Enrollment

SERVING 6TH-12TH GRADES

AZ School Report Card: A

A school that feels Like Home

James Madison Prep is a community where every student is seen, valued, and truly belongs – every single day. Students here are encouraged to think critically and helped to develop into future leaders. With a balance of rigorous academics and a caring community, we inspire excellence in our students.

Enroll Now for 2026-2027
480-345-2306

DISCOVER YOUR TRUE POTENTIAL

Shaping Future Leaders.

Small Classes, Big Impact. Here, connection builds confidence and opens doors to lifelong success.

How to Apply

What Makes us different

Cultivating Character

We believe true education extends far beyond textbooks. It’s about forging the character that defines a leader, nurturing the virtues that build strong communities, and instilling the self-reliance to navigate life’s challenges. It isn’t just about what students learn, but who they become.

Virtue-Driven Curriculum

Honesty, integrity, and responsibility are woven into every lesson.

Self-Reliance

Skills that prepare students for real-world independence.

Foundational Knowledge

Deep dives into American history, government, and classical thought.

Our Philosophy

Academically Prepared. Exceptionally Poised.

Our rigorous college-preparatory program is designed to challenge and inspire. With Honors and AP classes, a commitment to critical thinking, and dedicated support systems like study hall and teacher office hours, JMPS students consistently gain the academic edge needed for success in higher education and beyond. We prepare bright minds not just for college admissions, but for college success.

Small Class Sizes

Personalized attention for every student.

Honors & AP Classes

Advanced coursework for ambitious learners. Earn college credit by passing AP exams.

“After graduating from one of the top honors colleges in the country, I can say without a doubt that the academic education I received from JMPS gave me an invaluable head-start over the majority of my peers.”

– JMPS Alumnus.

Rooted in Tradition. Ready for Tomorrow.

The school upholds time-honored traditions that empower students with practical skills and a profound understanding of our national heritage. Our unique “self-reliance” classes equip students with essential life skills, while daily chores instill responsibility. We believe in learning beyond the classroom, with real-world experiences and travel opportunities that broaden horizons and deepen understanding.

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BEYOND ACADEMICS

A Happy Learning Environment

Our mission is to ignite a lifelong passion for learning.

Finally, a school that feels like home

Where every student is seen, supported, and truly thrives.

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A Community of Growth

A Vibrant Student Life: Where Passions Flourish

Life at James Madison Prep is rich with opportunity. Our robust extracurricular program ensures every student finds their niche, whether on the stage, the field, or building radio antennas. From competitive athletics, vibrant fine arts, student government, and a unique house system, we foster an environment where friendships thrive, leadership skills are honed, and every student finds their voice. Here, “small school” truly means “big opportunities.”

  • Theatrical Productions
  • Patriots Athletics
  • Community Service
  • Stem Based Clubs

Student Government

Leading change on campus.

From Shakespeare to musicals.

A Vibrant Student Life

Community Service

Making a difference, locally and beyond.

COMMUNITY Reviews

Voices of JMPS

What our community, parents and students have to say.

My son started at JMPS in 8th grade because he wanted a change from the traditional school setting. We chose JMPS for its unique structure, small class sizes, and opportunities for extracurriculars. All of our expectations for the school have been exceeded.

My son has a new enjoyment for learning, and I attribute that to the way the teachers seem to enjoy the subjects they teach. The staff truly cares for the students and their wellbeing and success. My son looks forward to going to school.

12/10/2025

J.Y. 8th grade parent

Our family has been incredibly grateful for the experience our sons have had at JMPS. The small class sizes create an environment where every student is truly seen, the emphasis on character building and accountability helps guide them not only academically but personally. The teachers genuinely care — they take the time to know each child deeply by teaching them for multiple years, which builds trust and meaningful relationships.

The school has supported both of our boys in ways that have allowed them to thrive. Celebrating strengths, offering additional support and providing the kind of understanding and encouragement that has helped both flourish.

