LEADPrep creates a dynamic space where education is engaging, not one-size-fits-all, in order for all learners to be seen, heard, valued, and thriving.
LEADPrep is an innovative middle/high micro-school where teens thrive in our collaborative, experiential, and learner-centered environment. Located in North Seattle, we offer a close-knit and energetic learning environment, serving grades 6-12.
LEADPrep provides the small class size and support essential for students to take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Our intentionally diverse, multi-age student population celebrates differences and provides a safe community of voice and choice in exploring real-world concepts, while pushing for self-growth and accountability.
Creating Micro-Schools for Colorful Mismatched Kids
A few years ago, a parent at our founding school, LEADPrep, laughingly described our kids pouring out into the parking lot as happy mismatched socks. That definition that describes our unique and wonderful kids has stuck. Read more about the journey to LEADPrep, featured in the book Creating Micro-Schools for Colorful Mismatched Kids: A Step-by-Step Process that Empowers Frustrated Parents to Innovate Education.
To support more communities in building a micro-school, our founder has written a how-to micro-school guidebook in three parts: The first tells of the need for more options for students. The second provides seven steps to opening a micro-school. The third part tells how our very own LEADPrep followed those seven steps and opened its doors. Find out more at Micro-School Coalition.
Our story. Our why.
What happens when a school leader with a career of innovating in 10 schools can’t find a high school that works for either of her own daughters? With the frustration and distress of seeing high schools diminish her two girls, Dr. Maureen O’Shaughnessy, founding director of Leadership Preparatory Academy, author, and 5-star podcast host, was determined to change this educational landscape, knowing schools truly can be learner-centered.
Helping her daughters try various models and finish the challenge of high school, Maureen then turned her attention to founding an intentionally small and inclusive school that would provide a far happier and more productive result for other secondary students. Researching best practices and using her vast experience, LEADPrep was born in the fall of 2013. This welcoming and innovative micro-school provides a learning environment where each learner is seen, heard, valued, and thriving.

MAUREEN O’SHAUGHNESSY
Founder
LEADPrep’s vision is to be a catalyst for change
25% of kids don’t graduate from high school.
Do you accept this as an ok statistic? Neither do we.
And our school has a 100% graduation rate.
Find out more about Maureen’s vision for a learner-centered educational experience outlined in her book, Creating Micro-Schools for Colorful Mismatched Kids, and showcased in her 5-star Education Evolution Podcast.