Introducing Family Choice Day

ASU Prep is proud to present Family Choice Day, a flexible, hybrid scheduling option available to students enrolled at our Phoenix, South Phoenix, Pilgrim Rest, and Polytechnic campuses in Arizona. This innovative program allows families to choose how and where their children learn on Fridays, creating a more dynamic and relevant educational experience. Families can adjust their enrollment choices quarterly, ensuring the program aligns with their evolving needs.

Flexible learning options

In-person learning

Students have the option to attend half-day in-person classes at an ASU Prep campus or engage in special in-person programming at an ASU campus. On-campus offerings include academic intervention, enrichment programs, special field trips, and on-site internships, all designed to provide hands-on, enriching experiences that support learners’ growth.

At-home learning

For those who prefer a home-based learning environment, students can complete a “Friday Playlist” that includes both online learning and offline  learning opportunities. Options include family field trips, out-of-school enrichment programs, internships at approved sites, digital electives, coursework  “must-dos,” as well “may-do” suggestions, such as journaling.

The background of Family Choice Day

The concept of a flexible fifth day originated at our ASU Prep Casa Grande campus, where a four-day school week has been in place for many years. The hybrid program allowed an extra day for students to engage in jobs, internships, and academic support activities. The success of this model was mirrored at the South Phoenix high school campus last year, leading to the decision to expand the program across more campuses.

Surveys of families and teachers highlighted a strong preference for a flexible Friday, enabling the program to align with family needs while maintaining academic rigor. This flexibility has proved beneficial, reducing burnout and increasing student engagement and success.

The benefits of Family Choice Day

Megan Hanley, Executive Director of School Design, notes, “Family Choice Day gives families the choice and flexibility for what works best for them.” This could mean offering students a chance to recharge and engage in activities that spark their interests, providing valuable family time, or enabling them to pursue work opportunities and explore new passions.

The hybrid learning model of Family Choice Day offers numerous advantages, including:

• Family flexibility: Families can tailor their student’s learning experience to best suit their needs, whether it’s a day of fun learning at school or a relaxed learning day at home.
• Student engagement: By providing a break from the traditional school week, students remain excited and engaged, both academically and in non-academic activities.
• Personal growth: Students are encouraged to explore interests outside the standard curriculum, fostering creativity and personal development.
• Staff collaboration: Teachers have the opportunity to lead classes in areas they are passionate about, enhancing the educational experience for both students and educators.
• Real-world preparation: Students become familiar with blended learning environments found in college classes and modern workplaces.

Unique offerings across campuses

“It’s going so well,” shares Hanley. “Each school site is offering such a unique program. Classes are being led by all kinds of staff members, including our School Resource Officer at Downtown Phoenix, as well as great community partners.”

Some of the unique programs and activities offered at each campus:

• ASU Prep Polytechnic STEM Academy: Drones, robotics, piñata-making and other crafts.
• ASU Prep Polytechnic High School: Collaborations with ASU on robotics, cooking classes and more.
• ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest: Fashion program collaborations and leadership coding initiatives.
• ASU Prep Downtown Phoenix: Mindfulness sessions, fitness programs and poetic collaborations.
• ASU Prep South Phoenix: Virtual reality coding, soccer skills development and aquarium projects.

A community effort

“We are so appreciative of our entire staff throughout the Network,” says Hanley. “Working through all of the processes and changes is only possible if our staff see the possibilities, understand the goal, and exhibit perseverance through change. We are also so grateful to our families who have handled the change so well and are excited about the possibilities both at home and at school.”

Family Choice Day is more than just a schedule change—it’s a gateway to unlimited possibilities in learning and personal growth. We are thrilled to see our students thrive in this flexible, innovative environment.

We are thrilled to announce that ASU Preparatory Academy Poly STEM Elementary has been named one of just 37 Arizona public schools to receive the esteemed A+ School of Excellence Award for the 2023-2024 academic year by the Arizona Educational Foundation. This award, a testament to high-quality education, recognizes ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary “as a model and a beacon of success to schools throughout Arizona and the nation.”

