Blog – americanprep.org Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:56:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Group-118-32x32.png Blog – americanprep.org 32 32 Title /title/ Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:42:55 +0000 /?p=50120

ahenry@apamail.org

American Preparatory Academy is a classical-liberal arts school with an aim to educate both the minds and hearts of our students. Human flourishing is the goal of a classical education. We engage in the pursuit of truth, beauty, and virtue alongside our students. We focus our efforts in the domains of the liberal arts. We employ the disciplines of humility and diligence to our scholarly efforts.

Our students flourish as they become academically proficient, develop strong moral character, and develop a desire to impact their community in positive ways.

At school, on a daily basis, we enthusiastically engage in the learning and practice of the skills required to accomplish these ends.

Equality and Unity

American Prep values and embodies the American ideals of equality and unity.   We reference our nation’s Declaration of Independence in that we believe that all students and staff have been endowed with certain, unalienable rights that we respect at school. We are all engaged in the pursuit of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and respect that pursuit for each individual. Included in the important rights of each student is that of being viewed as an individual of great worth to the community. Every person in our school community is equally viewed as a person of unmeasurable value and potential.

 We carefully work to ensure that:

  • The right to fully participate in our school programs is available equally to each student.
  • The right to opportunities to develop character traits of diligence, hard work, humility, and scholarship are available to all students equally.
  • Each student and staff member are viewed, treated, and respected as a full and equal member of the community.

Recently, in a response to questions about American Prep’s approach to the concept of Critical Race Theory, or CRT, one of our 5th-grade teachers, Sarah Livingston Moore shared her thoughts.

“I’m both a parent and a 5th grade teacher at WV2. I can’t speak to the specifics of CRT, but I would encourage anyone concerned about what is taught at APA to look at the history curriculum we use. The Core Knowledge textbooks and scope and sequence are excellent at teaching not only what happened when, but also the attitudes and expectations of differing cultures that underpinned some of the ugly realities of the past. I am continually pleased by the nuance employed by our curriculum in 5th grade, particularly because we cover such potentially difficult periods of history as Meso-America, the Civil War, and westward expansion. The reality of the brutalities of slavery and Jim Crow is not at all ignored, but taught in an age-appropriate way. And the facts regarding the treatment of Native Americans is not only taught concurrently as we move through US history, but is also the exclusive focus of a unit in our textbook/curriculum.

This is all taught with the underlying perspective that while atrocities and racism were very real, and our nation is by no means perfect, we also were the first to encode equality and self-determination in our founding documents. We can recognize our unique position both in history and the present, while also unflinchingly addressing where we have fallen short. The American experiment depends on her citizens’ continued engagement with both the mechanisms and ideals of democracy and liberty. Teaching our students to be critical thinkers is a primary goal of a classical education, and history is one of the best subjects in which to give young people the opportunity to begin applying it to the world around us.” – Sarah Livingston Moore – 5th-Grade Teacher at American Prep

The APA community is defined by a strong sense of belonging, and it is our aim to ensure that every member of the community knows they are considered a unique, important, and even an integral part of our community.   Our community is often described as the “APA Family”. We nurture our strong, inclusive school culture to maximize its unifying impact throughout our schools and to reach each and every student, staff member and family member.

Student Empowerment

One of APA’s critical objectives is to maximize each student’s empowerment, so they can take full advantage of every opportunity available to them.

Empowering students to take advantage of their rights and all of the opportunities available to them is a critical objective of APA. Student empowerment is accomplished by providing explicit instruction and practice related to empowerment in the school and community environments. Each student’s level of empowerment to engage in opportunities is unique.

Protecting Students’ Civil Liberties

Our responsibilities as a school organization extend to protecting student civil liberties, which can be threatened at times through seemingly inconsequential practices. One of those practices is student surveys. Current common surveys in schools often probe sensitive or controversial topics, such as sexual behavior, substance use, or mental health. Utah law requires parental consent before a student is presented a survey with questions on such topics. Unfortunately, schools have been asked this spring by the Utah State Board of Education to issue a Climate Survey, which we believe violates the law unless parents are given all the questions to review, and the school has received prior written consent from the parent.  

While we find it important to survey our parents regarding their child’s school experience, we prefer to not survey our students at all, because we believe that upholding the public trust (as we are a public institution) includes ensuring that our students are never asked to provide personal information to us at school. As school employees, or people who are paid using public funds, we are representatives of the government. Our students are under compulsory education laws which require their attendance at school. These circumstances place us in a position that requires great sensitivity and an acknowledgment of the power differential between us (government representatives) and the minor children in our care during the school day when their parents are not present. Given the fact that most of these minor children want to please their teachers, and believe they should do what their teachers ask in order to be a successful student, it is extremely important that the school representatives have strong boundaries and feel a strong commitment to protecting the student’s (and their family’s) privacy by never placing the student in a situation where they are asked to reveal personal information in order to be obedient, compliant, or successful at school.

We do not believe it proper for a government entity or a government representative to ask students to reveal personal information about themselves or their families. In addition, we do not want our students to believe it is the right of the government to require information from them, which belief naturally happens when a trusted teacher places a survey in front of a student. In fact, we feel it is our duty to teach our students that their civil liberties and individual rights are precious, and it would be our hope that our students would quickly recognize attempted violations of their privacy in these situations and refuse to participate in such surveys.

]]> Memorial Day at American Prep /blog/memorial-day-at-american-prep/ Tue, 13 May 2025 15:01:00 +0000 /?p=45335

2025 Memorial Day Live-Streams

Join us as we honor the brave men and women who sacrificed everything for our freedoms. American Prep will host Memorial Day assembliesfrom May 19th to May 23rd, featuring student performances, the presence of Gold Star family members, and more.

We invite the entire community to come together as we reflect on the sacrifices that have shaped our nation.

Event Details:

  • May 19th– 1:00 pm –
  • May 20th– 9:00 am –
  • May 20th– 1:00 pm –
  • May 21st– 10:00 pm –
  • May 22nd– 12:30 pm –
  • May 23rd– 9:00 am –

We encourage everyone to join us in honoring the fallen by watching the live stream events linked above.

2024 Memorial Day Live-streams

West Valley 1 – Monday, May 20th @ 1:30 PM:to watch the livestream

West Valley 2/3 – Tuesday, May 21st @ 1:00 PM:to watch the livestream

Salem – Wednesday, May 22nd @ 12:30 PM:to watch the livestream

Draper 1 – Thursday, May 23rd @ 10:00 AM:to watch the livestream

Draper 2/3 – Friday, May 24th @ 9:00 AM:to watch the livestream

NOTE: Live-streams of our Memorial Day assemblies from previous years can be watched at the bottom of this page.

Message from Carolyn Sharette, Executive Director

We are looking forward to an amazing week where our students participate in a Memorial Day commemoration at school. Our Memorial Day commemorations are assemblies for students, staff and a Gold Star family. A Gold Star family has lost a loved one while serving our country in the military and each year we invite one for speak at each campus to tell their story of loss.Because this can be a tender time for many students, and is a meaningful experience for all students, we invite you to ask your student about the commemoration they participated in, about what they saw, and thought, and felt. We feel it is important that parents are in the loop for all the meaningful experiences in their childrens’ lives. We have included the link to the recordings of the commemorations at the bottom of this page and we encourage you to watch it (or parts of it) with your student and ask them about their thoughts and feelings.

By way of background – the commemoration lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes. It begins with a slideshow of fallen soldiers who APA has honored over past years, while our band plays Hymn to the Fallen. We then say the pledge and sing two verses of the national anthem. We spend about 50-55 minutes learning about the origin of Memorial Day (Civil War era), we review the Gettysburg address and have an artful depiction of that speech by our theater students, we reflect on WWI and the symbol of the poppy to represent fallen soldiers as we hear the poem In Flanders Fields and America’s Response (our 6th and 2nd grade students), and we review the national war memorials and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with a slideshow, famous quotes and creative depiction from our theater students. We learn about Arlington National Cemetery and hear a song by about it sung by our choir. We review the challenge given by President Clinton in 2000 asking all Americans to remember that Memorial Day is set aside to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice that we may be free, and his invitation to all Americans to participate in a national Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. on each Memorial Day. We then practice a minute of silence as we reflect upon our gratitude for sacrifices made for our liberty.

At the end of these presentations, we listen to the Gold Star family member who speaks for 5-10 minutes about their loved one who died in service and the impact of that loss on their family. They send us pictures that we display during their remarks, and we get to know a little about their soldier, and their life and their service. We sing Thank You Soldiers, expressing our deep gratitude to all who have given this sacrifice and to all their families.

We then have a flag folding and presentation ceremony, and conduct a silent dismissal where students are given the opportunity to pay respects to those who have given their lives for their freedom by exiting the gym in silence.

This is a remarkable event and I need every parent to know that your student is truly exemplary in the way they conducted themselves at the commemorations this week. Each year I am so very impressed by the comportment of our students and I felt compelled this year to make sure that you know just how remarkable your children are. From ages 5-18, they all participated with appropriate dedication, emotion, respect, and honor. Our minute of silence was incredibly powerful and truly, completely SILENT as hundreds of students respectfully thought about the sacrifices made for their freedoms. Songs were sung with devotion. Poetry was recited with passion. I so wish every parent could feel the feelings we felt this week in our commemorations and could have seen your exemplary students. Watching 600-1200 students (depending upon the campus size) exit the gym in silence is something you probably cannot imagine without seeing it. We are so grateful to our wonderful students for the gift they gave our Gold Star families this week.

As mentioned above, I have included each campus’ link to your recording below and invite you to watch it with your student and have them tell you about it, about what they learned, and about what they felt.

On a related topic, it occurred to me at the conclusion of one of our commemorations that, as a community, we all shared in the pain and sorrow of a new friend (our Gold Star family member). Some of us cried as they told their stories. Some of us cried from the moment the Hymn to the Fallen began and we saw the pictures of soldiers we had honored in year’s past. Your students saw their teachers – male and female – express emotion publicly. Some students as well were visibly moved by the music, or other parts of the commemoration. We felt deep emotions of compassion and gratitude and expressed them in different ways. Some of us had expanded experiences feeling greater gratitude for America and for our freedoms. All these emotions were honest responses to real life – the sorrow, the gratitude and even the joy for our freedoms – all shared together in our school community.

As my mind reflected on the amazing things we were experiencing together, I was reminded that several parents and others in the community have reached out to me over the past months and asked “how does APA teach social-emotional learning?” or “What curriculum is APA buying for SEL”? My answer has always been that we don’t buy a special curriculum. That we integrate feeling and expression of feelings into everything we do at APA. Yesterday it occurred to me that this commemoration is a wonderful example of how APA approached “social-emotional” learning for students and for all of us.

So, if anyone questions you regarding how APA teaches “social-emotional learning” you can let them know that we don’t purchase a curriculum that tells students how to feel, asks them how they feel, or recommends what they should do about those feelings. We provide meaningful real-life experiences that honestly address life with all its challenges, sorrows, victories and blessings. We listen to each other’s stories, and to the important stories of history that have shaped and molded our lives. We learn to have compassion for each other, and also for those we learn about in our studies who have suffered, struggled, overcome, or died for their convictions. We learn to express that compassion and our gratitude in words, and we also provide service opportunities for students to express gratitude in deed. This is APA’s “SEL program”.

With regard to Memorial Day on Monday, May 29th, we invited our APA community to observe the national Moment of Remembrance 3 p.m. by holding a minute of silence with their family and friends. We encouraged you to teach others about the meaning of Memorial Day, and to fly your flag at half mast until noon, which is the proper flag etiquette on Memorial Day. Many families visited memorial cemeteries for soldiers and placed flowers on graves. I personally feel it is important to resist the popular notion that Memorial Day is a day to remember anyone in our family who has died. I do this by visiting our family graves on Saturday or Sunday and reserving Monday as a day of remembrance for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice – their lives – that we may enjoy liberty.

Thank you so much for all you do to make APA such a wonderful place to learn and grow. Your children are truly remarkable and we love their good hearts, which were on full display this month at our campuses.

Gold Star Families

You may have seen a gold star on a license plate or a flag. You may have even seen someone wearing a gold star pendant. The “Gold Star” is a powerful symbol of sacrifice representing a family member whose loved one was killed or died while in military service. At American Prep, we teach our students what it means to be a Gold Star Family member and the incredible sacrifice each family has made.

As we teach our students about Memorial Day and direct their awareness to the significance of this holiday, we think it’s important to educate our students about how they can address a Gold Star Family member and offer encouragement and thanks.

Each year, we are honored to have Gold Star Family members as guests at our commemorations. Our Gold Star Family members will often speak and share their experience of losing their loved ones. They also share how grateful they are that our students will remember them. We encourage our students and our APA community to thank our Gold Star Families and to let them know that we will not forget their loved one’s sacrifice and that we are truly grateful.

Thank you to our Gold Star Family members, John Thibeault and Shar Elmer, for joining us this week and speaking to our students.

In Flanders Fields

The purpose of our Memorial Day events is to honor those that have fallen but it is also to educate and inspire our youth to understand our history and the value of our freedom. In our commemoration event, students learn many things including history and symbol of the poppy flower. It stems from a beautiful poem, In Flanders Fields, by World War I Colonel John McCrae, a surgeon with Canada’s First Brigade Artillery.

Many hands and great efforts have made the poppy a symbol of remembrance of the war. Today, the creation and sale of poppies has helped veterans, widows, widowers, and orphaned children around the world.

To learn more about the the poppy and its meaning during Memorial Day, please watch the replay of our live streams or visitfor more information.

Flying the flag at half-staff

As a community, we honor our fallen heroes in many ways on Memorial Day. One of these ways involves particular regard for our flag.

On Memorial Day, our flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon only, then raised briskly to the top of the staff until sunset, in honor of the nation’s heroes.

In the early days of our country, no regulations existed for flying the flag at half-staff, and, as a result, there were many conflicting policies. But on March 1, 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower issued a proclamation on the proper times and procedures.

We are honored to teach our history at American Prep. We are confident that learning about our past will inspire our students’ future.

To learn more about Memorial Day and flying the flag at half-staff, please visit,

Arlington National Cemetery & Blades of Grass and Pure White Stones

During our Memorial Day Commemoration, our students learn about the many memorials established to honor our fallen heroes. One of these memorials is Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. The importance of this cemetery is deeply rooted in our history. Originally established to honor our first President, George Washington, Arlington National Cemetery now serves as the resting place for over 400,000 soldiers and their qualified dependents. There are soldiers buried in Arlington from every war our country has ever engaged in, from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

Many of our students have seen images of Arlington National Cemetery. What is most notable is the row upon rows of white tombstones marking the graves of thousands of soldiers. This imagery inspired the writing of a beautiful song in tribute to those buried at Arlington. The song is called Blades of Grass and Pure White Stones, written by Senator Orrin Hatch, Lowell Alexander and Phil Naish.

to see American Prep’s rendition of Blades of Grass and Pure White Stones.

Rewatch Past live-streams

Click below to view our livestream recordings and photos from our previous Memorial Day Commemorations.

2023

2022

2021

Learn more about how American Prep supports military families and veterans.

American Preparatory Academy holds our military families in high esteem. We understand the challenges our active duty military families and students experience which is one of the reasons we strive to make transitions as smooth as possible.

At APA, we offer resources and support for military families through each of our campus administrators, counselors, and student ambassadors. If you are an active-duty military family in need of support as you transition your students to American Prep, we encourage you to connect with us.

Please click theAPA Military Family Resourcesbutton to learn more.

APA Military Family Resources

Thank you for helping us honor those who died while serving our nation and protecting our freedom.
]]> Student Spotlight /blog/student-spotlight/ Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:09:30 +0000 /?p=45362

March 2025 – Dan Bazan, Communications Director

SPOTLIGHT on two inspiring APA West Valley 3 students continuing to shine in the arts and academics.

Jacob Brady–Congratulations toWest Valley 3 11-graderJacob Brady. He has been awarded the.This is a full tuition scholarship to attend theInterlochen Arts Camp this summer. “The Frederick Fennell Scholars Program offers talented high school musicians the opportunity to earn a scholarship toward intensive study at Interlochen Arts Camp. Awards are based on the strength of the student’s experience and audition.” – Interlochen.

Congratulations Jacob!

Elise Christenson–Finalists are the top less than 1% of high school seniors in the nation. On Tuesday, March 26th, Utah’s West Valley City Council recognizedWV3 Senior Elise Christenson as the only National Merit Finalist in the cityand congratulated her on her accomplishment, acknowledging how well she has represented American Prep. Way to go, Elise! Way to go!!

Elise Christenson, APA WV3 Senior receives recognition from West Valley City Council.

Student Spotlight Banner-1

September 2023 – Dan Bazan, Marketing & Communications Director

Keon Before Time TrialsIn this month’s “Student Spotlight,” we’re thrilled to introduce Keon Matinkhah, an American Preparatory Academy Draper 3 senior who diligently balances the life of a high-achieving student and a passionate cyclist.

On the Cycling Track with Ascent Cycling
At the heart of Salt Lake City, a dedicated team known as Ascent Cycling p/b (personal best) is making waves. Sponsored by Guthrie Bicycle, this group participates in local races that vary in difficulty and type. Among the seasoned cyclists of the team, Keon stands out—not just because he’s the youngest, but because he’s the only member still in high school. Despite being a first-season racer in the challenging adult Category 4 level, Keon credits his success to his older teammates, who guided him in facing more experienced opponents.

From Fitness to Ambition
Initially, cycling was just Keon’s way of staying fit and connecting with nature. But as he delved deeper, watching professionals, from international icons to local legends, it became a passion and ambition. The dedication it takes to shift from recreational cycling to racing is immense. For Keon, this means 10 hours of rigorous training weekly amidst managing high-level academic subjects and working 12-hour shifts as Assistant Manager at Beans and Brews, to save for his future.

Juggling Academics and Athletics
Keon’s secret to managing this demanding schedule is meticulous planning. Keon believes in the power of early mornings, often rising by 5 a.m. for strength training before school. After school, he hops on the bike for a conditioning session. Weekends are reserved for intensive training, sometimes covering 100 miles with an average of 4,000 feet of elevation gain. His disciplined approach extends to academics as well. He spreads his study sessions throughout the week, ensuring optimal retention and understanding.

