Testing results have been released for schools across the state and it appears that Oxford Preparatory High School has established a comfortable baseline in its initial operating year. The results released by North Carolina DPI for the school year 2013-2014 (http://www.ncpublicschools.org/accountability/reporting/ ) provide concrete evidence that OPHS has already begun to demonstrate its ability to help students meet the high academic expectations required for students who anticipate gaining entry into the college of their choice. In the very first year of operation, the effectiveness of OPHS’s small classes and a focus on college preparedness has yielded positive performance data for students who completed the required courses of Math I and Biology.
Oxford Prep first opened its doors in August 2013 and drew students from Vance, Granville and Warren counties. A critical part of the OPHS mission is to graduate leaders who complete a rigorous course of study. Data indicates that 52.7% of students at OPHS performed at or above state proficiency standards on the Integrated Math I EOC as compared with 38% in Granville County, 33.1% in Vance County and 42.2% in Warren County. The results of the Biology EOC are similar.
Oxford Prep results indicate that in Biology 54.2% of it students performed at or above state proficiency standards. In Granville County 53.7% of students performed at state proficiency standards while only 24.7% of Vance County students and 38.5% of Warren County students were met the state proficiency standard targets
In an interview with Andrew Swanner, Director of OPHS, he indicated that he was pleased with the initial results but feels they only provide a place from which to grow. OPHS has doubled in size for the year 2014-2015 and the goals for achievement are even higher. Mr. Swanner states that, “We are proud of our students. Not only did they perform well on the state required tests, 38% of the 9th grade class also participated in Advanced Placement coursework. Students have worked very hard, but these scores are merely a baseline. We have taken strong actions to improve our performance scores even more this year. We have added to our staff with new members who bring proven value and experience to the classroom. We have also added support classes for those students who may find value in additional instruction and expanded our tutoring offerings. We also have put in place additional professional development for our staff so that they have the tools needed to help students rise to a higher level. Although we are pleased with these results from our first year, we are now focused increasing our student achievement and providing more value for the families in Granville, Vance and other counties.”
About OPHS:
Oxford Preparatory High School (OPHS) is an independent public charter high school that is designed to mold students into future leaders through completion of a rigorous curriculum while focusing on community service and developing an appreciation of the arts. In order to prepare each student to attend the college of his or her choice, OPHS will cultivate intellectual curiosity by engaging students in critical thinking and experiential learning. The school is committed to serving the surrounding communities of Granville and Vance Counties and to reflect the area’s diversity in terms of gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a charter school?
A: A charter school is a public school, but provides parents with a choice in the education of their children. The schools have open enrollment with no discrimination, no religious association, and no tuition.
Q: How much would it cost to attend OPHS?
A: Charter schools are tuition free. Public tax dollars are the primary funding sources for charter schools. Local, state, and federal dollars follow the child to a charter school.
Q: How is OPHS different than other schools in the area?
A: OPHS has a unique college preparatory curriculum but also has a unique focus on the arts and community service in order to develop well-rounded students.
Q: Do you have to live in Oxford or Granville County to attend OPHS?
A: No. As a NC charter school, Oxford Preparatory would be open to any student who is domiciled in North Carolina.
Q: Will OPHS offer athletic programs for its students?
A: This year 10 athletic teams will be fielded (some JV and Varsity), but additional programs will be added with demand and availability of facilities.
Q: How can I enroll my child?
A: Applications are available on the school’s website oxfordprephs.org.
Q: How can I receive information about employment?
A: All positions, descriptions, and application procedures are posted on the school’s website oxfordprephs.org.