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary, a tuition-free K–6 school, offers an innovative and rigorous STEM-infused curriculum in a learning environment where students are encouraged to explore, inquire, and engage in real-world problem-solving that will ultimately guide them to college and career success. Additionally, ASU Prep Polytechnic is a STEM-certified school, one of the few with this additional level of rigor for students.

The coveted A+ designation, the highest state-level award given to public schools, underscores the school’s dedication to educational excellence. Initiated in 1983, the A+ School of Excellence award process evaluates schools on multiple aspects including teaching and learning strategies, student achievement, leadership, and community integration. The selection process involves an extensive review by a panel of A+ principals, teachers, and district leaders, followed by a multi-day site visit led by a team of A+ award judges.

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary’s A+ achievements

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary Principal Claudia Mendoza shares some insights into what sets the school apart:

• Our school prioritizes innovative teaching methods and fosters a dynamic learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
• We are committed to ensuring that every student reaches their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally. Through personalized instruction and support, our students consistently excel in their academic endeavors.
• Our instructional leaders, teachers, and staff demonstrate exemplary leadership skills by setting high expectations, providing guidance and support, and fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
• ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary actively engages with the community to enhance the educational experience of our students. We collaborate with parents, local organizations, and businesses to provide enriching opportunities and resources that extend beyond the classroom.

Upon receiving this recognition, Principal Mendoza expressed, “This award is a validation of our collective efforts and reaffirms our commitment to excellence in education. It serves as a source of pride and motivation for our students, staff, parents, and community partners, inspiring us to continue striving for greatness.”

The school plans to celebrate this achievement to honor everyone who contributed to this success. Principal Mendoza shares, “It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate our accomplishments as a school family, and this recognition is definitely worth celebrating.”

Learn more

We invite you to attend an information session to learn more about what makes ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary an A+ School of Excellence.

Black History Month is an annual celebration of the profound contributions that African Americans have made to all facets of society. Throughout this month, we come together to honor the legacies and ongoing achievements of Black individuals. Here is a sampling of Black History Month events hosted by our ASU community:

George Floyd Global Memorial to present ‘Twin Flames’ exhibit

This arts experience is a unique partnership between the ASU Art Museum, the ASU Center for Work and Democracy, and the George Floyd Global Memorial. Enjoy an insightful guided walkthrough in addition to a food truck with delicious bites, mocktail bar, and entertainment.

• February 2, 2024, 5 – 7 p.m.
• Free
• Registration Information

Color Cabaret by Music Theatre and Opera

This entirely student-led cabaret helps provide an opportunity for composers, lyricists, librettists, and performers of color, formed through personal connections, friends, and colleagues from all over ASU, to share their creativity.

• February 3, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. and February 4, 2024 at 3 p.m.
• $10
• Registration Information

Black Liberation Through the Marketplace with Rachel Ferguson

Join author Rachel Ferguson as she discusses Black Liberation Through the Marketplace, and come away with a better understanding of Black history and creative ideas for how to make this nation truly one with liberty and justice for all.

• February 6, 2024, 5 – 6:30 p.m.
• Registration Information

International Jazz Day AZ Foundation’s co-presents JADE

Jade Johnson has performed beloved renditions of the National Anthem at Suns, Mercury, Diamondbacks, Clippers and Lakers games, and landed acting roles on TV’s “Blackish” and in theater Off Broadway. From jazz and pop to R&B, hear a focused singer-songwriter hitting her stride.

• February 10, 2024, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
• $25 – $35
• Registration Information

This is Melanin

Step into a world brimming with entertainment and education. This all-ages extravaganza includes food trucks, music, games, vendors, speakers – and good vibes. Brace yourself for thought-provoking panel discussions and workshops focusing on vital community empowerment topics such as finance, home-buying, and more.

• February 24, 2024, 4pm
• Free
• Registration Information

ASU Preparatory Academy’s Polytechnic campus recently celebrated a special birthday: its Sweet 16.

