Private School / Tutoring in Santa Cruz County, California

Merit Academy, Soquel:
Merit Academy in Soquel, near the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay in Santa Cruz County, CA is an independent school accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) (for grades 9th-12th). The Academy provides a carefully designed courseload that incorporates the core learning desires of the students and embraces the full spectrum of learning from Merit Academy's kindergarten through 12th grade curriculum. Merit Academy seeks students who want to learn at a deeper level, students who aren’t afraid of giving 100% of their energy, students who love to travel, students who appreciate the attention and guidance of one-on-one classroom instruction, and students who are willing to dedicate themselves to realizing their full potential.

Kindergarten through to 12th Grade Education Programs:

We offer a Preschool Program, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Internships that start in 9th grade. There is one student per class. Teachers teach directly to that one student, so there’s no way to slip through the cracks. The classes move at a level appropriate for each student.

We employ rigorous standards to fully prepare students to be successful at even the most selective universities. Our dedicated teachers, who are experts in their fields, offer exciting lectures and individualized support. Students not only take a full load of accelerated classes, but they also get experience with life outside the classroom — holding internships, working on special projects, and performing community service. As students approach college, they receive guidance with the admissions process. Although the workload might seem heavy for some students, we offer the support they need to get it done.

Honors Courses:
Merit Academy offers Honors courses for students who are high achievers. Honors courses offer a challenge above and beyond our college prep courses. In order to graduate with honors at Merit Academy, the student needs to take all Honors courses for 4 years.

Honors courses are more challenging in a number of ways. They are more rigorous than IB or AP courses. (Although Merit does not offer any courses designated as AP, students can take the AP exams for courses they take at Merit.) They require about 50% more work than regular college prep courses. And they require students to conduct research, apply theoretical concepts, and complete independent projects, thereby providing a more comprehensive learning experience.

After students complete the Honors courses in the sciences at Merit, they are encouraged to begin taking science courses at the local college or university.

Teaching Methods:
With only one student per class, teachers teach directly to that one student, so there’s no way to slip through the cracks. The classes move at a level appropriate for each student. You won’t have to wonder whether your child is participating in class discussions or whether the teacher is engaging your child; these concerns are nonexistent at Merit. Our teachers and director keep close tabs on each student’s progress.

The director meets with each student once per week to ensure that the student is making good progress, enjoying their classes, and using their time wisely. If a student looks like they might fall behind, they are able to receive extra tutoring.