Forte Preparatory Academy Middle School

Why Forte Preparatory Academy Middle School was nominated

Forte Preparatory Academy opened in fall 2017 in response to a critical need: at the time, 77% of local students in East Elmhurst and Corona were not prepared for college. Initially authorized for grades 5-8, Forte expanded in 2023 to include a high school program and is now chartered to serve grades 5-12. The school’s mission is to prepare all students to excel academically and to use their leadership and voice to positively impact the world, and they are demonstrating strong results in this mission. Forte’s college preparatory curriculum is designed to close achievement gaps, especially for low-income and English Language Learner students. Students benefit from an environment that emphasizes character development through core values: service, teamwork, resilience, integrity, voice, and excellence. Beyond academics, students have opportunities to participate in music and the arts at every grade level, fostering creativity and cultural pride. The high school program builds on these foundations by deepening community identity, developing leadership, accelerating college credit accumulation, and career exploration. Forte’s commitment to high-quality instruction is evident through a strong focus on curriculum development, carefully crafted lesson plans, and ongoing professional development for teachers. The school also places a strong emphasis on partnerships with families and local organizations, ensuring that the entire community is engaged in student success. Today, Forte Preparatory stands as a vibrant school community where students are empowered to strive for excellence and lead with integrity. Through a rigorous academic program, a robust arts curriculum, and a focus on character, students graduate prepared not only for college but for lives of purpose and leadership., Forte Prep Academy's High School (FPHS) builds on the strong academic, social, and emotional foundation established in its existing middle school program. There are six key design elements including: a strong academic core, enrichment in arts and language, building student voice through service, social and emotional learning via advisory, accelerated college credit acquisition, and smart use of time and space. Using a city-centered learning approach, students learn about their local community and develop a deep understanding of the immigrant stories that make their neighborhood unique.