The values of individualism, non-conformity, risk-taking, and curiosity animate the whole community and are cultivated by school leadership.
The school provides an accepting, family-like environment, one where previously disengaged students thrive.
The academic program prepares students for university.
The 50-page review of Metropolitan Preparatory Academy is part of our series of in-depth accounts of Canada's leading private schools. It provides a unique and objective perspective on the school's academics, programs, culture, and community.
Metro Prep isn’t like a traditional private school. In a lot of private schools … there’s a [strict] division between students and teachers. That division was something I didn’t feel in Metro Prep Academy. It allows students to almost feel like they’re not learning under someone, but they’re learning with someone. —From Interview with Metropolitan Preparatory Academy alum: Haikun Liu.
Metro is a very open environment, open to different perspectives, open to different learning, and learning styles, and open to different experiences. I learned so much from the one-on-one conversations–they were fantastic. I always felt that I was getting the best education I could get. The teachers made me realize they’re not just there to give me my grades and go on with the day. —From 2020 roundtable discussion about Metropolitan Preparatory Academy. (The quote comes specifically from Luka, an alum).
The staff and the teachers at Metropolitan Preparatory Academy are unparalleled and they’re just so special. There is no other school that has such an incredible focus on education and student well-being. The teachers didn’t just care about how well you were doing in your classes, they cared about how you were doing as a person. You won’t find that anywhere else. —From Interview with Metropolitan Preparatory Academy alum: Danielle Perlon.
McKelvey believes that educators with the right attitude can have a profound impact on a student’s life. Both staff and students are encouraged to have a voice.
School's Perspective
Compare with:
How Metropolitan Preparatory Academy sees itself
The school administration answered our questions
Who are you, as a school?
"Metro Prep was founded on the idea that educators with the right attitude, providing a supportive yet challenging academic environment, can profoundly impact a student’s life. Since 1982, we’ve offered top-quality education, small class sizes and a real-world atmosphere for students in grades 7-12. Faculty/Administration doors are open and no uniforms allow students to express their individuality and trust their instincts. They are taught to think critically and creatively, seeking assistance needed to succeed."
Strong Academics- University Prep
Comprehensive Math & Science Program
Personalized University Guidance
Extensive Athletic Programs-Bball
School of Music, Integrated Arts, Theatre and Humanities (SMITH)
Metro Prep Alternative Orchestra
Trips to Various Cities in US
No Uniforms
Global Service Trips
Charter Member SSAF
What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"- Students are on a first name basis with teachers and administrators, promoting equality and fellowship.
- Extra help sessions are readily available on teachers' late nights.
- Open door policy where no appointments are needed.
- Our educators offer students a hands-on learning experience in an engaging and inviting environment.
- No uniform policy promotes individual self-expression.
- Students consider Metro Prep Academy as their 'home away from home.'"
To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"- Metro Prep Academy becomes a part of our students' extended family, fostering a trusting and caring relationship with our students and their parents.
- Extra support and personalized Guidance is available at the school.
- Students are prepared academically to succeed at the best universities worldwide; This preparation is paired with essential life skills.
- School-wide engagement, through houses and enrichment activities, build interactions between students of all grades."
What might families find surprising about your school?
"- We are unique.
- We have a contemporary approach to education and social awareness.
- Our diversity is celebrated and is representative of the real world experience. School-wide activities and dinners provide culturally immersive experiences.
- Monthly interim-meetings provide greater transparency and feedback to parents and students. EDSBY delivers instantaneous feedback.
- Parents are invited to attend University Guidance Sessions."
William Wayne McKelvey, Principal Hons. B.A., M.A., Dip. Ed.
A cordial welcome to those contemplating enrolment at Metropolitan Preparatory Academy. As we plan for the future, I ask you all to think about the challenges and opportunities that lie in the years ahead. To be successful, it’s essential to set attainable goals and develop the ambition to achieve those targets. In other words, decide where you want to go and establish how much time and energy it will take to get there. This may sound old fashioned, but little happens unless you believe in yourself and what you are doing. You don’t want to look back on your life one day and dream about what could have been. Set inspiring goals and work toward them now. When doors to opportunity open, walk through without hesitation.
Consider our program if you are looking for a structured and caring environment. At Metro Prep Academy, we highly value involvement, new ideas and enthusiasm. We are committed to fostering the intellectual, physical, social and creative potential of university-oriented students through a supportive yet challenging academic environment. We believe young men and women flourish in a safe, inviting, learning atmosphere where they feel confident expressing their individuality, asking questions, and seeking the help they need to thrive. Because of this Metro Prep operates without uniforms and with open faculty doors. In preparation for both university and future careers, students are encouraged to trust their instincts and think both critically and creatively.
I wish the best to all students in the upcoming academic year.