However, Keon has experienced challenges on his road to athletic and academic success. Keon’s focus and rigorous schedule sometimes resulted in overtraining, impacting his performance on and off the road. This led Keon to a vital realization about knowing his limits and addressing fatigue with recovery periods. In his words, “Make sure to know your limits. Overall, studying and training at the same time is very realistic, and I encourage anyone to attempt to manage both.”

Future on the Horizon
Keon aspires to progress in racing while continuing to pursue academic achievement. He aims to enhance his performance in cycling, hopefully reaching professional levels locally. He hopes to attend the Naval Academy after graduation, where he plans to join their cycling team and pursue an engineering degree.

Keon shared insight into his philosophy toward riding and encouragement to future riders, “Some of my favoritepro cyclists, such as Peter Sagan and Tadej Pogacar, prove that as long as you give it 100%, and try to have fun along the way, the future is bright. To other students who wish to get into cycling, it’s almost never too late to start training and racing, whether it be road or mountain. If you have the passion, discipline, and courage, then cycling is for you.”

It’s evident that Keon Matinkhah is an exemplary student and an inspiration to all who juggle multiple passions. With a blend of discipline, ambition, and an unyielding spirit, Keon truly exemplifies the best of what students at American Prep can achieve.

August 2023 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

Spencer Headlee Chosen as Congressional Page for Senator Mike Lee.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand on the floor of the U.S. Senate during a session of Congress? Spencer Headlee, a junior from Draper 3, will get to find out this fall as he works as a Senate page. A page is someone who helps handle the daily tasks of the Senate such as delivering papers and messages, preparing the Chamber for each session, helping on the floor during roll call votes, and assisting senators and staff during debates. Only 30 students from across the country are accepted into this exclusive program each semester. Each student must be sponsored by a senator.

About the application process, Spencer said, “Senator Mike Lee’s office reached out and made us aware of this incredible opportunity. The application was fairly simple. There were some requirements that I fulfilled, like a high enough GPA. The application consisted of an essay, a cover letter, and a copy of my high schooltranscript.”

Once accepted into the program, pages live, study, and work on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. Their day begins early with school starting at 6:00 am. After school, they report to the Senate by 10:00 am (or earlier). Their work day goes until 6:00 pm, or until the Senate adjourns, which could stretch late until the night. On weekends, pages have some time off to explore the capital city, go on field trips, and participate in group activities with the other student pages.

When asked what a page could expect to do during work, Spencer said, “A Senate page works for all of the senators primarily on the Senate floor, distributing paperwork including bills, amendments, communications, and other correspondence, including Senate schedules and meeting agendas. They also provide other services to senators as needed. Senate pages are a critical intermediary between senators and their office while they are on the floor because only senators and pages are allowed on the floor of the Senate. I am looking forward to learning firsthand how the Senate functions along with gaining experience living, going to school, and working on my own. It is an incredible opportunity and great honor to serve in this role.” APA wishes Spencer the best as he begins this unique opportunity.

American Preparatory Academy is thrilled to spotlight the exceptional accomplishments of Draper 2 sixth-grader, Aashita Mandiwal. In May, Aashita represented APA at the MathCounts National Competition in Orlando, Florida, marking a high point in her scholastic journey. Out of numerous talented students, Aashita was one of only four participants to qualify from the state of Utah. Success must run in Aashita’s family as her sister Adwita placed 10th in State competitions while Aashita took 1st overall.

Though the national competition was fierce and Aashita placed outside the top ten, her performance, determination, and grace under pressure showcased her academic resilience. We are incredibly proud of her commendable performance and eagerly anticipate her participation in next year’s competition.

The MathCounts National Competition is a multi-day event bringing together the brightest math students from across the United States and its territories. The competition, structured in both written and “bee” style formats, tests and celebrates the mathematical skills of middle school students. With a creative theme surrounding movies and red carpets, the event emphasizes the essential role of math skills in our society, even in creative fields like film, animation, and music.

The 2023 MathCounts National Competition, sponsored by Raytheon Technologies, highlights the importance of strong math skills for future success, particularly in STEM-related fields. The event rewards the top-achieving national competitors with scholarships totaling over $40,000 dollars.

As we strive to build strong foundations in mathematics for all our students at APA, Aashita’s success is a shining beacon for her peers. Her journey at the MathCounts National Competition is an inspiring testament to every APA student’s potential.

Congratulations, Aashita, for your exceptional performance at the national level. We look forward to your future achievements!

For more information about the MathCounts National Competition, please visit.

This summer, three of our 11th-grade students had the opportunity to attend the United States Naval Academy’s Summer Seminar in Annapolis, Maryland, where they were immersed in what it’s like to be a midshipman for a week. The seminar is meant to help students nearing high school graduation and interested in military academies determine if applying for admission is right for them.

We are proud of our students, Annabel Kim and Sam Hollinger (Draper 3), and Lexi Callister (WV3), who were selected to attend the Summer Seminar this year.

Each candidate engages in activities and new experiences at the Academy for one week. We asked our students to share a little bit about themselves and their experiences to help other students decide if attending a future Summer Seminar is a good choice for them.

Sam Hollingershared,“I decided to do Summer Seminar to see what life was like at the Naval Academy. This program definitely showed that everyone there wanted tohelp. We would be woken up at 5:30 a.m. to work out; then, we would go to breakfast and have classes. We had many activities that would inform us about the Academy. I learned more about myself, and I would recommend that anyone interested in any Academies apply to the program.”

Lexi Callistershared,“To be honest, I had no idea what to expect, so I did not have any initial expectations. A typical day at the seminar began with waking up early, with only a few minutes to get ready. The first morning was tough, but we adapted to the routine. Once we had all formed into our squads, platoons, and then the company, we would head over to ‘pep’—a fancy word for a workout. After that, we had 20-30 minutes to shower, get ready for the day, and head out for breakfast.

On Sunday, we went to drill and then to the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA). The next day, we did more drilling and participated in drill competition. The following two days were spent attending classes, and on the final day, we went to a briefing.

The activity that stood out to me the most was the ‘indoc’, which is where they demonstrated to us what real Plebe Summer would be like. There was a lot of yelling, pushups, sit-ups, squats, and more yelling. A key lesson I learned was that I was not the best one there, so I needed to give it everything I had and prove that I wanted to be there as much as everyone else. This experience helped me grow by pushing me physically, mentally, and sometimes emotionally (because I was often tired).

The most enjoyable part of the trip for me was interacting with my squad and squad leaders. They wanted all of us to succeed in every activity. Regardless of how I thought I was doing, I could tell they were all rooting for me.

Would I recommend NASS to other students? Absolutely, yes! Without a second thought. This was an enlightening experience for me. I believe it also gave me a more realistic view of what life would be like at the Academy. So, I wholeheartedly recommend it to future students.”

Annabel Kimsaid, “Going into the Summer Seminar, I was definitely nervous and even apprehensive. During my week at the Academy, I had the opportunity to participate in drill, work out, take the Candidates Fitness Assessment (CFA), attend briefings, and build relationships with not only my squad leaders and members, but members in other companies as well. Not only was my week at the Academy the highlight of my summer, but it has further piqued my interest and desire to attend the Academy and commission as an officer.

At Summer Seminar, you are split into companies (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, and Echo), then each company is divided into roughly four platoons. Each platoon has 4-5 squads, each consisting of about 7 candidates. I became extremely close to my squad mates and leader, and we still talk every week. I also met so many people from other companies and built connections just as meaningful as those with my squad mates.

My biggest takeaway from this experience is to learn how to quickly buy-in and follow directions. During this week, they will ask a lot from you, both mentally and physically, and some of it may seem silly. But if youchoose to embrace it and just make the most of it, you will have an amazing time. I highly recommend taking the time to bond with your squad and take the initiative to meet other people in your briefings. Not only can these bonds help you get through the tough times, but they are a great resource during the application process. This experience offered me more insight and information about life at the Academy, better than any website or article could. If you are seriously considering the Naval Academy, relationship-building is invaluable. It is super important during this week to learn how not to stand out or strive to be the “best”, but instead try to emphasize your desire to work as a team while still demonstrating leadership qualities.

As I have mentioned, my most enjoyable parts stemmed from the people I met. Whenever things got difficult or even boring, it was the other candidates and my squad who made it 100% easier. I also really enjoyed getting to experience the academic side of the Navy; they do a really great job of showing you every aspect of the experience. A few of my academic workshops included: Physics, Foundations in Leadership, and Yard Patrol. The workouts were also really fun and pretty lowkey, they mainly consisted of running, pushups, situps, and other basic exercises.

I absolutely recommend the Naval Academy Summer Seminar to other students! Not only to those considering the Naval Academy but anyone who is considering any of the Academies at all. Even though it’s only a week-long, it is definitely a character-building experience, filled with amazing people, learning, enjoyable physical activities, and even decent food! I advise anyone who is considering attending to go in with an open mind and an extra pair of running shoes (trust me).”

West Valley City Council Shines Spotlight on Exceptional Achievers: Daniel Christenson and Dylan Bolman

May 2023 – Dan Bazan, Communications Director

In a remarkable display of academic prowess, Daniel Christenson and Dylan Bolman, two brilliant students from WV3, received well-deserved recognition from the West Valley City Council on May 23rd. Standing tall as the city’s only two National Merit Scholars Finalists, Daniel, and Dylan were honored for their extraordinary achievements.

Mayor Karen Lang took center stage to acknowledge and commend the exceptional efforts of these two remarkable individuals. In a heartfelt gesture, she presented Daniel and Dylan with certificates of achievement from the city, recognizing their outstanding accomplishments. The mayor also expressed her gratitude to them for representing the city with such distinction on a national stage.

Earning the title of National Merit Scholars Finalist is no small feat. The highly competitive National Merit Scholarship Program evaluates an astounding 1.6 million PSAT scores from students nationwide. From this vast pool of talented individuals, only 15,000 are selected as Semifinalists, representing the top 0.5 percent of senior students in each state.

These Semifinalists then undergo a rigorous selection process to secure their place as National Merit Scholars Finalists, an honor reserved for the top 2,500 seniors in the United States. This accomplishment speaks volumes about Daniel and Dylan’s intellectual talent and tireless dedication to their studies.

In addition to his recognition as a Finalist, Daniel has been awarded the prestigious National Merit Finalist Scholarship from Brigham Young University. This commendable achievement paves the way for his exciting journey at the university, where he will begin his studies in the upcoming fall.

With his exceptional academic record and a prestigious full-ride scholarship to Texas Tech University through the National Merit program, Dylan is a shining example of a high-achieving high school senior. Dylan has chosen a different path. Driven by his deep-rooted faith and desire to make a difference in the world, he has deferred his enrollment at Texas Tech to embark on a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This demonstrates his commitment to academic and personal growth and his unwavering dedication to his religious beliefs.

Texas Tech University has acknowledged Dylan’s outstanding abilities by deferring his full-ride scholarship as well, ensuring that his academic dreams will be waiting for him upon his return.

Let us applaud Daniel and Dylan for their unwavering dedication, intellect, and representation of our community with this prestigious accolade. Their success is a testament to the limitless potential of West Valley City’s brightest minds and the commitment to excellence that thrives within our American Preparatory Academy.

Congratulations, Daniel and Dylan, on this well-deserved recognition, and may your future endeavors be filled with continued success and fulfillment!

March 2023 – Dan Bazan – Communications Director

Unstoppable Surya Kapu Clinches Fourth Regional Spelling Bee Victory

The unstoppable Surya Kapu has done it again, demonstrating his word prowess at the 2023 Regional Spelling Bee held at Juan Diego High School. Competing with almost 170 students representing 104 schools, the 13-year-old wunderkind captured his fourth regional win by spelling the word “linstock.”

Surya Kapu succeeded early on in Draper 1, 2, and 3 school spelling bees. Since then, he has been making waves at regional and state levels, becoming synonymous with tenacity and triumph in the face of fierce competition. Surya’s success has earned him features on Fox13, local newspapers, and YouTube.

As an 8th-grader now, it’s not just formidable spelling mastery that makes Surya stand out. His teachers laud his kindness and positive attitude, while his friends describe him as fun, smart, and encouraging. Embodying a strong character that reflects his family’s values, Surya’s integrity is every bit as remarkable as his spelling accolades.

Surya’s journey to the top began in 2019 when he won Utah’s Northern Regional Spelling Bee as a fourth-grader with the word “popinjay.” His path has since led him to two Scripps National Spelling Bee appearances. He was the fifth-place finisher in 2022 among 234 contenders nationwide.

With the unwavering support of his parents, sister, and the City Journals, Surya will travel to Washington D.C. in May. There, he will represent American Prep in the 95th Scripps National Spelling Bee Finals.

Tune in as we follow Surya’s third National Spelling Bee experience! Good luck Surya! American Prep is rooting for you!!

The 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee Finals will be broadcast on ION television on Thursday, June 1, 2023. The Bee will release its full broadcast schedule onby May 1, 2023. American Prep will notify families about how to watch the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee when details become available in late May. Click here to learn more about.

Click here to read more about the National Scripps Spelling Bee –

February 2023 – Learnell Wesley –School Counselor/Assistant Athletic Director

Dylan Bolman is not your average high school senior. This outstanding, intelligent, and musically talented young man is making waves at American Preparatory Academy in West Valley 3. As a top student in the class of 2023, Dylan has earned numerous academic accolades at APA and is focused on a bright future.

Dylan’s academic achievements are nothing short of impressive. He was selected as a National Merit Scholar finalist and for the National Honor Society, and achieved Summa Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam. With a cumulative GPA of 3.99, Dylan is this year’s West Valley 3 Math Sterling Scholar. He is a true academic powerhouse, and it’s no surprise that he has been accepted to several prestigious universities, including Purdue University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the University of Utah, Westminster, Texas Tech, and Utah State, all with Presidential scholarships.

While Dylan is passionate about pursuing a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, music is also an important part of his life. As the First Chair Cellist in West Valley 3’s Advanced Orchestra, he has been playing the cello for seven years and the piano for 13 years. Dylan’s musical talents are a testament to his creativity and discipline, and it’s clear that his love of music has enriched his life in countless ways.

But Dylan’s talents extend far beyond academics and music. He is also a dedicated math tutor who helps fellow students after school at West Valley 3. His willingness to give back to the school that gave him so much is truly inspiring, and his example motivates other students to work hard and succeed.

American Preparatory Academy is proud to have Dylan Bolman as a student. He embodies the spirit of APA and is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and passion. We have no doubt that Dylan will continue to change the world for the better, and we wish him all the best as he selects his future university. Congratulations, Dylan, on your outstanding accomplishments!

October 2022

We have several spotlights this month for outstanding achievement in academics and character. Please join us in celebrating these incredible students.

Leute Lagaaia –We would like to give a shout out to our West Valley 3 senior Leute Lagaaia. On Thursday, October 27, 2022, Leute was one of two student speakers from the nation addressing attendees for the El Sistema USA Fundraising Brunch “Bridge to Harmony.”

Speaking about how her experiences in Sistema Utah have provided her with leadership opportunities, workshops to strengthen her technical skills and her joy as a student instructor afterschool, she touched everyone’s hearts as sheshared herjourney. Way togo, Leute!

Congratulations to our Draper 3 and West Valley 3 Math Students

Congratulations to our APA students, Sienna Smith, Sam Hollinger, Brandon Batjav, Dylan Bolman, Daniel Christenson, and Perry Buxton, for receiving recognition for high achievement in mathematics. Each year, BYU invites high school teachers to select high-achieving students to attend a dinner banquet at BYU. The students receive recognition certificates and listen to a keynote speaker share about how BYU has contributed to the field of math, research, or other efforts in mathematics. They aim to promote how mathematics impacts our daily lives and encourage students to continue their academic pursuits. Dylan, Sienna, Sam, and Perry are currently enrolled in Multivariable Calculus through the University of Utah. Brandon and Daniel completed Multivariable Calculus last year.

July 2022 – Trina Christensen – Sistema Director

We have two secondary Sistema Utah students who have been selected as World Ensemble Ambassadors.Hannah Christensen (West Valley 2)has been a World Ensemble Ambassador for two years and has handed the torch over toTamara Castillo (West Valley 2), who will be our new Ambassador this coming school year.
World Ensemble Ambassadors are young people from around the world participating in El Sistema-inspired programs. The countries

represented are the USA, Canada, Uganda, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Ghana. They meet virtually every month to share what their programs are doing while collaborating with one another. In addition to monthly meetings, WE Ambassadors also write articles about their programs which are then published in a global newsletter, “The Ensemble.” This is an excellent opportunity; we know Tamara will do a great job!
To learn more about the World Ensemble program,.

June 2022 – Dan Bazan – Communications Director

Surya Kapu is no stranger to interesting, challenging, and obscure words. He is also a fierce competitor with experience on a national stage. In June, Surya, a 7th-grade student from Draper 3, participated in the 9th Annual Scripps National Spelling Bee Finals. This was Surya’s second time reaching this level of the competition, having placed first in theNorthern Utah Regional Spelling Bee in 2019 and advancing to the Scripps Finalsas a 4th-grade student.

This year, Surya made significant progress, tying for 5th-place nationally out of 234 competitors. These 234 spellers earned their spots by advancing through regional bees, competing against students representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Department of Defense Schools in Europe. We are proud ofSurya’s performance. He made it through 8 rigorous rounds before being eliminated in the ninth.

This experience has provided an opportunity for Surya to engage in challenging competition, meet dynamic people, and even meet some stars. This year’s Scripps Spelling Bee was hosted by Levar Burton, a Star Trek star, and guest host for the acclaimed game show, Jeopardy.

We wish Surya an amazing summer enjoying some of his other hobbies like playing saxophone, basketball, and chess with friends.

Please join us in congratulating Surya onhis high achievement. Our entire American Prep community is excited about Surya’s future endeavors.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee celebrated its 94th year in 2022, continuing its mission to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives.

To find out more about the National Scripps Spelling Bee, visit.

Click here to see Surya’s interview on Fox 13 News prior to the competition.