With a wide variety of clubs, sports, and after-school activities, the school offers something for every interest. Perhaps most importantly, the students are building lifelong friendships within a safe, nurturing community. We couldn’t ask for a better place for our children to grow.

12/12/25

8th grade parents

We have long been associated with James Madison. Many of our family members are JMPS graduates. We have seen the results of classical education in them. We have always been impressed with the kind of critical thinkers they became because of JMPS. We truly believe having small classes has much to do with this outcome. As our daughters became old enough to enroll as JMPS our decision to choose the school had already been made. We now have three solid years of experience as parents of JMPS students, and we are very satisfied with our decision to choose JMPS. The small learning environment allows teachers to give personalized attention to each student at a level that would not be sustainable at a school with a high enrollment. One of the highlights that a JMPS student will be a part of is the graduation ceremony. Each graduate is honored with a 5-10-minute speech given by one of their teachers. After spending 6 years with these graduates, the teachers have plenty to elaborate on each graduate. It is a personalized graduation unmatched by most other educational institutions.

12/17/25

8th grade parents

"After bouncing around schools in the Tempe-Chandler area, I finally found a true 'home' at James Madison."

Lara H. Former Student

"Such a great balance of academics, behavior and activities."

Jennifer C. Former Student
Character (4)

Seen, valued, and encouraged

A community where every student belongs.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About JMPS

Enrolling at James Madison Prep is a straightforward process designed to welcome new families. As a tuition-free public charter school, we conduct an Open Enrollment Period annually, typically starting in January for the following school year. We encourage prospective families to begin by scheduling a personal tour of our campus and attending an Information Night to learn more about our unique school. Applications can be submitted during the open enrollment window. Specific application forms and deadlines are always posted on our Admissions page.

James Madison Prep offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum rooted in traditional liberal arts, with a strong emphasis on American history, government, and the U.S. Constitution. Our academic program includes challenging coursework, Honors and AP classes (where students can earn college credits through AP exams), and "Self-Reliance" classes that provide practical life skills. We focus on critical thinking, comprehensive knowledge, and the discipline necessary for success in higher education and as responsible citizens and leaders.

Yes, James Madison Preparatory School maintains a formal dress code and a clear policy regarding personal technology, including cell phones. Our dress code promotes a business-like, focused learning environment that minimizes distractions. During the school day, cell phone use is not permitted, ensuring students are fully engaged in lessons and direct interpersonal interactions. These policies are integral to fostering discipline, respect, and an optimal academic atmosphere. Specific details are outlined in our Family Handbook.

COMMUNITY Reviews

Parent's Voices

AZ School Report Card: A

JMPS School Report Card link

Non discrimination Policy

James Madison Preparatory School is an Equal Education and Equal Employment Opportunity school and does not discriminate against any actual or potential student or employee based on race, sex, creed, age, disability, or national origin. Instructional and administrative staff résumés are available for review in the front office.

Visitor policy

JMPS Visitor Policy from page 44 of the 2025-2026 Family Handbook:
All visitors must check in and register in the front office and receive a visitor’s pass. Parents who are on campus to drop off or pick up a student or a student’s personal effects (clothing, lunch, etc.), or conduct other brief business on campus are not required to receive a visitor’s pass but must check in at the front desk. Administration reserves the right to determine if a parent’s business on campus requires a visitor’s pass. Once the visitor’s business or visit is concluded, they MUST sign out in the front office and return the visitor pass, and then leave the campus directly.

If you would like a school tour please contact the front office to schedule one at (480)345-2306.

Average Teacher Salary

  • Average salary of all teachers employed in the budget year 2025-2026: $49,600
  • Average salary of all teachers employed in the budget year 2024-2025: $46,754
  • Change in average salary: $972
  • Percentage change +2%

Enroll now!

Apply Now
  • 480-345-2306
  • 5815 S. McClintock Dr. Tempe, Arizona 85283.
  • operations@madisonprep.org
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