Since a “Sweet 16” celebration is an opportunity to highlight growth while also looking forward to future successes, the ASU Prep Poly community plans to do just that. Reflecting on the school’s growth, K–6 Principal Claudia Mendoza, says, “Change is good. Because we can’t do the same old thing in the same old way.”

So, what has changed in the last sixteen years? The size of the program, including the number of students and the amazing opportunities offered them, has grown tremendously. And what remains the same is equally important. According to Mendoza, it’s the amazing staff’s “commitment to our school, our students, and our learning community.”

Speaking to the ASU Prep Poly staff, the excitement about this milestone and the school community in general is evident—and contagious. They eagerly take the opportunity to reminisce, reflect and plan for the future. Here are some of their insights.

Continuous progress

As the first ASU Preparatory Academy to open in 2008, the Poly campus was humbly housed in a little office complex, then later shared space in the former Veterans Hospital. Brenda Brown has been with Poly from the very beginning as both a parent and K–6 teacher. She recollects the first informational meeting, as people gathered on lawn chairs in an unfurnished office.

In those beginning years, Coach Brown shares how families and community businesses joined forces for “dirt day,” relocating unused dirt from ASU’s Tempe sports fields to create a P.E. space. Over time, as the students grew up, so did the programs and spaces to accommodate them. The middle school and high school were established and ASU Prep Poly ultimately found its home within state-of-the-art buildings on the ASU Polytechnic campus.

The ASU connection

ASU Prep Poly is proud of its close relationship with ASU, recently ranked No. 1 in innovation for the 9th straight year by U.S. News & World Report. Principal Mendoza explains, “Our kiddos see themselves as Sun Devils from day one” as students from Barrett, the Honors College work with students on projects, like coding. The college faculty is also involved, providing holiday presents for Poly students in need.

“Our kiddos see themselves as Sun Devils from day one.”

—Claudia Mendoza, K–6 Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy

ASU Prep Poly STEM 7–12 Principal Lori Frazier highlights the additional benefits of the ASU connection: every student has the chance to take university or concurrent courses while in high school, saving them time and money when they get to college and exposing them to future STEM careers. Principal Frazier explains that ASU Prep Poly continues to build these pathways for students, working with ASU’s engineering program, for example, regarding future careers in the growing field of semiconductor and microelectronics.

ASU Prep Poly’s innovative education

The school began with a vision to immerse students in project-based and STEM-centered learning starting in elementary grades, and today is proud to be STEM-certified by Cognia, an accreditation based on rigorous, research-based standards and best practices.

Principal Frazier says, “We are truly focused on each individual student and personalizing their pathway, not just high school graduation, but to get them in a post-secondary program.” ASU Prep Poly’s innovative and personalized learning curriculum prepares each student for this journey.

“We are truly focused on each individual student and personalizing their pathway.”

—Lori Frazier, Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM 7-12

“Our education is multidisciplinary,“ shares Mendoza. “Students are exposed to the STEM field in kindergarten, learning how to code robots. They’re learning all about the engineering process. They’re doing things that are meaningful to them, but at the same time, solving problems, utilizing logic and code, and collaborating with their peers. That’s what sets us up for success later on, as students get older.”

ASU Prep Poly’s student life and clubs

ASU Prep Poly faculty takes time to boast about their students’ extracurricular achievements with Amy Kochis, K–6 Assistant Principal, making a special note of Colorguard. “Our first Colorguard started 16 years ago with only 15 members. Today, the program has flourished into a remarkable achievement, with more than 110 students across five different groups. This growth reflects not only the dedication our staff has to our students but also the commitment to excellence and inclusivity embedded here at ASU Prep.”

Coach Brown adds some of the ASU Prep Poly athletic programs that have taken shape over the years: volleyball, cross country, flag football, girls and boys basketball, cheer, soccer, golf, softball, baseball, wrestling, swim, and track & field. Not to mention standout clubs like Robotics, Student Government, Key Club, and National Honor Society.