We are excited to share that one of our AMAZING West Valley 2 students, Carlos Padilla, has been selected as a 2022 Daniels Fund Scholarship Recipient!

The Daniels Scholarship Program awards four-year scholarships that pay for tuition, housing, books, and fees at the college or university of the student’s choice. These scholarships are awarded through a rigorous application and interview process. To date, this incredible program has provided over $220 million dollars in undergraduate scholarships to over 4,600 students from Utah, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

Carlos Padilla is one of three American Prep students who have received scholarships from the Daniels program since 2014. He is part of an elite category of individuals who have been selected because they embody the character traits that Daniels Fund founder, Bill Daniels, exemplified himself during his remarkable life, andwhich traits have been identified as those worthy of these generous scholarships:

These traits are:

  • Strength of character
  • Leadership potential
  • Commitment to serving their communities
  • Proud Americans who value our free enterprise system and are prepared to give the world their very best shot

Carlos Padilla embodies all of these characteristics!

More about Carlos: Carlos started at American Prep in fourth grade and has excelled in academics, athletics, and service during his time at APA. Carlos is a kind-hearted person who has a natural ability to relate to others. He will often see someone who is not included and he will make efforts to include them. Carlos has overcome many obstacles, including helping his family during the serious illness and recovery of his mother. Carlos is one of the captains of the West Valley 2 Soccer team. He sustained injuries that resulted in surgery which sidelined him from playing soccer for a while. Although tearing his ACL during a soccer tournament prevented him from playing, the injury didn’t stop him from staying positive, supporting the team and putting others before himself.

Carlos’ sister credits his strong, positive character to the life experiences that have helped to shape him into a leader in all settings, including academics, athletics, and church. Carlos is involved in his community and finds ways to serve others.

Carlos always hoped to follow in his sister’s footsteps by becoming one of his family’s first-generation college students. Carlos’ hopes will come true next year as he enters Westminster College in Salt Lake City. He will pursue business and criminology with the goal of joining the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Carlos is happy to be selected as a Daniels Scholarship recipient because it has opened so many doors for him and he knows he will have the tools he needs to succeed.

American Prep wishes to congratulate Carlos and the Padilla family for raising and nurturing such an incredible young man and a fantastic APA student. We also wish to extend our gratitude to the Daniels Fund and the incredible legacy of Bill Daniels and his outstanding organization.

To learn more about the Daniels fund, please click.

March 2022 – Brad Sheneman, Draper 3 School Director

Bruce Kim is a senior this year at APA Draper 3. He is a great scholar and an outstanding example of the “Builder” attitude that we teach here at American Prep.

Bruce was recently accepted to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and has a full-ride scholarship to play water polo on their team. He has been a swimmer for many years and holds a school record. Bruce is also involved in our Draper 3 student body council as the Ambassador Deputy General. The only thing Bruce struggles with is driving a car and getting enough food to supply his body with the energyhe needs to swim.

Bruce has been a student at APA for six years, beginning in 7th-grade. Some of his favorite teachers were Mr. Waghorn and Mr.Mair. He loved their classes because they made learning fun and interesting. This year, Bruce is enjoying Mr. Hollinger’s Medical Science class.

While Bruce is a stellar academic student, he is also an extraordinary athlete. He started playing water polo around the same time he began at APA. “It was tough in thebeginning because he wasn’t a swimmer.His coaches suggested

that he join the swim team just to boost his speed and stamina, but he ended up excelling in swimming as well as polo. At this year’s state swim meet, he finished on the podium for all of his events, and his 400-free relay performance beat the team record, making an All-American consideration time.”, said Bruce’s mom, Emily Kim.

Bruce has had an exciting and fun junior high and high school career with water polo – being able to play at a highlevel both in and out of the state. He is one of the top players in Utah. Several colleges and universities attempted to recruit him to play at the collegiate level, but ultimately, Bruce chose to attend the Air Force Academy. This allowed him to continue to play the sport he loves while also serving the country he loves.

Bruce comes from a military family

Bruce’s maternal grandpa was a radiologist in the Air Force, and his paternal grandpa was a ROK marine in the Korean military. “There is a proud history of military service in our family. The family history planted the seed, but I think the patriotic emphasis at APA nurtured it. Being in student government, Bruce has loved the opportunity to meet and listen to all of the veterans over the years at Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day assemblies. Bruce is proud that he will be able to represent and defend our country.” Emily Kim, Bruce’s mom.

Work Ethic

Between a demanding school schedule, hours of practice for swim and polo, and working as a lifeguard and now at a tire shop, Bruce has had plenty of opportunities to work. And he works hard.

It’s taken A LOT of sacrifice and determination to achieve everything he has set his mind to—he would tell you it was a lot of blood, sweat, and tears! Bruce expends elbow grease at home with many projects, from building a shed to scrubbing the toilets every week! “At home, we try to emphasize the values of hard work, respect, education, and being helpful.” – Emily Kim

Advice

Bruce’s academic, athletic, and life experiences are representative of a determined young man, a supportive and loving family, and a dynamic academic program. When asked what advice Bruce could offer younger students, he said, “Make every moment you get a memory. You only get one shot at this, so have some fun with it.”

Bruce is starting to realize how quickly time flies by and that childhood and teenagerhood don’t last as long as you think. So, take the opportunities presented to you and don’t waste your time, but have fun and make memories that you can always carry with you.

Congratulations, Bruce, on your acceptance of the scholarship and your willingness to serve our great country in the USAF!

to learn more about the United States Air Force Academy.

Enjoy one of Bruce Kim’s water polo highlight reels below.

February 2022 – Dan Bazan

When hard work and perseverance meet, the pay-off is a wonderful moment. Daniel Christenson, a junior atWest Valley 2, recently had one of those moments over mid-winter break when he was invited by the United States Naval Academy (USNA) on a recruitment trip. Fifty juniors from across the world were chosen as part of the recruiting class of 2023 based on their academic performance, leadership achievements, and character.

Daniel flew to Annapolis, Maryland, to visit “The Yard,” the historic campus of the USNA, and was presented with what they had to offer him. Lessons from his Character Development events came in handy in meeting and greeting high-ranked military officials. When presented with hors-d’oeuvres at an opening reception, he had his plate, cup, and napkin all in one hand, prepared well by years of APA’s Character Development training. Hosted by Midshipman T. McGee, Daniel got to see a day in the life of a Midshipman, going to classes, dining, and boarding with them.

At a banquet held for the candidates, Daniel heard from a Vice Admiral, and later in the evening, he went to the annual Brigade Boxing Championship, a long-held tradition at The Yard. Each candidate took their Candidate Fitness Assessment consisting of a basketball distance throw, pull-ups, sprint, sit-ups, push-ups, and a 1-mile run. Daniel passed with his best, the 1-mile run coming in 8th out of 50 candidates. He credits his experience on the American Prep Cross Country team for his performance.

If appointed, Daniel will receive a full four-year scholarship covering tuition, room & board, books & supplies, and special training to become a Naval Officer.

Congratulations, Daniel!

To learn more about USNA and how to apply for their program, please click

]]> Bruce Kim - Draper 3 Campus - USAF Academy Cadet nonadult Inclement Weather /blog/inclement-weather/ Fri, 14 Feb 2025 18:42:57 +0000 /?p=45465
Tuesday 2.14.2025 Update
Cedar CityNormal Start Time
Draper 1Normal Start Time
Draper 2Normal Start Time
Draper 3Normal Start Time
Early Learning Center & PreschoolNormal Start Time
SalemNormal Start Time
West Valley 1Normal Start Time
West Valley 2/3Normal Start Time

American Prep schools will remain open when possible, even if weather conditions are severe. As we know, for some of our families, it is very important that school is open on scheduled school days. American Prep is concerned about the safety of all students, staff, and patrons. We encourage everyone to use caution when traveling safely to and from our schools and buildings.

American Prep recognizes that the decision to keep children home when weather conditions are severe is always at the parent’s discretion. Students kept home by a parent or guardian will not be penalized for their absence or tardiness. Make-up schoolwork may be necessary, but schools will accommodate students on the timely completion of required assignments or tests.

On occasion, the weather may be so extreme that American Prep will close schools or implement a late start or early dismissal. American Prep will make decisions for each campus on a case-by-case basis. The following information outlines the communication procedures that will be followed if such school closures or delays become necessary.

School Website and Social Media

The school will post the status of each campus on its website at www.americanprep.org as early as possible in the morning but by 6:30 a.m. This is the FIRST place parents should go to find the closure information. No announcement means regular operation. Closures or late starts are for one day only.

Text Messages from the School

Families who can receive text messages from the school will receive a text with any weather-related changes to the school schedule.

Media Announcements

There may be announcements on radio or television related to school closure information. These usually take place between 6-8 a.m.

Draper/Salem Bus Updates– Campus admins will send an email or text message by 6:30 a.m. regarding bus delays or cancellations.

Types of School Closure

  • “Schools Will Be Closed”
  • “Schools Will Start Late” (this means school will begin 2 hours after its normal start time)
  • “Schools Will Dismiss Early,” and parents will be notified via text message when the dismissal is in effect

Make-up Days

The Utah State Board of Education requires a minimum of 180 instructional days of school. Days lost because of inclement weather will be made up as per policy.

Our Inclement Weather Policy is published each year in the APA Parent-Student Handbook.Click here to view your campus Parent-Student Handbook.

]]> Minimize Tech – Maximize Happiness /blog/minimize-tech-maximize-happiness/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 18:55:52 +0000 /?p=45483
🌟Minimize Tech, Maximize Happiness!🌟

At American Prep, we’re always striving to innovate and improve the lives of our students. In July 2023, we launched our“Minimize Tech, Maximize Happiness”initiative to help students refocus their attention on what truly matters: their studies, friendships, and personal growth. 📚🤝✨

By January 2024, Governor Cox echoed our efforts with a letter urging schools to limit cell phone use, reinforcing the importance of distraction-free environments for kids.

Nearly two years later, our campaign remains strong, supported by compelling research showing how excessive device use can negatively affect young minds.

Helpus spread the word about the power of disconnecting to reconnect. 💛 Share this video and inspire others to embrace the joy of minimizing tech to maximize happiness!

👉Click below to watch the full video. 📽️

July 2023 – Carolyn Sharette, Executive Director
TheMinimize Tech / Maximize Happinesscampaign’s purpose is to encourage parents and students to commit to no smartphone/smart device ownership until after high school.
Why?We cannot ignore the harmful effects of smart devices on children’s well-being. Studies unequivocally link early smartphone/device exposure to decreased happiness! We support parents who prioritize their children’s happiness by choosing to delay smart device ownership until after high school.
Sapien Labsprovides an in-depth study that we recommend to all parents. This study supports our belief that smartphones should not be given to children. The report sheds light on the profound effects of early smartphone ownership on the mental health of young adults.
Please click the presentation link below and review our campaign slide deck to learn about this important initiative!

Then, please join our Facebook Group –, where we will share ideas with each other on how to navigate the world without smart devices for our children!

]]> Blog - americanprep.org nonadult Veterans Day 2024 /blog/veteransday2024/ Tue, 24 Sep 2024 19:02:59 +0000 /?p=45507

November 2024

It has been a long-standing tradition at American Prep to celebrate veterans. We understand that the freedoms that we enjoy have been provided at a great cost, by many servicemen and women we may never know, and whose sacrifice, we may never fully understand. It’s because of these sacrifices that we believe it’s imperative to educate our students about veterans and the freedom we enjoy as Americans.

American Prep is proud to honor Utah’s veterans with six live-streamed Veterans Day celebrations in November. We invite our entire community to join our live streams and help us honor those who have served and are actively serving.

At each assembly, students personally thank veterans for their service through songs and speeches. Each veteran will receive a commemorative pin and handwritten thank-you letter from an American Prep student.

Watch our 2024 Veterans Day Celebration Assemblies

  • Draper 2/3

Click here for a copy of our Veterans Day program.

Do you know a veteran that would like to attend in person?

If you know a veteran that would like to attend one of our campus assemblies in person, we would love to honor them at American Prep. We are reserving special seating for veterans and guests. and a member of our team will contact you to confirm your attendance and reserve a commemorative Veterans Day pin for your veteran.

How to request a Veterans Day card and commemorative pin

Each veteran who attends our assemblies receives a hand-written card and pin as a small token of our appreciation. We sometimes have extra cards and pins and love to help get them to veterans who would like one. If you know a veteran who would like to receive a special Veterans Day card and pin, please send an email to Marion Minson at mminson@apamail.org. Marion can help confirm availability and assist in arranging a pick-up.

]]> Empowering Innovation /blog/empowering-innovation/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 19:13:23 +0000 /?p=45534

Empowering Future Innovators: WV2 Girls Excel at SheTech Event

March 2024 – Jackson Ockey, GearUp Site Coordinator

On Thursday, March 14th, over 100 of our West Valley 3 and Draper 3 Girls, from grades 9 to 12, attended the tech-forward “Explorer Day: SheTech” event at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy, Utah.

During this event, our girls engaged in hands-on activities spanning STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Through engaging experiences, they gained invaluable insights into the educational and career avenues awaiting them post-high school.

At the event’s culmination, our students collaborated with peers from other schools to tackle an exciting challenge: devising a product to benefit 1,000 individuals within their community. In a whirlwind of creativity, our girls showcased their ingenuity by conceiving a groundbreaking idea for a smartphone application named “Theorofy: It Might Be a Theory, It Might Be a Threat!”

The winning team, consisting of Chantel Lozano, Jacquelin Reyes, Alessandra Castillo, Jocelyn Garcia Ayala, Sarah Albazh, Gabriela Porcayo, Sedra Muayad, Azucena Reyes, Cristina Porcayo, and Brianna Paz Avila, impressed judges with their innovative solution aimed at enhancing smartphone security. One of the Draper 3 teams also won the Tech Challenge.

“Theorofy” integrates an AI assistant named “Theo” to screen calls and messages for potential scams or threats, providing users a shield against digital vulnerabilities. Moreover, the app’s future update promises to empower users with online presence monitoring capabilities, ensuring their digital footprint remains secure.

Driven by a commitment to technological advancement and user safety, our girls envisioned “Theorofy” as a free app operated by a non-profit organization equipped with round-the-clock customer support and a welcoming interface.

The SheTech event served as a compelling platform for our girls to explore, innovate, and collaborate. With enthusiasm abound, they eagerly anticipate returning next year, poised to inspire even more peers to join them on this remarkable journey of discovery and innovation!

Learn more at

]]> Character Development /blog/character-development/ Wed, 27 Mar 2024 19:39:00 +0000 /?p=45551

Have a Ball! New York, New York Style

March 2024 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

It’s that time of year again when APA gets ready to put on eight incredible end-of-year balls for their students. Hundreds of yards of drape will be hung to transform two gyms into beautiful event venues, over 150 fine dining sets will be laid out, dozens of floor lights will be carefully set up, and over a thousand students will have the chance to participate in one of these evenings. If you have a 7th, 8th, or 9th-grade student, you will want to make sure they do not miss out on this unique experience!

The 7th graders get to participate in a New York-themed Ball. However, this event is far more than just a simple dance. The ball is designed to help students put into practice all of the social and leadership skills they have learned throughout the year. Since multiple APA campuses combine for this event, students get to practice introducing themselves to people they don’t know from the other campuses, having the confidence to ask someone new to dance for every song, and engaging in conversation during the games played throughout the evening. Parents are invited to attend the final dance of the evening to participate in this event with their students. You may be surprised and delighted at the range of skills your students display and the level of character development and social confidence they have attained by the end of the year.

8th graders also attend a New York-themed Ball, but in addition, they get to participate in a formal instructional dinner beforehand. The meal is designed to help students be comfortable at a dinner engagement and learn tomake conversation with others. During the five course catered dinner, students practice introducing themselves to new friends and engaging in sustained conversation with those people. Students are purposely assigned seats at tables with students from other campuses so they can practice these skills with those they don’t yet know. A teacher is also assigned at each table to help coach and facilitate these conversations. During the dance, students are expected to introduce themselves to and dance with someone new for every song, and display social courtesies to each other throughout the evening. As with the 7th grade Ball, parents are invited to attend the final dance of the evening to participate in this event with their students.

Later in May, 9th graders have the opportunity to attend a special culminating event at one of Utah’s premier restaurants – La Caille in Little Cottonwood Canyon. During the dinner, students learn to step out of their comfort zones by trying new foods and engaging in conversation with other students they may not already know. This event is designed to be a step up from the 8th-grade instructional dinner by showing students how to behave in a formal restaurant venue. During the dance, students put all of their learned leadership skills into practice by engaging with their fellow students in conversation, games, and dance. As with the 7th and 8th-grade Balls, parents are invited to this beautiful venue to participate in the final dance of the evening with their students and observe firsthand the leadership skills their students have developed over the last several years. This is the last opportunity parents have to participate in the final Parent Honor Dance, and it has become an anticipated tradition for both parents and students.

If you have not seen one of these culminating events, now is your chance! We always love having parent volunteers to help us, whether washing dishes at the dinner, serving refreshments at the dance, resetting decorations and props after each event, or taking down the decorations after the final evening. Please contact your campus Character Development Department if you would like to volunteer!

To see more behind-the-scenes about what goes on at these incredible culminating events, watch this video:

Students Watch Lawmakers in Action as They Visit the Utah State Capitol

February 2024 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

Did you know that it is illegal to ride a bike with “no hands” in Utah? It’s also illegal to throw snowballs in the city of Provo or to throw rocks in the city of Logan. Some laws might seem a little odd or ridiculous, but all of them were brought up to address something that was clearly a problem at one point.

Every year, the Utah State Legislature meets for 45 days to solve the real problems that face their citizens. Some of these issues are brought up by the citizens themselves, and some are identified by legislators living and working in their communities. Students were surprised to discover some of the topics that their legislators were concerned about – from bills about road rage, to massage therapy licenses, even to regulations about drinking water. Students had the chance to watch their elected representatives create, debate, and pass laws in real-time as they visited the Utah State Capitol in January and February.

Their visit started with a stop by a legislative committee. These meetings are where all bills begin. Ideas are often passionately debated, bills are amended, and the public is given a chance to share their opinions and help shape the proposed laws.

