MCP provides students with a curriculum, set within a distinctive school culture, designed to prepare each student for college and to shape the student as an engaged contributor to society. Our students have many opportunities to participate in a comprehensive college prep environment through coursework, student-driven and student-led activities, retreats, service projects, and rallies, as well as a broad range of athletic opportunities. Our record of academic accomplishment over the past 10 years is demonstrated by 98% of our graduates being accepted by colleges.

College Application and Acceptance

Two important steps students can take to increase the likelihood of their acceptance to the college of their choice are: 1) participation in a rigorous curriculum according to their abilities and 2) commitment to achieve optimal potential. Many colleges use a comprehensive review process when making admissions decisions. The various comprehensive review processes often include but are not limited to:

• Cumulative GPA and minimum subject requirements
• Rigor of high school courses and achievement through academic enrichment programs (college courses)
• Performance on standardized tests including SAT Reasoning, ACT with Writing, as well as SAT Subject Tests in some cases
• Participation in co-curricular activities and summer programs with leadership opportunities, service-based learning, and college credit opportunities
• Personal qualities of the student including leadership ability, character, motivation, initiative, originality, intellectual independence, responsibility, insight, maturity, and demonstrated concern for others and the community

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are required as a part of the college application process for many colleges and universities, as well as scholarship applications. In an effort to assist teachers, coaches and administrators in writing these letters, the student will complete a Senior Profile and the High School Resume that outlines his or her academic work, test scores, co-curricular achievements, community service and work experience. The Resume is a required component of the college-counseling program for all seniors. Requests for Letters of Recommendation need to be made with holiday and vacation schedules in mind therefore providing an appropriate timetable for completion and submission. Letters of recommendation must be requested at least 3 academic weeks before the deadline, which may not include holidays and other vacation periods.

Workshops

College Planning Interactive Workshops are offered every year for each grade level targeting specific needs and goals. Information, knowledge, and experience are the building blocks that create the foundation of the workshops. Information presented to both parents and students includes updated college protocol, minimum requirements for admission, and extended recommendations.

Family Connection

All MCP students have access to student services, tools, and resources provided through Family Connection. Beginning with his or her freshman year, each student is given an access code. The student access code to the Family Connection web portal is one of the vital “Keys to the Kingdom.” Interactive access is provided through various resources and tools within Family Connection.