Close knit community

Beth Sullivan, an ASU Prep Poly teacher since its inception, shares how her family moved to Arizona from Michigan in search of a school that would provide “a strong sense of community, as well as a solid, innovative, and academically rigorous education” not only for her three sons as students, but also for her as a teacher. “The four of us began our ASU Prep journey together. We celebrate how fortunate we are to have been surrounded by such an amazing community of families, as well as talented, caring, innovative, and creative educators.”

“We are surrounded by such an amazing community of families, as well as talented, caring, innovative, and creative educators.”

—Beth Sullivan, ASU Prep Poly teacher

Sullivan’s children graduated from ASU Prep Poly STEM High School and went on to complete undergraduate degrees from ASU. Principal Mendoza shares that watching students grow up and graduate is a special part of the job: “I get to see kids go from being little elementary kiddos to being a middle schooler and then on to a high schooler, looking at college and career choices.”

Assistant Principal Kochis agrees, “One of the best things I have had the opportunity to witness was the graduation of students I first taught as Kindergartners. The joy of seeing them successfully navigate their educational journey from the early years to high school graduation is truly rewarding.”

Lori Gutierrez, Health Assistant and 16-year Poly veteran shares a favorite tradition, “Our Senior Walk is so special! I love seeing the seniors walking through the halls at the elementary campus. When teachers and I see students that we have known since they were in elementary school, it brings tears to our eyes. We are extremely proud of them.”

“The joy of seeing [our students] successfully navigate their educational journey from the early years to high school graduation is truly rewarding.”

—Amy Kochis, K–6 Assistant Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy

Many of the ASU Prep Poly staff members, including Gutierrez, describe the community as “family.” Principal Mendoza credits the staff for that, describing them as the backbone of the school, whose actions and decisions “come from the heart.” Kochis adds: “The extraordinary culture, dedicated staff, engaged families, thriving students, innovative practices, and a strong sense of community. This is a place where education goes beyond the curriculum, shaping students into well-prepared, confident individuals ready to navigate the world!”

Looking to the future of ASU Prep Poly

Principal Frazier, whose own sons graduated from ASU Prep Poly, wants to continue to share their school community with others, growing enrollment, and further strengthening the ASU pathway to future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Principal Mendoza adds that as they continue to support students in learning and taking advantage of all the available opportunities, she also looks forward to continued high rankings in state testing and school grades.

“This is a place where education goes beyond the curriculum, shaping students into well-prepared, confident individuals ready to navigate the world.”

—Amy Kochis, K–6 Assistant Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy

Assistant Principal Kochis adds,  “My hope is to continue building on the incredible culture already in place and infusing it with innovation. Together, we can continue to create an environment where every student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally.”

Learn more about ASU Prep Poly

ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic, along with all the schools in the ASU Prep network, are on a mission to design new models for educational success and raise academic achievement for all learners. To learn more about ASU Prep’s innovative, personalized, project-based learning, visit our website.

Here are some of our favorite moments from this year’s celebration.

 

 

ASU Prep Academy is hosting several Kinder Round-Up information sessions at our four elementary locations in the metro Phoenix area.

At the event, families will have an opportunity to meet our teachers, tour our campuses, and learn more about our Kindergarten program, which features:

• Tuition-free full-day options
• One-to-one technology devices
• Individualized learning plans
• Gifted program options in Spring semester
• After-school programming

To learn about Kindergarten eligibility and VIP on-site enrollment, click here.

At ASU Prep, we believe that a strong and vibrant community is fundamental to the success of our students! Our community, composed of dedicated educators, motivated students, and supportive families, forms the backbone of our learning environment.

We encourage active community participation to foster a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. This community spirit extends to our free, family-friendly neighborhood events. We hope you’ll join us!

ASU Prep Polytechnic High School is hosting a Sweet 16 Birthday Celebration, a very special birthday bash to celebrate sixteen years of serving students. Join us Friday, January 19, 3:30-6:30 p.m. for festive fun for the whole family, including bounce houses, video game trucks, hands-on STEM and robotics, and giveaways! RSVP today.

RSVP Today!