After passing the committee, bills are then heard in the House and in the Senate. Students got to observe both the House and Senate in action. They were able to sit in the gallery and look down into the historic chambers as their legislators debated and voted on laws, some of which would directly affect their lives.

Students also got to tour the historic Utah State Capitol building. They visited the beautiful Rotunda where various groups set up booths to raise awareness for their cause. They learned about the symbolism embedded in the architecture and artwork of the building. Some students even got to visit the Governor’s office and sit behind his desk, just like he does when he signs bills into law.

At the end of the day, students gathered to meet their legislators and ask them questions. Utah has a citizen legislature, meaning that since they only meet for 45 days out of the whole year, every elected representative also has a day job outside of Congress where they get to work in and interact with their communities. The legislators shared how their experiences – as parents, teachers, engineers, lawyers, small business owners, and more – shape the sort of laws they make.

Students learned so much from their visit. This was an amazing opportunity for students to see the government in action and learn how they could become involved citizens.

9th Capitol Visit 2024 (WV3)7th-9th Capitol Visit 2024 (Salem)

February 2024 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

In TV shows, movies, and sometimes even in real life, people threaten to sue and, “Take it all the way to the Supreme Court!” However, that’s more difficult to accomplish in actuality than people realize. The United States Supreme Court receives 7,000-8,000 petitions every year but only hears about 80 of them. Likewise, the Utah Supreme Court receives hundreds of petitions but can only hear a very small number of cases.

APA 12th grade students are fortunate enough to get to witness a Utah Supreme Court case every year. Because of how few cases are heard, not many people get to see one argued in person. This is a truly unique opportunity for our students.

Before students attend a session, they first study the briefs for the case so they can understand what’s going on when they get to court. A “brief” is a document containing each side’s arguments for their case. Part of the reason why the Supreme Court hears so few petitions each year is because they need time to read and study the briefs for each side. One of the sessions that students visited this year had briefs that were over 200 pages long! That’s a lot of preparation work!

After learning about the court system and studying the briefs of the case, students take a field trip to the Scott M. Matheson Courthouse where they visit the Utah Supreme Court in person. Students get to sit in the courtroom and listen to “oral arguments” – which is where each side presents their case to the Utah Supreme Court Justices, and the Justices have a chance to ask them questions. Students are sometimes amazed by the difficult questions that are asked of both sides. The Justices expect the lawyers to have really done their homework!

After about an hour of oral arguments, the Court concludes the session, and the students head home. Many are disappointed to find out that the Court never makes a ruling in person during these sessions. Rather, the Court spends the next few weeks doing more research, identifying relevant laws, and then writing a long paper called an “opinion” about their final decision. Another reason why the Court hears so few cases every year is because they need time to do enough research to make sure their decision is well-thought-out and balances all aspects of the law.

Despite having to wait a few weeks to learn the final conclusion from the Court, students learn so much from their visit, as well as from the preparation they put in beforehand. They leave with a better understanding of the Judicial branch of government, and they gain a truly unique experience that we hope they will remember throughout their lives!

January 2024 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

Each year from October through December, groups of 7th graders from the WV3 and D3 campuses visit their local care centers. During these visits, they sing songs with the residents. They also set up several different game and craft stations. Some of the resident’s favorite games to play include Uno, checkers, and of course, Bingo. These rounds of Bingo can get really lively, and our students love it!

Some residents opt to get their nails manicured. Our students do their best job painting beautiful designs and helping each resident feel at their best. Other students help residents make a craft to hang on their doors, walkers, or wheelchairs. The residents appreciate the careful attention these students give to making each craft look the best it can. This year, some of them even fought to be the ones to proudly display the work our students helped them do on the craft.

Before going into the care center, many of our students are nervous about these visits. However, by the end of the activity, many of them don’t want to leave. They love getting to interact with the residents and hearing their stories, and many of them ask when they can go back and visit again. The residents also love and look forward to these annual visits from our students.

In addition to visiting their local care centers, each 7th grader is also encouraged to connect with a grandparent or older neighbor in their community. They learn what sort of questions to ask to encourage a good conversation, and then they call their grandparent or neighbor to talk with them. After that conversation, students write a letter to that person expressing appreciation for their time and for sharing their experiences.

Many of our APA grandparents and neighbors are touched by these students reaching out and taking the time to have a simple conversation with them. Some elderly family members, friends, and neighbors can begin to feel isolated from their communities as they age. These activities help them feel connected and included again, and they also help our students realize that there is much they can learn from the older members of their communities. We hope these activities will have a long-lasting impact on how our students interact with their families, as well as help them learn to be welcoming and inclusive to all members of their community.

Watch our 7th Grade Care Center Visit video:

November 2023 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

Every year, 11th grade APA students attend an Interim legislative session at the Capitol. “Interim” means “in between,” so the Interim meetings are the ones that happen in between legislative sessions. During these meetings, legislative committees hear reports from experts and discuss bills that they want to present during the upcoming session. Since Utah’s legislative session is only 45 days long, legislators need these meetings to research and properly prepare the bills they want to pass.

These meetings are also where our students get to watch their legislators in action. Senators and Representatives have civil debates about different policies. This is also the only place where citizens can give public comment to committees about a bill. During the Education Interim Committee meeting, two APA students – Noah Whitcamp and Madeline Badger – gave public comment about a highly-debated classroom neutrality bill. This was a great moment for our students to understand how the legislative process works and how they can play a role in that process as concerned citizens.

After the committee meetings, some students had time to tour the capitol building. Representative Thurston took a group onto the floor of the House and talked to them about how the voting process for a bill works. Going onto the floor of the House is a very rare opportunity as usually only legislators and certain invited people are allowed in that area. Our students had an amazing chance to see behind the scenes and hear from a Representative about how he tries to balance the wants and needs of all his constituents. Representative Thurston said the hardest part of the job was knowing that he can’t make everyone happy, since many of his constituents are on deeply divided sides of many issues. However, he tries his best to listen to them and make the decision he feels would be the most correct.

Other students that day got to see a rally taking place in the Capitol rotunda that was advocating for better child abuse prevention programs. Another group of students was able to observe an event commemorating Brad Wilson’s final day as Speaker of the House. Most of the students also got to tour the Capitol building, viewing some of the historic sites and artifacts and learning more about how the government works. Our students learned a lot in just the few hours that they were at the Capitol, and we hope this experience prepares them to be invested citizens!

Click below to see our APA 11th-Grade Interim video.

October 2023 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

Every fall, the Character Development Department hosts a Barn Event for 8th graders. Students participate in a series of activities and mini workshops where they learn many social etiquette skills. Some students start off right away with line dancing where they learn confidence and the importance of a willing attitude. After dancing, students have the chance to eat delicious food and practice social courtesy, such as letting someone else go first through a line, pulling out a chair for someone, and picking up after themselves.

No party would be complete without some games! Students participate in a hobby horse relay, a three-legged race, and a potato sack jump. They learn the power of encouraging others and the effect their behavior can have on the rest of their teammates.

There are several other workshops at the event, including one
where students learn how to be a good listener and get to practice good communication skills. Students also learn about gratitude, and they even create beautifully hand-written thank you notes to give to someone in their lives.

One of the students’ favorite stations is the one where they learn how to overcome challenges by watching a woodcarver create beautiful art right in front of them. They learn that they might face challenges that seem to chip away at them, just as a woodcarver chips away at a piece of wood. It’s uncomfortable, and might even feel scary. However, all of that
chipping away helps the woodcarver create a beautiful work of art. The challenges in their lives help shape them into a better and more resilient person.

The Barn Event is an exciting activity that is always one of the highlights of the year. Students have fun for a day, but they also learn lessons for a lifetime.

September 2023 – Sarah Olsen, Character Development Curriculum Administrator

In just a little over four weeks since the school year began, American Prep students have participated in five service projects impacting thousands of Utah families!

  • St. Vincent de Paul Homeless Shelter,1,292 Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwichesmade to date with the help of WV1 6th grade students and D3/WV3 10th grade students
  • Day of Caring with the United Way, seniors fromWV3 packed 650 backpacks forUsana Kids Eatand
  • Packed shipments at theUtah Food Bankto be delivered to regional food centers.
  • D3 raked and reseeded 2400 square miles of natural grassland at Mehraban Wetlands Parkand removed debris and trash out of the wetland ponds.
  • 8th-Grade W.O.R.K. Party

W. O. R. K. Party: On August 30th and September 6th, 8th graders from Draper 3 and West Valley 3 campuses had the opportunity to participate in a W.O.R.K. Party. “W.O.RK.” stands for “Wonderful Opportunities to Render Kindness.” Students had the chance to show kindness and give back to their communities by volunteering at several local parks, community centers, and historical heritage sites. They pulled weeds, picked up lots of trash, applied fresh coats of paint, and generally did their best to clean up and beautify the areas.

At one park, after picking up trash for an hour, students asked why APA does this since the park would likely get trash in it again. One of the teachers there responded by telling an experience she had while living in Italy on the border by Switzerland. Many Italians smoke, so cities would often place public ashtrays and trash cans along the sidewalks. However, many people wouldn’t care if their spent cigarettes made it into the trash or not, so the sidewalk around these trash cans was often covered in cigarettes. By contrast, whenever she would cross the border into Switzerland, she noticed that the streets were meticulously clean. It wasn’t necessarily that Switzerland had more trash cans or more city workers to sweep the sidewalks, but the people took more care to ensure their trash didn’t end up on the sidewalks. The attitude and actions of the people in each community made the biggest difference.

One of the goals of the W.O.RK. Party is to help students learn to take pride in their communities. Students learn that their attitudes and their actions can have a big impact. They learn that being good members of the community means taking care of community spaces. They learn that they don’t need to wait for someone to give them a job or tell them what to do – they can go out and make a difference all on their own. Each location that our 8th graders served at was very grateful for their help. Some of the locations look forward to this event every year because they know how much help our students will be. APA is grateful for the chance we have to give back to our communities!



August 2023, Sarah Olsen –Character Development Curriculum Administrator

A week after starting their senior year, 12th graders across all campuses at APA gave back to their communities by participating in a Day of Caring. Originally organized by the United Way organization – a national nonprofit that connects volunteers, charitable organizations, and their communities – the Day of Caring is an annual day of service where volunteers give back by donating their time and talents to local organizations.

APA’s 12th graders gave back this year by cleaning up their local parks. They picked up trash and beautified the areas. A few of the groups also volunteered at the Utah Food Bank and USANA Kids Eat. At the Utah Food Bank, students sorted through donations to ensure all the food was still in date and ready tobe given away. At USANA Kids Eat, students packed bags of food for in-need children and their families. USANA expected the students to be able to pack 400 bags of food in the hour they had – instead, APA students packed 650! USANA was so grateful for our students’ effort, as were all the other locations APA served.

August 2023 – Dan Bazan & Sarah Olsen

Each year, our high school administrators take our 9th and 11th-grade classes on an inspirational hike to empower and prepare them for a future they can be hopeful for. It was that time of the year again at the end of August – when high school students from Salem, Draper 3, West Valley 3 campuses embarked on their annual hike, a tradition that brings them closer to nature and life’s invaluable lessons.

Ensign Peak serves as the backdrop for West Valley 3 and Draper 3 9th graders as they hike with their school leaders and receive a message that may shape their journey through high school. The rugged trail didn’t just lead to a summit but to newfound friendships and shared experiences. With fresh faces joining our student body each year, the hike has become a melting pot of stories, a coming together of individuals on the verge of transformation.

At the top of the trail, Mr. Sheneman, the Draper 3 School Director, shared a simple yet profound message – “life, much like the trail ahead, isn’t always straightforward.” Sometimes, we may walk through fog, where decisions might not be crystal clear, and our experiences may not make sense at the time. “But that’s alright.” he reassured our students. “In the journey of life, clarity arrives at its own pace, often slowly unfolding, revealing its true significance only in hindsight.” Mr. Sheneman encouraged them to be open to learning from their experiences long after the experience ends and reflect positively on their growth.

Mr. Winegar delivered a similar message to West Valley 3 9th graders, and Salem 9th graders also heard an inspirational message on their hike. Students hiked back down the trail with renewed confidence and motivation for their high school years ahead.

But it wasn’t all about conquering the trail this week. Our students also engaged in educational games, building trust and camaraderie among old and new classmates. Games like Trust Rope taught students how to rely on each other, while Team Skiing showed them how to work together.

Meanwhile, Mr. Peterson led the West Valley 3 11th graders on a hike through Wild Rose Trail in North Salt Lake. Our students’ hiking experience was more than just a physical journey but a narrative about the power of decisions. Small choices, he emphasized, can have resounding impacts – some that can reshape destinies. He emphasized that they are about to enter a decade that will shape their education, career, and personal lives. Mr. Peterson shared that within the next several years, they will decide where to go to college, where to work, and who to engage with in relationships. These decisions will open new paths and make pursuing other courses difficult or impossible. He encouraged everyone to remember that risky behavior can devastate their plans and to avoid it at all costs. He encouraged them to think about their opportunities and how there is no better time to make positive choices, complete their school work, be punctual, and work as hard as possible to be the best students they can be to prepare themselves for a successful and exciting future.

We are thankful for our students’ participation in these hikes and grateful to our administrators and the Character Development team for investing time and wisdom in our students.

If someone called out, “List the 20 enumerated powers of Congress!”, it would typically cause bewilderment; however, this past April, it sparked a flurry of activity among young scholars across Utah who buzzed in to demonstrate their deep understanding of the United States Constitution, our nation’s bedrock.

The Constitution Bee, a unique knowledge contest for children in grades 4th -12th, encouraged students to dive into the roots of our governance system. Over 130 enthusiastic students participate in this event across elementary, junior high, and high school divisions from all over the state. Although the Bee was primarily a competition, it has become a platform for camaraderie, shared laughter, and new friendships among participants.

American Prep was excited to have students from Draper 3, Salem, and West Valley 3 campuses participate in the Bee this year. Our West Valley 3 Junior High and High School teams each took 2nd place in their division securing $500 in total prizes.

Reflecting on the experience, Senior Brandon Batjav said, “Interacting and engaging with peers from diverse schools was both enlightening and enjoyable.”

Many participants discovered a shared passion for civic responsibility, nurturing a sense of unity among them.

“I was pleasantly surprised by the fun atmosphere and the number of peers excited to learn about the Constitution,” shared 6th grader Natalie Christenson.

This event attracted young leaders from rural, urban, and suburban regions of Utah. Like the founding fathers over two centuries ago, they were united under the banner of the Constitution, a testament to its enduring relevance.

High School Team:
Daniel Christenson,12
Elise Christenson, 10
Dylan Bolman, 12
Ondrej Hutcherson, 12
Brandon Batjav, 12

Junior High Team:
Jacob Brady, 9
Nephi Sevillano, 9
Lisa Newton, 7
Isaac King, 8
Giovanni Garcia, 7

We were very excited that all elementary campuses participated in their own events at the Utah State Capitol. For many of our elementary students, this was their first visit. They were wowed by the grandeur of it all.

We are grateful for our amazing teachers and coaches who coached and practiced with our students for weeks prior to the competition. Thank you to our JH and HS Faculty, including Ryan Thomas, John Baucom, Ellee Taylor, Dave Passmore, and Madlyn Dade as well as the many administrators and parents who helped our students prepare for this tough and fun secondary competition.

Our elementary faculty mentors included Cody O’Brien, Gabrielle Swaner, Kristen Smith, Irene Christensen, K’leena Furniss, and Candys Bonzo. Of course, our elementary superstar parents were in attendance and helped their children prepare as well.

Special thanks to Lewis Nielson, our APA bus driver, who played a very integral part in making sure that the teams that were in the Playoff round were given a fair shot to advance. He saw a problem and suggested a solution to the organizers that they implemented, and teams were able to compete fairly. Thank you, Lewis!

A special note of thanks to Dalane England and the Freedom’s Light Foundation for their generous sponsorship of the Utah Constitution Bees!

to learn more about the Freedom’s Light Foundation and its mission.

Click Hereto download the Constitution Bee study guide to help you become an expert on the United States Constitution.

Introducing a New Tradition: Empowering 6th Grade Students with their Own US Constitution!

May 2023 – Mandy Brown, Character Development Coordinator

Our 6th-grade students engaged in a new and exciting activity this month. As part of our commitment to fostering good citizenship and cultivating a deep understanding of our rights as US citizens, our 6th-grade students were presented with their very own copy of the US Constitution to add to their personal libraries.

The goal of this special initiative is to encourage our students to maintain a lifelong connection with the US Constitution. By having their own copy, they are inspired to continually read and familiarize themselves with this historic document, which serves as the bedrock of our nation’s principles and freedoms. It is our hope that through this activity, we instill in our students a deep appreciation for the value and significance of the rights and liberties the Constitution affords us all. It is also a celebration of our students having read this important document each September as a school.

During the celebratory event, our 6th-grade students showcased their knowledge of
our government and country, reflecting their commitment to understanding the principles that make our nation strong. This activity, newly introduced this year, has become an important milestone for our students as they embark on their journey toward becoming informed and responsible citizens.

We firmly believe that by equipping our students with their own US Constitution, we empower them to participate actively in our democracy. It is through their continued exploration of this treasured document that they will develop a strong sense of civic duty, advocate for justice, and appreciate the invaluable freedoms that are the cornerstone of our great nation.

We are immensely proud of our students for embracing this new tradition, and we extend our deepest gratitude to the teachers and staff who have made this activity possible.

Let us celebrate this significant milestone as we cultivate a generation of informed, engaged, and patriotic citizens who will carry the torch of liberty for years to come!

Brightening Lives: American Preparatory Academy Students Serve their Community

May 2023 – Maddi Tapp, Character Development Coordinator

In a heartwarming display of compassion and community engagement, American Preparatory Academy’s 7th-grade students embarked on a mission to spread joy and connect with the older generation. They visited various care homes across the Salt Lake Valley, extending their caring hands and brightening the lives of residents. This act of community service aligns with the school’s dedication to character development, fostering empathy, and learning from the experiences of those who came before us.

