Dear Prospective Students, Families, and Members of the East Valley Community, 

Welcome to Arete Preparatory Academy, an esteemed institution within the Great Hearts Academies network, centrally located in Gilbert, Arizona, and proudly serving the broader East Valley, including Mesa. As a tuition-free, public charter school, Arete Prep is committed to providing an exceptional college preparatory education, founded on an honors-level liberal arts curriculum that echoes the esteemed traditions of the finest independent private schools. 

At Arete Prep, we embrace the transformative journey of classical education. Our curriculum is a rich tapestry of the liberal arts and sciences, designed to challenge and inspire our middle and high school students. Here, education transcends the conventional, fostering deep understanding and appreciation for the rich traditions of Western Civilization. We believe in cultivating each student’s innate potential, guiding them to explore and embrace the virtues that mark a profound, philosophical life, as encapsulated in our Latin motto: Verum, Pulchrum, Bonum – Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. 

Our academy is a place where intellectual rigor meets heartfelt passion. In middle school, students embark on an intellectual voyage, engaging with foundational concepts in literature, mathematics, science, history, and languages. This crucial stage lays the groundwork for the challenging yet rewarding studies of high school. At the high school level, our students delve into advanced classical literature, comprehensive sciences, intricate mathematics, and detailed historical studies. Beyond academic rigor, we emphasize the development of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and articulate expression – skills indispensable for success in higher education and life. 

Situated in Gilbert and serving the Mesa area within the vibrant East Valley, Arete Prep is part of a diverse and dynamic community. This location enhances our students’ educational experience, providing a broader perspective and deeper understanding of the world. Our school community reflects the inclusivity and richness of our surroundings, fostering a nurturing and respectful environment for all our students. 

Our faculty, a team of dedicated and passionate educators, are the cornerstone of our community. They are not merely instructors; they are mentors committed to inspiring a love of learning and a pursuit of excellence in every student. Through their guidance, our students develop into thoughtful, well-rounded individuals, ready to lead and innovate in the 21st century. 

As a tuition-free institution, Arete Prep is dedicated to making this high-caliber educational experience accessible to all families in Gilbert, Mesa, and the surrounding East Valley. We believe that every child deserves a quality education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Our commitment to accessibility and excellence ensures that our doors are open to all who seek a transformative educational journey. 



We warmly invite you to explore Arete Preparatory Academy, to learn more about our classical approach to education, and to discover the vibrant community that makes our school a special place. We encourage you to visit our campus, meet our passionate educators, and experience the enriching environment we offer. 

Arete Preparatory Academy is more than a school; it is a community where intellectual curiosity, moral virtue, and academic excellence are nurtured and celebrated. We are excited about the possibility of welcoming you to our family and embarking together on this enriching educational journey. 

We look forward to meeting you and sharing the exceptional experience that Arete Preparatory Academy offers. Join us as we continue to shape not only scholars but also virtuous citizens and future leaders of our world. 

With warmest regards,  

Melanie Attridge,
Headmaster

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