Somerset Island Prep

This is my son's first year at this school and we are both thankful that this option for high school is available for him. The smaller school setting, engaged instructors and general family-like atmosphere will ensure his success. Thank you.

Individual attention, teachers are dedicated and willing to work with students after school as well as on Saturdays. The school feels like one big family. Academically it is very challenging and flexible to the students interests and schedule. My son has had great opportunities with dual enrollment at the college and he is only in 9th grade. I highly recommend it!

The principal, Cory Oliver, is trying to do something different here, he's trying to create a school where academic rigor is fostered in a safe environment and he's trying to do it in a way that realistically prepares his students for their college career. That sounds like a no-brainer, but I doubt you'll find this environment at the other local high school. He has no tolerance for drugs, bullying, or any sort of violence, which I appreciate. He has three main teachers working at the school, Mr. Rompella (Sciences), Ms. Moody (Math), and Mr. Louis (Social Sciences) who cross disciplines while managing a growing student body and engaging students in activities. They manage these tasks with grace and are highly dedicated to their students. All three teachers offer extensive after school and weekend tutoring/study sessions and work selflessly in the interest of preparing students for college life. The only thing missing at this point is a dedicated English teacher, Mr. Oliver has had to take over these duties so he's effectively performing two jobs at once. Is it your typical high school? Definitely not. It may sometimes seems a bit unorganized, but high school life is hectic and the challenges of building a program like this in such a small community are complex. Yes, parents are required to participate extensively, but if as a parent you don't realize you have a prominent role in your child's education you need to sharpen up your parenting skills. My son is approaching his third year at the school and at the end of this year will have earned 12 college credits. He has already earned a Microsoft Office certification thanks to Mr. Oliver's emphasis on technological literacy.Overall, I appreciate the dedication of the staff and I am glad I had the option to put my son in this program.

They can't keep teachers. The principal makes the parents do all of the hard work. He is scatterbrained. I don't know, I feel sorry for him but he needs help or something. He needs to write down what he says he will do so he doesn't forget. I used to be proud to say that I was in this school but it has a bad reputation now. Who is watching out for us?

I just want to suggest that there is a certain child that may do better here... but for a social, active child, the Key West High School may be a better option. Consider your choices for classes, for clubs, for career support, for languages, sports, and the all around high school experience before you consider this school. I pulled my daughter after a year and she is finally thriving in her new school