Urban Prep Academies currently operates two open enrollment public charter high schools in high-need communities in the city of Chicago. At capacity, these two schools will enroll approximately 1,200 students. Over 85% of our students qualify for free/reduced lunch and many come to Urban Prep several grade levels behind in the core subject areas.
Historically, college prep schools for boys have only been available to families who could afford private schools. Now, this proven school model is available, tuition-free, at Urban Prep’s three campuses via a random lottery with no evaluation of test scores or special needs.
Distinctive elements of the schools program include:
- A rigorous college prep curriculum;
- Extended school day and year;
- Language Arts and math focus;
- Extra-curricular activities;
- Community service requirements;
- Parental engagement expectations;
- Positive school culture;
- Regular professional development for teachers.
If you have questions about the admissions process please click here.
Bronzeville Campus
521 E. 35th st
Chicago, IL 60616
School Phone: 773.624.3444
Principal - Ms. Jessica Chandler
The Bronzeville Campus, our newest campus, is located in the heart of Chicago's Douglas & Grand Boulevard communities, once called the "Black Metropolis" for its extensive historical value to African-American art and culture. Bronzeville attracts residents, both young and old, with its boldly revitalized brownstones and its close proximity to Loop, Lakefront and South Side attractions. As this community continues to revitalize itself, Urban Prep young men will be at the forefront, serving as community change agents.
Englewood Campus
6201 S. Stewart Ave.
Chicago, IL 60621
School Phone: 773.535.9724
Principal - Mr. Ronald Bryant
The Englewood Community has a complex and storied history. As a stop on the Underground Railroad, Englewood was an early beacon of hope for African-Americans escaping slavery. Today, Englewood is on track to shine again with opportunity and our first campus, Urban Prep Charter Academy for Young Men -- Englewood Campus, seeks to be of the lights in this rekindling.
Clubs and Activities
At Urban Prep, we offer a diverse range of clubs, sports, and activities in which our students can participate. Students are required to participate in one extracurricular activity of their choice per year. This requirement allows our students to build the skills, leadership experience, and peer relationships that will be assets to them in college and beyond.
| ART CLUB | LOS AMIGOS (Spanish Club) |
| BASEBALL | LYRICAL DICTION CLUB |
| BASKETBALL | MEN’S CHOIR |
| BOOK CLUB | MOCK TRIAL TEAM |
| BOWLING | MUSIC PRODUCTION CLUB |
| CAPOEIRA CLUB | NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY |
| CHESS TEAM | PARALYMPIC SPORTS |
| CROSS COUNTRY | PEER MEDIATION |
| DEBATE TEAM | PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB |
| DRAMA CLUB | SCIENCE OLYMPIAD (S.T.E.M) |
| DJEMBE DRUMMING | SKETCH COMEDY AND IMPROV |
| FBLA (ENTREPRENEURSHIP) | STUDENT GOVERNMENT |
| FOOTBALL | S.W.A.T. (Technology Club) |
| FILM STUDIES | TRACK & FIELD |
| FUTURE EDUCATORS OF AMERICA | UP PAC (Political Action Committee) |
| GOLDEN ABSTRACT (Yearbook) | VIDEO GAME CLUB |
| JAPANESE CULTURAL CLUB | WRESTLING |
| LIONS ROAR (Lit. Magazine) | ASM PROGRAMS |
Urban Prep in your Area
Since opening our first campus in Chicago’s Englewood community in 2006, Urban Prep has had a proven track record of providing a high-quality, comprehensive college preparatory educational experience to young men that prepares graduates for admission to and success in college.
If you are interested in supporting Urban Prep, please click Here.
Questions or specific information requests about replication and expansion in your area should be directed to: Dennis Lacewell, Chief Academic Officer via email or by phone at 312-276-0259 ext. 1105.