Spreading Joy at Rosewood Assisted Care Center:Amidst a large cohort of 7th graders split into smaller groups, one group was assigned to the Rosewood Assisted Care Center in Salt Lake City. Upon arrival, our students warmly introduced themselves and expressed their eagerness to engage with the residents. They brought along many activities, including table games like Bingo, Chess, and Uno, craft stations, and even a fingernail painting station.

A Language Barrier Overcome: During their time at Rosewood Assisted Care Center, the students encountered a sweet resident who seemed particularly reserved and faced challenges communicating with the care center staff. It was soon discovered that she hailed from Russia and spoke no English. Fortunately, Mikhail Fedorov, a 7th-grade student fluent in Russian, was part of the visiting group. Mikhail quickly recognized the situation and began conversing with her in her native language, bridging the communication gap. With Mikhail’s assistance, the other students were able to connect with and learn from her. His exceptional translation skills and empathy helped the resident feel included and valued in the activity.

As the time came to bid farewell and return to campus, the once-quiet resident of Rosewood Assisted Care Center had blossomed into a beaming individual. It was evident that Mikhail and the other students had made a significant difference in her day, creating moments of happiness and genuine connection.

American Prep care center visits like this one exemplify the power of empathy, kindness, and the profound impact that young individuals can have on the lives of others. Through their commitment to character development and community involvement, these students not only brought joy and companionship to the elderly but also showcased the beauty of intergenerational connections. Such acts of selflessness resonate deeply, reminding us all of the transformative power of service and the importance of fostering caring communities.

March 2023 – Catherine Findlay – Character Development Director

At American Prep, we consistently strive to provide our students with unique opportunities to gain insight into political and judicial processes. On February 10th, our 12th-grade students from West Valley 3 & Draper 3 had the privilege of attending oral arguments at the Utah Supreme Court.

Before their visit, each campus thoroughly examined a case that was scheduled for argument. This study led to engaging and insightful discussions among the students helping them connect what they have learned in class to a real-life case. These experiences are vital in helping APA students grasp the intricacies of the justice system and appreciate the checks and balances in place to ensure fairness for all parties involved.

During these visits, our students observe courtroom etiquette and witness professionals in action, further inspiring many to consider pursuing careers in law or politics. Our field trips to the State Capitol also play a crucial role in fostering these aspirations.

West Valley student, Emily Santana, shared her gratitude in a letter to our Character Development Director, Mrs. Findlay: “Thank you for the opportunity to witness a Supreme Court Case. We were fascinated by the attorneys’ body language, the opposing arguments, and even the contradictions in the presentations. One of the highlights was receiving a warm welcome from one of the judges, who gave us a brief overview of the case. When it was time to leave, many of us wished we could stay until the end.”

D3 student Sadie Squire recounted her experience visiting the Supreme Court at the Scott Matheson Courthouse for the Goldberg vs. Nelson and Tetrick case. The case centered around a possible conflict of interest, as the judges had previously been accused of mismanaging Goldberg’s funds. This visit was particularly historic for Utah, as four out of five judges present were female – a first for the state.

Our students greatly appreciated the opportunity to witness firsthand how a supreme court case unfolds and to hear the defendants’ perspectives.

February 2023 – Catherine Findlay – Character Development

The St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall is a partnership with multiple businesses and churches. One of their service initiatives, organized by the Catholic Community Services, is to serve two hot meals each day to those in need in Salt Lake City. The cooks and volunteers at the center also make meals for six other local homeless service providers! The sandwich initiative focuses on providing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to help the most vulnerable people make it through the night until their next meal.

The St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall is a partnership with multiple businesses and churches. One of their service initiatives, organized by the Catholic Community Services, is to serve two hot meals each day to those in need in Salt Lake City. The cooks and volunteers at the center also make meals for six other local homeless service providers! The sandwich initiative focuses on providing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to help the most vulnerable people make it through the night until their next meal.

Our American Prep sandwich campaign began in November, making approximately 400 sandwiches each week! On our last delivery, March 1st, we will have been involved for 16 weeks. Every campus has had an opportunity to make a difference by making sandwiches! It only takes 25-30 students 45-50 minutes to assemble and bag about 400 sandwiches!!

The Character Development Service team, led by Traci Judd, would pick up the sandwich supplies from the dining hall and returned the completed sandwiches the next day. Mrs. Judd reported on the experience; “The people working in the kitchen were always so grateful for our students’ helping hands to make these sandwiches! We joined their team in a small way to serve those most in need. I was humbled by the numbers being served in the wintry cold climate. Some were huddled under boxes or tarps, waiting to enter the dining room to escape the cold and receive some food.”

With just one hour of service each week, our students made over 6,000 sandwiches this year!! American Prep students made a difference, and we are grateful for their giving hearts.

September 2022 – Catherine Findlay – Character Development Director

LOOK EYE to EYE, SMILE, and SAY HI!

Our kick-off friendship campaign for 2022 was a hit! The message to “be a friend” was made simple by learning the jingle, “Look eye to eye, Smile and say Hi!” This jingle introduced the key elements of how to be a friend, make a new friend, and keep friends.

Being friendly is a skill that takes practice. When you look someone in the eye, smile, and say Hi, the result is a happy feeling for the friendship giver as well as the receiver.

Students received buttons and stickers with the jingle, “Look eye to eye, smile and say Hi!” and some won prize tickets from their teachers as they exemplified friendly behavior because… FRIENDSHIP MATTERS. No matter your age, everyone wants to feel welcome and included. This jingle can be practiced at home, grocery stores, church, or other family events. As an APA family, use this new jingle at home and try out all the different places it can be practiced. Being friendly makes our world a better place. We hope these few words will stay with our students for years to come and make friendliness a mastered skill. You never know what impact your smile and greeting might make in the life of another person.

Each year, our Character Development team works hard to lead APA students through many service-oriented projects and activities designed to build character and inspire leadership traits. This year has been amazing. Our APA student service hours are inspiring for the first month of the school year. We hope you will have conversations with your students about their experiences serving others and what they learned during their Character Development activities.

]]> Blog - americanprep.org nonadult Human Resources /blog/human-resources/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:37:00 +0000 /?p=46518

Happy March!

We’re soluckyto have the best staff around! We hope you had a great mid-winter break. We’re loving the warmer weather and the sunshine-filled, longer days that are just around the corner! Before you know it, Spring Break will be here!

For March, the wellness initiative is Balanced Nutrition. Nutrition is the relationship between food and your body, which plays a critical role in your health and development. Having proper nutrition provides the body with the nutrients it needs to function. It can lead to a stronger immune system, improved concentration and attention span, and even a longer life span. Eating a well-balanced meal helps protect against illnesses and diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Here are a few tips to get started on a journey to healthy nutrition:

  • Get a personalized eating plan: talk to your doctor to develop a plan that will give you the portions of each food group you need daily. You may be referred to a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
  • Set realistic goals: gradual changes increase the likelihood of success and strong habits. Start with the small changes and work your way into bigger ones.
  • Balance your diet with a variety of foods: In general, your plate should be 50% fruits and vegetables, 25% lean meat, poultry, fish, or other protein, and 25% grains.
  • Focus on whole fruits: top your cereal, oatmeal, or pancakes with bananas, chopped apples, blueberries, or other fruit. Set aside time each week to clean and prep fruits for easy snacking throughout the week.
  • Make half of your grains whole grains: This can help with weight management while providing important nutrients like carbohydrates and B vitamins. Replace regular sandwich bread with a whole-grain pita, tortilla, or roll.
  • Vary your veggies: Make a stir-fry with fresh or frozen vegetables for a quick, nutritious meal. Pick out a new vegetable you haven’t had before a try a new recipe.
  • Mix up your protein: Plan to have fish or seafood twice per week. Incorporate more meatless protein, like tofu or beans, which are tasty, cheaper, and good for you!
  • Eat slowly: It can take 15-20 minutes for your brain to get the message that your body is full. Eat slowly to reduce the likelihood of overeating. Try to avoid distractions while eating (think: chew time!) in order to encourage mindful eating.

With the warmer weather approaching, it’s easier to get outside and get active! Here’s a reminder that you have a built-in benefit in your United Healthcare insurance plan! Did you know that you can earn money for healthy habits? Through the UHC Rewards program, you can earn money for steps, tracking your sleep, completing a biometric screening, and going paperless! Check out the UHC Rewards program to learn more:

March is full of fun events!Here are a few things we’re looking forward to on our calendars:

  • Month of March: National Music in our Schools Month (thanks to our awesome Music Teachers!)
    March 2nd: Read Across America Day
  • March 4th: Grammar Day
  • March 10th: Daylight Savings
    (move clocks forward 1 hour = more light in the evenings!)
  • March 14thand 15th: Parent Teacher Conferences
  • March 14th: Pi(e) Day!
  • March 17th: St. Patrick’s Day
  • Week of March 18th: Staff Appreciation Week!
  • March 22nd: Goof Off Day
  • March 26thProfessional Development Day
  • March 31st: Crayon Day

We appreciate you!We always look forward to seeing you on Professional Development Days. Don’t forget to register for your Paycom classes well in advance.
As always, if you have any questions, please reach out! We are happy to help:hr@apamail.org

We hope you have a wonderful March!

Your APA HR Team

Hey fantastic American Prep Staff!

Congratulations!You’ve officially passed the half-way mark hurdle and you’re on the downhill for the rest of the school year. As we enter into February, here are a few tips and reminders from your HR team.

Recently, the “Intent to Return”survey was distributed. We have already received so many responses! Thank you! If you have not completed the survey yet, please do so at your earliest convenience. It’s just a few short questions, and only takes about 2 minutes to complete. Your participation in this survey will be a great help as we plan for staffing next year. If you didn’t receive the survey, or it’s buried in your email,it is again!

Similarly, we’re starting to hire for the 2024-2025 school year! Work is even more fun with friends, so spread the word! Find all of ourcurrent job openings.

In continuing with our wellness initiatives, February’s theme isHeart Heath!

Did you know that your heart will beat around 2.5 billion times over your lifetime? Your heart works hard to push blood to every part of your body. Heart health keeps our systems running smoothly so we can live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Our heart is constantly working, so it’s vital to make choices that strengthen it.

There are many things we can do to improve our heart health, such as physical activity, adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and having healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Here are a few more tips to improve heart health!

  1. Learn your Health History
    Talk to relatives about health trends in your family, then visit with your doctor to learn more about your individual risks.
  2. Eat a Health Diet
    Adding more whole grains, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats all support a healthy heart. Decrease your salt, saturated fat, and added sugar intake to avoid chronic disease.
  3. Move More and Sit Less
    Live an active lifestyle! Take short walking breaks during the day. Implement strength-based activities twice per week, and aim for 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week.
  4. Quit Smoking
    Smoking is a risk factor for many chronic diseases. Quitting smoking can cut your risk of heart disease in half!
  5. Take your Medications as Directed
    Be sure to follow the instructions given for your medications. Don’t be afraid to ask your pharmacist of physician if you have any questions!
  6. Think about what you Drink
    Make water your best friend! Swap sugary drinks for water.
  7. Monitor your Blood Pressure
    Blood pressure is a direct indicator of heart health. Get regular check-ups with your health care provider, or take your blood pressure at home with easy-to-use blood pressure monitors.

Lastly,are a bunch of delicious, heart-healthy recipes! During the month of February, take some time to take care of your heart!

To wrap it up, we have just a few more reminders for you:

  • On January 1st, your United Healthcaredeductible and out of pocket maximum
    • Looking far ahead: If you’ve opted to gopaperlesswith UHC (you can check this setting in your UHC app or in your online account), then you’ll only receive electronic insurance cards. This means that UHC will not mail a physical card to you. If you prefer a physical insurance card, please check your UHC settings. You can access your electronic insurance card anytime in the UHC app.
  • Since it’s a new year, there are new limits for your401kcontributions and yourHSA
    • The 2024 annual limit for your 401k is $23,000. You can change your 401k contributions any time through.
    • The 2024 annual limit for your HSA as an individual is $4150 and the family limit is $8300. You can change your HSA contributions any time through your. Navigate to the benefits section, and go to “My Benefits”. Click on the pencil and edit icon next to “Health Savings Account (Employee Contributions)” in order to make changes to this benefit.

If you have any questions about benefits, please reach out to Rachel Ames (rames@apamail.org).

  • Additionally, yourW-2tax document is now available on your Paycom account.
  • Your1095-C(proof of insurance) will be available in Paycom by the end of February.

We hope you have a wonderful February! Mid-winter break will be here before you know it!

Love,

Your APA HR Team

November 2023 – Rachel Ames, HR Generalist

Hello amazing American Prep Staff!

As another calendar year is coming to a close, holidays are in full swing, and winter is well on its way, we want to ensure you are taking care of your mental and financialhealth!

Did you know that the Headspace App offersFREE access to K-12 Educatorsfor their premium library content? This includes over 1000 hours of mindfulness and sleep content, mini exercises for busy schedules, and hopefully reduced stress! To get started, visit, select Utah as the school location, and register for an account with your school email address.

While the holidays can strain our wallets, it’s never too early to consider securing your financial future. Our retirement broker, HUB International, offers free one-on-one meetings with a certified financial planner in December. Doug Macdonald, Investment Advisor, is our designated resource. In a meeting with Doug, you can expect to increase your understanding of your retirement plan benefit, learn the difference between a traditional 401k and a Roth 401k, review your investment allocation, obtain a retirement projection to determine if you are on track to retire, and learn more about the transition to retirement. To schedule your meeting with Doug, please use the following link:

Lastly, we are in the preliminary stages of developing a wellness program for our wonderful staff. Each month, we’ll announce a theme to promote physical, social, intellectual, emotional, occupational, environmental, or financial wellness. The theme for December is Volunteering. Volunteering is a great way to connect with your community and learn about others around you. Studies show that volunteers have an overall healthier, happier outlook on life. Still not convinced? Read about more of the benefits of volunteeringhere. Consider giving the gift of service, time, or a meal to someone in need this holiday season.Click here, for other ideas on how to get involved in this month’s wellness initiative.

We hope the rest of 2023 is full of fun, good health, and safety for you and your loved ones.

Happy everything,

Your APA HR Team

July 2023 – Jeremiah Brennan, Human Resources Director

Hello amazing American Prep Staff!

It’s that time again! Our training is in full-swing and we’re preparing for another wonderful school year. We are excited to welcome new staff members and thrilled to see so many remarkable, returning staff. In the midst of all our preparations, it’s also time forBenefits Open Enrollment!

Open Enrollment will begin on Tuesday, August 1st and end at midnight on Friday, August 18th.During this time, please log in to Paycom to make your benefit selections, update dependent information as necessary, and review your beneficiaries if applicable.includes an interactive benefit enrollment guide, which allows you to easily click on the weblinks found throughout the guide. You can also, which explains the highlights of our benefits, small changes for this benefit year, and other helpful information.

  • This year, American Prep is having an Active Enrollment, which meansall benefit eligible employees must log in to Paycom to make their benefit elections.Benefits from the previous year will not roll over. Any benefits left without an enrollment decision (enroll or decline) will be considered declined automatically at the end of the enrollment period.
  • In order to simplify your decisions, we’ve reduced the number of medical plan options from four to two. This is because the network has changed.United Healthcare’s Options PPO network now covers more hospitals than ever, including IHC.Historically, IHC was only included in the Choice Plus network, but now it is included in the Options PPO network. This simplifies your decisions, as you will only have to choose a deductible. Please also utilize thelink through UHC to ensure that your physicians accept the Options PPO network.
  • Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability plans have no changes for the next benefit year. Although there are no changes to the plans, you will still need to enroll in these benefits if you want them for the next year.

Please be mindful of the enrollment period ending on August 18th. Failure to complete your enrollment during this time will result in ineligibility for benefits until the next open enrollment session, unless you have a qualifying event. If you have any questions, please reach out to Rachel Ames at rames@apamail.org or 801-707-0089 ext. 1030.

LUXE Vision

We are excited to offer onsite vision screenings to our employees again this year. LUXE Vision, a professional vision team, will come directly to our pre-service training to provide *comprehensive vision & contact lens exams for all team members and their dependents. (Eye Exams take only 25 minutes!!!)

LUXE also offers a wide variety of top-selling frames & contacts that you can buy directly from them during your eye exam.

WHEN:August 1st to 4th from 9:00am to 5:00pm

WHERE:APA WV2/3 Conference Room (TBD)

WHO:All employees & their dependents

COST:*NO COST with INSURANCE! … minus copay and overages.

Take advantage of this convenient benefit!

Employee Referral Bonus

Starting August 1st, APA will be paying a $200 Employee Referral Bonus to those staff members that refer a candidate for employment who is hired and begins work at APA. The payment will be split, half upon the new employee’s start date and the remaining bonus paid on the referral’s two-month anniversary. Please think of people you know who might be a great fit at APA and forward their names to the HR department, as well as the position you think they will thrive in!

Reminder of Paycom Ask Here

Human Resources has launched the new Paycom Ask Here program to streamline questions and concerns about pay, benefits, licensing, new hire onboarding, policy, concerns, etc. This employee communications tool will automatically direct your request to the most appropriate staff member!

Here are some examples of questions you can ask through Ask Here: Paycom

  • How does annualized pay work?
  • How do I request new insurance cards?
  • How do I get a teaching license?

To access Paycom’s Ask Here application and ask your HR department a question, log into your Paycom phone app or log in to the Paycom website and click on the question mark on the top right of the screen. Move through the preset queries to ensure the correct member of the HR team receives your request. Once your query is sent, the HR team will be notified, and a response will be headed your way as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you through Ask Here!

for the official Paycom Ask Here instructions:

Thank you for all that you do! If there is anything the Human Resources Department can do for you, please do not hesitate to reach out. Have a great year!

April 2023 – Jeremiah Brennan, Human Resources Director

Hello! My name is Rachel Ames, and I’m a new addition to the Human Resources team at American Prep! In a way, working here feels like coming home: I attended APA as a student when the school first opened, then worked as a substitute after graduating highschool. Over the years, a few of my family members have worked here as well. My husband is a fifth-grade teacher at Draper 2, and my three-year-old son attends Bright Beginnings child care center. Needless to say, APA has always been a huge part of my life and has shaped me into the person that I am today. I am thrilled to be back!