Recently, ASU Preparatory Academy South Phoenix transformed into a vibrant fiesta of colors and sounds, paying homage to the rich tradition of Día de los Muertos. The community gathered for a night bursting with entertainment.

On November 4, the campus filled with families, their faces painted in vivid designs and many had heads adorned with floral crowns, eager to participate in the festive activities offered throughout the night. Guests danced alongside the lively mariachi, watched the twirling baile folklórico dancers and marveled at a daring aerialist performance.

There was authentic cuisine and craft stations to create sugar skulls and paper flowers, but the heart of the celebration was the breathtaking Cihuapactli Collective Altar, where guests paid tribute to loved ones.

The event was a chance for attendees to soak in the spirit of the ASU Prep community as the South Phoenix campus buzzed with excitement. Student Nataly Garcia shared what makes the school special, and therefore, the event: “It’s a small school and everyone here knows each other. The teachers and staff support each kid individually.” Alejandro Bonfil added how fun it was to hang out with friends and classmates at the celebration.

About the festivities, student Zain Gehrig said, “I would totally recommend this. It’s so much fun being here. I’m having the time of my life.” The pictures and memories of this year’s event will linger on, and are already fueling anticipation for next year’s celebration. As Garcia puts it, “You want to make sure you come next year because you don’t want to miss this fun, amazing party that ASU Prep South Phoenix has offered to everyone!”

To see a recap of the event, please visit our YouTube channel.

No need to wait until next year to join in the fun. ASU Prep is hosting more free community events, including the upcoming Creative Fusion Fest at ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest and Let it Snow at ASU Prep Phoenix Downtown. Find out more about upcoming events here.

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to reflect on the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans and to acknowledge their valued contributions.

In his National Native American Heritage Month proclamation, President Joe Biden stated: “Native Americans are essential to the fabric of the United States. They serve in the United States armed forces at higher rates than any other ethnic group. They continue to steward so many of our great lands. Their contributions to science, humanities, arts, public service, and more have brought prosperity for all of us. Their diverse cultures and communities continue to thrive and lead us forward.”

This month, and all year long, take the time to educate, advocate, and raise greater awareness for the rich traditions and histories of Indigenous communities.

The history of Native American Heritage Month

The journey to recognition was not an easy one. It started with Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a descendent of the Seneca tribe and the director of the Rochester Museum and Science Center, who was one of the first proponents of an American Indian Day back in 1915. His efforts, combined with the relentless work of Red Fox James, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, led to the declaration of the second Saturday of May as American Indian Day by the governor of New York.

Years later, in 1990, President George H.W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as “National American Indian Heritage Month”. Since then, this commemoration has evolved into what we now know as Native American Heritage Month. It is an opportunity to educate the public about tribes, raise awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and honor the vital role they play in enriching our nation.

From the Iroquois Confederacy’s influence on the U.S. Constitution to the Navajo Code Talkers’ contribution during World War II, the impact of Native Americans is deeply woven into the fabric of American history.

Honoring the vital role of Native Americans

Celebrating Native American Heritage Month can come in many forms. One of the most meaningful ways is through education. Take the time to learn about the different tribes, their histories, and their contributions. Many museums, libraries, and educational institutions like ASU offer exhibits, discussions, and resources during this month.

Participating in cultural activities is another great way to honor this month. Many communities host powwows, dance exhibitions, craft fairs, and other cultural events. These gatherings are not only fun but also provide a deeper understanding of the rich cultural diversity of Native Americans.

Consider supporting Native American businesses and artists to show respect and appreciation. By purchasing Native American art, jewelry, food, and other goods, you’re helping to sustain their traditions and support their communities.

Learn about the important contributions of barrier-breaking Native Americans who continue to shape our society, lead their communities, and impact our culture today. Research Marine Colonel Nicole Mann, the first female Native American to travel to space or Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, who became the first Indigenous Cabinet member in U.S. history, among countless others.

