Is able to set priorities and achieve goals
• Has the necessary skills needed to continue learning
• Is able to adapt effectively to changing conditions and situations
• Is aware of a healthy life-style

• A team member and/or leader who…
• Exemplifies Villanova’s core values of charity, community, and truth
• Is able to set goals, provide positive direction, and build consensus as a member of a group/team
• Demonstrates teamwork and cooperation
• Can accept compliments and constructive criticism with grace

• A socially and globally aware person who…
• Understands and lives the Gospel values and appreciates diversity in his/’her society and other cultures
• Is a good citizen who is committed to social justice and community
• Takes personal responsibility for the good of all
• Understands and values the democratic process
• Understands and participates in the political process

Curriculum and Graduate Requirements

Villanova operates on the semester system and students take seven courses each year.  All classes meet a minimum of 4 times a week and the modified block system allows for one extended 80 minute period on most weeks.  While at Villanova, students will complete a minimum of 28 units - 7 per year.  Eighteen Advanced Placement or Honors courses are available to students.  The course of study includes the following requirements:

Although the curriculum is extremely rigorous, students view Villanova as a very friendly and engaging place.  Students are exposed to traditional and emerging instrual practices in a technological environment.  They are introduced to a community that supports active learning and personal responsibility in developing the skills to be a life long learner.

For more information on courses, please see the Course Catalog.

Academic Counseling

Villanova Preparatory School strives to provide the right learning environment for each student.  Therefore, an academic counselor is on-site daily to meet with teachers, parents and students to discuss learning needs, concerns and difficulties and to serve as a resource for questions concerning student learning and study skills.

Faculty

The fundamental component of student success at Villanova is the dedicated faculty.  Villanova Prep employs 51 faculty, support staff, and administration to provide an outstanding community-based education for its students.  Of the faculty and administration, 85% possess an advanced degree or California credential.

Because of the individualized learning environment, teachers are able to give personal attention to students.  All faculty members offer daily assistance outside the regular school day; they are readily accessible to mentor and assist students.

For a current faculty list, please see Our Faculty.