Over the last five years, I have had opportunities to work in a variety of industries. I started my HR career in the automotive industry, then moved to manufacturing. Following that, I worked in construction and most recently found my way to the public sector at the county and city levels. I’ve learned a lot about how HR operates in different settings and am eager to navigate HR in education. The thing I love most about HR is helping people, which has been a constant privilege of mine, regardless of the industry.

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my husband and son. Whether we are going to the park, playing in the mountains, or having a bonfire in our backyard, we enjoy being outside together. We also love a good movie night at home and playing board games. We like cooking yummy food and sharing it with friends. I love baking, singing in the car,The Office, napping, and planning more trips than we’ll ever be able to take.

I am so happy to be at American Preparatory Academy. I look forward to getting to know all of you, and I hope tobe a great resource for you!

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of Rachel Ames to our Human Resources team with one of her primary roles being benefits administration! With her extensive experience and knowledge in human resources, Rachel will be a valuable asset to our organization. She brings a wealth of expertise in areas such as talent acquisition, employee engagement, and benefits administration. We are confident that her contribution will greatly enhance our team and support our mission to create a positive and productive work environment for our employees. Please join us in welcoming Rachel to the team and wishing her all the best in her new role!”

– Jeremiah Brennan, HR Director

March 2023 – Jeremiah Brennan, Human Resources Director

Dear American Preparatory Academy Team,

We understand that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital for our overall well-being, especially in theworld of education. As a team, we want to remind you that your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and we’re here to support you in every way possible.

Mental health encompasses our psychological, emotional, and social well-being, allowing us to lead fulfilling lives, contribute positively to our communities, and achieve our goals. We know that it can impact every aspect of our lives, so it’s essential to prioritize it and find ways to cope with stress.

We want to share some heartfelt advice and stress-relief strategies that can help you maintain a positive mental health balance:

Exercise:Physical activity is an excellent stress reliever and mood booster. Engaging in regular exercise can help reduce anxiety and depression. We’re happy to offer free group fitness classes on Saturdays at 8 a.m. at the Draper 3 campus – all staff are welcome to join!

Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Whether it’s throughmeditation, yoga, or simply being present in the moment, mindfulness is achievable, even in a classroom setting.

Social Support:Building connections with your colleagues and friends is essential for mental well-being. Remember, at APA, we’re all friends and encourage you to reach out for support, advice, or just a friendly chat.

Relaxation Techniques:Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization into your daily routine can help alleviate stress. Some of our staff even involve their students in these activities, making it a fun and inclusive practice!

Time Management:Planning and prioritizing tasks can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Effective time management also ensures you have enough time for self-care, like exercise and socializing.

Healthy Lifestyle:Embrace a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and avoid harmful substances to improve your overall well-being. Seek joy and meaning through hobbies, volunteering, or attending student events at APA.

Professional Help:If you need more support, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists. They can provide valuable guidance and help you regain a sense of control.

Remember, ouroffers short-term, confidential counseling for you and your household members with no out-of-pocket expense. Click here for more information:or call1 (888) 628-4824, 24/7.

We care about your well-being and want to ensure that everyone at American Preparatory Academy feels supported and valued. Prioritizing mental health and managing stress effectively allows us to live fulfilling lives and positively contribute to our community.

Jeremiah Brennan

Human Resources Director

January 2023 – Jeremiah Brennan, Human Resources Director

Dearest APA Staff,

First, I want to commend you on being a Utah Top Workplace in 2022. That is a remarkable feat that you, the staff of this fantastic organization, most undoubtedly deserve. Your hard work and dedication to our students, our culture, and your profession make our schools unique. We would be unable to provide high-quality academic and character education to our students without each and every one of you. Regardless of your role, you are vital to our mission, and that is why you are here. Thank you, staff, for all that you do for APA!

IMPORTANCE OF RETIREMENT PLANNING

Saving for personal retirement is an essential aspect of financial planning that should not be overlooked. While it can be tempting to prioritize immediate spending over long-term savings, putting aside money for retirement has numerous benefits that can significantly improve your financial situation in the future.

First and foremost, saving for retirement allows you to maintain your standard of living once you stop working. With a steady income stream from a job, it can be easier to cover your basic expenses and enjoy the same quality of life you’re used to. By setting aside money for retirement, you can ensure that you have the financial means to maintain your current lifestyle or even improve it.

In addition to providing financial security, saving for retirement can also give you more control over your future. When you have a nest egg set aside, you can retire earlier than you might otherwise be able to. This can give you the freedom to pursue other interests, travel, or spend more time with loved ones. It can also provide peace of mind, knowing that you have the financial means to support yourself if you cannot work due to illness or injury.

Another benefit of saving for retirement is that it can help you avoid burdening your loved ones. If you don’t have sufficient savings and cannot support yourself in your later years, you may have to rely on family members for financial assistance. This can put a strain on your relationships and cause unnecessary stress for both you and your loved ones. By saving for retirement, you can avoid this situation and maintain independence.

Furthermore, saving for retirement can also provide tax benefits. In many countries, contributions to retirement savings plans are tax-deferred, meaning that you don’t have to pay taxes on the money you set aside until you withdraw it. This can provide a significant financial benefit, allowing you to keep more of your hard-earned money and grow your savings faster.

Saving for personal retirement may seem daunting, but many resources and tools are available to help you plan and achieve your savings goals. One option is to work with a financial planner who can provide personalized advice and guidance on the best savings plan for your circumstances. Many employers (such as APA) also offer retirement savings plans, such as 401(k)s, which can make it easier to set aside money for the future.

With the right plan and guidance, anyone can take the steps necessary to save for a comfortable retirement.

CHANGES TO APA RETIREMENT PROGRAM

We in Human Resources would like to inform you that there has been a change to the APA Retirement Program. Before this school year, only specific individuals based on their position were allowed to participate in our 401(k). The new plan enables all APA staff, regardless of position to participate in the 2% matching contribution after they have passed their thirty-day probationary period. Staff members eligible for our previous plan, 2% match and 4% company contribution, still have that plan available. The change to that plan is you, the employee, no longer have to contribute a set percentage to receive the 4% company match. If you have an APA Fidelity retirement account, APA will start contributing 4% to your account. Additionally, vesting requirements are no longer tied to our APA retirement program.

All employees will receive a letter through their Paycom account on what retirement program they are eligible for and instructions on moving forward. Current retirement plan participants do not need to make any changes to their accounts; they will continue to receive distributions/contributions based on the percentage chosen. You are also able to get started by setting up a fidelity account. Below are the instructions.

Signing up for a Fidelity Retirement Account

  • Go to
  • On the green banner – press GET STARTED.
  • Fill out identity information.
  • Once you have completed enrollment, you can set your contribution amounts. There is an EASY ENROLLMENT (you choose a percentage, and Fidelity puts you in a plan they think best suits you based on your projected retirement date and age), or you can manage your contribution percentage and investments.
  • Once you choose a contribution amount and submit the plan, it will take up to two pay periods to process and start being deducted from your account.

If you have any further questions, contact HR (hr@apamail.org) or Fidelity directly at 800-347-2673 to talk with a Fidelity representative and get help enrolling in your plan.

As always, please get in touch with your HR team for any questions or concerns regarding pay, benefits, licensing, onboarding, policy, etc.

October 2022 – Brenna Fontaine, HR Generalist

It’s no surprise that we can all get overwhelmed or exhausted at work. You may think, “I need to find a way to love my job again,” or “What can I do to enjoy coming to work?” It may happen the day before the first day of school, right before a week-long Spring Break, or on a random Thursday morning when you forgot to submit report cards. So, what can you do to love your job again and enjoy coming to work? Here is a short list of ways we’ve seen our most successful employees love their job, year after year!

  • Learn something new!
    • You may find yourself doing the same daily tasks for an
    • entire year, which can quickly become boring and uninspiring. But challenging yourself to learn something new will help you love your job!

  • Ask for help and support!
    • Nobody can do everything on their own, even though some of us try. If you are feeling overwhelmed with your daily tasks, ask for help! You might find a parent volunteer to grade your grammar tests or ask another instructor for tips to keep your line quiet in the hallway! You never know who might have a helpful tip!
  • Set new goals and write them down!
    • Goals are the best way to review your career progress. If you find that you are working without clear goals, you may feel directionless or unmotivated. Goals help you drive your career forward.
  • Remember, you are making an impact!
    • Think about the impact your job has on those around you – your students, your coworkers, the front office staff, the Character Development team, the lunch staff, or even the Operations Teams! Broaden your perspective, appreciate your worth, and then love your job again.
  • Help someone first!
    • When you see a need, be the first to fill it. If people know that you are there to help, they will want you to come to work!
  • Make everyone feel like part of the team!
    • Writing someone a small note, complimenting someone, or including someone in a conversation is a great way to look forward to coming to work! When you are part of a team, you feel wanted and important. If you can make someone a part of your team, they will ensure you are a part of theirs.
  • Stay present!
    • Focusing on the tasks in front of you and ignoring things out of your control will ease the feeling of being overwhelmed. Look at what worked well and what could be improved the next day. You may also find it helpful to mentally say goodbye to your workspace the moment you leave for home.

September 2022

Hi all! I know many of you from working with American Preparatory Academy since 2017. I started as an instructor at Draper 2 for the upper grades. In 2019, I switched campuses to West Valley 1, where I was a 4th-grade teacher, homeroom coach, instructor trainer, and Academic Coordinator. Although I started at Draper 2, I consider West Valley 1 my home campus! My role in HR has included assisting with Paycom, recruiting, and auditing. There is so much to learn in Human Resources and I am having a blast!

I got married in June to my best friend of 5 years. My husband and I currently live in Draper, and we love it. We also love going to movie premiers and concerts, trying new restaurants, and dressing up for Halloween. I enjoy spending time with my family, including my niece and nephews, reading, cooking and baking, and going to Disneyland.

I can’t wait to meet you all and get to know you a little bit better!I am so excited to be a part of the HR team at American Prep and I hope to be a resource to all staff and help clear the way so you can do the best job possible.

“Brenna Fontaine joined the APA Human Resources team only a short time ago but has made a considerable impact already. Brenna’s enthusiasm and desire to soak up as much knowledge as possible have allowed her to become a contributing member of the HR team, taking on significant tasks. Since Brenna started, she has not only aided the HR team in its efforts but also goes above and beyond helping in other departments such as Character Development and Marketing. Occasionally, she can be seen at the campuses providing help where it is needed. The Human Resources team is grateful for her contributions, and we are excited to see Brenna learn and grow.

Welcome to the HR Team!”– Jeremiah Brennan

August 2022 – Brenna Fontaine, Human Resources Generalist

Dear APA staff,

It is wild to think that a month has already passed for the 2022-2023 school year! We saw significant growth and friendships as we welcomed our new and returning staff to DI Week. We hope that you were able to learn something new and make new relationships with your teams this year.

Here are a few reminders to help you succeed this year.

PAYCOM – CLOCKING IN AND OUT

Many of our employees have been incredible at keeping track of their time on their timesheets in Paycom – THANK YOU! It helps so many parts of our work run smoothly when you are able to stay on top of your timesheet.

As a reminder, the following employees must clock in daily.

– Instructors/Paraprofessionals

– Assistant Special Education Teachers

– School Secretaries

– Academic Coordinators

– Operations/Custodial Staff/Procurement/Transportation

– Day Care Providers

– Food Service Employees

– Sistema Employees/Afterschool Mentors

– Hourly Employees

– Part-Time Employees

– Non-exempt Employees

If you are unsure if you fall into these categories and would like to know if you should be clocking in and out, please reach out to the Human Resources department. You can reach us by using the handy-dandy “Ask Here” function in Paycom or by sending an email to hr@apamail.org

If you need assistance with this process or need help requesting a new punch change, please click.

MEET THE AMERICAN PREPARATORY ACADEMY HUMAN RESOURCES TEAM!

The HR Team is happy to help with any concerns or questions you may have. The best way to reach us is through the “ASK HERE” function on Paycom. However, if you need to contact us differently, we are easily reached through email.

Jeremiah Brennan – HR Director – jbrennan@apamail.org

Layne Sims – HR Manager and Payroll Specialist – lsims@apamail.org

Shelly Anderson – Benefits Administrator – sanderson@apamail.org

Afiffa Munawar – HR Generalist, Recruiting Specialist – amunawar@apamail.org

Jace Ochsenhirt – HR Generalist, Termination Specialist – jochsenhirt@apamail.org

Brenna Fontaine – HR Generalist, General HR Needs –bfontaine@apamail.org

REMINDER – DRESS CODE

American Preparatory Academy prides itself on being an academically rigorous school and preparing our students to be successful citizens. Part of our policy lies in our dress code for students and staff. As the weather changes, we ask our team to keep in mind the dress code guidelines stated in the employee handbook (available to view on Paycom). If you are unsure if an item of clothing is appropriate to wear to school, feel free to take a picture of the item and ask your supervisor (Academic Director, Team Lead, etc.) for assurance.

We believe that encouraging our students to consider their outward appearance in professional settings will give them an advantage in making a positive lasting impression. This starts with our staff members modeling professional dress at school. We hope all APA staff will support this endeavor and uphold the same high expectations for themselves that we have for our students.

Thank you, everyone! Have a fantastic year!

July 2022 – Jeremiah Brennan, Human Resources Director

Dearest APA Staff,

Welcome to a new school year at American Preparatory Academy. We are excited to have all of you returning and brand-new staff with us this year. Please read through this article for information that is important for all staff to know.

BENEFITS – OPEN ENROLLMENT

This year we will be holding an active open enrollment session starting on Monday, August 1, 2022, and ending at midnight on Friday, August 12, 2022. It is crucial that you take the time to approve and decline any benefits you will need for yourself and your family during the 2022-2023 school year during this enrollment session. Failure to choose your benefits by August 12, 2022 will make you ineligible for benefits until the next open enrollment session unless you have a qualifying event.

Due to quite massive increases in premiums from our previous carrier, APA has changed its medical carrier to United Health Care (UHC). We dislike changing health insurance as we know that it is challenging for our employees and we never want to do anything that makes life more difficult for you. However, in spite of the general dislike we have toward changing medical carriers, there are some aspects of this that we are excited about. We believe some of you, too, will be quite excited to see the benefits that UHC brings to you and your families. With this change, please take the time to review each plan that UHC offers to ensure you understand what each entails. Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life plans will remain the same, but unlike in other years, your benefits will not “roll over” to next year and so you will need to select all your benefits this year during the open enrollment period.

The American Prep human resources team will be available in person during DI training week to answer any questions you may have regarding open enrollment. We will be located at the entrance of West Valley 2 at the HR table.

UHC Benefits Meeting

We encourage EVERYONE to come listen to the offerings of UHC on Tuesday August 2, 2022 at 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm in the West Valley 2 small gym near the elementary offices.

LUXE VISION BUS

We are excited to offer a new onsite benefit for all American Preparatory Academy team members. LUXE Vision, a professional vision team, will come directly to our DI training to provide comprehensive vision & contact lens exams for all team members and their dependents.

WHEN: August 1st-5th – 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: APA WV2 – LUXE Vision Bus

WHO: All employees & their dependents

COST: *NO COST with INSURANCE! … minus copay and overages (such as for purchases).

APA Retirement Program

All staff, stay tuned for some amazing updates to our retirement plan. If you are currently eligible to participate and have not set up an account with Fidelity yet, do so at 401k.com. Or visit us at the HR table and we will walk you through it! Don’t leave money on the table and sign up for your 401K plan!!

Employee Referral Bonus

Starting August 1st, APA will be paying a $200 Employee Referral Bonus to those staff members that refer a candidate for employment who is hired and begins work at APA. The payment will be split, half upon the new employee’s start date and the remaining bonus paid on the referral’s two-month anniversary. Please be thinking of people you know who might be a great fit at APA and forward their names to the HR department, as well as the position you think they might be a good fit for.

Reminder of Paycom Ask Here

The American Preparatory Academy human resources department has launched the new PaycomAsk Hereprogram to streamline questions and concerns about pay, benefits, licensing, new hire onboarding, policy, concerns, etc. Through this employee communications tool, your request will be directed to the most appropriate staff member automatically!

Here are some examples of questions you can ask throughAsk Here: Paycom

  • How does annualized pay work?
  • How do I request new insurance cards?
  • How do I get a teaching license?

To access Paycom’sAsk Hereapplication and ask your HR department a question, log into your Paycom phone app or log in to the Paycom website andclick on the question mark on the top right of the screen.Move through the preset queries to ensure the correct member of the HR team receives your request. Once your query is sent, the HR team will be notified and a response will be headed your way as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you throughAsk Here!

Click this link for the official Paycom Ask Here instructions:

Thank you for all that you do! If there is anything the Human Resources Department can do for you, please do not hesitate to reach out. Have a great year!

June 2022 – Jeremiah Brennan – Human Resources Director

Dearest APA Staff,


It is my great pleasure to introduce you to APA’s newest member of the Human Resources team, Paycom’s amazingAsk Hereprogram. The American Preparatory Academy, human resources department, will implement this new program to streamline questions and concerns about pay, benefits, licensing, new hire onboarding, policy, grievances, etc. Through this employee communications tool, your request will be directed to the most appropriate staff member.

Here are some examples of questions you can ask through Ask Here:

  • How does annualized pay work?
  • How do I request new insurance cards?
  • How do I get a teaching license?

To access Paycom’sAsk Hereapplication and ask your HR department a question, log into your Paycom phone app or log in to the Paycom website and click on the question mark on the top right of the screen. Move through the preset queries to ensure the correct member of the HR team receives your request. Once your query is sent, the HR team will be notified and a response with be headed your way as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you throughAsk Here!

Click this link for the official Paycom Ask Here instructions:

May 2022 – Jeremiah Brennan – Human Resources Director

Dearest American Prep Staff,

You have made it yet again to the end of another amazing year! Thank you for your hard work and diligence. Whether you are sprinting through the finish line with next year’s class already in mind, or you’re fighting tooth and nail just to get there, YOU MADE IT!!! The students of American Preparatory Academy are a year older, smarter and wiser, thanks to all of your hard work.