Lastly, advocacy is a powerful way to celebrate. Stand with Native communities in their fight for recognition, rights, and respect. Advocate for policies that protect their lands, cultures, and identities. Arizona State University has taken steps to increase awareness & appreciation, as well as motivate advocacy, through the ASU Indigenous Land Acknowledgement, recognizing its campuses are situated on the homelands of many indigenous communities, many of whom continue to live in the area.

Continue to celebrate, learn, and honor

Native American Heritage Month is a reminder of the enduring and resilient spirit of Native people. The richness of their cultures, the depth of their wisdom, and the strength of their spirit continue to inspire us all. In honoring their heritage, we enrich our own understanding and become more compassionate and informed citizens.

This November, let’s take the opportunity to celebrate, learn, and honor the first people of this land. Let’s remember that every day is a good day to respect and appreciate the diverse cultures and contributions of Native Americans.

Ensuring students can read proficiently is a critical goal for schools and educators. ASU Prep is proactively addressing literacy challenges with its Science of Reading training program, which aims to empower educators and improve student literacy. The program is approved by the Arizona State Department of Education, demonstrating the commitment to science-backed teaching methods and student-centered learning.

The primary goal of the program is to equip teachers with the knowledge to make data-driven decisions in the classroom, aligning curriculum with research and data. ASU Prep’s program recognizes many students enter early grades without strong foundational reading skills, relying on pictures rather than phonics-based skills. Teachers are shifting their focus toward addressing the unique needs of their students, as opposed to strictly adhering to a predetermined curriculum or scope and sequence. This shift signifies a move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to education, promoting a more student-centered learning environment.

By focusing on early intervention and equipping teachers with the tools to identify and address struggling readers’ needs, ASU Prep aims to ensure students are proficient readers by the time they reach third grade. This proactive approach can help prevent reading difficulties and empower young readers to become lifelong learners, even though the transition may be challenging. ASU Prep fosters open dialogue and peer collaboration among educators to ease the process.

The success of the program will be measured through pre- and post-assessments for teachers and student outcomes, evaluating knowledge growth and literacy proficiency improvements, and promoting a student-centered learning approach. Student assessments will help determine whether the program leads to increased literacy proficiency.

The Science of Reading training program comprises nine sessions, each focusing on essential components of effective reading instruction, including research findings, structured literacy, phonological awareness, word study, scaffolding instruction, understanding dyslexia, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and language structure. The program also offers further learning opportunities through an asynchronous Camp Reading course and a book study on Equipped for Reading Success A Comprehensive, Step-By-Step Program for Developing Phonemic Awareness and Fluent Word Recognition by David Kilpatrick.

Ms. Heidi Morton, Training Specialist and Professional Learning Program Manager, has already observed a notable benefit in the evolving mindset of the teachers enrolled in the training. Within finishing one session, Ms. Marilyn Monroy, a teacher in the program, noted a correlation between Science of Reading lessons and improved test scores among her students. Ms. Monroy praised the implemented mini lessons for improving student assessments, with her students improving on spelling tests and even achieving perfect scores.

The initial 45 hours of the Prep Reading Endorsements are scheduled from August 2023 to May 2024, with the next 45-hour segment happening in the subsequent year for a total of 90 hours, further enhancing student-centered learning opportunities.

ASU Prep’s Science of Reading training program represents a forward-thinking and proactive approach to addressing literacy challenges in education. ASU Prep aims to transform students’ reading outcomes and equip educators with the skills to meet the diverse needs of each individual student. As the program continues to evolve and gather data, its impact on students’ literacy development will become increasingly evident.

For more information about ASU Prep’s training programs, including the Science of Reading training program, visit asuprepdigital.org/professional-development.

In today’s tech-driven world, practical STEM education for high school students is critical. ASU Prep is at the forefront of this initiative, connecting K–12 STEM to everyday life through the Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) program.

What is EPICS at ASU Prep?

Arizona State University’s Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS), is an award-winning social entrepreneurship program, which has been adapted for high school students. Now being implemented as a science elective at ASU Prep Downtown and Polytechnic campuses, EPICS High engages students in hands-on STEM activities, equipping them with skills in discipline knowledge, design process, teamwork, communication, ethics, and more.

