At Mercy Preparatory Academy, we believe in open communication and providing honest, clear answers to your questions. Explore the frequently asked questions below to learn more about our unique approach to education and the values that set us apart.
Do you have questions?
We welcome your calls and emails, so please get in touch, we’re happy to help.
About Mercy Prep
What kind of program is Mercy Prep and what grades do you offer?
Mercy Prep is a Christian, Pre-K4 through 12th grade, University-Model® school. We offer a rigorous, 5 day program, with students attending classes on campus on Tuesday and Thursday and completing assignments at home on Monday/Wednesday/Friday.
Where are you located and what are the school hours?
We are located in Ferris Heights United Methodist Church at 108 Center St. in Waxahachie, TX.
All students attend classes on campus on Tuesday and Thursdays. For K – 6th, classes are held from 8:30am – 3:30pm and 7-12th classes are held from 8:00am – 4:25pm.
What is the uniform or dress code policy for students?
Our uniform includes embroidered polo or button-down shirts paired with uniform bottoms and closed-toe shoes. This dress code fosters a sense of professionalism and respect for oneself and others, preparing our students for success in both academic and professional settings.
For a complete uniform guide please request a copy of our student handbook.
Does Mercy Prep offer transportation services for students?
No, parents will be responsible for arranging and providing any transportation needed for their children to and from the school.
Does Mercy Prep have plans to acquire its own dedicated facility?
We are focused on achieving the goal of a dedicated, single-use facility and plan to purchase our own space in Waxahachie within the next 5-7 years. This dedicated facility will be designed to incorporate various outdoor features, allowing our students to enjoy as much fresh air and nature as possible throughout their day. We are committed to providing a nurturing environment that supports both academic and holistic development.
Is Mercy Prep affiliated with any religious or educational organizations?
We are not affiliated with any specific religious organizations. We are a non-denominational and ecumenical institution that values diversity and welcomes students from all Christian backgrounds. Educationally, we are affiliated with UMSI, the organization that provides our certification and accreditation standards.
How does Mercy Prep handle denominational differences in beliefs?
At Mercy Prep, our core beliefs are rooted in the Apostles’ Creed, the most unifying statement within the Christian faith. We also recognize and respect the diversity of denominational perspectives. We leave issues that are denominationally specific to be addressed within the family unit, promoting unity and understanding within our school community.
What is Mercy Prep's stance on enrolling gay and transgender students/families?
At Mercy Prep, our goal is to foster a warm and inclusive atmosphere for every student, family, and staff member. It’s important to note that we do not enroll gay or transgender students or families, a policy that is consistent with our certification standards. We approach this matter with sensitivity and understanding, ensuring that everyone involved is treated with empathy and respect.
Academics & the University-Model®
What is a University-Model® School?
The University-Model® combines the best attributes of traditional schooling with the best attributes of homeschooling and integrates them into one model. The result is quality, cost-effective, college-preparatory education that gives parents more time for imparting their own faith and values to their children.
I'm not a teacher, will I have to make lesson plans for my student?
No, you do not need to be a teacher or create lesson plans. First instruction always happens on campus on Tuesdays/Thursday and then assignments are printed weekly to be completely at home.
For K-2 you should expect to help facilitate the completion of assignments, but as your student grows in the model they will learn accountability and independence for completing and turning in their assignments. In addition, teachers have designated hours during off campus days to assist you and/or your student with assignments.
In what ways does Mercy Prep foster a supportive and nurturing learning environment for students?
Our small class sizes foster a supportive and nurturing learning environment where students engage across grade levels, creating a “family” atmosphere. This setting enables individualized instruction, ensuring personalized attention and academic growth for every student.
We will stay at or below the student teacher ratio of: 12:1 in kindergarten, 16 to 1 in elementary, 18 to 1 in junior high, and 20 to 1 in high school (recommended)
Are there any signature programs or initiatives at Mercy Prep that differentiate it from other schools?
We have implemented a unique scheduling system where all students, K-12, attend school on the same days of the week, ensuring that the family unit stays together on home days. This approach strengthens family bonds and facilitates a cohesive home environment.
Moreover, we take pride in our ecumenical approach to education, where we teach our students to respectfully engage with and understand denominational topics, while encouraging them to seek guidance from their parents for further instruction. This approach fosters a culture of mutual respect and understanding among students of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. These distinctive programs reflect our commitment to providing a holistic and enriching educational experience that sets us apart from other schools.
Is there homework assigned on evenings or weekends?
The short answer: no.
The longer answer: At Mercy Preparatory Academy, we have a unique approach to homework that complements our on-campus learning experience. While there is no traditional homework assigned following on-campus days, we provide students with ‘satellite work’ to be completed off-campus, typically at home with parental guidance. This work follows a lesson plan provided by the teacher and mirrors the content covered during a regular on-campus day. By eliminating factors like changing classes, students can complete their work more efficiently, often resulting in a shorter overall school day.
How does Mercy Prep incorporate play into its educational approach?
We believe in maximizing outdoor time for our students, as much as is feasible or relevant to classroom activities. Our commitment to outdoor spaces begins with a large fenced play yard with a playground, picnic area and gaga ball pit. Fresh air paired with fun learning experiences and play enhances student engagement, creativity and overall well-being for students and teachers alike.
Campus Life
How can I get involved as a parent at Mercy Prep?
We encourage parents to share their skills, resources, and ideas with the school community, as we believe it enriches the overall educational experience for our students. Opportunities include: lunch duty, event volunteers, elementary sports coach, parent grade leaders, parent mentors for new families, prayer committee, community service committee, and fundraising committee.
We are committed to growing our parent organization and fostering strong connections between parents, faculty, and staff for the benefit of our school community.
Do you offer extracurricular classes outside of the ones included with tuition?
Yes. Each semester we offer a variety of classes that are taught by experts in their field of study. These classes are offered to our enrolled students first and then the remaining seats are available to the homeschool community.
Past offerings include: robotics, drawing, creative writing, painting, theatre skills, One Act Play, and The Fallacy Detective (pre-debate).
For a current list of classes visit our fine arts page here.
Do you have an athletics program?
Yes, we offer a variety of sports for all ages and abilities. Our teams are offered to traditional Mercy Prep students first and then the homeschool community. Our current offerings include: volleyball, basketball, cross country, track and field, golf, and soccer.
For elementary sports we partner with Midlothian Basketball League and the local YMCA and our secondary students compete through TCAL. You can find out more information and sign up here.
Can homeschoolers participate in any of Mercy Prep's extracurricular activities?
Yes! We welcome the homeschool community to join our sports teams, Friday classes and community service opportunities. We will open registration to enrolled students first and then the remaining spots will be available to homeschoolers.
Do you have regular community service opportunities for families and staff?
Yes, we partner with various nonprofit organizations in our local community and have opportunities each month for students and their families to serve together. Once a semester we have an all school service project where we come together as a school body to give back.
We believe community involvement plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall educational experience at Mercy Prep. When serving others, students develop a deeper understanding of empathy, social responsibility, and the importance of giving back. This hands-on experience outside the classroom enhances their academic learning and fosters a sense of civic engagement, preparing them to be responsible global citizens.
Do you offer aftercare on school days for students?
Yes. Aftercare is available to all elementary students from 3:30pm – 4:20pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays for $5/day per student when prepaid a month in advance or $7/day per student for drop in. For elementary students with siblings in secondary, this allows for one pick up time for all students.