Before you set off into the wide blue yonder, discovering your passion for parasailing, sword swallowing, or spelunking – please ensure you are doing so safely! Utah is an amazing place to enjoy recreation in some of the world’s most beautiful settings. Yet some of those settings are quite dangerous and we encourage everyone to make solid plans to stay safe this summer!

Here is a link to some great tips to stay safe:

Additionally, keep an eye out for some information you may have received or will receive during the summer:

  • 2022-2023 Letter of Understanding
  • Updated Staff Manual
  • Benefits Guide
  • Open Enrollment information
  • Mobile Eye exam sign-up opportunity during pre-service
  • June and July HR Newsletter

Enjoy your well-deserved time off, and as always, if there is anything your human resources team can do to help, please email us atHR@apamail.org.

April 2022 – Jeremiah Brennan – Human Resources Director

Dearest APA Staff,

The end is nigh, but we have yet to face our most difficult challenge – Heat! As the days grow longer and the sting of early morning chill thaws away, our first instinct may be to cast off those heavy furs and don board shorts and flip flops! However, there are a few more weeks until summer vacation and so this is an opportune time to refresh our knowledge of our staff dress code! We are almost to the finish line; let us show our students how classy we can be by ensuring our attire is up to the APA standard.

American Preparatory Academy Staff Dress Code

The student dress code at APA is one that helps to create an environment of respect and dignity. Student dress exemplifies respect for themselves, their classmates, and for learning. It is not the intent of the American Prep administration to outline a specific uniform for staff members; however, the following guidelines should be considered. We often have visitors to the school, and we always want to present a professional appearance.

A well-groomed appearance and good personal hygiene are essential and express confidence in your overall effectiveness. Staff should consider the formality of the student uniform and ensure that their dress rises to the same level or above.

  • Male staff members (with exception of Operations, IT, Lunch, and PE staff members) must wear a dress shirt and necktie daily.
  • Female staff members (with exception of Operations, IT, Lunch, and PE staff members) must wear knee-length skirts, dresses, or professional slacks daily.
  • Slacks/skirts must not be tight-fitting – You must be able to easily pinch one inch of excess fabric in the front and the back. Leggings as pants are not appropriate.
  • Modesty should be an essential consideration when determining appropriate dress for staff members. For women, shirts with sleeves and dresses or skirts at least to the knees are appropriate.
  • Professional shoes and footwear should be worn (no casual flip-flops or tennis shoes, et cetera).

  • Staff members should wear no facial piercings or ornaments.
  • It is preferred that tattoos are not visible. Please keep tats under wraps.
  • Male staff should maintain well-groomed facial hair or be clean-shaven.
  • Hair should be well-groomed and non-distracting.
  • Hair colors must be natural.
  • Operations/IT/Lunch Staff/PE: Dress must meet “Casual Friday” dress standards outlined below.
  • Designated Casual Friday: Staff may wear a collared shirt (either button up or polo) with slacks/skirts that are not tight fitting. No tie is required.
  • Jeans are NEVER allowed as part of the daily dress code.

Adhering to any dress code has its challenges, but at American Prep, we believe that encouraging our students to consider their outward appearance in professional settings will give them an advantage in making a positive lasting impression. This starts with our staff members modeling professional dress at school. We hope all APA staff will support this endeavor and uphold the same high expectations for themselves that we have for our students.

If you have any questions about the staff dress expectations, please see your administrators. Thank you all.

March 2022 – Jeremiah Brennan, Human Resources Director
Dear Amazing APA Staff,

I cannot believe we are nearing our final respite before the freedom of summer vacation is upon us! I wanted to take this time to commend all the staff members out there that braved and survived the introduction to the new Paycom professional development tracking system. Though we had the occasional hiccup, this method allowed a more accurate and expedited collection of your well-earned professional development hours. Though we can call our last adventure with Paycom a success, now is not the time to rest on our laurels! We need to seize this moment, ensuring the momentum of our victory over Luddism is not in vain.

In this spirit, the Human Resources department is brimming with excitement over yet another technological opportunity. As we venture into the upcoming LOU season, you will find that there will be a slight change to how you stamp your ticket for the APA Train leaving August 1, 2022 (your LOU). Your Human Resources department is thrilled to announce that 100% of the LOUs for the upcoming school year will be signed through Paycom!

To ensure you are ready to sign your Letter of Understanding when the time comes, log in to your Paycom, get help resetting login information (if necessary), familiarize yourself with the functions within your Paycom app. As you poke around your Paycom profile, check out the different sections.

  • Payroll is where you can view your pay stubs, find your year-end tax forms, and change/set up your direct deposit.
  • Time-Off Requests allow you to view your available PTO and request time off.
  • Benefits will enable you to see current benefits and enroll in benefits at the appropriate time.
  • Documents & Checklist allow you to sign new documents as well see old documents, including the APA Staff Manual.

As you peruse through Paycom, please ensure you go into Documents, find any unsigned documents, and ensure you read and sign them. Thank you for being proactive about getting familiar with the Paycom system. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the human resources team.

Have a great APA day!

February 2022 – Afiffa Munawar – HR Generalist

Hello! This is Afiffa, and I am one of the HR generalists at American Preparatory Academy. My career started as a recruiter in Bangladesh when I was a student. After coming to the US almost 14 years ago, I worked for Intermountain Healthcare as HR Generalist and later joined APA as an instructor at Draper 2 in 2018, when I wanted to spend a little more time with my children. While teaching, I completed HR management certifications offered by the University of Utah and Salt Lake Community College. I also completed my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Marketing and Human Resources.

Becoming an Instructor at American Prep helped me learn more about the education system and discover ways to help my kids with their studies. I fell in love with the APA curriculum. Teaching my students and being with them in class was rewarding beyond words. This position fostered a sense of inner strength and a desire to return to class each day.

Eventually, I was transferred to Draper 1 campus to support their needs. This change was a fantastic experience for me. The environment and positive vibe at Draper 1 changed my life in many ways. My co-workers and administrators encouraged me to pursue my dream, a career in Human Resources. I am grateful for their encouragement and today, I am an HR Generalist for APA.

I am so grateful to my Admin for giving me the opportunity to applymy education and knowledge to HR.

I live with my husband, two beautiful children, and three dogs, who are my lifeline. I often go camping with my kids. I love to travel, cook, and hang out with my family and friends.

I am indebted to APA for trusting me with this new position. I love working in HR with fantastic people and learning new things every day. I am proud to be a Builder!

Fun Facts about Me:My nickname is Diana, I am a certified makeup artist, and I love K-Drama (Korean Drama).

January 2022 – Jeremiah Brennan – HR Director

This month we feature Jace Ochsenhirt, the newest member of the APA human resources team. He comes to the APA family from the Huntsman Cancer Institute, where he worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Jace’s role on the human resources team is to aid newly hired staff with the onboarding process, such as fingerprinting, recruiting, and Paycom tasks.


Jace is not only a dedicated recruiter on the HR team, but he is also an avid craftsman. In his spare time, he is a talented pyrographer. Pyrography is the art of burning wood or the free-handed art of decorating wood or other materials with burn marks resulting from the controlled application of a heated object such as a poker. The term means “writing with fire,” from the Greek pur and graphos.

This is just one of Jace’s excellent examples. Please reach out to Jace if you would like to see more.

Jace is excited about this new and challenging opportunity at APA. His fun and enthusiastic personality pull in everyone around him. He looks forward to serving the staff of American Preparatory Academy through hard work and diligence. He has an open-door policy and is always available to help.

GO! FIGHT! WIN!

July 2021 – Katy Brown – Human Resources Manager

2021 Open Enrollment is here!

WHAT is Open Enrollment?

Open Enrollment is a period each year when you can sign up or change insurance enrollment. It is also an opportunity to disenroll if you no longer want the coverage.

WHY is Open Enrollment important?

Without Open Enrollment, your elections are locked in for the full school year unless you have a certifiable.

WHEN is Open Enrollment?

From 7/20/21 to 8/20/21

The sooner you submit your enrollment, the better! ID cards and other insurance documents are sent 2-3 weeks after enrollment is submitted.

WHERE should you go to complete Open Enrollment?

Log in to your employee dashboard at.

Username recovery link:

Password recovery link:

HOW do you complete Open Enrollment?

In Paycom, go to Benefits>2021 Benefits Enrollment>and follow the prompts.

If you make no changes, your current enrollment will roll over to the following year. Nonetheless, don’t miss your chance to review your current enrollment!

Benefits Help Center

Our Human Resources team has created a Benefits Help Center to assist employees in understanding our benefit options and answer frequently asked questions.

to access the American Prep Benefits Help Center

The Benefits Help Center can help employees:

      • Find carrier’s contact information
      • Find answers to common benefits questions
      • Provide information and other resources that supplement the information provided in the employee benefits guide

For more information about employee benefits, visit our.

]]> APA Athletics /blog/apa-athletics/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:23:00 +0000 /?p=46407

Cheer, Dance, Community: Inside the Debut Year of APACDT at APA!

March 2024 – Keely Hartin, Head Coach Draper 3 Cheer & Dance Team

The APA Cheer and Dance Team (APACDT) is a first-year program. The new team is led by Head Coach Keeley Hartin and Assistant Coaches Stephanie Olson and Autumn Perry. Keeley Hartin is an APA alumnus, graduating from Draper 3 in 2019. She was captain of the dance company for the first two years of its program before graduating and attending USU on a dance scholarship. She feels honored to be back at APA, leading a talented group of athletes.

The APA Cheer and Dance Team strives to support, encourage, and uplift members of the APA community. Theyattended and cheered at all volleyball and basketball home games this season. They were thrilled to be able to support the teams at the volleyball tournament at UVU and the basketball tournament at SUU. They cheered at Girls Soccer and Baseball Senior Nights as well. The girls love cheering on their friends, fellow athletes, and Eagles!

The members of APACDT also complete acts of service monthly formembers of the APA community and supporters of our team. They have written thank you notes to staff members and parents and even spent an afternoon volunteering at Draper 2, completing various tasks such as cleaning, organizing, and grading papers. The APACDT ran the carnival games at the Fall Festival and held a Mini CDT Clinic where Draper 2 students learned sideline cheers and a dance routine that they performed at a basketball game.

The team has spent the year learning cheer and dance techniques, skills, and routines. We have seen tremendous growth from the girls as individuals and as a team. We started the year with a wide range of experience and technical levels from our athletes, and we have seen them continue to inspire and push each other to excel. The members of APACDT spend a lot of time together practicing and performing, and they have also become great friends. The team members are supportive and kind to one another and have become a little family. With high expectations from their coaches, dedicated athletes, and supportive parents, APACDT is a team on the path to success!

The APACDT is attending Starstruck Dance Competition on March 30th, competing in a jazz and hip-hop routine. APACDT will also hold an end-of-year concert inspired by nature on May 2nd with the show title “Everything Dances.”

Our very first featured athlete is junior and APACDT President Cecily Wagner. Cecily was a dance company member from seventh grade through her sophomore year. Cecily is a multi-talented andhardworking individual. She strives for excellence in every area of her life and leads by example. She is a straight-A student, Student Council member, and skilled violinist and debater. Her schedule is full, and she handles it gracefully, surpassing all expectations. Cecily competed in her first solo dance competition on March 8th, taking home second place with a high gold ranking. The same week, Cecily was awarded the Builder of the Year title. Cecily is kind to all she comes in contact with and is quick to acknowledge and praise others for their accomplishments and hard work. We can’t wait to see all the amazing things she will accomplish!

Article Title: Congratulations to Draper and West Valley APA Boys and Girls Basketball Teams!

February 2024 – Eric Wood & Lindsey Bluth, Athletic Directors

The Draper and West Valley APA boys’ and girls’ basketball teams have concluded an outstanding season, leaving a lasting impression with their remarkable performances and achievements.

Let’s take a closer look at their journey:

Draper Girls:

The Draper APA girls basketball team entered the season with high expectations, and they certainly lived up to them. Ranked 4th in the pre-season polls, the girls faced top competition in non-region games, showcasing their skill and determination. The team went undefeated in region play, led by returning starters Aaliyah Baldwin, Samantha Kartchner, Jazmin Moctezuma, and Bailey Bluth, securing their position as Region 17 Champions for the third consecutive year. Their remarkable 21-5 record and 4th-place finish in the state tournament are a testament to their hard work and dedication. Special recognition goes to Aaliyah Baldwin for earning a spot on the 2A State All-Tournament Team. While bidding farewell to seniors Jazmin Moctezuma, Taylor Stratton, and Camilla Olive, the team remains optimistic and motivated for the challenges ahead.

Draper Boys:

The Draper APA boys basketball team demonstrated tremendous growth and resilience throughout the season. Despite starting with minimal varsity experience, the team progressed steadily, building camaraderie and gaining valuable experience. Led by juniors Lucian Greenwell and Carter Vijayaragavan, the boys faced tough competition in postseason play, ending their season in an OT thriller against Beaver Beavers. Looking ahead, the team is focused on continued training and development under the guidance of Coaches Anderson, Chatterton, and Baldwin, to return stronger and more prepared for the next season.

West Valley Girls:Despite formidable opponents, our girls wrapped up the season with a commendable 7-12 record and an impressive RPI ranking of 21st! A huge shoutout to Coach Palmer and her dedicated staff for nurturing their growth and resilience. Let’s applaud seniors Isabela Bocanegra, Ruth Mora, Leticia Calderon, and Nicole Tran for their outstanding contributions!

West Valley Boys: What a season of triumphs it’s been for our boys! With an impressive 21-6 record and an outstanding RPI ranking of 2, they entered the State tournament as the second seed and secured third place after an electrifying win over Kanab. Senior standout Peter Hakim made history, setting the state record for assists twice! Let’s give a round of applause to Coach Wood and his incredible staff for their unwavering dedication. And a special shoutout to seniors Komy Occur, Peter Hakim, Daniel Arroyo, Moheb Amiri, and Brandon Argumedo for their stellar contributions to APA West Valley!

As we reflect on the achievements of all of our APA basketball teams, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all players, coaches, and supporters for their dedication and passion. The future looks bright for APA basketball, and we can’t wait to see what the next season holds!

October 2023 – Irene Christenson & Lindsey Bluth

Cross Country State Performance

Running three miles might sound like a daunting task to some, but for the members of the American Prep West Valley Cross Country teams, it’s just a light jog. Both our Boys and Girls teams exhibited unwavering commitment and determination throughout the season, resulting in some remarkable achievements.

“Despite having a smaller team than usual, every member stepped up and stayed focused on their goals. The season presented its fair share of challenges, but it also offered tremendous rewards that brought everyone closer together while testing their endurance and determination. Each athlete showed impressive growth over the course of the season, thanks to their relentless dedication. What truly set us apart was the unwavering support we witnessed at every meet, as teammates cheered each other on, creating a palpable sense of camaraderie,” shared Coach Shalane Carson.

Elise Christenson, one of our student-athletes, added, “It’s been an incredibly enjoyable season. With just eight of us, we pushed and cheered each other on at every race. Even though the Boys team didn’t qualify for the state championship, their support never wavered, showing up to support us anyway. It was a fantastic experience!”

Everyone’s hard work and unity culminated in an outstanding performance at Regionals. The Girls team secured a remarkable third-place finish as a team, with three of our team members, Lexi Callister (12), Elise Christenson (11), and Jane Christenson (9), earning top-ten individual placements. The Boys team secured a commendable fifth-place finish as a team. As the Girls celebrated their Regional success, it also marked their qualification for the State Cross Country Championship.

With the Boys team fervently cheering them on, the Girls displayed incredible determination at the State Championship. Senior standout Lexi Callister showcased a remarkable run at the state level, exemplifying the unity and spirit that defined this season. “The team’s unity has been our strength this season,” Lexi shared. “Having the boys there to cheer us on at the end was the perfect way to conclude my Senior season.”

Both West Valley Cross Country teams demonstrated exceptional teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout their journey this season. We applaud their outstanding achievements and look forward to more success as our talented team grows.

D3 Athletics Updates

Draper 3 Athletics Update: Fall Highlights and Triumphs

Draper 3 Athletics has wrapped up a phenomenal fall season, witnessing the incredible dedication and talent of our student-athletes across various sports.

Here’s a recap of the season’s highlights:

Boys’ Baseball:

Under the leadership of our first-year head coach, Bob Schumaker, our baseball team showcased stellar performance throughout the season. With a commendable 9-6 record, they secured the 9th seed in the state tournament. The bond they formed over the season was inspiring, and we’re eagerly awaiting their next season’s performance.

Girls’ Tennis:

Our young and spirited girls’ tennis team demonstrated immense growth and determination this season. Coaches Madyson McDade and Jonah Kortson helped the team excel in several matches, including the Regionals at Liberty Park. With a promising squad, we’re optimistic about their potential next fall.

Girls’ Soccer:

Our soccer team’s success underlines the importance of a strong junior high program. While we had several varsity players return, the addition of talented freshmen elevated the team’s play. They ended the season with an impressive 8-5 record, securing the #9 seed in the state tournament. With most players returning next year, we’re excited for what lies ahead.

Boys’ Golf:

Guided by Coach Allison Gow, our golf team displayed exemplary consistency this season. They ranked in the top three in team standings in most tournaments. As they progressed through the season, their improvements were evident. With a young team, there’s much to anticipate in the next golf season.

Girls’ Volleyball:

Draper’s girls’ volleyball team had a spectacular season, finishing with an undefeated 12-0 record and claiming the Region 17 championship. Their performance earned them the #3 seed in the state tournament at UVU. While they bid farewell to several seniors, the team retains a strong core, setting the stage for another exciting season ahead.

In closing, our heartfelt appreciation goes to our athletes, coaches, staff, and parents for their unwavering support and commitment. Here’s to more triumphs in the seasons to come!

August 2023 – Learnell Wesley,WV3 Academic Counselor & Assistant Activities Coach

Meet Maggie Nguyen, APA West Valley 3’s Triple Threat Student –At American Prep West Valley 3 campus, there are students who excel, and then there’s Maggie Nguyen—a true representation of academic prowess, athletic excellence, and strong character.