The design-based service learning program allows students to work on projects that provide solutions to real-world problems in partnership with local partners, focusing on community development, health, sustainability, and/or education. Rachna Mathur, ASU Prep STEM Strategist, is thrilled to have EPICS High at both ASU Prep Downtown and Poly to foster in students a love and curiosity for STEM. She also emphasizes the social element: “A program like this connects the dots between engineering and social entrepreneurship, which is critical in serving your communities.”

Mathur points out the many benefits of working under the guidance of the established ASU EPICS program. Structure and programming are provided, along with the unique advantage of college-level mentors. The university also provides budgetary support as student teams are required to submit their project budgets to ASU, which then provides financial backing for their projects. ASU Prep students in the program are eligible to earn college-level credit and may cross-credit their participation as internship experience.

EPICS at ASU Prep Polytechnic

At ASU Prep Poly, teacher Max Colfer is spearheading the EPICS program in both his beginning STEM class with 24 students and his advanced STEM class with 26 students. Embarking on their journey with a practice run to immerse themselves in the various stages of project development, the students experience the range of responsibilities, roles, and expectations that come with the job.

The students engaged with staff members, conducted a comprehensive needs assessment, and ventured into 3D modeling—planning, creating, printing, and painting nameplates.They also honed their professionalism and communication skills, including proper email etiquette.

Further, they utilized a large format printer to create classroom banners per teacher requests and established a Google Sites website for efficient project and stakeholder management, focusing on the importance of maintaining relationships with stakeholders post-product delivery.

Colfer is inspired as his students imagine and create solutions to improve people’s lives. He shares, “I’m extremely proud of my students. They’ve faced the rigorous EPICS program head-on and what they’ve accomplished in the last two months is nothing short of incredible.” He’s confident they’re ready to advance to the official ASU EPICS projects: “I’m really eager to see what kind of connections we can make on campus and how we can expand our educational network.”

EPICS at ASU Prep Downtown Phoenix

At ASU Prep Downtown Phoenix, teacher Julie Johnson is steering her twelve students through the intricate process of Human-Centered Engineering Design, an approach that equips engineers with the necessary technical knowledge to research and identify user needs, translate those into tangible product or process design ideas, and scientifically evaluate the usability of products or services.

The journey began with a practice run where students crafted duct tape wallets for their peers. This exercise involved needs assessment, planning, and prototype creation. They also practiced the proposal process, presenting to Ms. Johnson ideas to transform an unused downtown lot.

Students are now moving into their official projects. Focused on school improvement in collaboration with Assistant Principal Ms. Muñoz, the students are reshaping campus spaces to enhance community. This hands-on experience underscores the practical application of science and math in K–12 education, illustrating its real-world impact.

The class is divided into three groups of four, with each member assuming a distinct role—leader, partner liaison, materials manager, and budget manager. One group is tackling a media center transformation project, aiming to catalog books, develop a check-in and check-out system, and create flexible study spaces. Another team is working on a garden enhancement project, planning to plant flowers, fruits, and vegetables to harvest, as well as revamping a mural. The third group is focusing on exterior beautification, with plans to improve sports courts and fields and repaint activity areas like foursquare and hopscotch zones.

According to Johnson, a significant advantage of this program is introducing students to a variety of careers within the STEM field: “There are numerous career paths that entail problem-solving.”

Engaging and encouraging STEM passion

The EPICS High program goes beyond academics; it instills in students the importance of service and increases their interest in STEM pathways. The goal? To spark an enduring appreciation for STEM, preparing students for success in college, careers, and beyond. As such, EPICS serves as an essential tool in promoting real-world STEM learning experiences and preparing students for the future.

In designing, building, and deploying systems to solve engineering-based problems for their community, students hone their skills as engineers and social entrepreneurs. They aren’t waiting to graduate to make a difference—they’re tackling real-world problems today, preparing for STEM careers while still in high school.

Learn more

For more information about ASU Prep Polytechnic and ASU Prep Phoenix, please visit asuprep.asu.edu.