Academic Star

A senior with an impressive 3.5 GPA, Maggie is part of the Student Council and displays a dedication to learning that makes both her school and her family incredibly proud. Her favorite class? English, where she gets to dissect literature and delve into intricate storytelling. Notably, she has been a part of the APA community for a decade, making her a seasoned veteran in APA’s curriculum and values.

Athletically Gifted

Maggie is not just confined to the classroom. She serves as the Senior Manager for the Girls Basketball Program, embodying the athletic spirit of APA while leading her team both on and off the court.

Diverse Interests

When asked about her favorite food, she’s quick to mention her love for dumplings and admits to jamming to R&B music in her spare time. Beyond academics and athletics, Maggie has diverse interests; she enjoys reading and painting for fun. Her favorite novel is “Daisy Jones & the 6,” a compelling story that captures the essence of life’s complexities, much like Maggie herself.

Future Plans and Aspirations

After graduation, Maggie aims to attend Utah Tech to major in business management. In line with her entrepreneurial spirit, she harbors the ambition to own a beauty salon. It’s clear that Maggie has her eyes set on a future where she can combine her business acumen with her creative flair.

Family and Values

Growing up with two siblings, Maggie has always appreciated the importance of family—a value she sees mirrored in APA’s own community. If she were a superhero, she says she would be Wonder Woman, a character renowned for her strength and integrity, attributes Maggie clearly possesses.

Advice for Newcomers

For anyone coming to APA for the first time, Maggie’s advice is to the point: “Expect a family atmosphere and be prepared to do work.” It’s a sentiment that perfectly captures the essence of APA’s nurturing yet rigorous environment.

In all aspects—academics, athletics, and character—Maggie Nguyen stands out as an exemplary student, making her family and APA community incredibly proud. We’re eager to see where her talents and strong work ethic will take her in the years to come.

May 2023 – Learnell Wesley, WV3 Academic Counselor & Assistant Activities Coach

West Valley 3 Track Success

We are thrilled to share incredible news about this year’s track team and their extraordinary accomplishments.
Our athletes have shown immense dedication, perseverance, and remarkable talent, resulting in an outstanding season.

The West Valley 3 girls and boys teams secured an impressive second-place finish in the region—an unprecedented achievement for our school. This remarkable feat is a testament to every team member’s hard work and commitment.

At the state level, we are immensely proud of the three athletes who earned individual medals, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination.

  • Adis Halaba, in his first year of track, soared to a phenomenal 4th place finish in the High Jump—a remarkable accomplishment that marks the highest state finish ever for our school.
  • Miranda Rivera claimed 7th place in the fiercely competitive 800m event.
  • Leticia Calderon achieved an impressive 7th place in the Javelin, despite joining the team only one month prior.

These remarkable ladies have etched their names in school history, becoming the first girls to earn medals at the state level.

Moreover, our track teams collectively achieved their best-ever finish at the state championship. The girls’ team, in particular, shattered school records with incredible success, setting an astonishing 14 out of 17 new records—an outstanding accomplishment that reflects their determination and perseverance.

In addition to individual accomplishments, our girls’ Medley relay team finished an impressive 5th place at the state championship. Bilah Soumain and Sherilyn Rojas displayed exceptional speed in the 200m, while Lexi Callister demonstrated her strength in the 400m leg, and Miranda Rivera’s remarkable performance in the 800m leg rounded out the team’s success. Their teamwork and commitment brought great pride to our school.

This season, our track team has achieved remarkable results and exemplified the values we strive to instill in our students: resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. We applaud their efforts and look forward to their continued growth and success.

Thank you to our fantastic coaches for their support and leadership throughout this season!

  • Head Coach, Jeff Bodell
  • Distance Coach, Andrea Garcia
  • Sprinting Coach, Sam Hatch
  • Hurdles Coach, Abdi Hussein

Natalie McLane: Draper APA’s Rising Golf Star Claims Individual 2A State Title

May 2023 – Bryan Durst – Athletics Director

In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, Natalie McLane, a talented freshman at Draper APA, emerged triumphant at the 2A girls state championships held at Lakeside Golf Course in West Bountiful on Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Despite facing formidable opponents, McLane defied the odds and secured the individual state title, marking a momentous achievement for herself and our school.

Arriving at the tournament with the second-best scoring average in the 2A category at 78.4, McLane faced a formidable adversary—an accomplished senior from Rowland Hall, the reigning 2A medalist. With a spring average of 70.7 and an impressive track record in prominent tournaments, her competitor posed a daunting challenge. While she had never defeated her opponent in previous tournaments, McLane rose to the occasion on that fateful Tuesday, shooting an impressive 2-over 73 to edge her contender by a single stroke.

This achievement not only brings great honor to Natalie McLane but also highlights the strength and potential of our golf program at Draper APA. We congratulate Natalie on her exceptional performance and commend her for embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence.

Natalie is a hard working student with great grades. She and her team will attend the PGA All-State dinner on Thursday, May 31st to honor her and she will continue to compete this summer in the Junior PGA league.

As we celebrate Natalie McLane’s remarkable victory, let us continue to support and encourage our student-athletes as they pursue their passions and strive for greatness.

Go, Draper APA!

March 2023 – Learnell Wesley – WV3 Academic Counselor & Assistant Activities Coach

West Valley 3 Athletic Superstar Ammy Cordova

Ammy Cordova is a shining example of a student-athlete who excels in all aspects of her life. As a senior at our West Valley 3 campus, Ammy has shown remarkable achievements both in the classroom and on the court. She boasts an impressive 3.96 cumulative GPA, ranking her among the top 10 in her class, and has received the prestigious Sterling Scholar Award in Social Sciences for her dedication to academics.

Aside from her academic achievements, Ammy is also a gifted multi-sport athlete, representing American Prep in soccer and basketball. Her hard work and dedication have been recognized, with acceptances into all of the Utah universities as well as Oregon State University.

Despite her busy schedule, Ammy remains approachable and always willing to lend a helping hand. She embodies the values of an APA builder and is an asset to the community. Ammy credits American Prep for teaching her study skills that have helped her excel while participating in athletics for several years.

Ammy’s motivation to improve and make progress comes from within, and she is inspired by her mom, who has supported her academically and emotionally. Ammy plans to attend college and study law, and we have no doubt she will continue to succeed and make a positive impact on those around her. We are proud to have Ammy as part of the APA family, and we look forward to seeing all she will achieve in the future.

February 2023 – Lindsey Bluth – Athletic Director

The future of Draper APA’s basketball program is looking bright! The D3 girls varsity basketball team recently competed in the UHSAA State Tournament at Salt Lake Community College and made school history. Despite entering the tournament as the 4th seed, the Eagles soared to new heights and came away with a 4th place finish, the best in Coach Dan Baldwin’s tenure at APA.

Led by Aaliyah Baldwin’s unstoppable 40-point performance in the quarterfinal round against North Sevier, the Eagles showed their strength and resilience throughout the tournament. Jazmin Moctezuma and Amber Dankwa’s leadership kept the Eagles in the game against #1 seed Beaver in the semi-finals, while Samantha Kartcher’s hot start and Bailey Bluth’s breakout game helped secure the 4th place finish against #2 ranked North Summit.

Coach Baldwin couldn’t be prouder of the girls and their dedication to the program. He noted that, “their success is the result of years of hard work, with most of the girls training year-round for the past four or five years. Their commitment to the team and the system has paid off, and they have earned a spot among the powerhouses of 2A basketball.”

With all five varsity starters planning to return next year, the Eagles are poised to continue their success and compete for the state title once again. Draper APA’s basketball program is one to watch; we can’t wait to see what they accomplish in the future!

December 2022 – Learnell Wesley – WV3 Basketball

Earlier this month, West Valley 3 celebrated our veterans in honor of Pearl Harbor day. Our inaugural game was a great success as our team triumphed over Camp Williams in a hard-fought game while honoring and celebrating those who sacrificed so much to secure our freedoms, our veterans. Our community sponsor, Nicholas and Company, catered the event, and over 40 teachers and staff attended our game to cheer on our West Valley athletes. This was a great day for American Prep West Valley 3.

November 2022 – Lindsey Bluth & Learnell Wesley

Draper Boys Basketball

The APA boys basketball season is here, and the team is working hard to get the season off and running. Coach Justin Hadlock is in his first year as the head coach of the boy’s squad. He brings ten years of high school coaching experience to the program and is excited to see what his young team can do.

Coach Hadlock has a fun, fast, athletic team this year. He feels his squad will be great in transition, but they will have to learn how to execute in pressure situations if they are going to be in a position to win big games. Winning big games is something Coach Hadlock and the team knows they need to do if they want to reach their goal of making it to the state tournament in late February 2023.

The Eagles host American Leadership Academy in an early pre-season game on Wednesday, November 30th. This game will be a good measuring stick for where the boys are and what they need to do to reach their goal of getting to the State.

Draper Girls Basketball

The APA girls varsity basketball team ended last season on a disappointing note after getting bumped from the state tournament earlier than they had hoped for. Since last February, the girls have been preparing for the 2022-23 season. Coach Dan, who is in his 5th year as the head coach of the girl’s squad, has big goals for this group. The Eagles have the majority of the varsity roster returning this year, and with the addition of some young talent, the pieces are in place for making a deep run in the state tournament. Coach Dan put together a very tough pre-season schedule, and the girls have their work cut out for them as they prepare for region and post-season play.

The defensive-minded Draper APA squad is entertaining to watch and shows discipline in their half-court offense. Even if you know nothing about basketball, watching these girls on the court will keep you entertained – they can shoot, share the ball well, and play as a team. This is a product of hours and hours of training in the gym. Coach Dan said being able to sit back on the bench and watch the team play is the highlight of the job, and he has the best seat in the house to the best show in town.

The Eagles started the season with a big win at Parowan on November 17th. This was the year’s first test, and both the Varsity and JV teams returned with a win. The girls have the week of Thanksgiving to prepare for a challenging game at Grantsville on Tuesday, November 29th before hosting their first home game on December 1st against North Sanpete.

SUPPORT OUR TEAMS

Having a spirited crowd can make a difference in every game. Our entire APA community is invited to attend each game, especially home games. The first home games of the season are below:

Draper Boys Basketball

Wednesday, November 30th starting at 4:00 p.m.

  • Frosh/Soph play at 4:00 p.m.
  • JV plays at 5:30 p.m.
  • Varsity game tips at 7:00 p.m.

Draper Girls Basketball

  • Thursday, December 1st starting at 4:30 p.m.
  • JV plays at 4:30 p.m.
  • Varsity plays at 6:00 p.m.

West Valley 3 Basketball – Learnell Wesley – Academic Counselor & Assistant Activities Coach

Come support our West Valley Girls Basketball team in their first annual Veterans Day game this Friday, December 2nd at 6:00 p.m. We will bee wearing our black uniforms for the occasion. We encourage everyone to wear black as well for the game.

The mission of this event is to celebrate our veterans with an evening of fun and competitive basketball. All veterans who attended our celebration assemblies last month have been invited to participate in this event and join in the fun. Veteran festivities will begin at 5:00 p.m. There will also be an APA staff cheering section.

We thank our community sponsors, Nicholas Food and Company, and the Alcantara family for catering our event.

Come out and show your support!

October 2022 – Bryan Durst – Athletic Director

Congratulations to our West Valley 3 Cross Country Girls team for taking 1st in their region in the Women’s 3-Mile, and a HUGE congrats to Lexi Callister for a 3-pete win taking 1st in the Women’s 3-Mile and 10th overall in 5,000 Meters for Region 17. Hector Arce on the WV3 Boys Cross Country team finished in the Top 5 in the region as well.

High School Regional girl’s team placed as follows:
Lexi Callister – 1st
Miranda Rivera – 3rd
Elise Christenson – 5th.
STATE JH Meet placed:
Jane Christenson – 3rd
Natalie Christenson – 7th

The WV3 Boys team fought hard to qualify for State this year, attending the championships for the first time this October. The girls qualified last year as a team for the first time. Overall the WV3 Cross Country team is twice the size it was last year and will use its momentum and excitement to build and continue the program next year.


Big THANKS to our APA XC families for supporting your students and the program. You truly make the difference in your student athletes’ success.

We are grateful for our amazing coaches, Coach Taylor Yates and Coach Jeff Bodell. Thank you for your hard work and efforts. Congratulations, WV3 Cross Country!

September 2022 – Bryan Durst – Athletic Director

As we enter into fall, our American Prep athletics program continues to inspire character and competitive spirit among our students. All of our athletes are in a balancing act of academics and sports. Many of our students have additional responsibilities including weekend jobs and more. It is during these times that we hope you will encourage your students, helping them to prioritize academic responsibilities while being active contributors to their teams.

This month, we introduce you to our APA Draper 3 baseball, tennis, and golf coaches. They are dynamic individuals with incredible talent and devotion to our students.

If you have any questions about APA athletics in Draper or West Valley and how to get your students involved, please email our Athletic Director, Bryan Durst atbdurst@apamail.org.

Baseball


Coach Wayland McGary has been APA Draper’s head baseball coach for the last four seasons. Coach McGary has always loved baseball – he played throughout high school and jumped into coaching to help other kids develop a love of the game. One of the best things about coaching, in his opinion, is that it gives him the chance to help kids further their skills and get better.

“The APA baseball team has really come together this season – they have learned how to play as a team rather than just playing for themselves. It has been a fun process to watch, and in the remaining games they have this season, look to build upon the team chemistry they already have.”, said Coach McGary.

Coach McGary has the ultimate goal of taking APA baseball to a state championship. They have played in the championship game in the past and came up just short of the title. That experience left a lasting impression on the coach and players. The hope of coming out on top inspires them to push to get to that game again in the future.

Baseball is one of the sports at APA that begins in the summer before the school year starts – plan now to join the team next year! Please email Bryan Durst,bdurst@apamail.org, if you would like to learn more about the Draper 3 APA baseball program.

Tennis


Madyson McDade is not only an amazing History teacher at American Prep Draper 3, she is also a competitive girl’s high school tennis coach at APA.Coach McDade is now in her third coaching season at American Prep. She initially pursued coaching because she loved tennis as a high schooler and wanted to inspire students to develop a love for the game. Using her skills and experience, Coach McDade continues to contribute to our team’s growth and success.

“Many girls this season had never played tennis in their life. Getting experience playing great teams has helped them improve throughout their season.”, said McDade. The APA team continues to build on the foundations of tennis, ensuring success in future seasons.

Sadie Squire, Siera Brinkman, and Millie Liebsch are seniors this season. Sadie Squire played at Varsity First Singles, Siera at Varsity Second Singles, and Millie at Varsity Second Doubles. Applying what they have learned, all of our tennis athletes have improved as the season progressed, which is very encouraging.

Coach McDade’s goal is to get girls more interested in tennis and motivate students to seek out lessons in the off-season during the fall and spring semesters. Additional playing time and skilled coaching are necessary to provide a strong start at the beginning of the next season.

If you are interested in being a part of the girl’s high school tennis squad at Draper 3 next year, ask Coach McDade what you can do to prepare for next season’s tryouts! Email Coach McDade atmprevette@apamail.org.

GOLF


Coach Allison Gow is a fantastic Math teacher at APA Draper 3. She is also an incredible golf coach currently in her 5th season. She is excited about her teams’ trajectory this year.

Ms. Gow’s favorite thing about coaching golf is witnessing each student’s improvement. The team has had four tournaments this year, and the growth of each player has been extraordinary. “The boy’s golf season is ongoing, and they are doing great on the course! All of the players are dropping scores each round they play, which is my goal.”, said Ms. Gow.

Easton Toone is the leader of the golf team again this year and is currently in second place in the region. The state golf tournament is right around the corner, and we look forward to seeing how APA does in this event!

Golf is a fun sport, and it is easy to measure individual growth while still contributing to the team. If you are interested in learning more about playing golf at APA Draper 3, please email Coach Gow with any questions atagow@apamail.org.

August 2022 – Bryan Durst – District Athletic Director

Draper 3 athletics has been growing and becoming more competitive each year. While we strive for our students to enjoy competitive sports, our goal is to nurture good character, intelligence, camaraderie, and respect for one another. We are very excited about this year’s teams and encourage our families to talk to their students about participating in an American Prep sport.

Over the coming months, we will introduce you to more of our teams and coaching staff. We hope you get to know our coaches for their strong character and dynamic personalities.

Soccer season is here!The Girls High School Soccer team opened its Fall season on August 23rd with a 3-0 win against North Summit. The Eagles have eight returning players from last year’s team, including Amber Dankwa, who made 2nd team All-State as a defender, and Makenzy Lockwood, a Freshman, who earned Honorable Mention as a midfielder.


The current roster consists of 3 Freshmen, 6 Sophomores, 3 Juniors, and one Senior. The team is captained by Amber Dankwa, Makenzy Lockwood, and Abbie Gorringe.

Coach Joshua Lockwoodis in his 8th season of coaching soccer at our school. His dedication to the sport and the program has APA very excited about the direction the girl’s soccer team is heading. We will be watching! Go Eagles!

**The girl’s soccer team’s season is just getting started – If you have interest in joining the squad, please get in touch with Mrs. Jones in the P.E. department for more information.

Coach Kalani Gasper- August 2022

Being my 1st year here, as head coach, I wanted to introduce my philosophy and culture to the APA volleyball program by bringing a new vibe to the student body, its teachers, and parents. We started in June, implementing a vigorous summer program that lasted almost two months. We created a new sense of excitement for the upcoming season.

All our hard work paid off by winning our first two games of the season, beating a very competitive team in 6A Taylorsville High and a 3A squad in the American Leadership Academy. Our goal is to compete and try our best in every game we play. Winning is just icing on the cake. If we don’t win, we learn. Our girls work hard on and off the court, exemplifying the meaning of a student-athlete. My coaches and I are ecstatic to be here and work with all the amazing people in the Draper APA organization. We look forward to a fun and exciting season.

Additionally, Northern Eagles Volleyball Academy (NEVA) is having tryouts for club volleyball on September 6 and 8 for the 10-14U age group. We offer programs for every level of player, teaching skills from the most basic level to open competition, all along the way instilling our family-oriented mindset and creating a dynamic and tightly knit culture. This is our Ohana. Visitfor tryout information and preregistration.

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